Individuals with disorders of the nervous system or urinary tract may experience urinary retention. Urinary retention means the bladder does not empty completely, or at all, without assistance. Urinary retention can cause serious complications if left untreated. For many individuals, intermittent catheterization is a successful way to manage urinary retention.
Intermittent catheterization allows urine to be manually drained by inserting a flexible tube into the bladder through the urethra, draining out the urine, and then removing the tube. Proper bladder drainage preserves urinary tract health and promotes a higher quality of life.
Are Hydrophilic Catheters Better for Preventing UTIs?
Although intermittent catheters have helped millions of individuals around the world experience greater independence and health, they do bring an increased risk of certain complications, such as scarring and narrowing of the urethra and urinary tract infection (UTI), which can be serious. Research suggests that use of specific types of catheters - called hydrophilic catheters - may reduce the risk of some of these complications by reducing the chance of urethral trauma during the insertion process. Some common hydrophilic catheters are Hollister’s Onli straight catheters and Hollister’s Infyna Chic catheter for females.
So, What Is a Hydrophilic Catheter?
Hydrophilic catheters were invented in the 1980s and have become mainstream in the last 20 years. They function the same way as a regular catheter but are manufactured with a special “hydrophilic” coating. This coating contains non-toxic polymers that create a very slippery surface that cannot be wiped off or removed, so the entire catheter remains slippery going in and coming out and there are no dry spots on the catheter. When using uncoated catheters, lubricant is applied to a portion of the catheter and has the potential to be wiped off as the catheter is inserted, meaning there is a possibility of insufficient lubrication on parts of the catheter as it travels to the bladder and back out again.
What Does Research Say?
Research suggests that a hydrophilic coating may offer additional protection against UTIs and other complications, because less damage to the urethra occurs during the catheterization process in comparison to a non-hydrophilic catheter. Urethral tissues that are damaged or irritated from insufficient lubrication may be more susceptible to UTI. Hydrophilic catheters are designed to minimize friction and trauma.
It is important to note, however, that the use of non-hydrophilic catheters does not necessarily mean an individual will experience increased UTIs or bladder trauma, but the risks of these events happening are higher than with hydrophilic catheters.
All hydrophilic catheters require a sterile hydration fluid to activate the special coating. This hydration fluid is applied to the catheter prior to insertion. Some catheters require a multistep process where a sterile packet of water must be “popped” prior to opening the catheter to activate the hydrophilic coating. Other catheters come with free hydration fluid in the packaging, which reduces the steps needed to prepare the catheter but can result in spills. Brands like Hollister’s Onli, Vapro and Infyna Chic line of products utilize a special hydration fluid that is superior to water, as it improves the catheter’s lubricity even more and mimics the body’s natural fluids, putting less stress on the cells and tissue of the urethra. It is also less messy and will not drip during use, so there is no concern about spilling liquid on clothing.
You can learn more about these Hollister products here: https://www.hollister.com/en/continencecare/hydrabalance
If you like your current brand of uncoated catheter, you may be surprised to learn there may be a hydrophilic version available. Hydrophilic catheters come in all styles, including coudé tip, female length, and closed systems. This means that whatever your preference, there is a hydrophilic option available.
Contact ABC Medical today to discuss hydrophilic catheter options and have free samples sent directly to your home. Fill out the form or call 866-897-8588.
Disclaimer: This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For medical advice, please speak with your healthcare provider.
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