Rethinking Catheters to Reduce Costs in Urodynamic Evaluation: Do All Roads Lead to Rome?
Neurourol UrodynJun 1, 2026 (epub)
João Antonio Pereira-Correia, Raquel Abreu Ferreira, Jonathan Ferezini et al.
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In 30 seconds
This randomized controlled trial evaluated the feasibility, safety, and cost-effectiveness of handmade rectal balloon catheters for urodynamic testing in 84 patients with lower urinary tract symptoms. The study found that these catheters had no adverse events and provided reliable pressure recordings, with a cost reduction of over 95% compared to standard commercial devices.
Key findings
- No balloon rupture, leakage, or displacement occurred in any of the 84 patients.
- Mean cost per handmade catheter was reduced by over 95% compared to international pre-fabricated catheters.
- Projected annual savings exceeded US$3,000 in centers performing 5 urodynamic studies per week.
Why it matters
The study highlights a cost-effective alternative for urodynamic evaluations, which could enhance accessibility to these tests in resource-limited settings, potentially improving patient care and reducing healthcare costs.