In a nutshell
This study investigated the effects of a sodium hyaluronate (SH; Healon) injections into the bladder in patients with urinary tract infections (UTI). The main finding was that SH was effective in treating UTIs.
Some background
About half of all women will experience a urinary tract infection (UTI) at some point. A UTI is an infection in any part of the urinary system. A UTI can affect the kidney, bladder or urethra. Up to 35% of women experience UTIs more than once. Sodium hyaluronate may be effective in treating UTIs. However, there has been limited research into this. This study investigated the effects of SH bladder injections on UTI symptoms and quality of life after treatment.
Methods & findings
This study analyzed the health records of 18 patients with UTIs who were treated with sodium hyaluronate for 6 weeks. Patients filled out questionnaires to record their symptoms before and following treatment. UTIs that returned following treatment were recorded by the patients’ own doctor.
The average patient had experienced UTIs for 4 and a half years before treatment. After treatment, the number of UTIs that a patient developed was reduced from 10 to 2 per year. The treatment reduced pain by 34% and night-time urination by 30%. Patients reported that their quality of life associated with UTIs improved by 76% following treatment. Patients did not report any side effects associated with the treatment.
The bottom line
This study suggested that sodium hyaluronate was safe and effective for the treatment of UTIs.
The fine print
This study only included 18 patients. Larger studies are needed for stronger evidence.
What’s next?
If you have questions about the management of UTIs, please consult a doctor.
Published By :
International urology and nephrology
Date :
Oct 15, 2019
