Device for diagnosing and relieving female incontinence
US4669478A · kind A · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 21, 1985 |
| Grant date | Jun 2, 1987 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 21, 2005 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F6/08
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An inflatable elongate pessary fits into and longitudinally distends the patient's vagina and with it the urethra. An indentation near the proximal end of the pessary receives the patient's servix so that the pessary can extend into and distend the most proximal region behind the cervix. Preferably a lateral enlargement near the distal end of the pessary aids in supporting the pessary above the levator ani sling. The pessary moves the bladder neck and the proximal portion of the urethra toward normal positions above the abdominal wall. The pessary includes a flexible airtight chamber, and a valve and fitting that are operable from outside the vagina while the pessary is inside. The fitting is accessible from the outside for attachment of a source of compressed gas, while the pessary is in the vagina. Within the pessary is preferably a longitudinal cavity, open at the distal end of the pessary but extending near the proximal end; the patient can insert a finger into this cavity to push the pessary all the way up into the vagina.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.