Recather
A compact automated device concept exploring dual-phase disinfection for clean intermittent catheter (CIC) users, aiming to reduce cost and medical plastic waste for a globally under-served group.
The unmet need
Over two million people globally rely on Clean Intermittent Catheterization (CIC) every day. Single-use catheters mean high yearly costs, significant medical plastic waste, and infection risks when reused without proper disinfection.
Who is affected
People living with spinal cord injury, spina bifida, multiple sclerosis, neurogenic bladder and other conditions requiring long-term CIC — and the caregivers and health systems supporting them.
The current concept
Recather is being developed as a small at-home device intended to perform a dual-phase disinfection cycle for CIC catheters, aiming to enable safe reuse of catheters currently designed as single-use.
Intended value
If validated, Recather could meaningfully reduce out-of-pocket costs, medical plastic waste and infection risk for CIC users. Early internal forecasts suggest potential first-year expense reduction on the order of 65% with continued reduction over time — subject to independent validation.
Scientific and regulatory disclaimer
Recather is an investigational device under research and preclinical development. It is not clinically proven, not regulatory-approved, and not commercially available. Nothing on this page should be interpreted as a medical claim, a recommendation to reuse single-use catheters, or medical advice.
Development status
Demonstrated
Early laboratory feasibility work and prototype iterations (V1.1 → V1.3) supported by TÜBİTAK BİGG 1512 and Acıbadem TEKMER.
Currently being tested
Cleanroom experiments, test-analysis and validation, and the start of preclinical Phase 2 work — supported in part by Boğaziçi BRIGHT (2nd place, 2024).
Future targets
Preclinical completion, regulatory pathway definition, clinical validation and, later, real-world deployment models.
Collaboration opportunities
We welcome collaboration with clinicians, urology specialists, medical device engineers, regulatory experts, patient organizations, research institutions and investors.