Reduction in lower urinary tract mucosal microtrauma as an effect of reducing eyelet sizes of intermittent urinary catheters.

Intermittent catheterization (IC) utilizing conventional eyelets catheters (CECs) for bladder drainage has long been the standard of care. However, when the tissue of the lower urinary tract comes in close proximity to the eyelets, mucosal suction often occurs, resulting in microtrauma. This study investigates the impact of replacing conventional eyelets with a drainage zone featuring multiple micro-holes, distributing pressure over a larger area.

Development of an ex-vivo porcine lower urinary tract model to evaluate the performance of urinary catheters.

Intermittent catheterization is the gold standard method for bladder management in individuals with urinary retention and/or incontinence. It is therefore important to understand the performance of urinary catheters, especially on parameters associated to risks of developing urinary tract infections, and that may impact the quality of life for urinary catheter users. Examples of such parameters include, urine flowrate, occurrence of flow-stops, and residual urine left in the bladder after flow-stop.