[Effect of silicon and latex urinary catheters: a comparative study]

To evaluate the effect of silicon and latex urinary catheters on urinary mucosa.

A randomized, controlled prospective clinical trial was carried out in 60 patients admitted in the Department of Neurosurgery, who required long-term use of an indwelling urinary catheter. The patients were divided into 2 equal groups with placement of silicon or latex urinary catheter, and routine laboratory urine test was performed on a regular basis and the patients feelings during catheter retention were recorded.

Patients with placement of indwelling silicone catheters reported no obvious discomfort in relation to the catheter placement and had significantly lower incidence of hematuria identified microscopically than those with common latex catheters.

Compared with latex catheters, silicone catheters cause less injuries and reduce substantially irritation of the urinary mucosa, and we suggest the use of silicone catheter in patients requiring long-term indwelling urinary catheters.