Apparatus and methods for treating female urinary incontinence
US7306591B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 16, 2002 |
| Grant date | Dec 11, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 4, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
- CPC primaryC08L2201/12
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Apparatus and methods are provided for treating female urinary incontinence by applying a form of energy to tissue in the vicinity of the urethra and/or bladder outlet to change tissue compliance without substantially narrowing the urethral and/or bladder outlet lumen. The apparatus comprises an elongated shaft having a means for treating urethral tissue and an expandable member deployable distal of the means for treating. The expandable member is configured to be anchored against the bladder outlet to dispose the means for treating at a desired treatment site in the urethra using only tactile feedback. The means for treating may include a needleless RF electrode, an ultrasound transducer, or a cryogenic probe configured to be advanced through a hollow needle, each of which are designed to reduce or eliminate symptoms associated with urinary incontinence.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.