Catheterless long-term ambulatory urodynamic measurement using a novel three-device system
Sebastian Wille1, Pauline Schumacher2, Jenny Paas1
1Department of Urology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
Plos One
|May 21, 2014
Summary
A new C-shaped intravesical capsule (WiCa) enables long-term urodynamic monitoring for bladder disorders. This minimally invasive system accurately measures bladder function over several days without a transurethral catheter.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Conventional urodynamics often fail to diagnose bladder-emptying disorders due to short evaluation times and psychological factors.
- Severe overactive bladder symptoms can present with normal results during standard urodynamic testing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an ambulatory, easy-to-operate, three-component urodynamic measurement system for long-term patient monitoring.
- To create a system that registers urodynamic parameters over several days with no negative impact on the patient.
Main Methods:
- Development of an intravesical capsule (Wille Capsule - WiCa) combined with a handheld device for voiding desire and micturition detection.
- Utilized an alarm pad device to detect urine loss.
- In vitro testing using a female bladder model and biocompatibility evaluation.
Main Results:
- The WiCa, with a 5.5 mm diameter, was easily inserted and removed using a 25-French cystoscope in a female bladder model.
- A novel C-shaped design successfully prevented WiCa expulsion during micturition.
- In vitro cytotoxicity studies indicated the WiCa is a safe and promising device.
Conclusions:
- The novel system offers an innovative, minimally invasive tool for accurate long-term urodynamic measurement.
- This system eliminates the need for transurethral catheterization during urodynamic studies.
