HI,

I was wonder how long catheters last for others. I remember reading in a post some time ago that they were good for a couple of months, but what is it that deems them unusable? The one I use at home is going on a year and a half although it is starting to show some cracks around the openings.

Also does anyone have experience with the open ended catheter? Is it difficult inserting without a bullet nose to it?

Thanks, Peter

I use the Medena 'French 30' size. It has the open end...with no trouble inserting. If your tube is cracked, it is time for a new one. Or, if you bend the catheter at the second hole from the end, sometimes then that 'crimped' area around the hole with catch on the inside of your valve or stoma, and cause a little bleeding here and there. It tends to 'remember' the crimp and bend each time you try to intubate.

My father has had a BCIR for 10 years and since then has only needed to use 2 catheters. I dont know if there is one brand thats better than another, but I could find out where he gets his and pass the information on.

I had my first Kock for 24 years and used about 4 caths a year. I started with the closed bullet tip and then used the open ended for many years.

I've had my second Kock for 16 months and take out a new one every two months, mostly because of the color and not being able to get it big time clean anymore. I use the closed end. I have tried the open end, same type as I used to use, but keep having trouble.

So, whether you use an open or closed end just depends.

But definitely, if you feel the edges on the holes are getting worn or rough, or the cath is collapsing or kinking as you insert it, it is time for a new one.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: lesrich1,

Thanks for your replies.

I guess its time to recycle the old one!

Do the open end ones clog less?

Thanks, Peter

Most catheters are covered by insurance. If not, they are not expensive. When they turn color it is time to replace it. If you took a swab from the inside you would know why.
The catheter is supposed to be flexible and should be discarderd whern it is brittle.
Excess flexibility at the second hole is also a sign to replace it.
I cannot believe that anyone used the same catheter for 5 or 6 years, I have heard of becoming attached to something, but that is ri diculous

Where do you find open ended catheters? I left the Cleveland Clinic with one, have since discarded it, can't seen to find them.
Thanks!

I agree with Larry.
Check with your insurance Co. If they cover it, why not?
I am covered for two catheters per month which is just fine for me.
I also found a catheter cleaner that has a brush on a long stiff wire.
Bill

My father is meticulous at cleaning his cath.. I dont know why, as I'd just replace it with a new one.. but I was simply sharing the experience..

www.continentostomystore.com has many different kinds of catheters. It also has the brush Bill mentioned.

Amy, if you want the open-ended catheters, get the Medena, 30 Fr.

Bill,
Where did you find that brush ?
Lynne

i don't think there's one specific "right" way to go about it.
i for one don't have insurance, and so i don't get two catheters covered or any catheters actually.
i know the ones i chose to use at first aren't too expensive (somewhere around $16ish) BUT the ones i'd prefer to use are like $50+. so i would rather get as much out of one as possible.

the obvious hold true that if there is visible things wrong (cracks, frayed ragged edges, etc) than don't use it.

(oh, and in terms of turning color...in my experience they pretty much start yellowing immediately. i'd say after a couple days to a week they aren't clear anymore. so if that logic holds true, well damn...you'd be whipping though cath's left and right)

A $50 catheter??? I did not know that gold was that flexible.
You are being ripped off by your supplier. Get a catalog from a major supplier. They are less than $10.

P.S. There is a major difference between yellow and brown.