What is a Coude Catheter

Coude is the French word for elbow. Much like an elbow, the coude catheter has a slight bend in it. This bend allows for an easier insertion into the urethra and an easier navigation around the prostate and finally into the bladder. For those with blockage this can be a game changer.

The only downside to a coude catheter is that they are more difficult to obtain through insurance, but if you can produce doctor’s notes showing that you need one then you should be able to obtain a coude catheter at little to no cost through your insurance.

The standard tip of the catheter is round with two drainage eyes called a Nelaton catheter.

For routine catheterisation, a straight-tipped catheter should be used. In addition there are a variety of special catheters available on the market for specific use:

The Tiemann catheter with the curved tip is designed to negotiate the male prostatic curve and can be helpful for difficult insertions.

The Tiemann indwelling catheter from hard latex for difficult catheterisation is only indicated for short-term use. The Coudé tip catheter has a curved tip just like the Tiemann catheter but has one, two or three drainage eyes situated in the curved tip.

The Tiemann/Coudé tip catheter can be used where male catheterisation is complicated and should be inserted with the tip pointed upward