[citation needed] Evidence does not support an important decrease in the risk of urinary tract infections when silver-alloy catheters are used.

Intermittent self-catheterization may be indicated in cases of neurogenic bladder due to damage to the spinal cord or brain.

The technique is safe and effective and results in improved kidney and upper urinary tract status, lessening of vesicoureteral reflux and amelioration of continence.

[5] In addition to the clinical benefits, patient quality of life is enhanced by the increased independence and security offered by self-catheterization.

[6][7] A catheter that is left in place for more than a short period of time is generally attached to a drainage bag to collect the urine.

A leg bag is usually worn during the day, as it fits discreetly under pants or skirts, and is easily emptied into a toilet.

The patient may require irrigation of the bladder with sterile saline injected through the catheter to flush out clots or other matter that does not drain.

Such precautions include: There is no clear evidence that any one catheter type or insertion technique is superior compared to another in preventing infections or complications.

[10] In the UK it is generally accepted that cleaning the area surrounding the urethral meatus with 0.9% sodium chloride solution is sufficient for catheterized patients regardless of their genitalia, as there is no reliable evidence to suggest that the use of antiseptic agents reduces the risk of urinary tract infection.