Objectives: Ureteral catheterization is a basic step in any endourologic procedure. At times, we encounter cases of angulated ureteral orifices of  'J'  hooking distal ureters and tortuous ureters. An angled tip ureteral catheter would be most helpful in these situations. However, in our local setting, this type of catheter is not regularly on hand. So we have developed a simple yet effective innovation that will allow any urologist to have this tool in his arsenal. Materials and Methods: We made use of a regular 6F open ended ureteral catheter and angle its end over a gauge 23 needle. It was dipped in hot water and then in cold normosaline to set it in its molded shape. The improvised "cobra" catheter is immediately ready for use. Results: The improvised "cobra" cathether has been used for at least 16 cases of 'J' hooking distaljireters. Four of which developed false tracks from the use of a regular open ended ureteral catheter which were all still successfully bypassed by the "cobra". It has also afforded success in placing a double 'J' stent in a patient with a tortuous proximal ureter which could not be bypassed by the guidewire. Conclusion: The ease of the creation of the improvised "cobra" catheter, together with the ubiquitous nature of the materials needed, allows it to be readily available for difficult ureteral orifice cannulations and ureteral intubations. As part of the urologists' armamentarium when performing endoscopic procedures, failed attempts at retrograde pyelography and stenting can be reduced, if not, virtually eliminated.

Catheterization ; "cobra" Catheter ; Urinary Catheterization