Bobbyca

This a great thread and I'd like to tell you about my experiences with "holey" catheters. I've used a pair of bandage scissors to cut the notch in siliconized latex catheters. These scissors have a very fine serrated edge which permits a very shallow cut and avoid cutting the inflation tube. After some practice I've been able to cut a smooth hole with tapered edges. The sensation of loss of control is amazing, every time I cough or stand up, I pee with no control. After a while though, I get irritated by the edges of the hole chewing on my urethra. Inspired by efforts of others to smooth the edges, I dug out my dremel tool and used a very soft buffing wheel (think fine scotchbrite) to smooth the edges. I had to stretch the catheter to keep it from jumping around, but with some patience, I've been able to make a much smoother hole. Playing with catheters is risky business and I've gotten a couple of UTIs which were solved by prompt trips to the doctor for antibiotics. Sterile procedures are essential to prevent infections and even so there is no guarantee.