100% Silicone Catheters
Join wound, ostomy and continence nurse with CHC Solutions, Inc., Cheryl Hutton, as she shares information on 100% Silicone Catheters.
Urinary catheters are available in a large variety of sizes, materials and types. When selecting a catheter, several factors must be kept in mind. For example, consider the medical need, expected period of use (whether short-term or long-term), personal preference and the risks involved in terms of infection. Ultimately, your medical team will decide what type of catheter is right for you.
Who Should Use 100% Silicone Catheters?
Both men and women can use 100% silicone catheters. In order to receive a prescription, a patient must have latex allergies or other sensitivities that prevent them from using latex catheters. For instance, in some cases, a physician may prescribe a 100% silicone catheter if a person experiences pain or discomfort when inserting a catheter.
Properties of 100% Silicone Catheters
Silicone catheters have properties that make them stand out from latex catheters. Some differences include:
- Silicone is typically more resistant to temperature changes (for example, being outdoors in very cold weather).
- Silicone catheters also are resistant to the formation of dry crusts at the site of the meatus (opening) which can attract bacterial growth.
- Also, you do not need to change silicone catheters as frequently as latex catheters.
Categories
100% Silicone Catheters come in a variety of types and styles:
- Intermittent Catheter: A one-time, disposable catheter that has no balloons or ports. It cannot remain in the bladder on its own.
- Three-Way Foley Catheter: There are three ports. Urine exits one port, while the second inflates the balloon and the third flushes the catheter clean.
- Two-Way Foley Catheter: This is the most common type of 100% Silicone Catheter. The two ports inflate the balloon and allow the urine to exit.
Insurance Coverage
In most cases, insurances will require documentation of a latex allergy or sensitivity in order to cover the expense of a 100% silicone catheter. Be sure to ask your physician or product specialist about what works best for your needs.
To gain more insight into urology products such as catheters and read stories about urological health and other bladder-related topics, visit our urology blogs section at https://www.chcsolutions.com/continuum_connect/urology/.
*Disclaimer: Any health and wellness content presented is for general informational purposes only. Such content is not intended to replace or serve as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.