Indwelling urinary catheters (IUCs) are widely used for bladder drainage, yet complications such as retained catheter can arise due to balloon deflation failure, encrustation, anatomical obstructions, or mechanical issues. Improper removal may lead to serious complications, necessitating careful management.

A 32-year-old woman was referred for failed IUC removal following a partial hysterectomy. Despite successful balloon deflation, the catheter remained entrapped. Ultrasound confirmed a functional balloon, ruling out inflation channel obstruction. Cystoscopic evaluation revealed a chromic braided suture anchoring the catheter tip to the posterior bladder wall. Multiple removal attempts failed, but Collins knife excision under local anesthesia successfully released the catheter without complications. Suture-related catheter entrapment is rare and lacks standardized management guidelines.

Forceful removal of retained catheter risks bladder trauma and urethral injury, making cystoscopic suture removal the preferred approach.

The troubleshooting algorithm for retained catheter removal must be determined based on the etiology to ensure the most appropriate and effective intervention.