Foley Catheters

Foley Catheters, also called indwelling catheters, are flexible tubes inserted into the bladder through the urethra to allow urine to drain. Models vary based on tip, material, length, and size. Foley catheters are commonly used for patients with urinary retention, neurological disorders, or recovering from surgery.

Urine catheters should only be used under medical supervision and with proper training in insertion and care. Improper use or care can lead to complications such as infection, bladder damage, or blockage.

AdvaCare Pharma produces Foley Catheters in ISO and CE-certified facilities situated in China, India, and the USA, ensuring their safety and dependability. Our incontinence products are made using premium materials and are customized to meet the demands of healthcare providers and patients worldwide. We adhere to stringent quality control protocols to guarantee that our indwelling catheters are reliable.

AdvaCare Pharma is a trusted manufacturer of Foley Catheters and other quality-assured urological medical devices. Our StayDry™ range of incontinence and urology products are designed with maximum efficacy and safety in mind while minimizing environmental impact. We manufacture foley catheters and other urology medical devices in our production facilities located in China, India, and/or the USA.

With more than two decades of experience in the healthcare industry, AdvaCare Pharma has established a robust distribution network that spans across 65 markets worldwide. Our primary focus is on building strong relationships with our partners and distributors, which enables us to provide customized and market-specific solutions that cater to their unique needs.

What's the recommended procedure for Foley Catheter insertion?

How are Foley Catheters cleaned and properly discarded?

Foley Catheter maintenance and disposal warrant strict compliance to healthcare protocols to avert contamination and infection spread. Regular catheter and urine bag drainage are imperative for monitoring urinary output and maintaining a sterile environment.

Cleansing involves flushing the catheter and tubing with sterile saline or a specified cleaning agent for unimpeded flow and cleanliness. Disposal should follow healthcare facility protocols, typically involving placement in biohazard containers to safely manage infectious waste, safeguarding patient health and environmental integrity.

What complications might arise from Foley Catheter usage?

The utilization of Foley Catheters, while medically required for many, does bring with it the possibility of various complications. The spectrum of these issues can range from mild inconveniences to more severe medical concerns.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common complications, given the direct pathway of the catheter to the bladder, bacteria can enter. Symptoms of a UTI may include discomfort, fever, and changes in urine clarity or odor, necessitating immediate medical intervention to prevent escalation.

Discomfort, often stemming from the catheter's presence in the urethra, can affect patient well-being and quality of life. This sensation may be mitigated through the use of lubricated catheters or those made from materials designed to reduce friction.

More severe complications include urethral damage, which can occur from incorrect catheter insertion or prolonged use, leading to strictures or tears in the urethra. Allergic reactions, though less common, may arise from sensitivity to catheter materials, such as latex.

Catheter blockages represent another challenge, potentially leading to urine retention and bladder distention. Regular monitoring and flushing of the catheter can help prevent this issue. Improper positioning or inflation of the catheter's balloon can cause discomfort or injury to the bladder walls.

To mitigate these risks, healthcare providers are advised to maintain rigorous standards of hygiene and catheter care, including sterile insertion techniques, regular catheter and site cleaning, and prompt replacement of the catheter system. Continuous education for both medical personnel and patients on the correct handling and care of catheters is also paramount.

How do 2-way and 3-way Foley Catheters differ?

2-way Foley Catheters consist of dual lumens for urine drainage and balloon inflation, typically serving for straightforward urinary management.

In contrast, 3-way Foley Catheters incorporate an extra lumen for bladder irrigation, facilitating blood clot and debris removal following surgery or in patients prone to clot formation.

The choice between catheter types hinges on the patient's specific medical requirements and healthcare professional recommendations.

Is Foley Catheter use appropriate for children?

Yes, Foley Catheters are adaptable for pediatric use, tailored in size and design to fit young patients. Their application should be carefully monitored by healthcare professionals adept in pediatric care, assuring catheterization is conducted safely and comfortably.

Appropriate catheter selection, insertion, and maintenance minimize risks and provide therapeutic efficacy in pediatric patients.

Urinary catheters: history, current status, adverse events and research agenda

This article provides a brief history of the development of the urinary catheter and discusses the adverse events caused by the Foley catheter, which is indispensable in modern clinical practice. The Foley catheter can cause bacterial colonization, recurrent and chronic infections, bladder stones and septicaemia, damage to the kidneys, the bladder and the urethra, and contribute to the development of antibiotic resistance. The article emphasizes the need for the development of an alternative indwelling catheter system that is easy and safe to insert, retained reliably in the bladder, and withdrawn easily and safely when necessary.

Do Foley Catheters Adequately Drain the Bladder? Evidence from CT Imaging Studies

This study aimed to assess the adequacy of Foley catheter for complete drainage. The study indicated that the vast majority of patients with Foley catheters had adequately drained bladders with volumes of <50 mL. The study also emphasized the importance of catheter placement technique and urine output monitoring.