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Reviewed by Christine Kijek, Registered Colorectal Nurse, on August 16, 2022
Male external catheter (MEC), also known as a condom catheter or Texas catheter, is used to treat urinary incontinence in men. It is a simple sheath that is worn on the penis, just like a condom. The end of the external urinary catheter is attached to a drainage tube that directs the urine flow into a drainage bag. Many people prefer condom catheters over indwelling catheters because indwelling catheters require insertion through the urethra. External catheter for men is very simple and easy to use, as it is just required to be rolled onto the penis.
There are different types of external male urinary catheters available. The main difference between them is based on the material, shape and adhesive type.
Based on the material type, four male external catheters contain latex, silicone, poly vinyl chloride, and polyurethane.
Latex is a very soft and flexible, natural product. External condom catheters made of latex are easy to roll on the penis because of their flexibility. Also, they feel very soft against the skin.
Silicone is a translucent, breathable, and bio-compatible material. Silicone external urinary catheters can be a great alternative for those with latex allergies. They are skin-friendly, and their translucency allows the users to inspect the skin for any irritation or skin problem.
Polyvinyl chloride is a synthetic plastic polymer with resistant material which can stand against urine and mechanical impact. PVC catheters for men may have bio-hazardous effects in the long run.
Just like PVC, polyurethane is also a synthetic material. PU male catheters are thinner and provide more comfort as compared to other materials. Many of the latex-free external catheters for males are made from PU.
The male external catheters can be divided into one piece or two-piece on the basis of the shape of the catheters.
One-piece male external catheters constitute a single piece that must be pulled on. There is no need to struggle with wearing two or more pieces.
Two-piece external urinary catheters consist of two parts. One part is worn on the penis, and it remains there. The other part is a removable drainage tip connected to the drainage tube.
There are two types of external catheters based on the type of adhesive used, namely, non-adhesive external catheters and self-adhesive external catheters.
Non-adhesive external catheters do not contain any adhesive. They must be affixed to the penis with the help of skin glue, single or double-sided adhesive strips, or foam strips. Skin adhesives are applied before rolling on the catheter. Adhesive strips are encircled on the penis to attach the catheter. Reusable foam and elastic strips are used where there is a frequent need to replace the catheter.
Self-adhesive male external catheters have a sticky film on their inner surface which helps them attach to the penis. They are simply rolled up and pressed gently to fix them in place.
Click here to view the External Catheters Buying Guide
The penis's circumference must be measured for appropriate male external catheter sizing. The penis is measured at the shaft, whose diameter is the largest to get the right size. The patient should sit on the edge of a bed or chair with a slight distance between the legs. In this position, the best measurement can be taken. There is no need to measure the length of the penis. Condom catheters usually fit most penis lengths, except when it is retracted or small.
If there is confusion between the two sizes, select the smaller one for better fit and leakage protection. The material of male external catheters is flexible and will snugly fit around the penis. The larger of the two sizes can result in leakage.
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Anushree Kothari, has been a Health Products For You contributor since 2016. She has a deep interest in human physiology and wellness and possess a passion and talent for guiding others through ...
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