Urinary Catheterization is a medical practice that consists of introducing a Latex, Silicone, or Polyurethane tube into the bladder through the urethra, allowing the collection of urine that cannot be expelled naturally from the body of the user. Also, it can also be used to inject liquids used in the treatment or diagnosis of bladder disorders. The Urinary Catheter, is the device used during this practice.
Since its inception, which dates back to the year 3,000 B.C., Catheters have seen more than a handful of changes that have led us to the several types of devices that can be used today for this medical practice.
Some of them are:
- The Foley Catheter consists of a flexible tube that a clinician passes through the urethra and through the bladder to drain the urine. This one is the most common type of catheter there it. The tube has two separate channels, which run down its length. One of them, which is opened at both ends, drains urine into a storage pocket. The other one has a valve at the outer end and is attached to a balloon at the inner side. The balloon is inflated with sterile water, lying inside the bladder to keep it from leaking out.
- The Intermittent Catheter, a flexible tube removed after each use several times a day to empty the bladder, is especially practical because the user can use it at any time without the need for assistance by medical staff. It also comes in different forms that make the process extremely clean and straightforward. It is safe in the long term. It minimizes common risks such as urinary tract infections ( UTIs), bladder stone complications, deterioration of the upper urinary tract, and strictures.
- The Condom Catheter, is an external urinary catheter that is worn like a condom. This catheter gathers urine as it drains out of the bladder and sends it to a collection bag strapped to the user’s leg. This one is typically used by men who suffer from urinary incontinence and doesn’t require the assistance of a medical professional.
- A Coudé Tip Catheter is mostly straight but has a curved tip. A slight bend or angle helps the catheter circumvent any obstruction such as scar tissue or swollen prostate that can block the urethra. There are a few types of coudé catheters to choose from, depending on your particular needs. The coudé olive tip has a bent tip with a small bulb at the top, further navigating the obstructions. The coudé tiemann tip is more expansive, thinner, and more flexible, making it easier to insert in smaller openings. Coudé tip catheters aren’t pre-lubricated.
Now, after reading the list above, we can see that the intermittent catheter and the condom catheter have a strong benefit over the first: they don’t require medical help to be used, which means that you don’t have to waste the time of your day going to the doctor to do the catheterization, and you can save the money you were going to invest in that trip to the clinic. And while these two items have tremendous advantages over the Foley Catheter, we suggest a professional’s orientation for first-time users.
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