Updated January 16, 2009.

Definition: A foley catheter is a small, flexible tube that is inserted into the urethra and into the bladder to allow for the drainage of urine.

A foley catheter has a balloon filled with sterile water on the end that resides in the bladder to keep the tube itself in place. It is commonly used in patients that are immobile for a variety of reasons, such as surgery and brachytherapy sessions. Foley catheters can be for both short- and long-term use.

Also Known As: foley

Examples: During brachytherapy, a foley catheter was used to allow continuous drainage of urine so the patient could remain immobile.