External Catheter

The systems for men usually consist of a pouch or condom like device that is securely placed around the penis. This is often called a condom catheter. A drainage tube is attached at the tip of the device to remove urine. The drainage tube then empties into a storage bag, which can be emptied directly into the toilet.

Foley Catheter

A flexible tube (a catheter) inserted into the bladder to provide continuous urinary drainage. The "Foley" has a balloon on the bladder end. After the catheter is inserted in the bladder, the balloon is inflated (with air or fluid) so that the catheter cannot pull out but is retained in the bladder as an "indwelling" catheter. Removal is accomplished simply by deflating the balloon and slipping the catheter out.

Intermittent Catheter

A drainage tube (catheter) inserted into the bladder only when urine needs to be drained from it. After urine drainage, the catheter is removed from the body.