What happens if a catheter bursts?

September 28, 2025 •

3 min read

Millions of people use urinary catheters, making potential problems an important health consideration. A burst catheter can lead to issues ranging from a simple deflation to serious medical complications.

Quick Summary

If a catheter balloon bursts, the catheter can fall out, or fragments can be left in the bladder, which can lead to infection or stone formation. Seek immediate medical attention, especially if fragments are suspected or there are signs of bladder injury.

Key Points

Seek Immediate Help: If a catheter bursts, seek immediate medical attention; do not try to remove it yourself.
Retained Fragments are Dangerous: Burst balloons can leave fragments in the bladder, increasing the risk of stones and infections.
Recognize the Symptoms: Watch for deflation, pain, or difficulty urinating, which may indicate serious complications.
Medical Evaluation is Necessary: Medical evaluation, often involving cystoscopy, is required to determine if fragments are present.
Prevention is Key: Prevent balloon rupture by proper inflation and following healthcare instructions.

Immediate Effects of a Catheter Burst

When a Foley catheter balloon ruptures within the bladder, the function is often lost. The water or saline used to inflate the balloon mixes with urine and does not directly cause harm. As the balloon deflates, the catheter loses its position. This often leads to the catheter sliding out of the urethra. Some may hear or feel a slight 'pop', but the main sign is the catheter falling out or not draining urine effectively.

However, there is a risk of fragmentation. Depending on the material, the balloon can break into pieces that stay in the bladder.

Potential Complications from Retained Fragments

Retained catheter balloon fragments pose a significant health risk. Over time, these fragments can become a site for the formation of bladder stones. The presence of this foreign material increases the risk of:

Bladder Stone Formation: Fragments can become a base for stones, which cause pain and UTIs.
Chronic Infection: Fragments can harbor bacteria, contributing to recurrent UTIs.
Bladder Irritation and Injury: Fragments can irritate the bladder lining, causing discomfort and injury.
Obstruction: A fragment could potentially block the bladder outlet.

Causes of Catheter Balloon Rupture

Several factors can cause a catheter balloon to rupture:

Improper Inflation: Over-inflation or using the wrong fluid can cause the balloon to burst.
Manufacturing Defects: A defect in the catheter material can cause premature rupture.
Inflation Channel Blockage: Crystallization of fluid or a faulty valve can block the inflation channel, leading to balloon rupture.
Inadvertent Pulling: Forceful pulling on the catheter can sometimes cause the balloon to rupture.

Management and Medical Procedures

If a catheter bursts, seek professional medical help immediately. Do not attempt to remove the catheter or retrieve any fragments. The management depends on whether fragments are retained. If the catheter has slipped out and the patient is fine, a new one can be inserted. If a ruptured balloon is confirmed, further evaluation is necessary.

Procedures can include:

Cystoscopy: This procedure allows a urologist to examine the inside of the bladder to locate and remove any fragments.
Bladder Irrigation: Irrigating the bladder can help wash out smaller fragments.
Imaging: X-rays or ultrasounds can sometimes detect retained foreign bodies or stones.
Suprapubic Puncture: In extreme cases, a physician may puncture the balloon through the abdomen.

Indwelling Catheter Management Comparison


Feature	Normal Catheter Removal	Burst Catheter Balloon
Deflation	Controlled aspiration of sterile water	Spontaneous and sudden deflation
Catheter Position	Remains anchored until intentionally deflated	Can fall out on its own due to deflation
Risks	Minor discomfort, urethral irritation	Potential for retained fragments and complications
Next Steps	Professional removal, new catheter if needed	Immediate medical evaluation and potential intervention

Conclusion: Prioritizing Patient Safety

The bursting of a catheter is a medical concern, primarily because of the risk of retained fragments, leading to complications like bladder stone formation and infections. While a simple deflation and removal can occur, any suspicion of rupture must be addressed by a healthcare professional. For patients with urinary catheters, understanding this risk and recognizing potential signs is vital for ensuring prompt and effective medical management. The best practice is to always consult a medical professional if you suspect a catheter malfunction.

For more information on catheter use and potential complications, consult authoritative medical resources like the National Institutes of Health.

Frequently Asked Questions

The main risk is that the balloon may not deflate cleanly, leaving fragments of the balloon inside the bladder. These fragments can then become a breeding ground for bacteria or act as a foundation for bladder stones.

You might hear or feel a 'pop' and notice that the catheter has fallen out or is no longer draining. Any change in urine drainage should prompt a call to your healthcare provider.

No, do not try to remove it yourself. This could cause further damage. A medical professional should manage the situation.

Any suspicion of a burst catheter warrants medical attention. It is better to have it checked than to risk long-term complications.

A urologist usually performs a cystoscopy to visualize and remove any fragments.

Causes include over-inflation, a manufacturing defect, or degradation of the balloon material. It can also happen when attempting to remove a catheter with a faulty non-deflating balloon.

Yes, retained fragments can promote bacterial colonization and increase the risk of a UTI.