Urinary Catheters
A urinary catheter is a hollow, partially flexible tube that collects urine from the bladder and leads to a drainage bag. Urinary catheters come in many sizes and types. Catheters are generally necessary when someone cannot empty their bladder.
Indwelling catheters (urethral or suprapubic catheters)
An indwelling catheter is a catheter that resides in the bladder. It may also be known as a Foley catheter.
External catheters (condom catheters)
A condom catheter is a catheter placed outside the body. These catheters are generally more comfortable and carry a lower risk of infection than indwelling catheters.
Short-term catheters (intermittent catheters)
A person may only need a catheter for a short period of time after surgery until the bladder empties. After the bladder empties, it’s necessary to remove the short-term catheter.