Folio catheter. Comprehensive Guide to Foley Catheter Care: Cleaning, Maintenance, and Daily Management

03.12.202027.07.2023 by alexxlab

How to properly clean and maintain a Foley catheter. What are the essential steps for daily catheter care. How to comfortably wear a Foley catheter and leg bag. When and how to change drainage bags for optimal hygiene.

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Understanding Your Foley Catheter: Function and Components

A Foley catheter is a crucial medical device used for urinary drainage. But what exactly is it, and how does it work?

A Foley catheter is a thin, flexible tube inserted through the urethra into the bladder. Its primary function is to drain urine continuously. The catheter is held in place by a small balloon inflated with water once it’s properly positioned in the bladder.

The urine flows from the bladder through the catheter and into a drainage bag. This drainage bag is typically secured to the leg using a special tape called Cath-Secure®.

Types of Drainage Bags

There are two main types of drainage bags you’ll use with your Foley catheter:

Leg bag: Used during the day, with a capacity of 500 ml (half a liter)
Night bag: Used while sleeping, with a larger capacity of 2 liters

Understanding the different parts of your catheter system is essential for proper care and maintenance. The external components typically include:

The catheter tube
Drainage tubing
Drainage bag
Securing straps or tape

Essential Daily Care for Your Foley Catheter

Proper daily care is crucial for preventing infections and ensuring the smooth operation of your Foley catheter. What are the key steps you should follow?

Clean your catheter daily
Change drainage bags twice a day
Replace drainage bags with new ones weekly
Wash drainage bags daily
Stay hydrated by drinking 1-2 glasses of liquid every 2 hours while awake

It’s normal to occasionally see small amounts of blood or urine around the catheter insertion site, especially during physical activities or bowel movements. However, if you notice this without urine draining into the bag, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Optimal Wearing Techniques for Comfort and Functionality

Wearing a Foley catheter comfortably is essential for your daily activities and overall well-being. How can you ensure the best fit and function?

Position the leg bag below your knee to facilitate proper drainage
Use Velcro® straps to secure the leg bag to your calf
Employ a leg strap to keep the tubing secure on your thigh
Ensure straps are not too tight to prevent circulation issues
Apply a water-based lubricant to prevent soreness around the insertion site
Maintain cleanliness through daily showers

Proper positioning of the catheter tubing is crucial. The tubing from your leg bag should reach your calf with your leg slightly bent. If there’s excess tubing, your healthcare provider can show you how to trim it safely.

Shower Safety: Maintaining Hygiene with a Foley Catheter

Maintaining personal hygiene is crucial when you have a Foley catheter. Can you shower safely with a catheter in place?

Yes, you can and should shower regularly with your Foley catheter. However, there are some important guidelines to follow:

Always use your night bag when showering, as it’s waterproof
Avoid bathing until your catheter is removed to prevent infection risks
Consider showering in the morning before switching from the night bag to the leg bag

Regular showers help keep the catheter insertion site clean and reduce the risk of urinary tract infections. Remember to be gentle when cleaning around the catheter to avoid dislodging it.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Foley Catheter

Proper cleaning of your Foley catheter is essential for preventing infections and ensuring its optimal function. What’s the best way to clean your catheter?

Gather supplies: mild soap (like Dove®) and a new Cath-Secure®
Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
Clean your genital area with mild soap and water
Clean the catheter insertion site (urethra)
Clean the catheter from the insertion point downward, away from your body
Rinse thoroughly and dry gently
Secure the catheter with a new Cath-Secure®

When cleaning, it’s crucial to hold the catheter at its entry point to avoid putting tension on it. This helps prevent discomfort and potential displacement of the catheter.

Mastering Drainage Bag Management

Proper management of your drainage bags is crucial for maintaining hygiene and preventing complications. How often should you change your drainage bags?

You should change your drainage bags twice daily:

In the morning: Switch from the night bag to the leg bag
Before bed: Change from the leg bag to the night bag

Additionally, you should replace your drainage bags with completely new ones once a week. It’s also important to change the bag if it becomes clogged or blocked.

Proper Drainage Bag Cleaning Techniques

Cleaning your drainage bags daily is essential for maintaining proper hygiene. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Empty the bag completely
Rinse the bag with cool water
Fill the bag with a mixture of 1 part white vinegar and 3 parts water
Let the solution sit in the bag for 20 minutes
Empty the bag and rinse thoroughly with cool water
Hang the bag to air dry completely before next use

Remember, proper cleaning helps prevent the buildup of bacteria and unpleasant odors, contributing to better overall hygiene and reduced risk of infections.

Hydration: A Key Component of Catheter Care

Proper hydration plays a crucial role in maintaining urinary health and ensuring the smooth operation of your Foley catheter. Why is staying hydrated so important?

Adequate fluid intake helps:

Flush out bacteria from your urinary system
Prevent urinary tract infections
Keep urine flowing freely through the catheter
Reduce the risk of catheter blockages

The general recommendation is to drink 1 to 2 glasses of liquids every 2 hours while you’re awake. However, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider about the right amount of fluid intake for your specific situation, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

Choosing the Right Fluids

While water is always an excellent choice for hydration, you can also include other fluids in your daily intake:

Herbal teas
Clear broths
Diluted fruit juices
Low-fat milk

It’s generally advisable to limit caffeine and alcohol consumption, as these can have a diuretic effect and may irritate your bladder. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice on fluid intake and dietary considerations.

Recognizing and Addressing Common Catheter Concerns

While proper care significantly reduces risks, it’s important to be aware of potential issues that may arise with your Foley catheter. What are some common concerns, and how should you address them?

Catheter Blockage

A blocked catheter can lead to serious complications if not addressed promptly. Signs of a blockage include:

Little or no urine output
Leakage around the catheter
Abdominal discomfort or pain

If you suspect a blockage, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Do not attempt to flush the catheter yourself unless specifically instructed by a medical professional.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Catheter users are at higher risk for UTIs. Be alert for symptoms such as:

Fever or chills
Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
Pain or burning sensation in the lower abdomen or back
Increased urgency or frequency of urination

If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention promptly. Early treatment of UTIs is crucial to prevent more serious complications.

Skin Irritation

The area around the catheter insertion site may become irritated. To prevent and manage skin issues:

Keep the area clean and dry
Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers
Apply a moisture barrier cream if recommended by your healthcare provider
Ensure the catheter is properly secured to minimize movement

If you notice persistent redness, swelling, or discharge, inform your healthcare provider.

Lifestyle Adjustments with a Foley Catheter

Living with a Foley catheter may require some lifestyle adjustments, but it shouldn’t significantly limit your daily activities. How can you maintain an active and fulfilling life with a catheter?

Physical Activity

Regular exercise is important for overall health. With proper precautions, you can engage in many forms of physical activity:

Secure the catheter and drainage bag properly before exercising
Choose loose-fitting clothing for comfort
Start with low-impact activities and gradually increase intensity as you feel comfortable
Stay hydrated before, during, and after exercise

Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or changing an exercise routine.

Clothing Choices

Selecting appropriate clothing can help you feel more comfortable and confident:

Opt for loose-fitting pants or skirts to accommodate the catheter and drainage bag
Consider using specially designed catheter underwear for added security
Choose dark-colored bottoms to minimize visibility of the drainage system

Social Activities and Travel

Having a catheter doesn’t mean you need to limit your social life or avoid travel. Here are some tips:

Plan ahead for bathroom access when going out
Carry extra supplies when traveling
Consider using a larger capacity drainage bag for long trips
Inform airline staff if you’re flying, as you may need special accommodations

Remember, with proper planning and care, you can maintain an active lifestyle while managing your Foley catheter effectively.

Nutritional Considerations for Catheter Users

While there’s no specific “catheter diet,” certain nutritional considerations can support urinary health and catheter function. What dietary choices can benefit catheter users?

Bladder-Friendly Foods

Some foods may help reduce bladder irritation and promote urinary health:

Cranberries and cranberry juice (unsweetened)
Blueberries
Pears
Watermelon
Carrots
Leafy greens

Foods to Limit or Avoid

Certain foods and beverages may irritate the bladder or increase the risk of UTIs:

Caffeinated drinks
Alcohol
Spicy foods
Acidic fruits and juices
Artificial sweeteners

It’s important to note that individual responses to foods can vary. Keep a food diary to identify any items that seem to cause discomfort or irritation.

Fiber Intake

Maintaining regular bowel movements is crucial for catheter users, as constipation can put pressure on the bladder and affect catheter function. Include fiber-rich foods in your diet:

Whole grains
Legumes
Fruits and vegetables
Nuts and seeds

Remember to increase fiber intake gradually and drink plenty of water to prevent constipation.

Emotional Well-being and Catheter Management

Living with a Foley catheter can have emotional impacts alongside physical considerations. How can you maintain good mental health while managing a catheter?

Acceptance and Adaptation

Coming to terms with needing a catheter can be challenging. Consider these strategies:

Educate yourself about your condition and catheter care
Focus on the benefits the catheter provides for your health
Set realistic goals for adjusting to life with a catheter
Practice self-compassion and patience during the adaptation process

Seeking Support

You don’t have to navigate catheter management alone. Consider these support options:

Join a support group for individuals with similar experiences
Confide in trusted friends or family members
Consult a mental health professional if you’re struggling to cope
Maintain open communication with your healthcare team about any concerns

Maintaining Intimacy

Having a catheter doesn’t mean the end of intimacy. Here are some considerations:

Communicate openly with your partner about your feelings and concerns
Explore alternative forms of intimacy and physical affection
Consult your healthcare provider for specific advice on sexual activity with a catheter
Consider seeing a therapist specializing in sexual health if needed

Remember, maintaining a positive outlook and seeking support when needed can significantly improve your quality of life while managing a Foley catheter.

About Your Urinary (Foley) Catheter: How To Clean and Care for It

This information will help you care for your urinary (Foley) catheter.

About your urinary (Foley) catheter

Your Foley catheter is a thin, flexible tube placed through your urethra (the small tube that carries urine from your bladder to outside your body) and into your bladder. Your Foley catheter drains your urine (pee). It’s held inside your bladder by a balloon filled with water.

How your Foley catheter works

Your urine goes from your bladder and through a drainage tube into a drainage collection bag. The drainage bag stays on your leg with a special tape called Cath-Secure^®.

You will have 2 types of drainage bags:

A leg bag. This is the bag that you wear during the day. It holds half a liter of urine.
A night bag. This is the bag you will put on at night before you go to bed. It holds 2 liters of urine.

The parts of the catheter that are outside your body are shown in Figure 1.

Figure 1. The parts of your Foley catheter and drainage bag

How to take care of your Foley catheter

To take care of your Foley catheter, you will need to:

Clean your catheter every day.
Change your drainage bags. You will change your drainage bag 2 times a day:
- In the morning, change the night bag to the leg bag.
- At night before you go to bed, change the leg bag to the night bag.
Replace your drainage bags with new bags once a week. You should also change your drainage bag if it gets clogged or blocked.
Wash your drainage bags every day.
Drink 1 to 2 glasses of liquids every 2 hours while you’re awake to keep you hydrated.

You may see some blood or urine around where the catheter enters your body. This may happen when you’re walking or having a bowel movement (pooping). This is normal if there’s urine draining into the drainage bag. If you do not have urine draining into the drainage bag, call your healthcare provider.

How to comfortably wear your Foley catheter and leg bag

The tubing from your leg bag should fit down to your calf with your leg slightly bent. If you have extra tubing, you may need to cut it. Your healthcare provider will show you how to do this.
Always wear the leg bag below your knee. This will help it drain.
Place the leg bag on your calf using the Velcro® straps your healthcare provider gave you. Use a leg strap to secure the tubing to your thigh.
If the straps leave a mark on your leg, they are too tight. Loosen them. Leaving the straps too tight can lower your blood flow and cause blood clots.
Use a water-based lubricant (such as Astroglide® or K-Y®) to keep your penis or vagina opening from getting sore.
Keep your penis or vagina opening clean by taking a shower every day. This will help prevent infections when your Foley catheter is in place.

How to shower with your Foley catheter

You can shower while you have your catheter in place.
Do not take a bath until your catheter is removed. Taking a bath while you have your catheter in place puts you at risk for infections.
Make sure you always shower with your night bag. Your night bag is waterproof. Do not shower with your leg bag. Your leg bag has cloth on the side and will not dry as fast.
- You may find it easier to shower in the morning before you change your night bag to your leg bag.

How to clean your Foley catheter

You can clean your catheter while you’re in the shower. Follow these instructions.

Gather your supplies. You will need:
- Mild soap, such as Dove®.
- 1 Cath-Secure®.
Clean your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- If you’re washing your hands with soap and water, wet your hands and apply soap. Rub your hands together well for at least 20 seconds, then rinse. Dry your hands with a paper towel. Use that same towel to turn off the faucet.
- If you’re using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, cover your hands with it. Rub them together until they’re dry.
Using mild soap and water, clean your penis or vagina.
- If you have a penis, pull back your foreskin (the skin around the tip of your penis), if needed. Clean the area, including your penis.
- If you have a vagina, separate your labia (the smaller folds of skin around your vaginal opening). Clean the area from front to back.
Clean the area where the catheter enters your body. This is called your urethra.
Clean the catheter from where it enters your body and then down, away from your body. Hold the catheter at the point it enters your body so that you do not put tension on it.
Rinse the area well and dry it gently.
If you removed your old Cath-Secure, attach the catheter to your leg with a new Cath-Secure. This will keep the catheter from moving.

When to change your drainage bags

You will change your drainage bag 2 times a day. Change it:

In the morning after you shower, change the night bag to the leg bag.
At night before you go to bed, change the leg bag to the night bag.

Replace your drainage bags with new bags once a week. You should also change your drainage bag if it gets clogged or blocked.

How to change your drainage bag

This video demonstrates how to change your urinary (Foley) catheter drainage bag.

Video Details

Gather your supplies. You will need:
- A clean cloth (not one you’re using for bathing) or a 4 x 4 piece of gauze.
- Your night or leg bag (whichever one you are switching to).
- 2 alcohol pads.
Clean your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- If you’re washing your hands with soap and water, wet your hands and apply soap. Rub your hands together well for at least 20 seconds, then rinse. Dry your hands with a paper towel. Use that same towel to turn off the faucet.
- If you’re using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, cover your hands with it. Rub them together until they’re dry.
Empty the urine from the drainage bag into the toilet. Make sure the spout of the drainage bag never touches the side of the toilet or any emptying container. If it does, wipe it with an alcohol pad for 15 seconds.
Place the clean cloth or gauze under the connector to catch any leakage.
Pinch the catheter with your fingers and disconnect the used bag.
Wipe the end of the catheter with an alcohol pad.
Wipe the connector on the new bag with the second alcohol pad.
Connect the clean bag to the catheter and release your finger pinch. Make sure the catheter is tightly connected to the bag to keep it from opening or leaking.
Check all connections. Straighten any kinks or twists in the tubing.

How to take care of your drainage bags

Caring for your leg drainage bag

Empty the leg bag into the toilet every 2 to 4 hours, as needed. You can do this through the spout at the bottom of the bag. Do not let the bag get completely full.
Do not lie down for longer than 2 hours while you’re wearing the leg bag. This can keep your urine from draining the way it should.

Caring for your night drainage bag

Always keep the night bag below the level of your bladder.
When you go to sleep, hang your night bag off the bed. You can do this by using a small trash can. Place a clean plastic bag inside the trash can. Hang your night bag inside of the trash can.

Cleaning your drainage bags

Clean your leg bag and night bag every day. Follow these instructions.

Gather your supplies. You will need:
- White vinegar.
- Cool water.
Clean your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- If you’re washing your hands with soap and water, wet your hands and apply soap. Rub your hands together well for at least 20 seconds, then rinse. Dry your hands with a paper towel. Use that same towel to turn off the faucet.
- If you’re using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, cover your hands with it. Rub them together until they’re dry.
Rinse the bag with cool water. Do not use hot water because it can damage the plastic.
To help get rid of the smell, fill the bag halfway with a mixture of 1part white vinegar and 3 parts water. Shake the bag and let it sit for 15 minutes.
- If you cannot get the mixture into the bag, try putting the vinegar and water into a measuring cup with a pour spout. Then use the spout to help pour the mixture into the bag.
Rinse the bag with cool water. Hang it up to dry.

How to prevent Foley catheter infections

Follow these guidelines to prevent getting infections while you have your catheter in place:

Keep the drainage bag below the level of your bladder.
Always keep your drainage bag off the floor.
Keep the catheter secured to your thigh to keep it from moving.
Do not lie on your catheter or block the flow of urine in the tubing.
Take a shower every day to keep the catheter clean.
Wash your hands before and after touching the catheter or bag.

Common questions about caring for your Foley catheter

Can I place a Foley catheter myself?

No. Your catheter is placed by your healthcare provider.

How long can I wear my Foley catheter before it needs to be changed?

Your catheter should be replaced about once a month, if it stops working, or if you have an infection.

Can I poop when I have a Foley catheter?

Yes. Your catheter will not affect your pooping.

Can I get an erection with a Foley catheter?

Yes. You can get an erection with a catheter in place.

Can I drive with a Foley catheter?

You can drive with a catheter unless your healthcare provider gives you other instructions.

Can I exercise with a Foley catheter?

Ask your healthcare provider if you can exercise while you have a Foley catheter in place.

Can I swim with a Foley catheter?

No. You cannot swim with a catheter in place.

Can I fly on an airplane with a Foley catheter?

Yes. You can fly on an airplane with a catheter.

When to call your healthcare provider

Call your healthcare provider right away if:

Your catheter comes out. Do not try to put it back in yourself.
You have a fever of 101°F (38.3 °C) or higher.
You’re making less urine than usual.
You do not have urine draining into your drainage bag.
Your urine smells bad.
You have bright red blood or large blood clots in your urine.
You have abdominal (belly) pain and no urine in your catheter bag.

Types of urinary catheters – NHS

There are several different types of urinary catheter, which are inserted and used in different ways.

Intermittent urinary catheters

In most cases, intermittent urinary catheters are recommended. These catheters are inserted several times a day, for just long enough to drain your bladder, and then removed.

You should be taught how to insert the catheter yourself. It’s usually inserted into your bladder through the urethra (the tube that carries urine out of your body).

The sterile catheter is usually pre-lubricated, to reduce the risk of any discomfort when you insert it.

One end of the catheter is either left open-ended, to allow drainage into a toilet, or attached to a bag to collect the urine. The other end is guided through your urethra until it enters your bladder and urine starts to flow.

When the flow of urine stops, the catheter can be removed. A new catheter is used each time.

Indwelling urinary catheters

An indwelling urinary catheter is inserted in the same way as an intermittent catheter, but the catheter is left in place.

The catheter is held in the bladder by a water-filled balloon, which prevents it falling out. These types of catheters are often known as Foley catheters.

Urine is drained through a tube connected to a collection bag, which can either be strapped to the inside of your leg or attached to a stand on the floor.

Indwelling catheters are sometimes fitted with a valve. The valve can be opened to allow urine to be drained into a toilet, and closed to allow the bladder to fill with urine until drainage is convenient.

Most indwelling catheters need to be changed at least every 3 months.

Suprapubic catheters

A suprapubic catheter is a type of catheter that is left in place.

Rather than being inserted through your urethra, the catheter is inserted through a hole in your tummy (abdomen) and then directly into your bladder. This procedure can be done under general anaesthetic, epidural anaesthetic or local anaesthetic.

A suprapubic catheter is used when the urethra is damaged or blocked, or when someone is unable to use an intermittent catheter.

The catheter may be secured to the side of your body and attached to a collection bag strapped to your leg. Alternatively, a valve can be attached that opens to allow urine to be drained into a toilet, and closes to allow the bladder to fill with urine until drainage is convenient.

This type of catheter is usually changed every 4 to 12 weeks.

Read more about living with a urinary catheter.

Page last reviewed: 03 February 2023
Next review due: 03 February 2026

How to choose a Foley catheter? Foley catheter and prostatic catheter are the main differences.

In today’s article we will tell you how to choose a Foley catheter, what you need to consider when buying, what types and structural features of urethral catheters, and how prostatic catheters differ from Foley catheters.

A Foley catheter or urethral catheter is a special medical device designed to drain urine from the bladder. To do this, it is introduced into the cavity of the bladder through natural ways – the urethra – and fixed with a balloon. Such a catheter is installed for a period of 1 to 90 days. Foley catheter is not uncommon in the Russian market. It can be ordered at a specialized company dealing with medical equipment and consumables, medical equipment stores, pharmacies, and some orthopedic salons. When buying a Foley catheter, do not forget to purchase a urinal – a special product that is attached to the Foley catheter, where urine enters after excretion from the body.

How to choose a Foley catheter?

To buy a Foley catheter, you need to clarify with your doctor the following parameters, knowledge of which will greatly facilitate your ordering a catheter:

Catheter size (diameter). The unit of measurement for the diameter of catheters is Sharière (Ch, Shr) or French (Fr). 1 Ch/Fr = 0.33 mm. The size of the catheter is chosen by the attending physician based on the patient’s condition, the time of installation, and the material of the catheter. As a rule, 6-10 Ch are children’s sizes, 14-16 Ch are more often for women, and 20-24 for men. Each case is unique, so never buy a Foley catheter without a doctor’s prescription. There are also various recommendations of professional urological associations – the Russian Society of Urology, the European Society of Urology – which detail the criteria for choosing a catheter diameter.

Diameter	Readings
6-8Ch	Child sizes
10Ch	Clear urine, no hematuria (presence of blood in the urine), mucus
12-14 Ch	Clear urine, without hematuria, mucus, “sand”
16Ch	Slightly turbid urine, may have mild hematuria with little or no clots, some mucus, tissue debris
18Ch	Severe hematuria, the presence of clots, a large amount of mucus, tissue debris, the presence of “sand” in the urine
20-24Ch	Severe hematuria, a large amount of mucus, blood clots, “sand”. Washing required.

If the catheter is often clogged, you can choose a larger size. It must be remembered that the larger the diameter of the catheter, the higher the risk of injury to the urethra.

Another characteristic of the product associated with the size of the Foley catheter is the color coding. This helps doctors and nurses in the operating room or treatment room quickly find the right catheter based on its color, and not on the labels on the packaging or on the catheter itself. The color coding may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, but it is usually universal and helps doctors navigate the range of consumables more easily. In the picture above you will see a red connector – this is the part in the Foley catheters that is color-coded. We see the red connector and understand that this catheter is 18 Ch.

Foley catheter length. Foley catheters can be male or female. This is due to anatomical features – the urethral canal in men is longer than in women. The length of the female Foley catheter is about 25 cm, the male catheter is 40-42 cm. The female Foley catheter is not available in all medical equipment stores and pharmacies, and besides, it cannot be used in men, so women and men are prescribed universal catheters 40 cm long.

Size balloon. To fix the catheter in the bladder cavity, a balloon is used, located at the distal end of the catheter. Upon insertion, the balloon is deflated and does not protrude above the catheter surface. With the successful introduction of the catheter into the bladder, the balloon is “inflated” with saline to the desired volume. Thanks to a special valve in the connector, saline does not flow back. Foley catheters most often have a balloon volume of 30 ml, but there are models with a balloon of 15 or 50 ml. In children’s Foley catheters, the volume of the balloon is 1.5-5 ml. The balloon prevents the urethral catheter from “falling out” of the bladder.

Foley catheter tip straight or curved or Nelaton vs Tiemann. The tip of the Foley catheter (the part above the balloon) can be straight or curved. The straight form (classic version) is the most common model. Such a tip is also called the Nelaton catheter, after the urologist who first used a urethral catheter to divert urine. For complicated cases of insertion, for example, with prostatic hyperplasia, there is a coracoid curved tip – the Tiemann catheter. The tip itself in Tiemann or Nelaton catheters is closed with two side holes.

Foley catheter material. The material of the catheter directly affects the comfort of the patient, the frequency of replacement of the catheter and its operational characteristics. Today, Foley catheters are made from:

Silicone-coated latex (siliconized latex) is a cheap material, quite soft, porous. Unfortunately, many patients are allergic to latex, making long-term use impossible. To reduce the risk of allergies, as well as to improve performance, the latex catheter is coated with a micron layer of silicone. A latex Foley catheter is placed for up to 7 days.
Silicone is a fully biocompatible material that does not cause inflammation or allergic reactions. Silicone catheters are soft, with a thin wall. Silicone Foley catheters have a large internal lumen, which provides better urine diversion. They clog less and can be installed for up to 30 days. Children’s catheters are made of silicone. The special treatment of the silicone and the surface of the catheter allowed them to be installed for up to 90 days – for example, the X-Tra and Folisyl LT series from Coloplast.
“Silver” is an outdated type of catheter. Material: silicone with a layer of silver, so these catheters are often called “silver plated”. It was believed that silver catheters have antibacterial activity, however, studies have shown that the presence of a layer of silver does not significantly affect either the development of infection or the time of installation. Due to low profitability and lack of clear clinical efficacy, silver catheters are practically withdrawn from circulation. Instead, patients are advised to buy long-lasting silicone Foley catheters (with an insertion period of up to 90 days).

Number of strokes: 2 or 3? The most problematic issue. Unfortunately, due to errors in terminology, doctors, patients, and pharmacy staff often confuse three-way Foley catheters with prostatic catheters (TURP catheters, hemostatic catheters). The classic Foley catheter has 2 passages, that is, 2 channels, one of which is used for urine diversion, and the second for balloon inflation. In some cases, a third channel / passage is required – for washing and introducing medicinal substances into the bladder cavity.

However, there are prostatic or three-way catheters. Prostatic catheters are used exclusively in men after prostate surgery – resection of the prostate. Do not confuse them with Foley catheters. Despite the similar structure and function, both of these catheters differ. These differences are:

Balloon volume: for prostatic catheters, the balloon has a volume of 50-120 ml to effectively prevent bleeding after prostate surgery (for Foley catheters it is 15-30 ml).
Tip structure: prostatic catheters are divided into types Dufo, Delinot, Kuveler and others. The curved Dufour and straight Kuveler tips also have a large drainage hole for successful drainage of urine, blood clots, pieces of tissue and mucus. Below is a typical three-way Dufour catheter.

Diameter: prostatic catheters size 18 to 24 Ch/Fr. Foley catheters have a much wider size range – from 6 to 30 Ch.
Number of channels: prostatic catheters are usually always three-way.

Attention! This article is not a call for self-treatment! Be sure to consult with your doctor! Never insert and remove urethral catheters yourself!

Bottom line: any patient may be faced with the need to purchase Foley catheters. When choosing a catheter, it is important to know its dimensions, which are measured in Charrière / French, balloon volume, number of strokes. When buying, check all the data, be sure to check the expiration date of the medical product, the presence of the Registration Certificate and the Declaration and compliance, the availability of instructions. If you find it difficult to choose, then we recommend you the following positions:

Classic 100% silicone Foley catheter: 30 ml balloon volume, sizes 14-24 Ch/Fr, for up to 30 days of placement.
100% Silicone Dufour Prostatic Three-Way Catheter: 50 ml balloon volume, sizes 18-24 Ch/Fr, for up to 30 days of placement.
Dufour Prostatic 3-Way Short Tip 100% Silicone Catheter: 50 ml balloon, sizes 18-24 Ch/Fr, for up to 30 days.

You can buy Foley catheters in Moscow at Uromed M by calling +7 495 783 68 11 or by sending a request to e-mail [email protected] We work with individuals and legal entities. Fast delivery to any region of Russia. No minimum order!

Uromed M is the official distributor of Coloplast products (France) in Russia. Direct deliveries from the Coloplast factory from France.

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Foley catheters Folysil, silicone, type male straight