Types of Catheters
There are three main urologic catheter types to choose from.
Intermittent catheters,
hydrophilic catheters, and
closed system catheters.
Intermittent Straight catheters
Straight catheters are a straight tube of flexible plastic or rubber. One end has a rounded tip, and the other end typically has a funnel end. Intermittent catheters can also come in
coude tip, latex, silicone, red rubber, and antibacterial.
Hydrophilic Catheters
Hydrophilic catheters are coated with a hydrophilic polymer that becomes very slippery when wet to promote excellent gliding properties and provides up to 95 percent lower friction when compared to other catheters. The result is a much more comfortable insertion.
Closed System Catheters
Closed system catheters are pre-lubricated catheters that are self contained, allowing for a sterile environment. It includes an
introducer tip (shown above) that allows the catheter to bypass the highest concentrations of bacteria located in the first few millimeters of the uretrha, significantly reducing the risk of infection. Closed system catheters have an attached collection bag which allows for discreet cathing where facilities are not available and also has the ability to measure output.
View Closed Systems
180 Medical is one of the leading catheter suppliers in the U.S. We carry all of the top brands of catheter products available and specialize in supplying catheters to those with urinary incontinence, multiple sclerosis, spina bifida, spinal cord injuries and more. When you call 180 Medical you will speak with one of our catheter specialists that will be able to walk you through the different catheter types and answer any of your questions.