Advice
Specialist commentator comments
Specialist commentator comments
Comments on this technology were invited from clinical experts working in the field and relevant patient organisations. The comments received are individual opinions and do not represent NICE's view.
Two of the 3 specialist commentators were familiar with the concept of the device, but none had used it before.
Level of innovation
All specialist commentators agreed that the Urethrotech UCD has a moderate to high level of innovation. One commentator stated that this innovation came from the guidewire and catheter being integrated in 1 medical device.
Potential patient impact
All commentators agreed that the Urethrotech UCD could benefit patients. It may avoid the need for more invasive and complex second-line procedures, which in turn could lead to fewer in-patient stays and reduced morbidity from urethral trauma.
Potential system impact
Two commentators agreed that the device could have a positive effect on the NHS, because it is quick and simple to use and could lead to fewer referrals to secondary care. It may also reduce costs associated with radiology, second-line catheterisation methods, acute care and staff costs. Both commentators agreed that adopting the Urethrotech UCD would have minimal resource impact but there may be a shift in care to primary care settings, where staff may need further training and monitoring.
One commentator felt that the Urethrotech UCD would most likely be used for men whose initial catheterisation attempts had led to the creation of a posterior urethral false passage. Because the device uses a very malleable guidewire, it may not pass anterior to this false passage and so could fail to reach the bladder. This would mean that more invasive and complex approaches would subsequently be needed. Because of this, the specialist commentator was sceptical about the benefits that the Urethrotech UCD could offer.