Method and device for reversible sterilization
US5474089A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 26, 1991 |
| Grant date | Dec 12, 1995 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 26, 2011 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F6/20
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A blocking device is non-surgically inserted in a duct of a reproductive system of either a male or female subject. The device may be in the form of a stent including an expandable section for sealingly engaging the duct to effect sterilization by preventing passage of gametes therethrough. The stent preferably includes a predetermined portion which is ablatable by application of a known intensity of laser irradiation. When desired, a laser beam may be used to ablate the portion of the blocking device in order to reopen the duct and to re-establish fertility of the subject. One embodiment of the device includes a guiding segment for guiding a fiber optic device to a position adjacent the ablatable portion and for accurate application of the laser beam thereto, thereby reducing potential organic damage from a misdirected laser beam. In another embodiment, the stent includes a collapsible frame structure compressed by a spring, and a central ablatable blocking portion. Upon release of the spring, the frame expands to engage the duct.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.