At a first glance, assisted urine voiding through catheterization may seem like an unnatural thing. If, however, the evidence surrounding intermittent catheterization (a more technical name for it) is studied, it becomes clear that this is indeed something useful. New research reveals that intermittent catheterization is a central part of many treatment regimens. In this month’s Science Alert we look into some of them.
Three newly published studies highlight the use of intermittent catheterization in children. The therapy is identified as a central treatment option for urological management of children with spina bifida, but it is also recognized as a suitable and central option in resource-poor settings. In another, more resource-strong setting, evidence in favor of hydrophilic-coated catheters for intermittent use has been found. The evidence suggests that hydrophilic-coated catheters decrease the risk of urinary tract infection (UTI), as compared to non-coated catheters, when used for intermittent catheterization in children with neurogenic bladder.
Topics: Science Alert, Urinary Tract Infection (UTI), Catheter-associated UTI (CAUTI)
New success stories are being published every month on how to reduce the burden of catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI).
The vast majority of studies share successful results from prevention programs and show a significant CAUTI reduction of 9% per year or even higher depending on the method used. The most important part of the solution is to restrict the use of indwelling catheters.
Initial management after spinal cord injury is crucial in saving lives. It is often characterized by early transfer to specialized centers and early initiation of treatments.
Long-term management is, however, almost as important. New research focuses on both of these and stresses the importance of early prevention of chronic complications, as these are common health problems affecting the quality of live for people living with a spinal cord injury
Topics: Science Alert, Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)
The battle against urinary tract infections (UTIs) is on. UTIs are a heavy burden for many: the healthcare system, society and, not least, the individual.
Recurrent problems are common among people with spinal cord injury and patients suffering from incomplete bladder emptying. The link between catheter use and UTI is also sufficiently strong to be defined by its own term, catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI).
Topics: Science Alert, Urinary Tract Infection (UTI), Catheter-associated UTI (CAUTI)
Intermittent catheterization seems to be key to improving quality of life when living with a spinal cord injury. New research has confirmed that the therapy can increase the number of quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) by 93% and at the same time reduce urinary incontinence by 38%.
Topics: Science Alert, Clean Intermittent Catheterization (CIC), Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)
