[Usefulness of endourologic catheters in the treatment of urinary lithiasis].

OBJECTIVE

To review the indications and complications of the use of endourological catheters in the treatment of urinary lithiasis and choice of catheter based on its physical and hydrodynamic characteristics and biocompatibility.

METHODS

Data from our experimental and clinical studies, as well as those published in the literature are summarized.

RESULTS

Polyurethane, C-flex and Percuflex catheters have the highest retaining capacity, while the silicone, Urosoft and Wiruthan catheters have the lowest. The tensile strength of polyurethane and copolymers is superior to that of silicone. The friction coefficient, which varies within the same material, influences the facility of catheter insertion. The number and size of the side vents are essential to catheter hydrodynamic behavior. Silicone is the most biocompatible material, followed by Urosoft. The polyurethanes and C-flex catheters cause important urothelial hyperplasia and edema of the lamina propia.

CONCLUSIONS

The choice of endourological catheter should be individualized and based on the clinical indication. For prevention of obstruction from steinstrasse post-lithotripsy, a catheter with a high extraluminal flow and high retaining capacity is indicated to facilitate passage of stone fragments and to avoid catheter migration.