A Coude catheter has a specific characteristic that separates it from all other types of catheters. It is based on the meaning of the French word “coude” which when used as an adjective means “bent”. Thus the Coude catheter is one where the tip of the catheter is slightly bent or curved to a small degree.
The primary function of a Coude catheter is to make the catheter insertion as safe as possible. It allows for safe guidance of the catheter around the curvature of the prostate or other urinary objects for females, which these types of Coude catheters can have an olive shape at the end. The Coude tip can protect you from problems that can arise from catheterization such as scarring and damage. A Coude catheter is the alternative catheter choice for those who aren’t able to use a straight catheter.
Coude tip catheters come in sized 6 French to size 26 French. French is how catheter diameter is measured. Depending on the manufacturer and what you need, you will need to consult with your doctor to determine the correct size.
It is important to note that if one cannot pass a Coude catheter through the urinary tract, there are other measures that can be taken by an urologist, such as inserting a cystoscopy or guides and followers through the urinary passage. This should be last resort.
Of all the catheter supplies, the Coude catheter can be a very effective type of catheter to drain the bladder of urine. It is important to know its functions and the best practices when inserting them on your own.