Biofilm reduction potential of 0.02% polyhexanide irrigation solution in several types of urethral catheters

Abstract Background Long-term use of urethral catheters is associated with high risk urinary tract infection (UTI) and blockage. Microbial biofilms are a common cause catheter blockage, reducing their lifetime significantly increasing morbidity UTIs. A 0.02% polyhexanide irrigation solution developed for routine mechanical rinsing shows potential bacterial decolonization has the to reduce or prevent biofilm formation. Methods Using an in vitro assay standard market-leading types artificially contaminated clinically relevant bacteria, assays were carried out evaluate reduction prevention versus no intervention (standard approach) saline (NaCl 0.9%). The efficiency was measured through microbial plate count membrane filtration. Results Irrigation using suitable variety transurethral catheters. effect observed significant compared 0.9% ( p = 0.002) treatment 0.011). No difference found between 0.74). Conclusions able from bacteria vitro. data viability thick commercially available made silicone, latex-free hydrogel-coated silicone PVC. Further research required long-term tolerability efficacy clinical practice.