Why is urethral trauma a problem for IC users?
If your patients catheterise 5 times a day1 (1,825 times a year), every insertion should be as smooth and gentle as possible to reduce discomfort. Poorly coated catheters or reusable, unlubricated catheters lead to higher friction between the catheter and the mucosa in the urethra2, 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.3
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 coated causing increased friction and pain during insertion and withdrawal.4
Long-term use of IC and repeated injury can cause urethral strictures and may make future catheterisations difficult, causing repeated injuries and UTIs.5
Introduction to urethral trauma / 0,39 Minutes
What do IC users worry about during catheterisation?
The whole goal of catheterisation is, obviously, to empty the bladder but do it in a fashion that is less traumatic to the urethra."
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