Surface structure of unused and used catheters. A scanning electron microscopic study.
The surface structure of different catheter materials was investigated by scanning electron microscopy. Two catheter types were also examined after long-term use in three patients with chronic urinary tract infection. It was found that the amount of salt encrustation was more pronounced the higher the degree of catheter surface roughness.
D000368:Aged; D002408:Catheters, Indwelling / Q000592:standards*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D012408:Rubber; D012826:Silicone Elastomers; D013499:Surface Properties; D013997:Time Factors; D001743:Urinary Bladder; D014546:Urinary Catheterization / Q000295:instrumentation*; D014552:Urinary Tract Infections / Q000628:therapy; D014555:Urination Disorders / Q000628:therapy
D012826:Silicone Elastomers; D012408:Rubber