Urine Leg Bags, Unisex Drainage Tubes, Foley Bags

What is a leg bag?

A leg bag is a device used in conjunction with a catheter to collect urine. The bag may be strapped to the user’s leg or placed in a pouch in a specially designed undergarment to hold it in place on the user’s thigh and keep it connected to the catheter to prevent urine spillage.

The bag is made of a waterproof material such as medical grade vinyl to prevent leakage and contain odors. One end of the bag connects to the catheter tube and the other end has a valve to drain the urine into the toilet, a sample cup, or another receptacle such as one intended for measuring output in cubic centimeters (cc).

The bags may be reusable or disposable. Reusable ones still need to be changed and cleaned once a month or if they begin to look dirty or smell bad.

How are leg bags used?

After the catheter is placed in the urethra or in the suprapubic location, the free end is connected to the top of the bag. The urine can then flow freely into the bag. The bag is fastened to the user’s leg below hip level with Velcro or elastic straps to prevent urine from backing up into the bladder and increasing the risk of infection. Once in place, the user may go about his or her day.

The bag needs to be emptied two or three times a day or when it is 1/3 to 1/2 full by simply turning the release valve and letting it drain into an appropriate container. To prevent infection, do not allow the valve to come in contact with any bathroom surfaces and clean it with alcohol after the bag is emptied.

At night, the catheter needs to be attached to a larger collection bag that is hung from the bed. This ensures that the urine will stay below bladder level, preventing back flow.

To clean reusable bags, simply fill with a solution of vinegar and water or bleach and water. Let them soak for about 20 minutes, then let the solution drain through the bottom valve and dry over night.

Alternate the leg where the bag is strapped to preserve skin integrity and prevent irritations.

Who uses leg bags?

Leg bags are used by people who have conditions requiring the use of an indwelling or suprapubic catheter due to medical issues that cause incontinence or urinary retention. Users may include people living with neurological problems such as spinal cord injuries or MS, BPH, injuries to the lower abdomen, and surgical modifications to the urinary tract such as ileostomies.

Where are leg bags used?

Leg bags are worn and utilized wherever the wearer may roam. They are used in private residences, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, long-term care facilities and nursing homes.

Rehabmart is proud to offer a comprehensive selection of superior quality leg bags from well-known manufacturers that include Independence Medical, McKeson Medical-Surgical, Uro Concepts, Inc., and Medline.

Hulet Smith, OT
Rehabmart Co-Founder & CEO

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