Effect of a hydrogel coating on the surface topography of latex-based urinary catheters: an SEM study

The hydrated surface of a hydrogel-coated latex urinary catheter has been examined using low temperature SEM, and its appearance compared with those of some other catheter surfaces. The effect of the coating is to smooth over most of the ripples and fissures of the underlying latex. On hydration the hydrogel surface becomes even smoother, with shallower furrows. The surface topography compares favourably with that of 100% silicone, which has a uniformly rippled yet smooth appearance.