Catheters: Types, uses, and important considerations

Catheters are medical devices that play a crucial role in managing various medical conditions and ensuring proper bodily functions. 

What is a Catheter?

A catheter is a thin, flexible tube designed for medical purposes. It can be inserted into the body to perform various functions, including draining fluids, administering medication, or monitoring bodily processes. Catheters come in a range of sizes and materials, each tailored to specific medical needs.

Types of catheters:

• Foley catheter: This catheter is commonly used to drain urine from the bladder. It has a balloon at the end that is inflated once inserted to prevent it from slipping out.
  
• Central venous catheter (CVC): CVCs are placed into large veins, usually in the chest, to facilitate the administration of medications, nutrients, or fluids directly into the bloodstream.
  
• Intermittent catheter: These catheters are used to drain the bladder temporarily and are removed once the task is complete.
  
• Indwelling catheter: Also known as a urethral or retention catheter, this type remains in place for an extended period to manage chronic urinary retention or other medical conditions.
  
• Catheterization for heart procedures: Specialized catheters are used during heart procedures, such as angioplasty or cardiac catheterization, to access and treat heart-related issues.
  

Common use of catheters:

• Urinary Catheters: Foley and intermittent catheters help manage urinary retention, monitor urine output, and assist with certain medical conditions affecting the urinary system.

Catheters are invaluable medical tools that enhance patient care and support various treatments. However, their use should always be carefully considered. At BIORELIEF we will help you choose the best option for you!