title: Characterisation of the internal and external surfaces of four types of Foley catheter using SEM and profilometry.
abstract: Unfortunately the use of Foley catheters for long-term catheterisation is frequently associated with complications such as infection and encrustation. This study investigated whether a link could exist between the surface properties of the catheters and the problems that can develop. The internal and external surfaces of four different types of urinary catheter were examined. Three latex devices coated with either PTFE or hydrogel or surface treated with silicone were investigated. In addition, an all-silicone device was examined. The surfaces of the all-silicone catheters were relatively smooth and featureless. In contrast, the external surfaces of each of the latex devices were 'paved' in nature. The internal surfaces of latex based devices produced by different manufacturers showed distinct differences with evidence of inorganic inclusions on the internal surfaces of two of the catheter types. These findings may be significant in the context of catheter infection and encrustation.
authors.affiliation: Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Bath, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK.
authors.forename: E L
authors.initials: EL
authors.lastname: Lawrence
authors.forename: I G
authors.initials: IG
authors.lastname: Turner
mesh_terms: D001672:Biocompatible Materials / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000032:analysis; D002408:Catheters, Indwelling / Q000009:adverse effects; D020136:Hydrogel, Polyethylene Glycol Dimethacrylate / Q000032:analysis; D007840:Latex / Q000032:analysis; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D011138:Polytetrafluoroethylene / Q000032:analysis; D012828:Silicones / Q000032:analysis; D013499:Surface Properties; D014546:Urinary Catheterization / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation
chemical_list: D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D007840:Latex; D012828:Silicones; D020136:Hydrogel, Polyethylene Glycol Dimethacrylate; D011138:Polytetrafluoroethylene