


Understanding Different Types of Catheters Used for Urine Drainage
A catheter is a tube that is inserted into the body to allow urine to flow out of the body. Catheters are commonly used to drain urine from the bladder when a person is unable to urinate normally, such as after surgery or during severe illness. They can also be used to treat urinary tract infections or blockages in the urinary tract.
There are different types of catheters, including:
1. Foley catheter: This is the most common type of catheter, which is inserted through the urethra and into the bladder. It has a balloon at the end that is inflated to keep the catheter in place.
2. Urinary catheter: This type of catheter is used to drain urine from the bladder and is typically used for short-term use.
3. Indwelling catheter: This type of catheter is left in the body for an extended period of time, usually several days or weeks.
4. Intermittent catheter: This type of catheter is inserted into the urethra and removed after each use.
5. Condom catheter: This type of catheter is a flexible tube that is placed over the penis and secured with adhesive strips. It is used to collect urine in men who have difficulty controlling their urination.
6. Leg bag: This is a pouch that is attached to the leg and used to collect urine from an indwelling catheter.
7. Flexible ureteral catheter: This type of catheter is inserted through the urethra and into the ureter, and is used to drain urine from the kidney.
8. Ureteral stent: This is a small tube made of metal or plastic that is inserted through the ureter and into the bladder, and is used to keep the ureter open.
9. Nephrostomy tube: This type of catheter is inserted through the skin and into the kidney, and is used to drain urine from the kidney.
10. Percutaneous nephrostomy tube: This type of catheter is inserted through the skin and into the kidney, and is used to drain urine from the kidney in cases where the ureter is blocked or damaged.
It's important to note that catheters can be associated with complications such as urinary tract infections, bleeding, and discomfort. It's important to follow proper care and hygiene techniques when using a catheter to minimize the risk of these complications.



