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Crystal adherence to urinary catheter materials in rats
H Fuse1, M Ohkawa, T Nakashima
1Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Kanazawa University, Japan.
The Journal of Urology
|June 1, 1994
Summary
Fibrin adherence to urinary catheters promotes crystal buildup. Heparinized materials reduce fibrin and encrustation, suggesting a new strategy for preventing catheter complications.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Urology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Indwelling urinary catheters are prone to crystal adherence and encrustation.
- Fibrillar material, potentially fibrin, is often observed with crystal deposits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of fibrin in crystal adherence to urinary catheter materials.
- To evaluate the effect of heparinized materials on crystal encrustation.
Main Methods:
- Scanning electron microscopy and immunofluorescence were used.
- Sterile disks were inserted into rat bladders to simulate catheter conditions.
Main Results:
- Crystal adherence increased with higher levels of fibrillar material.
- Heparinized materials showed significantly less fibrin adherence and encrustation compared to latex and silicone.
Conclusions:
- Early fibrin adherence is crucial for crystal deposition on urinary catheters.
- Heparin inhibits fibrin adherence, thereby reducing catheter encrustation.