Many patients with a spinal cord injury (SCI) require an indwelling catheter (either suprapubic or urethral) in order to effectively empty the bladder. Indwelling catheters are associated with an increased incidence of infections and can become blocked. Blockages require urgent attention from either community nursing or A&E. These complications have a negative impact on quality of life and are associated with increased healthcare costs. UroShield ® is a small device which is attached to the tubing of an indwelling catheter and transmits low frequency sound waves along the inner and outer surfaces of the catheter. This is designed to prevent biofilm formation which is associated with infection and encrustation which can cause blockage. We present the results a product evaluation of UroShield in a group of SCI patients with an suprapubic catheter (SPC).

SCI patients who experienced recurrent blockages or infections were identified from the records of the Complex Catheter Change Clinic. Following written consent, patients were entered into the Product Evaluation for a period of 12 weeks.  They were given information about the device and training in its use. Baseline questionnaires regarding number of blockages and infections, quality of life (QoL), sleep quality, and catheter satisfaction were completed. Questionnaires were repeated at 4, 8 and 12 weeks. Patient comments were also collected.

A total of 10 (7 female and 3 male) SCI patients were recruited. The average age was 58 years. Most patients experienced recurrent blockages rather than infections. 4 patients did not complete the 12 week trial period. There was a mean reduction in catheter blockages from 2 per 4 weeks to less than 1. Between baseline and 4 weeks, there was an average 4.6 point increase (scale 1-10) in catheter satisfaction. There was a slight reduction in catheter associated pain and a slight increase in sleep quality. One patient stopped using the device because they felt that increased bladder spasms, one thought it was causing skin issues and the remaining 2 stopped for practical reasons associated with charging the device. The patients who continued using the device were extremely satisfied and wanted to continue using it after the trial period.

The UroShield device may provide a solution to the problem of recurrent catheter blockages in some SCI patients with an SPC. This has the potential to increase quality of life and reduce healthcare associated costs.

Its important within spinal cord injury to ensure safe bladder emptying and often this is by means of a SPC. Preventative and least invasive options to managing and reducing complications such a catheter blockages is paramount not only to improve quality of life for the patient but also to reduce the healthcare associated costs it entails if a catheter does become blocked. 

It is also important to ensure that the underlying cause for blockages is excluded to ensure appropriate care, and management is implemented to deliver safe, effective and evidence based care. UroShield is an add-on to standard care.

NanoVibronix (2023) UroShield product information. Available at: https://nanovibronix.com/uroshield-product-information/ (Accessed: 26 February 2024).