Antimicrobial silver oxide incorporated urinary catheters for infection resistance

Urinary tract infection (UTI) caused by catheterization (CAUTI) is one of the leading causes of Nosocomial infection. A number of strategies have been employed to address this problem. Here we describe simple, unique technique of silver oxide impregnation in Foley's catheters of natural Rubber latex to impart infection resistance. Its effectiveness was assayed against both gram negative and gram positive microorganisms. Microbiological methods were used to evaluate efficacy of the coating and its non-toxicity was determined by in -itro cytotoxicity assay. The material characteristics of the coated Foley's catheters were evaluated to ensure suitability for intended purpose. Both the interna and externa of the Foley's catheter showed presence of AgO incorporation by this method. The procedure was easy to perform, cost effective and ensured the presence of silver ions in sufficient concentration. This resulted in a measurable zone of inhibition when tested with the bacterial isolates from Foley's catheters retrieved from patients, which were resistant to multiple antibiotics. AgO impregnation of the catheters did not effect the mechanical properties substantially to make it unfit for intended application. The present study describes AgO silver oxide impregnation method of proven antimicrobial efficacy, is non-cyto toxic and has sufficient mechanical properties. This can be incorporated as the last step in the manufacturing process.