Materials:
Latex: Latex is the protective fluid contained in tissue beneath the bark of the rubber tree, Hevea Brasiliensis. Natural rubber latex (NRL) exhibits a number of properties that make it very desirable for use in medical devices. These properties include strength, comfort and elasticity. Additionally, NRL provides good barrier protection at a relatively low cost. Latex catheters are soft, flexible and comfortable and continue to be one of the best catheter choices available.

Silicone: Silicone is a synthetic compound that is bio-compatible, non-toxic and flexible. The clear construction of our Foley catheter permits visualization of clots, mucous and inital urine flow. The 100% silicone catheter is often used for latex sensitive patients.

Foley Catheter Coatings:
Infection Control: Bardex Infection Control anti-infective Foley catheters with Bacti-Guard silver alloy coating and Bard hydrogel has been clinically proven to reduce catheter associated UTIs. The coating is engineered to prevent bacterial adherence and preserve the integrity of the urethral mucosa. This coating is applied to a variety of catheter types such as Bardex I.C. and Lubri-Sil I.C. catheters.

Bard Hydrogel: Bard's proprietary hydrogel coating maximizes patient comfort. This hydrophilic coating produces a cushion of fluid between the catheter and the mucosal lining of the urethra and the bladder thereby reducing friction and irritation that can be lead to infection. Bard hydrogel is applied to a variety of catheter types such as Lubricath and LubriSil catheters.

Silicone Elastomer: Hydrophobic material that rejects moisture and can be applied to latex catheters. This permanent coating prevents irritation by providing a smooth surface.

Foley Catheter Tip Design: A Standard Foley catheter has rounded smooth tip designed to reduce trauma when inserted. Latex catheters are constructed with a reinforced tip that provides added strength during insertion and reduces irritation and bladder coiling. On Bard's silicone Foley catheters, a precisely molded tip eliminates excess material that can cause irritation. Smooth drainage eyes created by our unique two-steps process provide for easier insertion and uninhibited drainage flow.

Speciality Foley catheters may have other tip types such as Council, Coude, Olive, Couvelarie, Round and Whistle and are Typically used for surgical procedures. A "Specialty" Foley catheter is determined by the tip configuration, number of lumens or channels and the size of the balloon.

Foley Catheter Balloons: Catheter balloons are designed to secure the catheter in the bladder. Bard provides high quality ribbed balloons with exceptional strength, symmetrical inflation characteristics and proper positioning of the catheter tip within the bladder.