Urinary Catheter Options

A urinary catheter is a thin tube placed in the body to help drain and collect urine. These devices are commonly used in individuals who suffer from urinary incontinence, urinary retention, spinal cord injury, dementia or multiple sclerosis. They are also used during certain surgical procedures. Catheters come in several different forms and are made from a wide variety of materials.

Catheter Types

• According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, urinary catheters come in three basic types. Indwelling urethral catheters are designed for long-term use but can also be used for short periods of time. If you are fitted with this type of device, it will likely be inserted through the urethra to your bladder. Once it is properly positioned, a balloon attached to the catheter is inflated to lock it into place. The common "Foley catheter" is a well-known indwelling device.

  As an alternative, your urologist (urinary tract specialist) may choose to use a certain type of indwelling device called a "suprapubic catheter." If this is the case, a catheter will be inserted through your abdomen near your pubic bone and then guided to your bladder. These devices are most commonly used for long-term placement, as well as in the aftermath of urethral blockage or injury and some gynecological procedures.

  Intermittent catheters are typically used when only short-term catheterization is needed. They are similar to indwelling catheters, but do not use a balloon and may be easily inserted and removed. If you require intermittent catheterization, your doctor can show you how to insert and remove the tubing on your own.

  Condom catheters are made for men, and are tipped with a condom-like catching device that is placed over the end of the penis to catch urine. This type of catheter is most typically used for sufferers of dementia.

Drainage Bags

• Your catheter may be equipped with either of two types of drainage bag. A leg bag is a small collector that is strapped to your leg with elastic. It can be worn during the day under pants or skirt and can be emptied directly into a toilet. If you wear a catheter at night, you may need a larger bag called a "down drain." These devices are kept lower than your sleeping position to allow gravity-fed collection of your urine.

Materials

• Your catheter tube may come in a number different sizes, and may be made of silicone, plastic, rubber, Teflon or latex. Typically, your doctor will use the smallest gauge of tubing possible. However, you may require a larger tubing gauge if leaking is a concern. In some cases, you may have an allergic reaction to a latex catheter. If this happens, your doctor can substitute tubing made with another material. Consult your doctor or urologist for a more detailed explanation of your urinary catheter options.