Comparison of the microbiological milieu of patients randomized to either hydrophilic or conventional PVC catheters for clean intermittent catheterization

There was a trend for reduced recovery of potentially pathogenic bacteria with the use of hydrophilic catheters. The reduction in potentially pathogenic species will reduce antibiotic exposures and some patients may prefer the comfort hydrophilic catheters provide.535Figure. Overview of the study. Fifty myelomeningocele patients were randomized to either the intervention of using a hydrophilic catheter for 12 months or to continue their PCV catheter; urine cultures were examined at 3-month intervals. At the end of the study, hydrophilic catheter users had fewer potential pathogenic species recovered from their cultures. Some individuals preferred the new catheters so much so they switched indefinitely.