For decades, tetraplegic patients have been prescribed external condom or indwelling Foley catheters for bladder management since most were incapable of intermittent urinary self-catheterization. The dexterity required to open the package, lubricate the catheter, etc., was more than most could accomplish, particularly at higher injury levels. MTG set a goal of developing a catheter that could be used, without help from a caregiver, for those with spinal cord injuries from C-4 through C-7 and for some people afflicted with Multiple Sclerosis. We believe that with the MTG EZ-Gripper®, we have achieved this goal.
Full kit includes sterile MTG EZ-Gripper® Cath closed system catheter, pair of latex-free gloves, underpad, gauze pad, BZK antiseptic prep, and privacy bag.
If the potential user can move one hand 3” to the left, and then 3” to the right, while stabilizing the anatomy with their other hand, he/she should be able to self-catheterize. In the case of the male, the penis will be held against the leg with one hand while the other hand moves the Gripper back and forth. In the case of the female, the user may opt to use both hands on the Gripper and pull the catheter into the urethra.
MTG EZ-Gripper® is a self-contained, pre-lubricated, closed system catheter. From start to finish, the user will not need the fine motor skills of either the hands or fingers in order to cath. Even the packaging has been fitted with access finger holes for easier opening. Affixed to the outside of the collection bag is our patented Gripper, a handle that applies pressure to the tube from both sides of the bag, so the user doesn’t have to firmly squeeze during advancement, and tenodesis grip can be utilized. As the Gripper is advanced towards the top of the bag, the catheter also advances forward about 2”, through the urethra and into the bladder. As the Gripper is returned to its original position in the bag in preparation for another advancement, the catheter remains stable and the patented MTG EZ-Advancer® valve prevents the catheter from going backwards.
Protecting the upper urinary tract is a key to reducing the risk of potential renal problems down the road. While self-catheterization is certainly going to keep UTIs to a minimum compared to bladder management using external or Foley catheters, it’s more laborious for the user. Nevertheless, once the user becomes proficient, which can take several catheterization attempts to master, the pros far outweigh the cons: No more bags and no more odor; short pants are an option, etc. For an in-depth description of MTG EZ-Gripper®, please view our user instructional video, complete with a C-6 quad catheterizing an anatomical model.
Outer package includes access finger holes for easy opening.