Why Catheter Valves Instead of Continuous Drainage

Continuous drainage bags keep the bladder empty at all times, which can lead to reduced bladder capacity, weakened bladder muscle tone, and loss of normal voiding reflexes over time—a condition known as "bladder atrophy." For long-term catheter users who retain bladder sensation and capacity, maintaining bladder function is critical for potential future catheter removal or improved quality of life. Catheter valves allow the bladder to fill naturally and empty on a controlled schedule, mimicking normal voiding patterns. This periodic filling and emptying helps maintain bladder elasticity, preserves muscle tone, and may reduce infection risk by creating a flushing action that clears bacteria from the bladder. The Flip-Flo valve's simple 180° lever mechanism gives users control over when and where they empty their bladder—eliminating the need for visible leg bags, supporting more active lifestyles, and restoring a sense of normalcy to catheter management.

Key Features

• 180° lever tap mechanism: intuitive open/close control of urine flow
• Universal connector: fits most standard indwelling catheters
• Dual catheter compatibility: suitable for urethral or suprapubic catheters
• Bladder health support: encourages periodic filling and voiding instead of constant drainage
• Freedom from leg bags: eliminates need for visible drainage bags during daily activities
• Discreet design: compact valve more easily concealed than drainage bags
• Simple operation: easy-to-grip lever for reliable opening and closing
• Latex-free construction: safe for latex-sensitive patients
• Case of 20 units: economical supply for long-term use

Benefits

• Maintains bladder tone and capacity through controlled filling cycles
• Supports more normal bladder function and voiding patterns
• May reduce blockage risk with flushing action during emptying
• Improves quality of life by eliminating visible leg bags
• Enables participation in activities difficult with drainage bags (swimming, sports, intimate situations)
• Provides greater independence and control over voiding schedule
• Discreet appearance under clothing enhances confidence
• Cost-effective alternative to disposable drainage bags

Clinical Applications

✓ Long-term catheter users: patients with indwelling catheters for extended periods
✓ Bladder capacity preservation: users wanting to maintain bladder function
✓ Active lifestyle patients: individuals participating in sports, swimming, or physical activities
✓ Urethral catheters: standard Foley catheter users with adequate sensation
✓ Suprapubic catheters: suprapubic catheter users seeking valve option
✓ Neurogenic bladder: selected patients with preserved sensation under clinical guidance
✓ Post-surgical recovery: transitional use while working toward catheter removal
✓ Social/work settings: discretion needed during professional or social activities

Usage & Application

For individuals with indwelling urethral or suprapubic catheters who have been assessed by healthcare providers as clinically appropriate for catheter valve use instead of continuous drainage.

Important patient selection criteria: Catheter valves are NOT suitable for all catheter users. Consult with your healthcare provider before using. Valves are generally appropriate for patients who:

• Have intact bladder sensation (can feel when bladder is full)
• Have adequate bladder capacity (typically >300 mL)
• Are mentally alert and physically able to operate the valve
• Can maintain a regular emptying schedule (every 3-4 hours)
• Do not have severe bladder spasms or instability
• Are not prone to autonomic dysreflexia (spinal cord injury patients)

Initial setup:

1. Ensure you have been assessed by your healthcare provider as suitable for valve use
2. Remove any existing drainage bag from your catheter
3. Clean the catheter connection end if needed
4. Attach the Flip-Flo valve to the catheter outlet—ensure secure connection
5. Verify the lever is in the closed (horizontal) position
6. Check for leaks at the connection point

Daily operation:

1. Closing the valve (retaining urine):
   • Move the lever to the closed position (typically horizontal/perpendicular to valve body)
   • Valve prevents urine flow, allowing bladder to fill naturally
   • Bladder will fill over 3-4 hours depending on fluid intake
2. Opening the valve (emptying bladder):
   • When you feel the urge to void or per your scheduled routine (every 3-4 hours maximum)
   • Position yourself over toilet or urinal
   • Rotate the lever 180° to the open position (typically parallel to valve body)
   • Allow bladder to drain completely—this may take 2-3 minutes
   • Remain seated/positioned until drainage stops completely
3. Closing after emptying:
   • Return lever to closed position
   • Ensure valve is fully closed before leaving toilet
   • Check for leaks

Emptying schedule:

• Empty bladder every 3-4 hours during the day (do not exceed 4 hours)
• Set a routine schedule: upon waking, mid-morning, lunchtime, afternoon, dinner, before bed
• Empty before bedtime—consider connecting overnight drainage bag if needed
• Never allow bladder to become overly distended (painful fullness)
• If you cannot feel bladder fullness, use a timed schedule strictly

Overnight drainage options:

• Some users connect a leg bag or bedside drainage bag overnight for uninterrupted sleep
• Others continue using the valve at night if they wake naturally to empty
• Discuss overnight management with your healthcare provider

Maintenance and hygiene:

• Clean the valve exterior daily with soap and water or disinfectant wipes
• Inspect valve for cracks, damage, or malfunction
• Replace valve per manufacturer recommendations or if malfunction occurs
• Maintain catheter care per your healthcare provider's instructions

Warning signs to contact healthcare provider:

• Inability to drain urine when valve is opened
• Leakage around catheter or valve connection
• Pain, discomfort, or bladder spasms
• Cloudy, bloody, or foul-smelling urine (infection signs)
• Fever or chills
• Difficulty closing or opening the valve
• Bladder feels overly full or distended

Transitioning from continuous drainage:

• When first switching from continuous drainage to a valve, bladder capacity may be reduced
• Start with shorter filling intervals (2-3 hours) and gradually extend as tolerated
• Work with your healthcare provider to develop an appropriate schedule
• It may take several weeks for bladder to regain capacity

Important contraindications:

• Do NOT use if you lack bladder sensation
• Do NOT use if you have poor manual dexterity and cannot operate valve reliably
• Do NOT use if you cannot maintain a regular emptying schedule
• Do NOT use if you have severe bladder spasms without medical supervision

Technical Specifications

• Product type: Catheter valve accessory
• Model: Flip-Flo Catheter Valve
• Mechanism: 180° lever tap for open/close control
• Valve positions:
  • Closed: Horizontal position (retains urine)
  • Open: Vertical position after 180° rotation (allows drainage)
• Connector: Universal connection compatible with most standard indwelling catheters
• Catheter compatibility:
  • Urethral (Foley) catheters
  • Suprapubic catheters
• Flow control: On/off control—no flow rate adjustment
• Material: Medical-grade plastic
• Latex status: Not made with natural rubber latex
• Sterility: Non-sterile (external catheter accessory)
• Reusability: Replace per manufacturer guidance or when damaged
• Packaging: Case of 20 units
• Manufacturer: Bard Medical (BD)
• Intended use: Controlled bladder drainage for indwelling catheter users
• Optional accessories: Can be used with adapters for connection to drainage bags when needed