In vitro investigations into the formation and dissolution of infection-induced catheter encrustations

Encrustations are the most frequent complications occurring with indwelling catheters and urine drainage systems. The conditions for bacterial infections, using synthetic urine and controlled contamination by Proteus vulgaris, were standardised by using an in vitro model. Crystal deposits on catheters were analysed by infra-red spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The main components of deposits in all investigations were struvite (MgNH4PO4.6H2O) 60-70% and carbonate apatite (Ca10(PO4,CO3)6 (OH,CO3)2) 30-40%. Investigations as to the quality and quantity of encrustations confirmed the analysis. Irrigation treatment was carried out with physiological saline solution and citric acid solution (Suby G) to study and quantify the dissolution of crystal deposits. Regular irrigation with citric solution resulted in a 70% dissolution of encrustations and ensured free flow as ascertained by measuring flow rates.