Device for selectively opening and closing tubular organs of the body
US4643169A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 26, 1984 |
| Grant date | Feb 17, 1987 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 26, 2004 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S128/25
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Described is an implantable device for selectively opening and closing tubular organs of the body such as the urethra. The device comprises a sleeve of an elastomeric plastic material, being of a stiff or rigid shape. The sleeve has a slit-like opening for receiving the organ, while the width of the opening is such that the organ is at least partially closed off in the rest condition of the device. Pressure can be applied manually, possibly by way of a remote operating means, to cause the opening to be temporarily enlarged whereby the organ which extends through the opening is also opened. The device may also have a continuously open position which is produced by means of a ball which can be displaced into a retaining seat to hold the opening of the device in an open position.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.