Using Temporary Prostatic Stents to Eliminate Bacterial Colonization in Men with Chronic Indwelling Catheters: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Background Chronic urinary catheterization is commonly associated with chronic bacterial colonization and high rates of symptomatic infection that increase morbidity and mortality. This study describes the results of replacing chronic catheters with temporary prostatic stents (TPS) to reduce bacterial colonization rates. Methods Twenty-two chronically catheterized adult male patients were enrolled. Upon removal, the indwelling urinary catheter (IUC) was cultured to identify the presence and type of bacterial flora. The IUC was replaced with a TPS. All patients had five consecutive TPS placed on a 30-day cycle. TPS cultures were obtained at removal of each TPS. Results All patients (100%) demonstrated bacterial colonization at baseline (removal of the IUC). After the third month with TPS, the colonization had fallen to 5% and remained at 5% for the final two months of TPS placement. Conclusions This pilot study suggests that replacing an IUC with a TPS interrupts the cycle of bacterial colonization in the urinary tract. This approach could be a strategy for eliminating multi-drug resistant organisms from the urinary tract of men with urinary retention.

Keywords: bacterial colonization; chronic indwelling catheters; temporary prostatic stents; tps; va; veterans.

Conflict of interest statement

The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

Figures

Figure 1. Sagittal Plane of the Male Urinary Tract with TPS in Place

Courtesy of SRS Medical [5]. TPS - temporary prostatic stent

Figure 2. Microbial Profile at IUC Removal

IUC: indwelling urinary catheter

Figure 3. Colonization Rate at IUC and TPS Removals

IUC: indwelling urinary catheter; TPS: temporary prostatic stents