Teen FAQ
For over 10 years, teens have been asking us questions on every topic imaginable. While we are no longer taking new questions, we have a wealth of information we would like to share with teenagers.
Questions about suicide? Call the NATIONAL SUICIDE HOTLINE 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433).
Navigate: FAQ Home Page > Male -- Penis/testicles/scrotom > ACL surgery question
Posted on: 05/18/2007
Question
I am 15 and having surgery in two weeks to repair my partially torn ACL. The doctor said that I will need a catheter inserted into my penis while I am under the knife. I know a catheter is a small tube inserted into the penis, but I thought it was for when old men have prostate problems. I have 2 questions: what exactly are catheters used for? And if it is my knee that is being worked on why is my penis even an issue?
Answer
I took a survey of our surgeons and it is nearly uniform that a urinary catheter is not used by our surgeons during ACL reconstruction. There may be some extenuating circumstances in your particular case. Perhaps the surgeon is planning an extremely long procedure i.e. many hours. Perhaps there is some history of urinary tract problems. Perhaps this is just this particular surgeon's style. Hope this helps, and good luck.