Astra Tech, the makers of LoFric, was the first company to introduce hydrophilic catheters — that use water as a lubricant — back in 1983. It was a big step. Before that, all kinds of lubricants were used to make the catheter tube slippery. But they still didn’t do it very well, so people who catheterised were not only uncomfortable, they were experiencing all kinds of problems due to friction. Plus it was messy!
With the launch of LoFric catheters with Urotonic™ Surface Technology, Astra Tech made catheterisation easier, more comfortable and less harmful than it had been. And unlike other hydrophilic coatings, Urotonic™ Surface Technology stayed slippery going in and coming out. As it turns out, the technology was so good it’s still the same one used today on LoFric catheters. And over the years it’s been tested and documented for its long term safety by many third party experts. Simply put, no other catheter has been put through the same paces. Or come out with such a good reputation. Find out more about the LoFric assortment by using the navigation bar at the top.
When you’re about to choose your catheter for self-catheterisation you may want to prepare yourself with a couple of questions that you can ask the urology nurse, before you step into the urology clinic. The following checklist can be of guidance in your meeting (click on the image to view or download the checklist in PDF format).
Good luck with your meeting!
Proven long–term safety: Is there clinical evidence to support that the catheter I’m about to use on a frequent (or daily) basis is safe for me long term? Hydrophilic coating for maximum comfort and minimum harm to the urethra during catheterisation: Does the catheter have a hydrophilic coating that stays slippery both at insertion and at withdrawal of the catheter, to protect my urethra and give me the most comfort? Softness of the catheter: Is the catheter pliable enough to not harm my urethra (and cause for example bleedings)?
Tube length (cm./in.), important for handling and complete bladder emptying in order to avoid infections: What will be the length of the catheter to give me a stable handling and at the same time ensure complete bladder emptying, that will give me a better protection against infections? Tube width (CH/FR), for better emptying: What width of the catheter should I use?
Handling aid for a steady grip and non-touch technique (minimised bacterial contamination) when catheterising: Does this catheter offer a handling aid that gives me a good grip for a better and safer handling?
Fitting into your lifestyle: Will this catheter be easy to integrate into my lifestyle? Is it discreet enough? Can I fold it together and put it in my pocket? Does it have a hanging function? Does it have all the things needed to fit me (water, collection bag, handling aid, etc.)?
To get in touch with us, please use the following email address: info.lofric@astratech.com
Take a couple of minutes to learn the ins and outs of choosing a catheter that is safe, comfortable and suits your lifestyle.
