As a result of our continuous development LoFric catheters are currently being converted to a new plastic material - a polyolefin-based elastomer (POBE). POBE is a state of the art plastic, free from PVC and phthalates (softeners).
The group of plastics known as Polyolefines is widely used for production of medical devices and has a documented safety profile. From an environmental perspective POBE is superior to the plastic materials commonly used for urinary catheters1.
LoFric in POBE has been thoroughly tested and a clinical study on ~200 users has shown it to be just as safe and comfortable as its predecessor2. It is important to understand that the catheters are still coated with the unique Urotonic™ Surface Technology that lowers friction during insertion and withdrawal. Because the one thing we'll never change is our commitment to safety and comfort.
- Stripple H, Westman R, Holm D. Development and environmental improvements of plastics for hydrophilic catheters in medical care: an environmental evaluation. J Clean Prod. 2008;16:1764-1776
- Witjes J A et al. A Multicenter, Double-Blind, Randomized, Parallel Group Study Comparing Polyvinyl Chloride and Polyvinyl Chloride-Free Catheter Materials. J Urol 2009: 182; 2794-2798.