Comparison of hydrophilic polymer-coated latex, uncoated latex and PVC indwelling balloon catheters in the prevention of urinary infection.

Latex, hydrophilic polymer-coated latex and PVC balloon indwelling urethral catheters were compared in respect of the urinary tract infections arising in association with their use in male patients. The polymer (Hydron) coating conferred no benefit over uncoated latex which in turn was indistinguishable from PVC. No significant differences in the spectra of infecting organismns were observed between the 3 catheter types.