Background:

The three-way indwelling urinary catheter (IUC) is used for continuous bladder irrigation and is considered the cornerstone for clinical treatment of patients with macroscopic hematuria. Although there seems to be a logical relationship between catheter size and efficacy of irrigation and drainage, we often observe relevant variations in these parameters between different brands of catheters available on the market. The aim of this study was to compare the mechanical properties of different models of latex and silicone three-way catheters in an in vitro setting that resembles clinical use.

Methods:

Three different three-way catheters were evaluated: Gold Silicone-Coated Rusch^® (Model A), 100% Silicone Rusch^® (Model B) and X-Flow Coloplast^® (Model C). Irrigation channel, drainage channel, and overall cross-sectional areas were all digitally measured. Irrigation and drainage channel flow rates were measured and correlated with their corresponding catheter cross-sectional area values.

Results:

Different catheter models of the same caliber have different internal irrigation port diameters, internal drainage port diameters and internal cuff port diameters. The Model C IUC internal irrigation port diameter is significantly larger than models A and B. When flows were evaluated, we found that in the same model, the increase in caliber of the IUC was related to an increased drainage flow, but not to an increased irrigation flow.

Conclusion:

Precise measurements of the internal architecture of the three-way catheter, rather than relying on the caliber itself, could assist surgeons in choosing the best product for each specific patient, while minimizing complications.