Why is urethral trauma a problem for ISC users?

If your patients catheterise 5 times a day (1,825 times a year), every insertion should be as smooth as possible to reduce discomfort. Poorly coated catheters or reusable, unlubricated catheters lead to higher friction between the catheter and the mucosa in the urethra 1, which may lead to microtrauma and potentially bacteria attaching to the urethra. With no natural flushing, the bacteria cannot be removed, increasing the risk of UTIs.2

Understanding urethral trauma and its impact

Protecting the urethra from trauma and complications that may lead to a UTI is a critical clinical challenge, and consideration of the catheter coating may help as coatings can vary. Some are insufficiently hydrated causing increased friction and pain during insertion and withdrawal.4

Long-term use of ISC and repeated injury can cause urethral strictures and may make future catheterisations difficult, causing repeated injuries and UTIs.5

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What do IC users worry about during catheterisation?

Dependence on urinary intermittent catheterisation elicits considerable  worry about urinary tract infections

Dependence on urinary intermittent catheterisation elicits considerable worry about urinary tract infections

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The whole goal of catheterisation is, obviously, to empty the bladder but do it in a fashion that is less traumatic to the urethra.

Prof. Michael Kennelly, MD, Professor and Director of Urology at Atrium Health – Carolinas, and Rehabilitation and Medical Doctor of the Charlotte Continence Center, US