What You Need to Know About Coudé Catheters
A coudé catheter has a curved tip so that it can be inserted easily. This is helpful for those who may have variations in their anatomy such as strictures (an abnormal narrowing of a body passage), scarring, narrow urethra (the tube through which urine leaves the body) or an enlarged prostate. Men and children are the primary users of coudé catheters, although many people may need to use these curved tips.
Pros of Coudé Catheters
- Useful with urethras that are curved such as with men and children
- Can navigate enlarged prostate or strictures
- Reduces friction around an enlarged prostate
- Less irritation and discomfort
Cons of Coudé Catheters
- Must keep tip upward during insertion (may require practice)
- May need to insert it more slowly
- The catheter needs twisted into the right position around strictures or the prostate
- Might be more painful
- May need more lubrication
Types of Coudé Catheter Tips
Tapered Tip
Tapered tips are the most common coudé tip used. However, they aren’t as narrow as the Tiemman tips or as rounded as the olive tips. They can also handle most kinds of blockage or obstruction needs.
Olive Tip
Olive tips have larger, rounded ends shaped like a sphere (or an olive). As a result, this catheter helps widen narrow urethras as well as prevent the catheter from getting stuck on smaller obstructions.
Tiemann Tip
Tiemann tips tend to be longer and more narrow than other coudé catheters. This helps the catheter pass through particularly tight or narrow spots in the urethra.
Above all, use what is best for you and recommended by your doctor. To learn more on catheterization and how to reduce urinary tract infections, visit https://www.chcsolutions.com/continuum_connect/urology/catheterization-and-reducing-urinary-tract-infections/.
*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.