Clinical utility of a portable ultrasound device in intermittent catheterization.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the clinical utility of a new portable ultrasound device (PUD) in the management of intermittent catheter programs in patients with neuropathic bladder.

DESIGN

Intervention study using randomized control trial.

SETTING

Tertiary care center providing inpatient and ambulatory rehabilitation services to persons with neurologic disabilities.

PARTICIPANTS

Thirty-eight inpatients and outpatients with neuropathic bladders requiring intermittent catheterization.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Mean frequency of intermittent catheterization, mean number of episodes of overdistension, and patient satisfaction as measured with a Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire.

RESULTS

The mean frequency of catheterization per day was reduced in the PUD group in comparison with controls (2.99 vs 4.12, p = .026). The number of episodes of overdistension was also reduced in the PUD group but did not reach statistical significance (12.45 vs 14.76, p = .61). Subjects generally expressed satisfaction with the PUD, with 16 of 18 patients at least somewhat satisfied with the device.

CONCLUSION

The PUD is a useful tool for clinicians in patients undergoing intermittent catheterization programs that can reduce the number of required catheters. It is associated with a high degree of patient satisfaction.