Why Choose Bardex™ 100% Silicone

The 100% medical-grade silicone construction eliminates latex allergy concerns while providing superior tissue compatibility for intermediate- to long-term catheterization. Silicone's naturally smooth, flexible material is gentler on urethral tissue than latex alternatives, reducing irritation during the indwelling period. The transparent shaft allows visual monitoring of urine character and flow without removing the catheter. The symmetrical 5cc balloon ensures centered positioning in the bladder for secure retention without creating pressure points that can cause discomfort or tissue damage.

Key Features & Benefits

100% Medical-Grade Silicone Construction:

• Completely latex-free for patients with rubber latex allergies or sensitivities
• Superior biocompatibility reduces tissue reaction and inflammatory response
• Naturally smooth, low-friction surface requires no additional coating
• Flexible material conforms comfortably to urethral anatomy
• Resistant to encrustation buildup compared to latex catheters
• Suitable for intermediate- to long-term catheterization (typically 2-4 weeks or per facility protocol)

Clear Transparent Shaft:

• Visual inspection of urine color, clarity, and character
• Monitor for hematuria, sediment, or infection signs without catheter removal
• Assess drainage adequacy at a glance
• Supports clinical decision-making and patient monitoring

18 French Sizing:

• 6.0mm diameter provides robust drainage capacity
• Larger lumen reduces clogging risk with sediment or debris
• Suitable for standard adult catheterization needs
• Balances flow efficiency with patient comfort
• Red color-coded funnel for instant size identification

Symmetrical 5cc Balloon:

• Balanced inflation centers catheter in bladder
• Reduces asymmetric pressure on bladder neck and trigone
• Secure retention with minimal balloon volume
• 5cc capacity provides adequate anchoring without excessive pressure
• Minimizes bladder irritation and spasm risk

Polished Dual Drainage Eyes:

• Smooth, rounded eyelets eliminate rough edges
• Dual openings promote consistent, reliable urine flow
• Polished finish reduces tissue irritation during dwell time
• Strategic positioning optimizes drainage efficiency
• Minimizes risk of mucosa being drawn into openings

Radiopaque Stripe:

• X-ray visible for post-placement verification
• Confirms proper positioning in bladder
• Supports quality assurance documentation
• Critical for verifying placement in challenging cases

Clinical Applications

Ideal for:

• Patients with confirmed or suspected latex allergies
• Intermediate- to long-term catheterization needs (2-4 weeks typical)
• Post-operative urinary drainage
• Acute urinary retention
• Patients requiring biocompatible catheter material
• Healthcare facilities implementing latex-free protocols
• Situations requiring visual urine monitoring

Common Clinical Settings:

• Post-surgical urinary management
• Critical care and ICU patients
• Medical-surgical units
• Long-term acute care hospitals
• Skilled nursing facilities
• Patients with neurogenic bladder

Silicone Advantages for Catheterization

Medical-grade silicone offers distinct benefits for indwelling catheterization:

Biocompatibility:

• Lower inflammatory response compared to latex
• Hypoallergenic properties minimize tissue reaction
• Reduces risk of urethral irritation and edema

Encrustation Resistance:

• Smooth silicone surface resists mineral deposit buildup
• Important for patients with alkaline urine or stone history
• Maintains drainage patency longer than latex

Extended Wear:

• Suitable for longer catheterization periods than latex
• Maintains flexibility throughout dwell time
• Doesn't degrade or stiffen like some latex catheters

Patient Comfort:

• Naturally smooth material reduces friction
• Flexible construction adapts to anatomy
• Less tissue trauma during movement

Usage & Application

Healthcare Professional Use Only

1. Preparation: Establish sterile field; perform urethral antisepsis per facility protocol
2. Lubrication: Apply sterile lubricant to catheter tip (silicone is smooth but lubrication still recommended)
3. Insertion: Insert using aseptic technique until urine flows freely
4. Balloon Inflation: Advance catheter slightly, inflate symmetrical balloon with exactly 5cc sterile water (never saline)
5. Verification: Gently retract until balloon seats at bladder neck; confirm placement (radiopaque stripe visible if imaging performed)
6. Connection: Attach to closed drainage system immediately
7. Securing: Secure catheter to thigh or abdomen per protocol to prevent traction and urethral trauma

Catheter Maintenance:

• Maintain closed drainage system at all times
• Keep drainage bag below bladder level to prevent backflow
• Monitor daily for adequate drainage, signs of obstruction, or infection
• Inspect transparent shaft for urine character changes
• Replace per facility protocol or manufacturer recommendations (typically 2-4 weeks for silicone)

⚠ Important: While silicone is naturally smooth, always use sterile lubricant during insertion for patient comfort and reduced trauma.

Product Specifications

• Product Type: Indwelling Foley catheter, 2-way
• Size: 18 French (6.0mm diameter)
• Length: Approximately 40 cm (adult standard)
• Material: 100% medical-grade silicone
• Balloon Capacity: 5cc symmetrical balloon (inflate with sterile water only)
• Drainage Eyes: Dual polished eyelets
• Shaft: Clear transparent silicone (visual monitoring)
• Radiopacity: Radiopaque stripe for X-ray visibility
• Color Code: Red funnel (18 Fr identification)
• Latex Status: 100% latex-free (silicone construction)
• Sterility: EO sterilized, single-patient use
• Packaging: Each, individually sterile-wrapped
• Brand/Manufacturer: Bard (BD)
• Product Line: Bardex™ Silicone