The primary use of a Coude catheter is
to facilitate navigation over the prostate curvature during catheterization
to drain the urine from the bladder. A Coude catheter is curved or bent at
the tip. This semi rigid catheter is usually made of red rubber and is normally
used to catheterize males.
A Coude catheter is a semi-rigid catheter that has a curve or bend at the tip. The curved tip allows it to navigate over the curvature of the prostate or any other urethral obstruction it may encounter. A Coude catheter is specifically designed for this purpose. Coude catheters are available in size 8 French to size 26 French.
Urinary retention can be a painful and uncomfortable experience. The bladder is full and distended. The patient feels the urge to pass urine but is unable to do so. This is condition that needs immediate medical attention. Initially the doctor or urologist will use a regular appropriate size straight foley catheter to catheterize the patient. If there is difficulty navigating over the prostate curve, a Coude catheter of an appropriate size will be used.
A coude catheter is commonly used for men but they are also used for catheterization of males or females with urethral blockage or narrowing when a straight catheter is unable to accomplish the task.
"Thanks for telling me about the sterile "no touch" catheter. Talked to the doc and he agreed…It’s a lot better and easier!"
- Guy, Patient; quad
