[Regional variation in urinary catheter use in the Netherlands: a population-based cohort from 2012 to 2021]

Clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) is often preferred over indwelling catheters (IDC) due to fewer complications and improved quality of life. This study investigated trends and regional differences in CIC and IDC use in the Netherlands between 2012 and 2021.

Data were collected from the Drug and Medical Devices Information System and regional differences were assessed using negative binomial regression (NBR).

The number of CIC users increased by 27.3%, from 34,204 to 43,528 and the number of ID users by 44.6%, from 41,619 to 60,172. The most significant increases were among male CIC users > 65 years and IDC users > 85 years. NBR showed significant regional variations, with higher CIC use in the northern Netherlands and variable IDC use across the country.

There is a growing number of catheter users in the Netherlands and there are regional differences, which may be explained by variations in patient populations, healthcare provider preferences, and adherence to guidelines.