What is a coude catheter?

A coude catheter is a type of urinary catheter that is specifically designed with a curved or bent tip, known as a coude tip. This design is intended to ease insertion and navigate around obstructions, such as an enlarged prostate, strictures, or other blockages in the urethra.

Coude catheters are typically used in cases where a standard straight catheter cannot be inserted due to anatomical issues or discomfort. They are often recommended for male patients, particularly those with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or urethral strictures.

It is important to note that coude catheters may be more difficult to insert than straight catheters, and may require more skill and experience to use properly. For this reason, they are often used by healthcare professionals in medical settings, rather than self-catheterization by patients at home.

Overall, coude catheters can be a valuable tool for managing urinary retention and other urinary issues in patients with anatomical abnormalities or obstructions in the urethra.