Glossary Term
Urinary Catheter
Definition
A urinary catheter is a flexible tube inserted into the bladder to drain urine. It is used in medical situations where a patient is unable to urinate naturally, such as during surgery, after trauma, or in patients with certain medical conditions. The catheter can be inserted through the urethra (a process known as urethral catheterization) or through an opening in the abdomen directly into the bladder (suprapubic catheterization). Urinary catheters can be temporary or long-term, and they come in various types, including intermittent catheters (for short-term use) and indwelling catheters (for long-term use, such as Foley catheters).
Relevance to the MedTech Industry
Urinary catheters are essential medical devices used in the management of patients with urinary retention or incontinence. They are widely used in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home healthcare settings. The design and manufacturing of urinary catheters are highly regulated to ensure patient safety and comfort. This includes ensuring that the materials used are biocompatible, minimizing infection risks, and providing ergonomic designs to facilitate easy use. MedTech companies involved in the production of urinary catheters must comply with rigorous standards, including those set by the FDA (for the U.S. market) and ISO 13485 (internationally), to ensure that their products are safe and effective.
Additional Information & Related Terms
Examples of Urinary Catheter Applications
Post-Surgical Care:After certain surgeries, such as bladder or prostate surgery, urinary catheters are used to temporarily manage urinary retention or ensure that the bladder remains empty.
Chronic Urinary Retention:Patients with conditions such as spinal cord injuries, prostate enlargement, or neurological disorders may require long-term catheterization to manage chronic urinary retention.
Incontinence Management:For patients with urinary incontinence, intermittent catheters can be used to empty the bladder as needed, reducing the need for constant drainage.
Related Terms
Foley Catheter: A type of indwelling urinary catheter with a balloon that is inflated to hold the catheter in place in the bladder.
Cystoscopy: A procedure where a catheter-like device is used to examine the bladder, often used in conjunction with urinary catheters to monitor bladder conditions.
Urinary Retention: The inability to completely empty the bladder, which can be managed with urinary catheters in cases where natural urination is not possible.
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): A common complication for patients using urinary catheters, often managed with antibiotics and proper catheter care.
Hydrophilic Coating: A coating applied to some urinary catheters to make them easier to insert and less irritating to the urethra during use.