Intermittent catheterisation (IC) is accepted management for maintaining bladder and renal health in individuals with incomplete bladder emptying. Two common products are available for IC: polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and single use hydrophilic coated PVC. In 2004 the UK spent around £33 million on hydrophilic catheters compared to £3 million for PVC catheters. Proposed advantages of the lubricated hydrophilic catheter over PVC catheters are: