EasiCath: an advanced alternative to indwelling urethral catheters.

This article looks at EasiCath, the single-use hydrophilic catheter manufactured by Coloplast Ltd. EasiCath is now widely used throughout the UK and Europe. Since the launch of EasiCath, Coloplast has continued to develop its lubricated catheters and with the recent inclusion of the 30 cm EasiCath on the Drug Tariff, Coloplast now provides the most extensive range of lubricated catheters in the UK. In recent trials looking at the cell count on the surface of hydrophilic catheters following catheterisation, EasiCath performed well, indicating that it is a safe choice of lubricated catheter (Biering-Sorensen et al, 1999). This, combined with the benefits of the precoated, polished eyelets and the potential cost saving to the GP (4.60 Pounds per box of 25) over a number of other catheters available, means that EasiCath has become the first choice of hydrophilic catheter for many patients.