Catheter Brands

Patient Care Medical carries all the leading catheter brands, such as Cure, Bard, Coloplast, Wellspect, Hollister, Rochester, Kendall, Rusch, Mentor, and more.

There are 3 main types of catheters:

• Indwelling catheter.
• Condom catheter.
• Intermittent self-catheter.

The most used tip for routine catheterization is the Nelaton tip which is round with two drainage eyes. Due to the challenging curvature of the male urethra, a catheter with a curved tip can be used to ease insertion; this type is called a Tiemann tip and is the second most common.

Suprapubic catheters are for long-term use. They're inserted into a small incision in the abdomen during an outpatient procedure. Once placed, suprapubic catheters drain the bladder for up to a month. These catheters are ideal for individuals who are immobile or wheelchair-bound.

This usually ranges from 50 cents to $7 per catheter. So, depending on the type and the manufacturer, you may be looking at anywhere between $100 and $1400 per month for the catheters alone (considering your doctor has recommended cathing six times a day).

Catheter Materials The most common materials are red rubber, latex, silicone, plastic and PVC. For those looking for a more rigid type, PVC material is the best choice. For those with latex allergy, red rubber is not a good option, but silicone is. Some catheters come already pre-lubricated.

What factors impact the pricing of catheters? Some types of catheters are considered to be more high-end because of their features, materials, lubrication, packaging, etc. For example, besides the uncoated catheters, there are other variants that are pre-lubricated.

Suprapubic catheters are for long-term use. They're inserted into a small incision in the abdomen during an outpatient procedure. Once placed, suprapubic catheters drain the bladder for up to a month. These catheters are ideal for individuals who are immobile or wheelchair-bound.

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.

Hydrophilic Intermittent Catheters Hydrophilic Intermittent Catheters This makes catheterization more comfortable and reduces friction in the urethra. Most variations of hydrophilic catheters include a sterile water packet inside the catheter package that will burst easily with applied pressure.

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 are not suitable to remain in place for longer than 3 months, so will need to be changed regularly.

The catheter itself will need to be removed and replaced at least every 3 months. This is usually done by a doctor or nurse, although sometimes it may be possible to teach you or your carer to do it. The charity Bladder and Bowel Community has more information on indwelling catheters.

Catheters and other supplies can be bought at medical supply stores. You will get a prescription for the right catheter for you. There are many different types and sizes. Other supplies may include towelettes and lubricant such as K-Y Jelly or Surgilube.