Why Choose Hollister Apogee IC

The non-lubricated design gives you complete control over lubricant type and amount—beneficial for users with specific lubricant preferences, sensitivities to hydrophilic coatings, or those who prefer traditional catheterization technique with their chosen sterile gel. The firm catheter body provides better insertion control compared to very flexible catheters, making it easier to guide during self-catheterization without the catheter buckling or folding. Fire-polished eyelets eliminate rough edges that can cause urethral microtrauma during the 4-6 daily insertions typical for clean intermittent catheterization users. The 12 French size offers a smaller diameter option for users requiring gentler catheterization or those with narrower urethral anatomy.

Key Features & Benefits

Straight Tip Design:

• Standard catheter configuration for normal urethral anatomy
• No prostatic enlargement or strictures requiring coude guidance
• Straightforward insertion path
• Most common tip style for typical anatomy
• Easier for users learning self-catheterization

12 French Sizing:

• 4.0mm diameter—smaller, gentler option
• Less urethral stretching during insertion
• Appropriate for users requiring smaller catheter
• Adequate drainage flow for most situations
• Color-coded funnel for instant size identification
• Comfortable for users with sensitive or narrow urethras

16" Male Length:

• Full 40cm length reaches bladder effectively in male anatomy
• Standard male catheter length for self-catheterization
• Adequate length for comfortable positioning during drainage

Fire-Polished Eyelets:

• Smooth, rounded drainage openings eliminate sharp edges
• Reduces urethral microtrauma during insertion and removal
• Critical for users performing multiple daily catheterizations
• Minimizes cumulative tissue damage over time
• Offset eyelet positioning optimizes drainage flow

Firm Construction:

• Medical-grade PVC provides balanced firmness
• Easier to guide during insertion without buckling
• Better control during self-catheterization
• Maintains shape without being rigid
• Less "floppy" than very flexible catheters

Non-Lubricated Design:

• Use with your choice of sterile lubricant
• Complete control over lubricant type and amount
• More economical than pre-lubricated catheters
• No coating activation time—apply lube and insert immediately
• Allows customization for individual preferences

Latex-Free Construction:

• Safe for latex-allergic and latex-sensitive users
• Eliminates rubber latex exposure concerns
• Medical-grade PVC material

Clinical Applications

Ideal for:

• Men with normal urethral anatomy requiring clean intermittent catheterization
• Users preferring non-lubricated catheters with external lubricant application
• Those with sensitivities to hydrophilic coatings
• Neurogenic bladder from spinal cord injury or disease
• Urinary retention from various causes
• Users performing 4-6 daily catheterizations
• Budget-conscious users seeking economical option

Self-Catheterization Settings:

• Home use (primary location)
• Settings where separate lubricant application is feasible
• Clinical facilities with lubricant readily available
• Users with established catheterization routines

Non-Lubricated Advantages

When Non-Lubricated Works Best:

Lubricant Control:

• Choose your preferred lubricant brand and type
• Control amount applied for comfort
• Use anesthetic lubricant if prescribed
• Adjust lubrication for individual needs

Economic Benefits:

• Lower per-catheter cost than hydrophilic catheters
• Significant savings with multiple daily catheterizations
• Good choice for budget-conscious users

No Coating Sensitivities:

• Some users experience reactions to hydrophilic coatings
• Traditional catheterization avoids coating-related issues
• Proven technique for decades

Immediate Use:

• No activation time required
• Apply lubricant and insert immediately
• No waiting for coating to hydrate

12 French Sizing

Why Smaller Size:

The 12 Fr (4.0mm) diameter is gentler than standard 14 Fr (4.7mm) catheters:

• Less urethral stretching during insertion
• Reduced discomfort for sensitive anatomy
• Appropriate for narrower urethras or strictures
• Adequate drainage for most urinary retention situations

When 12 Fr Is Recommended:

• Users with urethral sensitivity or discomfort
• Narrower urethral anatomy
• First-time catheter users starting with smaller size
• Those experiencing trauma with larger catheters
• Post-urethral surgery requiring gentler approach

Firm Construction Benefits

Why Firmness Matters:

Very flexible catheters can be difficult to insert for some users:

• May buckle or fold during insertion attempts
• Harder to control direction
• Can be frustrating for new users

Apogee IC Firm Design:

• Maintains shape during insertion
• Better directional control
• Easier for self-catheterization without assistance
• Still flexible enough for comfort
• Not rigid—balanced firmness

Usage & Application

For Self-Catheterization:

1. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water
2. Prepare supplies: Catheter, sterile lubricant, collection container
3. Apply lubricant: Generously coat catheter tip and first 2-3 inches with sterile lubricant
4. Position over toilet or collection container
5. Insert gently using clean technique until urine flows
6. Advance slightly further to ensure catheter is fully in bladder
7. Drain completely; allow all urine to empty
8. Remove slowly with gentle, steady traction
9. Dispose of catheter after single use per local regulations

Typical Frequency: 4-6 times daily for clean intermittent catheterization

Lubricant Options:

• Sterile water-soluble lubricating jelly
• Individual lubricant packets for portability
• Lubricant tubes for home use
• Anesthetic lubricant (e.g., lidocaine gel) if prescribed by clinician

Important: Always use adequate sterile lubricant. Insufficient lubrication increases urethral trauma risk.

Product Specifications

• Product Type: Intermittent urinary catheter (self-catheterization)
• Tip Style: Straight tip
• Size: 12 French (4.0mm diameter)
• Length: Approximately 16 inches (40 cm) male length
• Coating: None (non-lubricated—requires external lubricant)
• Eyelets: Fire-polished, offset positioning
• Construction: Firm medical-grade PVC
• Color Code: Color-coded funnel for 12 Fr identification
• Latex Status: Latex-free
• Sterility: Sterile, single-patient use
• Manufacturer: Hollister
• Product Line: Apogee IC