Has your doctor recommended you begin using coudé catheters? If so, you probably have some questions. For example, what exactly is a coudé tip catheter? What types of catheters have a coudé insertion tip? And why do you need to use a coudé tip?
Let’s go over some of the basics of coudé catheter supplies.
What Are Coudé Catheters?
Many different types and brands of catheters are available today, but there are typically only two insertion tip options (with the exception of some variations of the two): straight tip and coudé tip.
A coudé tip is basically a slightly angled or curved tip on a catheter. This type of tip is best for those who have difficulty passing a regular straight tip intermittent catheter.
This situation is most common in men, so the coudé tip is almost always an option on male length catheters. The reasons for needing coudé tips may include urethral strictures, urethral blockages, an enlarged prostate (BPH), or false passages.
Coudé Catheter Types & Insertion Tip Options
Your prescribing health care professional can determine what will work best for you, based on your anatomy as well as the underlying issue causing the need for a coudé.
Coudé catheters come in a variety of options for your individual needs and preferences, such as closed system kits, hydrophilic catheters, and intermittent straight catheters. See our online product catalog for a look at some of the available options and their features.
The types of coudé insertion tip variations include:
Tapered Tip Coudé Catheters
This type of coudé catheter tip (pictured above) features a short, strong curve that is smaller at the insertion point. This is especially good for navigating through strictures or bypassing enlarged prostates.
Tapered tip coudé catheters are the most common of all options, so you’ll find plenty of choices at 180 Medical.
These are just a few of the many coudé catheters with tapered tips you’ll find at 180 Medical.
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Olive Tip Coudé Catheters
This tip features a slightly ball-shaped, rounded insertion tip. It also curves to aid a smooth passage around obstructions to the bladder.
The olive tip coudé catheter may be a good option for getting past false passages that a standard tapered or Tiemann tip might catch on.
Tiemann Tip Coudé Catheter
The Tiemann tip is elongated and tapered, and it’s also typically more pliable than other coudé tips.
It’s helpful for navigating narrower passages and bypassing strictures, and the pliability of the tip can aid in better comfort during catheterization.
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How to Use Coudé Catheters
Everyone’s anatomy is different, so the way to insert the curved tip of your coudé catheter will depend on your doctor’s medical opinion and instructions.
Your urologist or urology nurse will likely spend some time with you during your appointment to go over the process of learning how to insert a catheter, including which direction to face the angle of the insertion tip.
Many coudé tip catheters will offer a reference point on the funnel, such as a notch or a bump to indicate the angle. Others have a guiding line down the catheter tube as well.
Finding the Right Catheters For You
180 Medical offers a variety of quality coudé catheter options, such as regular straight catheters with separate lubrication jelly, hydrophilic or pre-lubricated catheters, and closed system catheters.
At 180 Medical, you can choose from the widest selection of catheters, available from the best manufacturers on the market today, including ConvaTec GentleCath, Bard, Coloplast, Cure, Hollister, Rusch, LoFric, and more!
Contact us today! Our friendly specialists are ready to help you find the best catheter for you!
