About Intermittent Catheters
Intermittent catheters are inserted to drain the bladder and then removed, rather than left in place. They come in several designs: straight-tip and coudé-tip catheters, hydrophilic catheters with a coating activated by water, and closed-system catheters with a pre-attached collection bag. This collection includes products from Wellspect Healthcare, Cure Medical, Hollister and other makers, within Urology & Catheter Supplies.
Four attributes define a catheter. French size is the outer diameter. Length depends on sex, with shorter female-length and longer male or unisex lengths, plus compact options. Tip style is straight or coudé, a curved tip. Sex is often listed separately to make length selection easier. Your size, tip and catheter type should be as specified by your clinician, and the prescription will usually state them.
- Uncoated catheters are used with a separate lubricant.
- Hydrophilic catheters are activated with water before use.
- Closed-system catheters include a collection bag and often an introducer tip.
The REF number on the package identifies French size, length, tip and coating in one code, which makes reorders precise. Catheters are usually sold by the box, with case quantities where available.
Frequently asked questions
How do I choose the right French size and tip?
Use the French size, length and tip style your clinician specified, usually stated on your prescription. Straight tips are the most common, while coudé tips have a curved end. Female-length catheters are shorter than male or unisex lengths. If you want to change catheter type or size, check with your prescriber first.
Are intermittent catheters covered by insurance?
Intermittent catheters may be eligible for coverage with a prescription, under HCPCS codes such as A4351 for straight tip, A4352 for coudé tip and A4353 for closed-system catheters. Those codes are shown for reference only. Monthly quantity limits and coverage depend entirely on your payer and plan, so confirm with them before ordering.
How do I reorder the same catheters?
Search our site for the REF number on your current box, which captures French size, length, tip and coating. Using it avoids near matches that differ by length or tip. Catheters are usually sold by the box, and listings state the count per box and per case.