Continence technologies whitepaper: Informing new engineering science research

Advances in healthcare technology for continence have historically been limited compared to other areas of medicine, reflecting the complexities of the condition and social stigma which act as a barrier to participation. This whitepaper has been developed to inspire and direct the engineering science community towards research opportunities that exist for continence technologies that address unmet needs in diagnosis, treatment and long-term management. Our aim is to pinpoint key challenges and highlight related research opportunities for novel technological advances. To do so, we draw on experience and expertise from academics, clinicians, patients and patient groups linked to continence healthcare. This is presented in four areas of consideration: the clinical pathway, patient perspective, research challenges and effective innovation. In each we introduce seminal research, background information and demonstrative case-studies, before discussing their relevance to engineering science researchers who are interested in approaching this overlooked but vital area of healthcare

Developing alternative devices to the long-term urinary catheter for draining urine from the bladder

The self-retaining urinary catheter is used for long-term drainage of urine from the bladder only as a last resort because of serious associated complications, yet it remains a routine method for managing older and disabled patients with loss of bladder control. Blockage of the catheter from calcified deposits within its lumen is a common occurrence, obstructing the passage of urine and causing an urgent, unpredictable problem for patients, carers and the nursing staff. The need for further research on the subject has been recognized for many years. The SuPort Project aimed to develop an alternative suprapubic urine collection system. This report outlines the approach adopted towards the design and selection of the novel device, the production problems that ensued and the small clinical trial of a modified prototype