Vaginal remodeling device and methods
US8961511B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 7, 2007 |
| Grant date | Feb 24, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 1, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2018/00875
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
This invention relates generally to apparatus and methods for tightening tissue of the female genitalia by heating targeted connective tissue with radiant energy, while cooling the mucosal epithelial surface over the target tissue to protect it from the heat. Embodiments include a treatment tip that comprises both an energy delivery element and a cooling mechanism. As the treatment tip contacts the epithelial mucosa, the tip cools the mucosa by contact, and delivers energy thought the epithelium to the underlying tissue, thereby creating a reverse thermal gradient. The effect of the applied heat is to remodel genital tissue by tightening it. Such remodeling may include a tighter vagina and a tighter introitus. The tightening may be a consequence of thermal denaturation of collagen as well as a longer term healing response in the tissue that includes an increased deposition of collagen.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.