Urethral apparatus with position indicator and methods of use thereof
US5964732A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 18, 1997 |
| Grant date | Oct 12, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 18, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2250/0067
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An apparatus and method for placement of a tubular body in the urethra. The tubular body includes a proximal portion adapted for placement toward a bladder end and bladder neck end of the urethra and a distal portion opposite from the proximal portion. A sensor component located on the tubular body is responsive to a feature of the urethra and outputs a first signal indicating proper placement of the proximal portion of the tubular body relative to the bladder and bladder neck. Preferably, an insertion tool is used during positioning of the urethral apparatus. The insertion tool is coupled to the distal end of the urethral apparatus and is used to push the urethral apparatus proximally in the urethra. The first signal can be transmitted from the urethral apparatus through the insertion tool from which it is perceivable by the person positioning the urethral device. Upon proper placement, the insertion tool is decoupled from the urethral apparatus and withdrawn leaving the urethral apparatus in place in the urethra with the proximal portion properly positioned relative to the bladder neck and bladder.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.