3 Way Latex Foley Catheter

The 3-way latex Foley catheter is a sterile, flexible urinary catheter designed for continuous bladder drainage and irrigation. It features three separate channels, or lumens, that serve distinct functions. One lumen drains urine, another inflates the retention balloon, and the third allows for bladder irrigation or medication delivery. This configuration makes it ideal for post-surgical bladder care, especially following urological procedures where continuous flushing is necessary to prevent clot formation.

Constructed from natural latex and typically coated with silicone or hydrogel, the catheter offers both flexibility and patient comfort. The smooth surface reduces friction during insertion and wear, while the latex core provides excellent elasticity for easier handling. The catheter is available in a range of French sizes and balloon capacities, generally from 5 to 30 mL, to suit different clinical needs.

Healthcare professionals insert the catheter through the urethra and advance it until it reaches the bladder. After confirming proper placement, they inflate the retention balloon with sterile water to hold the catheter in place. The irrigation lumen can then be used for continuous or intermittent flushing, which helps clear blood, debris, or mucus from the bladder and catheter.

The 3-way latex Foley catheter is commonly used in hospitals, surgical recovery units, and critical care settings. It is particularly effective for patients recovering from bladder or prostate surgery, where maintaining a clear urinary pathway is essential. While highly effective, it is not suitable for patients with latex allergies, who should instead use an all-silicone alternative.

To ensure safe use, care providers should follow standard catheter maintenance protocols, including regular cleaning and timely replacement. The 3-way latex Foley catheter provides a dependable solution for bladder drainage and irrigation, supporting patient recovery and helping to prevent post-operative complications.