IP Requirement: Emory IP

Experience Requirement:

– Mechanical Design

– Rapid Prototyping

The current design of the contemporary indwelling urethral catheter (AKA “Foley catheter”) has been unchanged for at least the past 50 years. These catheters are ubiquitous and are used all over the world in a variety of clinical situations in which external drainage of the bladder is needed. For most people who have had a catheter inserted, however, the experience is terrifying and painful. Living with an indwelling catheter, whether it’s for a few days or a few years, can feel humiliating as well as acutely uncomfortable. I believe that a modification of this device can revolutionize this experience yet also provide clinicians with a device that is clinically effective.

I have previous experience working with some Capstone students with another type of urinary device (an external collector for women) that was satisfying for the students as well for myself. Of interest, another device that was similar became commercially available a few months after we completed our project! Based upon that experience, I respect the benefits of a collaboration of a clinician, such as myself and the talented creative young bioengineers at Ga Tech. I look forward to involvement with another project!