What are Intermittent Catheters?
Intermittent catheters are designed to drain urine from the bladder, and then be removed. For those with spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injury, spina bifida, multiple sclerosis, enlarged prostate of other conditions that cause neurogenic bladder, an intermittent catheter may be used to manage emptying the bladder. At HR Urological, we offer a full selection of intermittent catheters to best meet your unique needs and lifestyle.
Catheter French Sizes
A catheter French size (Fr) refers to the external diameter of the catheter. The smaller the French size, the smaller the diameter of the catheter. Your doctor will choose the smallest French size based on your urological needs.
Catheter French sizes utilize a universal coding system to determine the sizing. Reference the below when determining your French size.
Catheter Length
Intermittent Catheters come in a variety of lengths to better fit the needs of each individual patient. Pediatric catheters are 10 inches in length, female catheters are 6 to 7.5 inches, and male/unisex catheters are 16 inches in length.
Common Types of Intermittent Catheters
Intermittent catheters come in a several configurations, which includes how they are packaged and the coating on the product.
Straight tip intermittent catheters are standard straight catheters. Also referred to as “uncoated” catheters, they require the application of lubricant to reduce friction and discomfort with insertion and removal. These catheters are typically the most affordable and are the ideal choice for those who do not have insurance or are under-insured.
A coude catheter is an intermittent catheter with a curved insertion tip that is designed to make it easier for use in males if there is difficulty navigating over the prostate curve.
Hydrophilic catheters are the best choice for individuals who experience discomfort during the self-catheterization process. TruCath® hydrophilic catheters have a special coating that is water-activated, acting like a lubricant sticking to the surface. When this special coating is activated, it creates an ultra-slippery surface allowing for overall easier insertion and removal that is virtually painless. The touch-free sleeve helps to minimize cross-contamination and is used to guide the catheter during insertion and removal.
A closed system catheter is a touch-free, all-in-one catheter system that includes a pre-lubricated catheter with an attached collection bag. The introducer tip shields the catheter from bacteria in the beginning of the urethra where most bacteria is concentrated and can help prevent urinary tract infections.
Ready to Discover TruCath®?
TruCath® products are available at medical supply companies and distributors nationwide. Our dedicated partners work with patients one-on-one so they receive the best catheters for their unique needs and lifestyle.
Ask your provider to try TruCath® Intermittent Catheters today and they will provide free samples of our products and answer any questions you may have. It is quick and easy, with no obligation.
What topics do you want to read about?
We’re interested in your feedback on what topics you’d like to read about. Please contact us with your suggestion and we’ll do our best to cover topics that interest you.