My Dad's (94) physician just called me from the Veterans Home where my father has resided since June. He has had a long time problem with bladder issues (urinary retention) and has had to catherize himself up until a year ago. He also suffers from macular degeneration so all that had become very difficult for him at that time. Sept 2014 he fell here at home, has some fractures in the back and never really bounced back from that. He lost about 50 lbs and was in nursing home on private pay. We were lucky enough to get him into the VA and I am very grateful. The problem the whole year has been the intermittent pain of the catheter which he has all the time. I know it must be very uncomfortable for him and he has dealt with this pain for many years. The Doctor has suggested referring him to urology and putting in a super pubic catheter directly into the kidneys with a collection bag. I am familiar with this type because my brother who has MS has one. But I am also aware of the problems that can come with this type- pain on changing it, infection at site etc.
So, I said I would discuss with family and try to get some opinions about the success of this procedure for a man his age. Unfortunately, the use of diapers is not an answer because of the urinary retention. Has anyone gone thru anything like this or know someone who did? If he is expressing interest in having it done should I go along with it? What if things turn out to be worse for him? I am really torn on this because I really don't want him to suffer everyday with this when basically he is doing ok right now at the VA. He is eating better, gained a few pounds and is walking a little with walker and aide right behind him.
I was just settling into a little peace with his care and then comes a new decision to make!
Thanks for your time.