Justification of closed intermittent urinary catheter irrigation/instillation: a review of current research and...

Urinary tract infections secondary to urinary instrumentation continue to affect over 400,000 patients per year in the USA. While the debate continues over the effectiveness of catheter/bladder irrigation or instillation, these procedures continue to be indicated for certain conditions. Inconsistencies in how these procedures are carried out often depend on the type of catheter used, frequency of the procedure, and equipment available. This review article looks at the available literature on pathogenesis of urinary tract infections and specific literature on irrigation techniques and outcomes. This information is summarized and recommendations are made for adoption of a well-supported procedure, which also provides more cost-effective care. Proposals are made for further research involving use of this procedure.