US20030032857A1 - Mechanical anal incontinence - Google Patents

Mechanical anal incontinence Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US20030032857A1
US20030032857A1 US10/269,949 US26994902A US2003032857A1 US 20030032857 A1 US20030032857 A1 US 20030032857A1 US 26994902 A US26994902 A US 26994902A US 2003032857 A1 US2003032857 A1 US 2003032857A1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
restriction
adjustment device
energy
rectum
restriction member
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US10/269,949
Inventor
Peter Forsell
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Obtech Medical AG
Original Assignee
Obtech Medical AG
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Family has litigation
First worldwide family litigation filed litigation Critical https://patents.darts-ip.com/?family=24000910&utm_source=google_patent&utm_medium=platform_link&utm_campaign=public_patent_search&patent=US20030032857(A1) "Global patent litigation dataset” by Darts-ip is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Application filed by Obtech Medical AG filed Critical Obtech Medical AG
Priority to US10/269,949 priority Critical patent/US20030032857A1/en
Publication of US20030032857A1 publication Critical patent/US20030032857A1/en
Priority to US11/476,107 priority patent/US8734318B2/en
Priority to US14/265,373 priority patent/US9883934B2/en
Priority to US15/888,891 priority patent/US20180250113A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61FFILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F2/00Filters implantable into blood vessels; Prostheses, i.e. artificial substitutes or replacements for parts of the body; Appliances for connecting them with the body; Devices providing patency to, or preventing collapsing of, tubular structures of the body, e.g. stents
    • A61F2/0004Closure means for urethra or rectum, i.e. anti-incontinence devices or support slings against pelvic prolapse
    • A61F2/0031Closure means for urethra or rectum, i.e. anti-incontinence devices or support slings against pelvic prolapse for constricting the lumen; Support slings for the urethra
    • A61F2/0036Closure means for urethra or rectum, i.e. anti-incontinence devices or support slings against pelvic prolapse for constricting the lumen; Support slings for the urethra implantable
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61FFILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F2250/00Special features of prostheses classified in groups A61F2/00 - A61F2/26 or A61F2/82 or A61F9/00 or A61F11/00 or subgroups thereof
    • A61F2250/0001Means for transferring electromagnetic energy to implants
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61NELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N1/00Electrotherapy; Circuits therefor
    • A61N1/18Applying electric currents by contact electrodes
    • A61N1/32Applying electric currents by contact electrodes alternating or intermittent currents
    • A61N1/36Applying electric currents by contact electrodes alternating or intermittent currents for stimulation
    • A61N1/372Arrangements in connection with the implantation of stimulators
    • A61N1/378Electrical supply
    • A61N1/3787Electrical supply from an external energy source

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an anal incontinence treatment apparatus and method. More specifically, the invention relates to an anal incontinence treatment apparatus and method for surgical application in the body of an anal incontinence patient for restricting the colon or rectum of a patient.
  • U.S. Pat. No. 5,593,443 discloses hydraulic anal sphincter under both reflex and voluntary control.
  • An inflatable artificial sphincter with the pump system in scrotum is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,222,377.
  • a prime object of the present invention is to provide an anal incontinence treatment apparatus and method in which the risk of liquid leakage within the patient's body is substantially reduced or completely eliminated.
  • a further object of the invention is to provide an anal incontinence treatment apparatus and method, which does not require a manual manipulation of a combined reservoir a pump mechanism in the scrotum or labia majora region of the patient. Accordingly, the present invention provides an anal incontinence treatment apparatus, comprising:
  • an adjustable restriction device implanted in a patient, who suffers from anal incontinence, and engaging a portion of the colon or rectum of the patient to restrict the fecal passage-way therein, and
  • an adjustment device which mechanically adjusts the restriction device to restrict or release the fecal passageway.
  • the adjustment device may be non-manually operated, i.e. the adjustment may be operated by any powered means, not manipulated by touching the skin of the patient.
  • the adjustment device adjusts the restriction device in non-invasive manner.
  • the adjustment device may adjust the restriction device in a non-magnetic manner, i.e. magnetic forces may not be involved when adjusting the restriction device.
  • the adjustment device of the invention is not operated by manual forces, such as by manually compressing a fluid containing balloon implanted in the scrotum.
  • the apparatus of the invention may further comprise a powered operation device for operating the adjustment device.
  • the restriction device generally forms an at least substantially closed loop.
  • the restriction device may take a variety of different shapes, such as the shape of a square, rectangle or ellipse.
  • the substantially closed loop could for example be totally flat, i.e. thin as seen in the radial direction.
  • the shape of restriction device may also be changed during use, by rotation or movements of the restriction device in any direction.
  • a physical lumen like the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof, is often easier to restrict by contracting at least two opposite or different side walls of the lumen against each other.
  • the expression “colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof” should be understood to mean the rectum extended all the way out to the anal sphincter and following the passage of the large intestine in the other direction.
  • the restriction device may comprise an adjustable cuff, a clamp or a roller for bending the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof to restrict the fecal passageway therein.
  • a cuff, clamp or roller may also be utilized for squeezing the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof against human material inside the body of the patient for an example the sacral bone of the patient.
  • the restriction device comprises an elongated restriction member and forming means for forming the restriction member into at least a substantially closed loop around the portion of the tissue, the loop defining a restriction opening, whereby the adjustment device adjusts the restriction member in the loop to change the size of the restriction opening.
  • the restriction device may be implanted in the abdomen or retroperitoneum of the patient and preferably may engage the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof.
  • the adjustment device may be incorporated in the restriction device as well as being controlled by hydraulic means.
  • the adjustment device mechanically adjusts the longitudinal extension of the elongated restriction member in a loop form.
  • the restriction member comprises a main portion and two elongated end portions, and the adjustment device establishes longitudinal relative displacement between the end portions of the restriction member, so that the size of the restriction opening is adjusted.
  • the forming means may comprise any suitable known or conventional device capable of practicing the desired function, such as a spring material forming the elongated restriction member into the loop, so that the restriction opening has a predetermined size, and the adjustment device may adjust the restriction member against the spring action of the spring material.
  • the restriction member may comprise a spring clip.
  • the spring material may be integrated in the restriction member.
  • the adjustment device comprises a movement transferring member, suitably a drive wheel, in engagement with at least one of the end portions of the restriction member and operable to displace the one end portion relative to the other end portion of the restriction member.
  • the drive wheel may advantageously be in engagement with both of the end portions of the restriction member and be operable to displace said end portions relative to each other.
  • An elongated flexible drive shaft may be operatively connected to the drive wheel, for transferring manual or motor generated power from a location remote from the restriction member.
  • the drive wheel may comprise a pulley in frictional engagement with the restriction member.
  • a gear rack may be formed on at least one of the end portions of the restriction member and the drive wheel may comprise a gear wheel in mesh with the gear rack.
  • Other suitable known or conventional mechanisms may also or alternatively be used as the adjustment device.
  • the movement transferring member may alternatively comprise at least one cylinder and a piston, which is movable therein and is connected to one of the end portions of the restriction member, the piston being operable to longitudinally displace the one end portion of the restriction member relative to the other end portion of the restriction member.
  • the movement transferring means may comprise two interconnected cylinders and two pistons in the respective cylinders connected to said end portions, respectively, of the restriction member, the pistons being operable to longitudinally displace the end portions of the restriction member relative to each other.
  • Other known or conventional devices also or alternatively can be used as the movement transferring member.
  • a motor which is fixed relative to the main portion of the restriction member and has a rotating drive shaft operatively connected to the movement transferring member, may be positioned relative to the elongated restriction member such that the drive shaft extends transverse thereto.
  • the motor may be positioned relative to the elongated restriction member such that the drive shaft extends substantially tangentially to the loop of the restriction member.
  • the elongated restriction member is longitudinally resilient and the adjustment device comprises a contraction device for longitudinally contracting the resilient restriction member.
  • the elongated restriction member comprises a substantially nonresilient main portion and an end portion forming an elongated helical spring, which is contractable by the contraction device.
  • the contraction device may suitably comprise an elongated flexible pulling member connected to the main portion of the restriction member and extending through the helical spring to contract the helical spring against an arresting member, which is fixed relative to the main portion of the restriction member.
  • the pulling member may extend in an elongated tube joined at one end thereof to the arresting member, so that a motor remote from the restriction member may be attached to the other end of the elongated tube and pulls the pulling member through the tube to contract the helical spring.
  • the elongated restriction member comprises an elongated helical spring having a free end, and a body to which the spring is nonrotatably secured at its opposite end.
  • the adjustment device rotates the helical spring in one direction to enlarge the coils of the helical spring to longitudinally contract the spring and to rotate the spring in the opposite direction to reduce the size of the coils of the spring to longitudinally extend the spring.
  • the restriction member comprises a further elongated helical spring having a free end and nonrotatably secured to the body at its opposite end
  • the adjustment device comprises a drive shaft having two opposite end portions connected to the springs, respectively, at their free ends, the helical coils forming left and right hand helices, respectively.
  • the adjustment device may alternatively comprise a gearing having an input shaft and two opposite aligned output shafts connected to the helical springs, respectively, at their free ends, the input shaft being connected to said output shafts so that the output shafts rotate in the opposite directions upon rotation of the input shaft, the helical coils forming the same helices.
  • the adjustment device mechanically adjusts the restriction member so that at least a portion of a radially innermost circumferential confinement surface formed by the restriction member is substantially radially displaced.
  • the restriction member comprises an elongated voltage responsive element forming part of the confinement surface and capable of bending into a bow in response to a voltage applied across the element, the radius of curvature of the bow being adjustable by changing the level of the voltage.
  • the adjustment device changes the diameter of an elastic annular element of the restriction member, which forms the confinement surface.
  • the forming means comprises a substantially rigid outer annular element coaxially surrounding the elastic annular element
  • the adjustment device comprises means for pulling the elastic annular element radially outwardly towards the outer annular element to expand the elastic annular element.
  • the pulling means may comprise a plurality of threads secured to the elastic annular element along the circumference thereof and running from the elastic annular element via guide members attached to the outer annular element.
  • the forming means comprises a substantially rigid outer annular element
  • the restriction member comprises an elongated helical spring extending internally along the outer annular element and contacting the latter.
  • the helical spring forms part of the circumferential confinement surface and has a free end.
  • the restriction member further comprises a body to which the spring is nonrotatably secured at its opposite end. The adjustment device rotates the helical spring in one direction to enlarge the coils of the spring to contract the circumferential confinement surface and rotates the spring in the opposite direction to reduce the size of the coils of the spring to expand the circumferential confinement surface.
  • the restriction member comprises two elongated helical springs forming part of the circumferential confinement surface and connected to the body of the restriction member.
  • the adjustment device rotates each spring in one direction to enlarge the coils of the spring to contract the circumferential confinement surface and rotates the spring in the opposite direction to reduce the size of the coils of the spring to expand the circumferential confinement surface.
  • the restriction member comprises at least two separate elements, at least one of which is pivoted so that it may turn in a plane in which the the restriction member extends, and the adjustment device turns the pivoted element to change the size of the restriction opening.
  • the restriction member comprises a plurality of separate pivoted elements disposed in series, each pivoted element being turnable in the plane, and the adjustment device turns all of the pivoted elements to change the size of the restriction opening.
  • the pivoted elements may comprise lamellae arranged like the conventional adjustable aperture mechanism of a camera.
  • the adjustment device folds at least two foldable frame elements of the restriction member towards each other.
  • the foldable frame elements comprise two substantially or partly semi-circular frame elements which are hinged together so that the semi-circular elements are swingable relative to each other from a fully open state in which they form part of a circle to a fully folded state in which they form part of a semi-circle.
  • the same principal may be used with the swingable parts mounted together in one end and not in the other end.
  • the restriction device may comprises two preferable rigid articulated clamping elements positioned on opposite or different sides of colon rectum or the prolongation thereof, and the adjustment device turns the clamping elements toward each other to clamp the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof between the clamping elements, thereby restricting the fecal passageway in the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof.
  • the adjustment device turns the restriction member around a longitudinal extension thereof, the elongated restriction member being elastic and varying in thickness as seen in a cross-section therethrough.
  • the elongated restriction member comprises an elastic belt.
  • the adjustment device changes the size of the restriction opening such that the outer circumferential confinement surface of the restriction member is changed.
  • the adjustment device changes the size of the restriction opening such that the outer circumferential confinement surface of the restriction member is unchanged.
  • the elongated restriction member may be flexible, and the adjustment device pulls a first portion of the flexible restriction member from a second portion of the flexible restriction member opposite the first portion in the loop to squeeze the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof between the opposite lengths of the elongated flexible restriction member to restrict the fecal passageway in the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof.
  • the restriction device comprises at least two elements on opposite or different sides of the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof, and the adjustment device decreases the distance between the elements to squeeze the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof between the elements, thereby restricting the fecal passageway in the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof. It is also possible to use only one element and squeeze the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof against human bone or tissue.
  • the elements above may as well as all the restriction members mentioned in this application be everything from rigid to soft.
  • the restriction device bends or rotates a portion of colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof to restrict the fecal passageway in the same.
  • the restriction device may comprise at least two bending members, such as cylindrical or hour-glass shaped rollers, positioned on opposite or different sides of the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof and displaced relative to each other along the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof, and the adjustment device may move the bending members against the colon or rectum thereof to bend the latter to restrict the fecal passageway in the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof
  • the displacement members may comprise rollers.
  • the restriction device may also rotate a portion of the esophagus or stomach.
  • the bending or rotating members may have any shape or form and be either hydraulic or non-inflatable.
  • Two holding members one placed more distal than the other comprising two at least substantially closed loops may be rotated in opposite direction to each other.
  • interconnecting material for example flexable bands between the holding members a restriction will occure betwenn the holding members when they are rotated.
  • the restriction device may in all applicable embodiments have any shape or form and be either hydralic or non-inflatable.
  • the adjustment device is conveniently operated by any suitable motor, preferably an electric motor, which may be fixed directly to or be placed in association with the restriction device, or alternatively be located remote from the restriction device, advantageously in the abdomen or pelvic region or subcutaneously or in the retroperitoneum of the patient.
  • the motor is advantageously connected to the adjustment device by a flexible power transmission conduit to permit a suitable positioning of the motor in the abdomen of the patient.
  • the motor may be manually activatable, for example by an implanted switch.
  • the adjustment device may conveniently be operable by a hydraulic operation device, which preferably is manually activatable.
  • the hydraulic operation device may advantageously include hydraulic servo means to facilitate manual activation.
  • the hydraulic device may be powered by an electric motor, which may be manually activatable or controlled by remote control means.
  • the components of such a hydraulic operation device may be placed in association with the restriction device and/or be located at a suitable place in the abdomen or subcutaneously.
  • a reservoir may be provided containing a predetermined amount of fluid for supplying the hydraulic operation device with fluid.
  • the reservoir defines a chamber for the predetermined amount of fluid and the hydraulic operation device changes the size of the chamber.
  • the hydraulic operation device may comprise first and second wall portions of the reservoir, which are displaceable relative to each other to change the size of the chamber of the reservoir.
  • the first and second wall portions of the reservoir may be designed to be displaceable relative to each other by manual manipulation thereof, preferably to permit manual pushing, pulling or rotation of any of the wall portions in one direction.
  • the wall portions may be displaceable relative to each other by magnetic means (such as a permanent magnet and magnetic material reed switch, or other known or conventional magnetic devices), hydraulic means or electrical control means such as an electric motor.
  • the magnetic means, hydraulic means, or electrical control means may all be activated by manual manipulation, preferably using a subcutaneously located manually manipulatable device. This control may be indirect, for example via a switch.
  • the hydraulic operation device may operate the adjustment device with fluid from the reservoir in response to a predetermined first displacement of the first wall portion of the reservoir relative to the second wall portion of the reservoir, to adjust the restriction device to release the tissue, and to operate the adjustment device with fluid from the reservoir in response to a predetermined second displacement of the first wall portion of the reservoir relative to the second wall portion of the reservoir, to adjust the restriction device to restrict the blood flow leaving the penis.
  • no pump is used, only the volume of the reservoir is varied. This is of great advantage compared to the solution described below when a pump is used to pump fluid between the reservoir and the adjustment device because there is no need for a non-return valve and it is still possible to have fluid going both to and from the reservoir.
  • the hydraulic operation device may comprise an activatable pump for pumping fluid between the reservoir and the adjustment device.
  • the pump may pump fluid both to and away from the adjustment device, or hydraulic means controlling the adjustment device.
  • a mechanical manual solution is proposed in which it is possible to pump in both directions just by pushing an activating member in one direction.
  • Another alternative is a pump pumping in only one direction and an adjustable valve to change the direction of fluid to either increase or decrease the amount of fluid in the reservoir. This valve may be manipulated manually, mechanically, electrically, magnetically, or hydraulically. Any kind of motor could of course be used for all the different operations as well as wireless remote solutions.
  • the pump may comprise a first activation member for activating the pump to pump fluid from the reservoir to the adjustment device and a second activation member for activating the pump to pump fluid from the adjustment device to the reservoir.
  • the activation members may be operable by manual manipulation, preferably to permit manual pushing, pulling or rotating thereof in one direction.
  • at least one of the activation members is adapted to operate when subjected to an external pressure exceeding a predetermined magnitude.
  • At least one of the first and second activating members may be operable by magnetic means, hydraulic means or electrical control means such as an electric motor.
  • the magnetic means, hydraulic means, or electrical control means may all be activated by manual manipulating means preferably located subcutaneously. This activation may be indirect, for example via a switch.
  • a servo system could be used. With servo means less force is needed for controlling the adjustment device. Hydraulic means is preferably used with servo means.
  • One example is a closed system that controls another closed system in which the hydraulic devices of the adjustment device is incorporated. Minor changes in the amount of fluid in a reservoir of the first system could then lead to major changes in the amount of fluid in a reservoir in the second system. In consequence, the change of volume in the reservoir of the second system affects the hydraulic device of the adjustment device, which is incorporated in the second closed system.
  • the great advantage of this servo system is that the larger volume system could be placed inside the abdomen or retroperitoneum where there is more space and still would be possible to use manual manipulation means of the smaller system subcutaneously.
  • the servo reservoir could control the reservoir of the larger volume.
  • the servo reservoir could be controlled directly or indirectly by a fluid supply means.
  • the fluid supply means may be a small reservoir, which may be placed subcutaneously and may be activated by manual manipulation means controlling the servo reservoir.
  • the servo means comprises hydraulic means and a servo reservoir and eventually a fluid supply reservoir. Both reservoirs define a chamber containing servo fluid, and the hydraulic means comprises first and second wall portions of the servo reservoir, which are displaceable relative to each other to change the size of the chamber of the servo reservoir.
  • the hydraulic means may control the adjustment device indirectly, e.g. via an increased amount of fluid in the servo reservoir, in response to a predetermined first displacement of the first wall portion of any of the reservoirs relative to the second wall portion of the reservoir to restrict blood flow leaving the penis, and to control the adjustment device in response to a second displacement of the first wall portion of any reservoir relative to the second wall portion, to indirectly adjust the restriction device to release the tissue.
  • the wall portions of the reservoirs may be designed to be displaceable relative to each other by manual manipulation thereof or be displaceable relative to each other by manually pushing, pulling or rotating any of the wall portions of the reservoir in one direction.
  • the wall portions of the servo reservoir may be displaceable relative to each other by magnetic means, hydraulic means or electric control means including an electric motor.
  • the magnetic means, hydraulic means, or electrical control means may all be activated by manually manipulated means preferably located subcutaneously. This control may be indirect for example via a switch.
  • the adjustment device may comprise a servo means.
  • the servo means may comprise a hydraulic operation means, an electrical control means, a magnetic means, mechanical means or a manual manipulation means.
  • the hydraulic operation means, electrical control means, mechanical means or magnetic means may be activated by manual manipulating means.
  • All solutions may be controlled by a wireless remote control for controlling the adjustment device.
  • the remote control may advantageously be capable of obtaining information related to the fecal passageway or the pressure against the restriction device or colon or rectum or other important physical parameters and of commanding the adjustment device to adjust the restriction device in response to obtained information.
  • the apparatus of the invention is conveniently controlled by the patient when he so desires, which is of great advantage compared to the prior art procedures.
  • the apparatus of the invention is conveniently controlled to adjust the implanted restriction device, which controls the defecation.
  • the restriction device may be operable to open and close fecal passageway.
  • the restriction device may steplessly control the cross-sectional area of the passageway.
  • the apparatus may further comprise a pressure sensor for directly or indirectly sensing the pressure against the restriction device and the restriction device may control the blood flow in response to signals from the pressure sensor.
  • the pressure sensor may be any suitable known or conventional pressure sensor such as shown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,540,731, 4,846,181, 4,738,267, 4,571,749, 4,407,296 or 3,939,823; or an NPC-102 Medical Angioplasty Sensor.
  • the adjustment device preferaby non-invasively adjusts the restriction device to change the size of the cross-sectional area.
  • the adjustment device and/or other energy consuming components of the apparatus may be energised with wirelessly transmitted energy from outside the patient's body or be powered by an implanted battery or accumulator.
  • the apparatus may further comprise an implanted energy transfer device for transferring wireless energy directly or indirectly into kinetic energy for operation of the restriction device.
  • the wireless remote control may comprise means for wireless transfer of energy from outside the patient's body to energy consuming implantable components of the apparatus.
  • a motor may suitably be implanted in the patient for operating the adjustment device and the means for wireless transfer of energy may directly power the motor with transferred energy.
  • the energy transferred by the means for transfer of energy may comprise any suitable kind of energy signals including wave signals, an electric field or a magnetic field.
  • the wireless remote control comprises a separate signal transmitter or receiver and a signal receiver or transmitter implanted in the patient.
  • the signal transmitter and signal receiver may transmit and receive a signal in the form of digital pulses, which may comprise a magnetic or electric field.
  • the signal transmitter and signal receiver may transmit and receive an electromagnetic wave signal, a sound wave signal or a carrier wave signal for a remote control signal.
  • the receiver may comprise an implanted control unit for controlling the adjustment device in response to a control signal from the signal transmitter.
  • the apparatus of the invention may further comprise an implanted energizer unit for providing energy to energy consuming implanted components of the apparatus, such as electronic circuits and/or a motor for operating the adjustment device.
  • the control unit may power such an implanted motor with energy provided by the energizer unit in response to a control signal received from the signal transmitter.
  • Any known or conventional signal transmitter or signal receiver that is suitable for use with a human or mammal-patient may be provided as the signal transmitter or signal receiver of the invention.
  • the signals may comprise electromagnetic waves, such as infrared light, visible light, laser light, micro waves, or sound waves, such as ultrasonic waves or infrasonic waves, or any other type of wave signals.
  • the signals may also comprise electric or magnetic fields, or pulses.
  • All of the above-mentioned signals may comprise digital signals.
  • the control signals may be carried by a carrier wave signal, which in an alternative embodiment may be the same signal as the wireless energy signal.
  • a digital control signal may be carried by an electromagnetic wave signal.
  • the carrier wave or control signal may be amplitude or frequency modulated.
  • the motor may be any type of motor, such as a pneumatic, hydraulic or electric motor and the energizer unit may power the motor with pressurized gas or liquid, or electric energy, depending on the type of motor. Where the motor is an electric motor, it may power pneumatic or hydraulic equipment.
  • the energizer unit may comprise a power supply and the control unit may power the motor with energy from the power supply.
  • the power supply is an electric power supply, such as a battery
  • the motor is an electric motor.
  • the battery also continuously powers at least part of the circuitry of the signal receiver in a standby mode between the adjustments, in order to keep the signal receiver prepared for receiving signals transmitted from the signal transmitter.
  • the energizer unit may transfer energy from the control signal, as the control signal is transmitted to the signal receiver, into electric energy for powering the implanted electronic components.
  • the energizer unit may transfer the energy from the control signal into a direct or alternating current.
  • the energizer unit may also power the motor with the transferred energy.
  • the control unit directly powers the electric motor with electric energy, as the energizer unit transfers the signal energy into the electric energy.
  • This embodiment is particularly simple and does not require any recurrent invasive measures for exchanging empty power supplies, such as batteries, that is required in the first embodiment described above.
  • the energizer unit may comprise a rechargeable electric power supply for storing the electric energy obtained and the control unit may power the electric motor with energy from the rechargeable electric power supply in response to a control signal received from the signal transmitter.
  • the rechargeable power supply can be charged over a relatively long time (e.g. a few seconds up to a half hour) without powering the electric motor.
  • the electric power supply suitably comprises an inexpensive simple capacitor.
  • the electric motor may be a stepping motor.
  • the motor may preferable be able to perform a reversing function.
  • the signal transmitter may transmit an electromagnetic signal and the energizer unit may draw radiant energy from the electromagnetic wave signal, as the latter is transmitted to the signal receiver, and transfer the radiant energy into electric energy.
  • the energizer unit may comprise a battery or accumulator, an electrically operable switch adapted to connect the battery to the signal receiver in an on mode when the switch is powered and to keep the battery disconnected from the signal receiver in a standby mode when the switch is unpowered, and a rechargeable electric power supply for powering the switch.
  • the control unit may power the electric motor with energy from the battery in response to a control signal received from the signal transmitter, when the switch is in its on mode.
  • the energizer unit may transfer wave energy from the control signal, as the latter is transmitted to the signal receiver, into a current for charging the rechargeable electric power supply, which suitably is a capacitor. Energy from the power supply is then used to change the switch from off (standby mode) to on.
  • This embodiment is suited for adjustment devices of the type that require relatively high power for their operation and has the advantage that the electronic circuitry of the signal receiver does not have to be powered by the battery between adjustments. As a result, the life-time of the battery can be significantly prolonged.
  • the switch may be switched with magnetic, manual or electric energy.
  • the signal transmitter may transmit an electromagnetic wave signal and the energizer unit may draw radiant energy from the electromagnetic wave signal, as the latter is transmitted to the signal receiver, and may transfer the radiant energy into said current.
  • the energizer unit suitably comprises a coil of the signal receiver for inducing an alternating current as the electromagnetic wave signal is transmitted through the coil and a rectifier for rectifying the alternating current. The rectified current is used for charging the rechargeable power source.
  • the signal transmitter and receiver may solely be used for a control signal and a further-pair of signal transmitter and receiver may be provided for transferring signal energy to implanted components.
  • the apparatus may further comprise an external energy transmitter for transmitting wireless energy, wherein the energizer unit comprises a battery and an operable switch for connecting the battery to the signal receiver in an on mode when the switch is powered and for keeping the battery disconnected from the signal receiver in a standby mode when the switch is unpowered, and the external energy transmitter powers the switch.
  • the energy transmitter may directly power the switch with the wireless energy to switch into the on mode.
  • the adjustment device may be operated by control means or manual manipulation means implanted under the skin of the patient, such as a pump, an electrical switch or a mechanical movement transferring means. In the manual embodiment it is not necessary to use a motor for operating the adjustment device.
  • an injection port connected to the hydraulic means may be provided for enabling, normally single, once-and-for-all, calibration of the amount of fluid in the hydraulic system.
  • a motor may be operatively connected to the adjustment device.
  • a reversing device may be implanted in the patient for reversing the motor.
  • the adjustment device preferably adjusts the restriction device in a non-manual manner without the patient touching his skin.
  • the restriction device is operable to open and close the fecal passageway steplessly and preferable controled with a remote control.
  • a pressure sensor is used for directly or indirectly sensing the pressure against the restriction device or the colon or the rectum to prevent any necrosis of the human tissue.
  • the restriction device may preferably be controlled in response to signals from the pressure sensor.
  • the motor which preferably is used to adjust the restriction device must then be capable of performing a reversible function, that is to say reversed direction of the motor.
  • the adjustment device may be engergised directly with wirelessly transmitted energy from outside the patient's body.
  • the inplanted energy transfer device transfers wireless energy directly or indirectly into kinetic energy for operation of the restriction device.
  • the invention also provides a method for treating a patient suffering from anal incontinence comprising surgically implanting in the body of the an adjustable restriction device which directly engages the colon or rectum like an artificial sphincter around the fecal passageway therein, normally closed, and when desired, mechanically adjusting the restriction device to temporarily open the fecal passageway.
  • the adjustable restriction device may preferably be inplanted in the base or prolongation of the patients rectum. It is possible to use one or serveral restricting devices engages the colon or rectum.
  • a method for treating anal incontince comprising the steps of placing at least two laparascopical trocars in the body of a patient suffering from anal incontinence, inserting a dissecting tool through the trocars and dissecting an area of the colon or rectum in the abdominal or pelvic or retroperitoneal surroundings, placing at least one adjustable restriction device in the dissected area engaging the rectum or colon, adjusting the restriction device to normally restrict the fecal passageway in the rectum or colon to substantially prevent the passage of fecal material therethrough, and adjusting the restriction device to open the fecal passageway to allow the passage of fecal material therethrough when the patient wants to relieve himself or herself.
  • a mechanically adjustable restriction device may be used when practicing this method, preferably in a non-manual manner, i.e. without touching subcutaneously implanted components of the apparatus.
  • the method may further comprise implanting a source of energy in the patient and providing a control device for controlling the source of energy from outside the patient's body to supply energy to the restriction device.
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic sectional view of a preferred first embodiment of the anal incontinence treatment apparatus in accordance with the invention
  • FIGS. 2 and 3 are cross-sectional views taken along the lines II-II and III-III, respectively, of FIG. 1;
  • FIGS. 4 and 5 schematically show two alternative designs of the embodiment of FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 6 schematically illustrates a motor arrangement for the design according to FIG. 5;
  • FIG. 7 is a schematic sectional view of a second embodiment of the apparatus in accordance with the invention.
  • FIG. 8 schematically illustrates a hydraulic transmision conduit for the embodiment of FIG. 7;
  • FIG. 9 is a schematic sectional view of a third embodiment of the apparatus in accordance with the invention.
  • FIG. 10 is a modification of the embodiment of FIG. 9;
  • FIG. 11 is a schematic view of a fourth embodiment of the apparatus in accordance with the invention.
  • FIGS. 12 and 13 are enlarged details of the embodiment of FIG. 11;
  • FIG. 14 is a cross-section along the line XIV-XIV of FIG. 11;
  • FIG. 15 is a schematic view of a fifth embodiment of the apparatus in accordance with the invention.
  • FIG. 16 is an enlarged detail of FIG. 15;
  • FIG. 17 is a cross-section along the line XVII-XVII of FIG. 15;
  • FIGS. 18 to 21 are schematic sectional views of a sixth, seventh, eighth and ninth embodiments, respectively, of the apparatus in accordance with the invention.
  • FIGS. 22 and 23 illustrate a fully open and a reduced restriction opening, respectively, of the embodiment of FIG. 21;
  • FIG. 24 is a schematic view of a tenth embodiment of the apparatus in accordance with the invention.
  • FIG. 25 is an enlarged detail of the embodiment of FIG. 24;
  • FIGS. 26 and 27 illustrate a fully open and a reduced restriction opening, respectively, of the embodiment of FIG. 24;
  • FIG. 28 schematically illustrates a cushion arrangement for protecting the tissue of the patient
  • FIG. 29A-D is a block diagram of four different principal embodiments of the invention.
  • FIG. 30A-D are cross-sectional views of a pump mechanism according to FIG. 29C, which pumps fluid in opposite directions by mechanically pushing a wall portion in only one direction;
  • FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view of a reservoir having a variable volume controlled by a remote control motor, in accordance with a particular embodiment of the principal embodiment shown in FIG. 29B or 30 B;
  • FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional view of a reservoir having a variable volume adjustable by manual manipulation, in accordance with a particular embodiment of the principal embodiment shown in FIG. 29B or 29 D;
  • FIG. 33A is a front view of a hydraulic, pneumatic or mechanical servo system in accordance with a particular embodiment of the principal embodiment shown in FIG. 29D;
  • FIG. 33B is a cross-sectional view taken along line VB-VB of FIG. 33A;
  • FIG. 34 is a block diagram illustrating remote control components of the apparatus of the invention.
  • FIG. 35 is a schematic view of a circuitry used for the system of the block diagram of FIG. 34;
  • FIGS. 36A and 36B are schematic views of an eleventh embodiment of the apparatus in accordance with the invention.
  • FIGS. 37A and 37B are schematic views of a twelfth embodiment of the apparatus in accordance with the invention.
  • FIG. 38 is a schematic view of a thirteenth embodiment of the apparatus in accordance with the invention.
  • FIGS. 39A, 39B and 39 C are a schematic front view and schematic sectional views, respectively, of a fourteenth embodiment of the apparatus in accordance with the invention.
  • FIGS. 40A through 44B are five modifications of the embodiment of FIGS. 39 A- 39 C;
  • FIG. 45 illustrates the apparatus of the invention with a restriction device implanted around the colon
  • FIGS. 1 - 3 show a preferred embodiment of the anal incontinence treatment apparatus of the invention comprising a restriction device having an elongated restriction member in the form of a circular resilient core 2 with two overlapping end portions 4 , 6 .
  • the core 2 defines a substantially circular restriction opening and is enclosed in an elastic soft hose 8 except at a releasable and lockable joint 10 of the core 2 , which when released enables application of the core 2 with its hose 8 around a tissue of a patient, such as the colon or rectum or one or more exit rectum from the patient's colon or rectum.
  • the materials of all of these elements are bio-compatible so that the patient' body will not reject them.
  • a mechanical adjustment device 12 for mechanically adjusting the longitudinal extension of the core 2 to change the size of the restriction opening comprises a drive wheel 14 in frictional engagement with the overlapping end portions 4 , 6 of the core 2 .
  • the drive wheel 14 is journalled on a holder 16 placed in the hose 8 and provided with two counter pressure rollers 18 , 20 pressing the respective end portions 4 , 6 of the core 2 against the drive wheel 14 to increase the frictional engagement there between.
  • An electric motor 22 is connected to the drive wheel 14 via a long flexible drive shaft 24 and is moulded together with a remote controlled power supply unit 26 in a body 28 of silicone rubber.
  • the length of the flexible drive shaft 34 is selected so that the body 28 can be placed in a desired position in the patient_s body, suitably in the abdomen.
  • a rack gear may be formed on one of the end portions 4 , 6 of the core 2 and the drive wheel 14 may be replaced by a drive gear wheel connected to the other end portion of the core 2 and in mesh with the rack gear.
  • FIG. 4 shows an embodiment of the invention which is identical to the embodiment of FIGS. 1 - 3 , except that the motor 22 is encapsulated in a lateral protrusion 30 of the hose 8 so that it is fixed to the core 2 and has a short drive shaft 32 onto which the drive wheel 14 is mounted, and that the motor 22 is positioned relative to the circular core 2 such that the drive shaft 32 extends radially thereto.
  • FIG. 5 shows an embodiment of the invention which likewise is identical to the embodiment of FIGS. 1 - 3 , except that the motor 22 is encapsulated in the hose 8 so that it is fixed to the core 2 and has a short drive shaft 32 , and that the motor 22 is positioned relative to the core 2 such that the drive shaft 32 extends substantially tangentially to the circular core 2 . There is an angular gearing 34 connecting the drive shaft 32 to the drive wheel 14 .
  • FIG. 6 shows a suitable arrangement for the motor 22 in the embodiment of FIG. 5, comprising a first clamping member 36 secured to one end portion of the core 2 and a second clamping member 38 secured to the other end portion 6 of the core 2 .
  • the motor 22 is secured to the first clamping member 36 and is operatively connected to a worm 40 via a gear transmission 42 .
  • the worm 40 is journalled at its opposite ends on holders 44 and 46 , which are rigidly secured to the clamping member 36 and the motor 22 , respectively.
  • the second clamping member 38 has a pinion in mesh with the worm 40 .
  • FIG. 7 shows an embodiment of the invention in which the elongated restriction member comprises a core 48 and a helical spring 50 .
  • a spring contracting means in the form of a flexible pulling member 52 i.e. a string, wire or cable, is connected to the core 48 at one end thereof and extends through the helical spring 50 .
  • a hydralic motor in the form of a cylinder/piston unit 54 is adapted to pull the flexible pulling member 52 to contract the helical spring 50 against an arresting member 56 , which is fixed relative to the core 48 .
  • FIG. 8 shows a similar embodiment in which a hydraulic transmission conduit 59 is provided between two piston-cylinder assemblies 54 , for use as the hydraulic motor/device in FIG. 7.
  • FIG. 9 shows an embodiment of the invention in which the restriction member comprises two elongated helical springs 60 and 62 having free ends, and a body 64 to which the springs 60 , 62 are nonrotatably secured at their opposite ends.
  • the body 64 comprises two separate parts secured to opposite end portions of the enclosing elastic hose 8 and is designed with a releasable and lockable joint between the separate parts.
  • An adjustment device in the form of a drive shaft 66 has two opposite end portions connected to the helical springs 60 , 62 , respectively, at their free ends.
  • the coils of the springs 60 , 62 form left and right hand helices, respectively.
  • a motor 68 is adapted to rotate the drive shaft 66 in one direction to enlarge the coils of the helical springs 60 , 62 to longitudinally contract the springs 60 , 62 and to rotate the drive shaft 66 in the opposite direction to reduce the size of the coils of the springs 60 , 62 to longitudinally extend the springs 60 , 62 .
  • the elongated helical springs 60 , 62 defines a restriction opening, the size of which is increased when the springs 60 , 62 are extended and decreased when the springs 60 , 62 are contracted.
  • FIG. 10 shows an embodiment according to the invention which is identical to the embodiment of FIG. 9, except that the adjustment decice comprises a gearing having an input shaft 72 and two opposite aligned output shafts 74 and 76 connected to the helical springs 60 and 62 , respectively, at their free ends.
  • the input shaft 72 is connected to the output shafts 74 , 76 such that they rotate at opposite directions upon rotation of the input shaft 72 .
  • the coils of the springs 60 , 62 form the same helices.
  • FIGS. 11 - 14 show an embodiment of the device of the invention in which a hydraulic motor comprises two interconnected cylinders 78 and 80 and two pistons 82 and 84 in the respective cylinders 78 , 80 .
  • the cylinders 78 , 80 have a common fluid supply inlet member 86 , which together with the cylinders 78 , 80 takes the shape of a Y-pipe.
  • the restriction member comprises an elongated resilient arcuate core 88 .
  • the adjustment device comprises two bars 90 and 92 secured to opposite ends of the core 88 and connected to the pistons 82 and 84 , respectively.
  • the core 88 defines a restriction opening and is provided with a releasable and lockable joint 94 (FIG.
  • the core 88 and the cylinders 90 , 92 are enclosed by a soft elastic hose 96 except at the joint 94 and the inlet member 86 .
  • the hose 96 has an outer tubular wall 98 and a central coaxial inner tubular wail 100 , which is fixed to the outer wall 98 by spoke members 102 (FIG. 14).
  • the core 88 is loosely fit in the inner tubular wall 100 .
  • FIGS. 15 - 17 show an embodiment of the invention which is identical to the embodiment of FIGS. 11 - 14 , except that the adjustment device comprises an elongated voltage responsive element 104 secured to the opposite ends of the core 88 , so that the core 88 and the element 104 form the restriction member.
  • the element 104 is capable of bending inwardly into a bow in response to a voltage applied across the element 104 .
  • the radius of curvature of said bow is adjustable by changing the level of the voltage applied to element 104 .
  • FIG. 18 shows an embodiment of the invention comprising a loop forming means in the form of a substantially rigid outer circular element 106 with a releasable and lockable joint 108 .
  • the restriction member comprises an elastic inner circular element 110 formed by the innermost wall portion of an elastic hose 112 extending along the outer element 106 .
  • the inner circular element 110 is disposed concentrically within the outer circular element 106 .
  • the adjustment device comprises a plurality of threads 114 secured to the elastic inner element 110 along the circumference thereof and running from the inner element 110 via guide members 116 attached to the outer element 106 . By pulling all the threads 114 the inner elastic element 110 is pulled under expansion radially outwardly towards the outer element 106 .
  • FIG. 19 shows an embodiment which is identical to the embodiment of FIG. 9, except that it comprises a loop forming means in the form of a substantially rigid outer circular element 118 supporting the helical springs 60 , 62 , and a soft elastic inner wall 120 extending along the springs 60 , 62 .
  • the motor 68 rotates the helical springs 60 , 62 in a direction that enlarges the coils of the springs 60 , 62 , the coils are forced by the rigid outer element 118 to expand radially inwardly thereby reducing the size of the restriction opening formed by the circumferential confinement surface of the restriction member (springs 60 , 62 and body 64 ).
  • FIG. 20 shows an embodiment of the invention in which a restriction member comprises a plurality of arcuate lamellae 122 arranged like the conventional adjustable aperture mechanism of a camera.
  • the adjustment device not shown, is conventional and is operated by a motor 124 to adjust the lamellae 122 to change the size of an restriction opening defined by the lamellae 122 .
  • FIGS. 21 - 23 show an embodiment of the invention in which a restriction member comprises two semi-circular elements 126 and 128 which are hinged together such that the semi-circular elements 126 , 128 are swingable relative to each other between a fully open state in which they substantially form a circle, illustrated in FIG. 22 and an angular state, in which the size of the restriction opening defined by the semi-circular elements 126 , 128 is reduced, illustrated in FIGURE, 23 .
  • the adjustment device not shown, is conventional and is operated by a motor 130 to swing the semi-circular elements 126 , 128 relative to each other.
  • FIGS. 24 - 27 show an embodiment of the invention in which a restriction member comprises an elastic belt 130 forming a circle and having a substantially oval cross-section.
  • the restriction member 130 is provided with a releasable and lockable joint 132 .
  • An elastic double walled hose 134 encloses the belt 130 except at the joint 132 .
  • the adjustment device not shown, is conventional and is operated by a motor 136 to turn the belt 130 around the longitudinal extension thereof between a fully open state, in which the inner broader side of the belt 130 forms a substantially cylindrical surface, illustrated in FIG. 26, and a reduced open state, in which the inner broader side of the belt 130 forms a substantially conical surface, illustrated in FIG. 27.
  • FIG. 28 schematically illustrates a cushion arrangement for protecting the tissue, comprising a plurality of cushions 138 disposed in series along a substantially circular holding member 140 .
  • This cushion arrangement may be utilized in any of the above described embodiments of the invention.
  • FIGS. 29 A-D provide a block diagram of four different hydraulic transmission conFIGUREurations.
  • FIG. 29A shows an adjustment device 202 , a separate reservoir 204 , a one way pump 206 and an alternate valve 208 .
  • FIG. 29B shows the adjustment device 202 and an adjustable reservoir 210 .
  • FIG. 29C shows the adjustment device 202 , a two way pump 212 and the reservoir 204 .
  • FIG. 30D shows a servo system with a first closed system controlling a second system.
  • the servo system comprises the adjustable reservoir 210 and a passive adjustable reservoir 214 . Any of the reservoirs can be the active reservoir, either the servo reservoir 210 or the fluid supply reservoir 214 .
  • the reservoir 214 controls a larger adjustable reservoir 216 which is used for the operation of the adjustment device 202 for changing the restriction opening of the restriction member.
  • FIGS. 30 A-D are cross-sectional views of a pump mechanism adapted to pump fluid in both directions only by mechanically pushing a separate sealing wall portion 218 in one direction.
  • FIG. 30A shows a piston 220 pushed forwards against a spring 222 towards the wall portion 218 and located in a pump housing 224 conducting fluid from a right upper fluid passage 226 of the housing 224 to a left fluid passage 228 of the housing 224 .
  • a main valve 230 is open and a nonreturn valve 232 is closed.
  • FIG. 30B illustrates the first pump movement in which the piston 220 has moved forwards and reaches the wall portion 218 .
  • FIG. 30C illustrates how the piston 220 moves backwards by the action of the spring 222 .
  • FIG. 30D illustrates how the piston 220 is moved further downwards from its position according to FIG. 30B while pushing the wall portion 218 downwards against a second spring 234 that is stronger than spring 222 , so that fluid escapes from a right lower fluid passage 236 .
  • FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view of a reservoir 240 defining a chamber 242 , the size of which is variable and is controlled by a remote controlled motor 244 , in accordance with FIG. 29B or 29 D.
  • the reservoir 240 and the motor 244 are placed in a housing 246 .
  • the chamber 242 is varied by moving a large wall 248 .
  • the wall 248 is secured to a nut 250 , which is threaded on a rotatable spindle 252 .
  • the spindle 252 is rotated by the motor 244 via an angular gearing, which comprises two conical gear wheels 254 and 256 in mesh with each other.
  • the motor 244 is powered by a battery 258 placed in the housing 246 .
  • a signal receiver 260 for controlling the motor 244 is also placed in the housing 246 .
  • the battery 258 and the signal receiver 260 may be mounted in a separate place.
  • the signal receiver may comprise any known or conventional device which is capable of receiving a control signal and then operating the motor 244 .
  • FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional view of a reservoir 262 defining a chamber 264 , the size of which is variable and is controlled by manual manipulation.
  • a gable wall portion 266 of an open ended inner cylindrical housing 68 is adapted to be pushed downwards to fit in a desired locking groove 270 of a plurality of locking grooves 270 on the mantle wall of the cylindrical housing 268 , to reduce the size of the chamber 64 .
  • the inner cylindrical housing 268 is suspended by springs 272 and is telescopically applied on an outer cylindrical housing 274 .
  • FIGS. 33A and 33B show a servo means comprising a main ring-shaped fluid reservoir 276 defining a chamber 278 , the size of which is variable.
  • a servo fluid reservoir 280 Centrally positioned in the main ring-shaped reservoir 276 there is a servo fluid reservoir 280 defining a chamber 282 , the size of which is variable.
  • the chamber 282 of the servo reservoir 280 is significantly smaller than the chamber 278 of the main reservoir 276 .
  • the two reservoirs 276 and 280 are situated between two opposite separate walls 284 and 286 , and are secured thereto. When changing the amount of fluid in the servo reservoir 280 , the two opposite walls 284 , 286 are moved towards or away from each other, whereby the size of the chamber 278 of the main reservoir 276 is changed.
  • FIG. 34 shows the basic parts of a remote control system of the apparatus of the invention including a motor, for instance the electric motor 22 .
  • the remote control system is based on the transmission of an electromagnetic wave signal, often of a high frequency in the order of 100 kHz-1 gHz, through the skin 330 of the patient.
  • an electromagnetic wave signal often of a high frequency in the order of 100 kHz-1 gHz
  • An external signal transmitting antenna 332 is to be positioned close to a signal receiving antenna 334 implanted in the patient_s body close to the skin 330 .
  • the receiving antenna 334 may be placed for example inside the abdomen of the patient.
  • the receiving antenna 334 comprises a coil, approximately 1-100 mm, preferably 25 mm in diameter, wound with a very thin wire and tuned with a capacitor to a specific high frequency. A small coil is chosen if it is to be implanted under the skin of the patient and a large coil is chosen if it is to be implanted in the abdomen of the patient.
  • the transmitting antenna 332 comprises a coil having about the same size as the coil of the receiving antenna 334 but wound with a thick wire that can handle the larger currents that is necessary.
  • the coil of the transmitting antenna 332 is tuned to the same specific high frequency as the coil of the receiving antenna 334 .
  • An external control unit 336 comprises a microprocessor, a high frequency electromagnetic signal generator and a power amplifier.
  • the microprocessor of the control unit 336 is adapted to switch on/off the generator and to modulate signals generated by the generator to send digital information via the power amplifier and the antennas 332 , 334 to an implanted control unit 338 .
  • digital signal codes are used.
  • a keypad placed on the external control unit 336 is connected to the microprocessor thereof. The keypad is used to order the microprocessor to send a digital signal to either increase or decrease the size of the restriction opening defined by the loop of the restriction member (e.g. as described above).
  • the microprocessor starts a command by applying a high frequency signal on the antenna 332 . After a short time, when the signal has energized the implanted parts of the control system, commands are sent to increase or decrease the size of the restriction opening of the restriction member in predefined steps.
  • the commands are sent as digital packets in the form illustrated below. Start pattern, Command, Count, Checksum, 8 bits 8 bits 8 bits 8 bits 8 bits
  • the commands are sent continuously during a rather long time period (e.g. 30 seconds or more).
  • a rather long time period e.g. 30 seconds or more.
  • the Count byte is increased by one to allow the implanted control unit 338 to decode and understand that another step is demanded by the external control unit 336 . If any part of the digital packet is erroneous, its content is simply ignored.
  • an implanted energizer unit 326 draws energy from the high frequency electromagnetic wave signal received by the receiving antenna 334 .
  • the energizer unit 326 stores the energy in a power supply, such as a large capacitor, powers the control unit 338 and powers the electric motor 22 via a line 342 .
  • the control unit 338 comprises a demodulator and a microprocessor.
  • the demodulator demodulates digital signals sent from the external control unit 336 .
  • the microprocessor of the control unit 338 receives the digital packet, decodes it and, provided that the power supply of the energizer unit 326 has sufficient energy stored, sends a signal via a signal line 344 to the motor 22 to either increase or decrease the size of the restriction opening of the restriction member depending on the received command code.
  • the energy stored in the power supply of the energizer unit may only be used for powering a switch, and the energy for powering the motor 22 may be obtained from another implanted power source of relatively high capacity, for example a battery.
  • the switch is adapted to connect the battery to the control unit 338 in an_on_mode when said switch is powered by said power supply and to keep said battery disconnected from the control unit in a_standby_mode when the switch is unpowered.
  • the external control unit 336 comprises a microprocessor 346 , a signal generator 348 and a power amplifier 350 connected thereto.
  • the microprocessor 346 is adapted to switch the signal generator 348 on/off and to modulate signals generated by the signal generator 348 with digital commands that are sent to implanted components of the device of the invention.
  • the power amplifier 350 amplifies the signals and sends them to the external signal transmitting antenna 332 .
  • the antenna 332 is connected in parallel with a capacitor 352 to form a resonant circuit tuned to the frequency generated by the signal generator 348 .
  • the implanted signal receiving antenna coil 334 forms together with a capacitor 354 a resonant circuit that is tuned to the same frequency as the transmitting antenna 332 .
  • the signal receiving antenna coil 334 induces a current from the received high frequency electromagnetic waves and a rectifying diode 360 rectifies the induced current, which charges a storage capacitor 358 .
  • a coil 356 connected between the antenna coil 334 and the diode 360 prevents the capacitor 358 and the diode 360 from loading the circuit of the signal receiving antenna 334 at higher frequencies.
  • the coil 356 makes it possible to charge the capacitor 358 and to transmit digital information using amplitude modulation.
  • a capacitor 362 and a resistor 364 connected in parallel and a diode 366 forms a detector used to detect amplitude modulated digital information.
  • a filter circuit is formed by a resistor 368 connected in series with a resistor 370 connected in series with a capacitor 372 connected in series with the resistor 368 via ground, and a capacitor 374 , one terminal of which is connected between the resistors 368 , 370 and the other terminal of which is connected between the diode 366 and the circuit formed by the capacitor 362 and resistor 364 .
  • the filter circuit is used to filter out undesired low and high frequencies.
  • the detected and filtered signals are fed to an implanted microprocessor 376 that decodes the digital information and controls the motor 22 via an H-bridge 378 comprising transistors 380 , 382 , 384 and 386 .
  • the motor 22 can be driven in two opposite directions by the H-bridge 378 .
  • the microprocessor 376 also monitors the amount of stored energy in the storage capacitor 358 . Before sending signals to activate the motor 22 , the microprocessor 376 checks whether the energy stored in the storage capacitor 358 is enough. If the stored energy is not enough to perform the requested operation, the microprocessor 376 waits for the received signals to charge the storage capacitor 358 before activating the motor 22 .
  • FIGS. 36A and 36B show an embodiment of the apparatus of the invention comprising a restriction device 402 having an elongated flexible restriction member 404 , such as a belt, a cord or the like.
  • the flexible member 404 extends in a loop around the tissue, suitably the rectum or colon or its prolongation. (Alternatively, the flexible member 404 may comprise two separate parts on opposite sides of the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof)
  • One portion 404 A of member 404 is attached to a frame 408 and another portion 404 B of member 404 opposite portion 404 A in the loop of the flexible member 404 is connected to an adjustment device 410 , which is fixed to the frame 408 .
  • the adjustment device 410 pulls the flexible member 404 in the direction from portion 404 A to squeeze the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof between two opposite lengths of the flexible member 404 to thereby restrict the fecal passageway in the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof 406 , see FIG. 36A, and releases the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof from the flexible member 404 to thereby increase the fecal passageway to allow defaecation 406 , see FIG. 36B.
  • FIGS. 37A and 37B show an embodiment of the apparatus of the invention comprising a restriction device 412 having two plate or bar elements 414 on opposite sides of the rectum 406 .
  • An adjustment device 416 moves the elements 412 in parallel towards each other to squeeze the rectum 406 between the elements 412 to thereby restrict the blood flow in the rectum 406 , see FIG. 37A, and moves the elements 412 -away from each other to release the rectum 406 , see FIG. 37B.
  • FIG. 38 shows an embodiment of the apparatus of the invention comprising a restriction device 418 having two rigid articulated clamping elements 420 positioned on opposite sides of the rectum 406 .
  • An adjustment device 422 turns the clamping elements 420 toward each other to clamp the rectum 406 between the clamping elements 420 to thereby restrict the fecal passageway in the rectum 406 , and turns the clamping elements 420 away from each other to release the rectum 406 from the clamping elements 420 to thereby increase the restriction of the fecal passageway to allow defaecation.
  • FIGS. 39A, 39B and 39 C show an embodiment of the apparatus of the invention comprising a restriction device 424 having three bending members in the form of cylindrical rollers 426 , 428 and 430 displaced relative one another in a row along the rectum 406 and positioned alternately on opposite sides of the rectum 406 .
  • each roller 426 , 428 and 430 may take the shape of an hour-glass.
  • An adjustment device 432 moves the two outer rollers 426 , 430 laterally against the rectum 406 in one direction and the intermediate roller 428 against the rectum 406 in the opposite direction to bend the rectum to thereby restrict the fecal passageway in the rectum 406 , see FIG. 39B.
  • the adjustment device 432 moves the rollers 426 - 430 away from the rectum 406 to release the latter from the rollers 426 - 430 , see FIG. 39C.
  • FIGS. 40A through 44B schematically illustrates modifications of the above embodiment according to FIGS. 39 A- 39 C.
  • FIGS. 40A and 40B show an embodiment similar to that of FIGS. 39 A- 39 C except that the bending members are oval and not rotatable.
  • FIGS. 41A and 41B show an embodiment similar to that of FIGS. 40A and 40B except that the oval bending members are rotatable to release the rectum, see FIG. 41A, and squeeze the rectum, see FIG. 41B.
  • FIGS. 42A and 42B show an embodiment similar to that of FIGS. 39 A- 39 C except that the intermediate roller has a changeable diameter to release the rectum, see FIG. 42A, and squeeze the rectum, see FIG.
  • FIGS. 43A and 43B show an embodiment similar to that of FIGS. 37 A- 37 C except that the rigid elements are replaced by two cylindrical rollers positioned on opposite sides of the rectum.
  • FIGS. 44A and 44B show an embodiment substantially similar to that of FIGS. 43A and 43B except that the restriction device is curved to form an S-shaped curvature of the rectum.
  • FIG. 45 schematically illustrates how any of the above-described embodiments of the anal incontinence treatment apparatus of the invention may be implanted in a patient.
  • the apparatus comprises an adjustable restriction device 434 extending around the the rectum 435 of the patient and a motor operated adjustment device 436 for mechanically adjusting the restriction device 434 to squeeze rectum to thereby restrict the fecal passageway in the rectum.
  • the motor not shown, is integrated in the adjustment device 436 and is reversible to operate the adjustment device 436 to release the rectum from the restriction device 434 to allow defaecation.
  • a wireless remote control of the apparatus comprises an external signal transmitter 438 incorporated in a portable remote-control unit and an implanted signal receiver 440 , which comprises a control unit for controlling the adjustment device 436 in response to a control signal, for example an electromagnetic wave signal, from the transmitter 438 .
  • the signal receiver 440 further comprises an energizer unit which transfers energy from the control signal transmitted by the transmitter 438 into electric energy for energy consuming implanted components of the apparatus, such as the motor for operating the adjustment device 436 .
  • the electric energy is conducted via an implanted conductor 442 from the signal receiver 440 to the motor.
  • the portable remote control unit When the patient needs to relieve himself (defaecation), he readily uses the portable remote control unit to activate the implanted adjustment device 436 to temporarily adjust the implanted restriction device 434 to start release the fecal passageway to allow defaecation.
  • a pressure sensor 439 is implanted for sensing the pressure on the restriction device 434 .
  • the control unit of the signal receiver 449 controls the adjustment device 436 to release the restriction device 434 in response to the pressure sensor 439 sensing an abnormal high pressure.
  • control unit may be replaced by discrete components.
  • the power amplifier of the external control unit may be omitted if the signals generated by the signal generator are strong enough. Therefore the invention is to be accorded the broadest interpretation of the appended claims to encompass all equivalent structures and assemblies.

Abstract

An anal incontinence treatment apparatus comprises an adjustable restriction device implanted in a patient, who suffers from anal incontinence. The device engages a portion of the colon or rectum of the patient to restrict the fecal passageway. An adjustment device mechanically adjusts the restriction device to restrict or release the fecal passageway, i.e. to normally close the fecal passageway and open the fecal passageway when the patient wants to relieve himself or herself.

Description

    BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  • The present invention relates to an anal incontinence treatment apparatus and method. More specifically, the invention relates to an anal incontinence treatment apparatus and method for surgical application in the body of an anal incontinence patient for restricting the colon or rectum of a patient. [0001]
  • Anal incontinence is a widespread problem. Many different solutions to this problem have been tried. Several kinds of sphincter plastic surgery are used today to remedy anal incontinence. There is a prior manually operated sphincter system in an initial clinical trial phase with the hydraulic sphincter system connected to a reservoir placed in the scrotum. Disadvantage of this system is that hard fibrosis created around the reservoir over time may cause malfunction of pumping components. Thus, the created fibrosis will sooner or later become a hard fibrotic layer which may make it difficult to pump the reservoir. Yet a further disadvantage is that the use of hydraulic fluid always entails a risk of fluid leaking from the prosthetis. Furthermore, it is a rather complicated task to mechanically manually pump the reservoir when defaecation is needed. U.S. Pat. No. 5,593,443 discloses hydraulic anal sphincter under both reflex and voluntary control. An inflatable artificial sphincter with the pump system in scrotum is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,222,377. [0002]
  • SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
  • A prime object of the present invention is to provide an anal incontinence treatment apparatus and method in which the risk of liquid leakage within the patient's body is substantially reduced or completely eliminated. [0003]
  • A further object of the invention is to provide an anal incontinence treatment apparatus and method, which does not require a manual manipulation of a combined reservoir a pump mechanism in the scrotum or labia majora region of the patient. Accordingly, the present invention provides an anal incontinence treatment apparatus, comprising: [0004]
  • an adjustable restriction device implanted in a patient, who suffers from anal incontinence, and engaging a portion of the colon or rectum of the patient to restrict the fecal passage-way therein, and [0005]
  • an adjustment device which mechanically adjusts the restriction device to restrict or release the fecal passageway. [0006]
  • The adjustment device may be non-manually operated, i.e. the adjustment may be operated by any powered means, not manipulated by touching the skin of the patient. Preferably, the adjustment device adjusts the restriction device in non-invasive manner. [0007]
  • The adjustment device may adjust the restriction device in a non-magnetic manner, i.e. magnetic forces may not be involved when adjusting the restriction device. Furthermore, as opposed to prior art anal incontinence treatment devices the adjustment device of the invention is not operated by manual forces, such as by manually compressing a fluid containing balloon implanted in the scrotum. Instead the apparatus of the invention may further comprise a powered operation device for operating the adjustment device. [0008]
  • In the various embodiments hereinafter described the restriction device generally forms an at least substantially closed loop. However, the restriction device may take a variety of different shapes, such as the shape of a square, rectangle or ellipse. The substantially closed loop could for example be totally flat, i.e. thin as seen in the radial direction. The shape of restriction device may also be changed during use, by rotation or movements of the restriction device in any direction. [0009]
  • A physical lumen, like the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof, is often easier to restrict by contracting at least two opposite or different side walls of the lumen against each other. The expression “colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof” should be understood to mean the rectum extended all the way out to the anal sphincter and following the passage of the large intestine in the other direction. [0010]
  • Either mechanical or hydraulic solutions may be employed to operate the restriction device. Alternatively, the restriction device may comprise an adjustable cuff, a clamp or a roller for bending the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof to restrict the fecal passageway therein. Such a cuff, clamp or roller may also be utilized for squeezing the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof against human material inside the body of the patient for an example the sacral bone of the patient. [0011]
  • Preferably, the restriction device comprises an elongated restriction member and forming means for forming the restriction member into at least a substantially closed loop around the portion of the tissue, the loop defining a restriction opening, whereby the adjustment device adjusts the restriction member in the loop to change the size of the restriction opening. [0012]
  • The restriction device may be implanted in the abdomen or retroperitoneum of the patient and preferably may engage the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof. [0013]
  • The adjustment device may be incorporated in the restriction device as well as being controlled by hydraulic means. [0014]
  • In accordance with a preferred first adjustment principle, the adjustment device mechanically adjusts the longitudinal extension of the elongated restriction member in a loop form. [0015]
  • In a preferred embodiment of the invention utilizing the first adjustment principle, the restriction member comprises a main portion and two elongated end portions, and the adjustment device establishes longitudinal relative displacement between the end portions of the restriction member, so that the size of the restriction opening is adjusted. The forming means may comprise any suitable known or conventional device capable of practicing the desired function, such as a spring material forming the elongated restriction member into the loop, so that the restriction opening has a predetermined size, and the adjustment device may adjust the restriction member against the spring action of the spring material. In other words, the restriction member may comprise a spring clip. The spring material may be integrated in the restriction member. [0016]
  • Preferably, the adjustment device comprises a movement transferring member, suitably a drive wheel, in engagement with at least one of the end portions of the restriction member and operable to displace the one end portion relative to the other end portion of the restriction member. The drive wheel may advantageously be in engagement with both of the end portions of the restriction member and be operable to displace said end portions relative to each other. An elongated flexible drive shaft may be operatively connected to the drive wheel, for transferring manual or motor generated power from a location remote from the restriction member. In its simplest embodiment, the drive wheel may comprise a pulley in frictional engagement with the restriction member. As an alternative, a gear rack may be formed on at least one of the end portions of the restriction member and the drive wheel may comprise a gear wheel in mesh with the gear rack. Other suitable known or conventional mechanisms may also or alternatively be used as the adjustment device. [0017]
  • The movement transferring member may alternatively comprise at least one cylinder and a piston, which is movable therein and is connected to one of the end portions of the restriction member, the piston being operable to longitudinally displace the one end portion of the restriction member relative to the other end portion of the restriction member. Alternatively, the movement transferring means may comprise two interconnected cylinders and two pistons in the respective cylinders connected to said end portions, respectively, of the restriction member, the pistons being operable to longitudinally displace the end portions of the restriction member relative to each other. Other known or conventional devices also or alternatively can be used as the movement transferring member. [0018]
  • A motor, which is fixed relative to the main portion of the restriction member and has a rotating drive shaft operatively connected to the movement transferring member, may be positioned relative to the elongated restriction member such that the drive shaft extends transverse thereto. Alternatively, the motor may be positioned relative to the elongated restriction member such that the drive shaft extends substantially tangentially to the loop of the restriction member. [0019]
  • In another embodiment of the invention utilizing the first adjustment principle, the elongated restriction member is longitudinally resilient and the adjustment device comprises a contraction device for longitudinally contracting the resilient restriction member. Preferably, the elongated restriction member comprises a substantially nonresilient main portion and an end portion forming an elongated helical spring, which is contractable by the contraction device. The contraction device may suitably comprise an elongated flexible pulling member connected to the main portion of the restriction member and extending through the helical spring to contract the helical spring against an arresting member, which is fixed relative to the main portion of the restriction member. The pulling member may extend in an elongated tube joined at one end thereof to the arresting member, so that a motor remote from the restriction member may be attached to the other end of the elongated tube and pulls the pulling member through the tube to contract the helical spring. [0020]
  • In yet another embodiment of the invention utilizing the first adjustment principle, the elongated restriction member comprises an elongated helical spring having a free end, and a body to which the spring is nonrotatably secured at its opposite end. The adjustment device rotates the helical spring in one direction to enlarge the coils of the helical spring to longitudinally contract the spring and to rotate the spring in the opposite direction to reduce the size of the coils of the spring to longitudinally extend the spring. As a preferred alternative, the restriction member comprises a further elongated helical spring having a free end and nonrotatably secured to the body at its opposite end, and the adjustment device comprises a drive shaft having two opposite end portions connected to the springs, respectively, at their free ends, the helical coils forming left and right hand helices, respectively. The adjustment device may alternatively comprise a gearing having an input shaft and two opposite aligned output shafts connected to the helical springs, respectively, at their free ends, the input shaft being connected to said output shafts so that the output shafts rotate in the opposite directions upon rotation of the input shaft, the helical coils forming the same helices. [0021]
  • In accordance with a second adjustment principle, the adjustment device mechanically adjusts the restriction member so that at least a portion of a radially innermost circumferential confinement surface formed by the restriction member is substantially radially displaced. [0022]
  • In one embodiment of the invention utilizing the second adjustment principle, the restriction member comprises an elongated voltage responsive element forming part of the confinement surface and capable of bending into a bow in response to a voltage applied across the element, the radius of curvature of the bow being adjustable by changing the level of the voltage. [0023]
  • In another embodiment of the invention utilizing the second adjustment principle, the adjustment device changes the diameter of an elastic annular element of the restriction member, which forms the confinement surface. Preferably, the forming means comprises a substantially rigid outer annular element coaxially surrounding the elastic annular element, and the adjustment device comprises means for pulling the elastic annular element radially outwardly towards the outer annular element to expand the elastic annular element. For example, the pulling means may comprise a plurality of threads secured to the elastic annular element along the circumference thereof and running from the elastic annular element via guide members attached to the outer annular element. [0024]
  • In yet another embodiment of the invention utilizing the second adjustment principle, the forming means comprises a substantially rigid outer annular element, and the restriction member comprises an elongated helical spring extending internally along the outer annular element and contacting the latter. The helical spring forms part of the circumferential confinement surface and has a free end. The restriction member further comprises a body to which the spring is nonrotatably secured at its opposite end. The adjustment device rotates the helical spring in one direction to enlarge the coils of the spring to contract the circumferential confinement surface and rotates the spring in the opposite direction to reduce the size of the coils of the spring to expand the circumferential confinement surface. As an alternative, which is preferred, the restriction member comprises two elongated helical springs forming part of the circumferential confinement surface and connected to the body of the restriction member. The adjustment device rotates each spring in one direction to enlarge the coils of the spring to contract the circumferential confinement surface and rotates the spring in the opposite direction to reduce the size of the coils of the spring to expand the circumferential confinement surface. [0025]
  • In accordance with a third adjustment principle, the restriction member comprises at least two separate elements, at least one of which is pivoted so that it may turn in a plane in which the the restriction member extends, and the adjustment device turns the pivoted element to change the size of the restriction opening. Preferably, the restriction member comprises a plurality of separate pivoted elements disposed in series, each pivoted element being turnable in the plane, and the adjustment device turns all of the pivoted elements to change the size of the restriction opening. For example, the pivoted elements may comprise lamellae arranged like the conventional adjustable aperture mechanism of a camera. [0026]
  • In accordance with a fourth adjustment principle, the adjustment device folds at least two foldable frame elements of the restriction member towards each other. Preferably, the foldable frame elements comprise two substantially or partly semi-circular frame elements which are hinged together so that the semi-circular elements are swingable relative to each other from a fully open state in which they form part of a circle to a fully folded state in which they form part of a semi-circle. The same principal may be used with the swingable parts mounted together in one end and not in the other end. Alternatively, the restriction device may comprises two preferable rigid articulated clamping elements positioned on opposite or different sides of colon rectum or the prolongation thereof, and the adjustment device turns the clamping elements toward each other to clamp the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof between the clamping elements, thereby restricting the fecal passageway in the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof. [0027]
  • In accordance with a fifth adjustment principle, the adjustment device turns the restriction member around a longitudinal extension thereof, the elongated restriction member being elastic and varying in thickness as seen in a cross-section therethrough. Suitably, the elongated restriction member comprises an elastic belt. [0028]
  • In accordance with a sixth adjustment principle, the adjustment device changes the size of the restriction opening such that the outer circumferential confinement surface of the restriction member is changed. [0029]
  • In accordance with a seventh adjustment principle, the adjustment device changes the size of the restriction opening such that the outer circumferential confinement surface of the restriction member is unchanged. [0030]
  • In accordance with an eighth adjustment principle, the elongated restriction member may be flexible, and the adjustment device pulls a first portion of the flexible restriction member from a second portion of the flexible restriction member opposite the first portion in the loop to squeeze the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof between the opposite lengths of the elongated flexible restriction member to restrict the fecal passageway in the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof. [0031]
  • In accordance with a ninth adjustment principle, the restriction device comprises at least two elements on opposite or different sides of the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof, and the adjustment device decreases the distance between the elements to squeeze the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof between the elements, thereby restricting the fecal passageway in the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof. It is also possible to use only one element and squeeze the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof against human bone or tissue. The elements above may as well as all the restriction members mentioned in this application be everything from rigid to soft. [0032]
  • In accordance with a tenth adjustment principle, the restriction device bends or rotates a portion of colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof to restrict the fecal passageway in the same. For example, the restriction device may comprise at least two bending members, such as cylindrical or hour-glass shaped rollers, positioned on opposite or different sides of the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof and displaced relative to each other along the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof, and the adjustment device may move the bending members against the colon or rectum thereof to bend the latter to restrict the fecal passageway in the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof Suitably, the displacement members may comprise rollers. The restriction device may also rotate a portion of the esophagus or stomach. The bending or rotating members may have any shape or form and be either hydraulic or non-inflatable. [0033]
  • Two holding members one placed more distal than the other comprising two at least substantially closed loops may be rotated in opposite direction to each other. With interconnecting material for example flexable bands between the holding members a restriction will occure betwenn the holding members when they are rotated. [0034]
  • The restriction device may in all applicable embodiments have any shape or form and be either hydralic or non-inflatable. [0035]
  • In all of the above-described embodiments of the invention the adjustment device is conveniently operated by any suitable motor, preferably an electric motor, which may be fixed directly to or be placed in association with the restriction device, or alternatively be located remote from the restriction device, advantageously in the abdomen or pelvic region or subcutaneously or in the retroperitoneum of the patient. In the latter alternative the motor is advantageously connected to the adjustment device by a flexible power transmission conduit to permit a suitable positioning of the motor in the abdomen of the patient. The motor may be manually activatable, for example by an implanted switch. [0036]
  • In some of the above described embodiments of the invention, however, the adjustment device may conveniently be operable by a hydraulic operation device, which preferably is manually activatable. The hydraulic operation device may advantageously include hydraulic servo means to facilitate manual activation. As an alternative, the hydraulic device may be powered by an electric motor, which may be manually activatable or controlled by remote control means. The components of such a hydraulic operation device may be placed in association with the restriction device and/or be located at a suitable place in the abdomen or subcutaneously. [0037]
  • More specifically, a reservoir may be provided containing a predetermined amount of fluid for supplying the hydraulic operation device with fluid. The reservoir defines a chamber for the predetermined amount of fluid and the hydraulic operation device changes the size of the chamber. The hydraulic operation device may comprise first and second wall portions of the reservoir, which are displaceable relative to each other to change the size of the chamber of the reservoir. The first and second wall portions of the reservoir may be designed to be displaceable relative to each other by manual manipulation thereof, preferably to permit manual pushing, pulling or rotation of any of the wall portions in one direction. Alternatively, the wall portions may be displaceable relative to each other by magnetic means (such as a permanent magnet and magnetic material reed switch, or other known or conventional magnetic devices), hydraulic means or electrical control means such as an electric motor. The magnetic means, hydraulic means, or electrical control means may all be activated by manual manipulation, preferably using a subcutaneously located manually manipulatable device. This control may be indirect, for example via a switch. [0038]
  • The hydraulic operation device may operate the adjustment device with fluid from the reservoir in response to a predetermined first displacement of the first wall portion of the reservoir relative to the second wall portion of the reservoir, to adjust the restriction device to release the tissue, and to operate the adjustment device with fluid from the reservoir in response to a predetermined second displacement of the first wall portion of the reservoir relative to the second wall portion of the reservoir, to adjust the restriction device to restrict the blood flow leaving the penis. In this embodiment, no pump is used, only the volume of the reservoir is varied. This is of great advantage compared to the solution described below when a pump is used to pump fluid between the reservoir and the adjustment device because there is no need for a non-return valve and it is still possible to have fluid going both to and from the reservoir. [0039]
  • As an alternative, the hydraulic operation device may comprise an activatable pump for pumping fluid between the reservoir and the adjustment device. The pump may pump fluid both to and away from the adjustment device, or hydraulic means controlling the adjustment device. A mechanical manual solution is proposed in which it is possible to pump in both directions just by pushing an activating member in one direction. Another alternative is a pump pumping in only one direction and an adjustable valve to change the direction of fluid to either increase or decrease the amount of fluid in the reservoir. This valve may be manipulated manually, mechanically, electrically, magnetically, or hydraulically. Any kind of motor could of course be used for all the different operations as well as wireless remote solutions. The pump may comprise a first activation member for activating the pump to pump fluid from the reservoir to the adjustment device and a second activation member for activating the pump to pump fluid from the adjustment device to the reservoir. The activation members may be operable by manual manipulation, preferably to permit manual pushing, pulling or rotating thereof in one direction. Suitably, at least one of the activation members is adapted to operate when subjected to an external pressure exceeding a predetermined magnitude. [0040]
  • Alternatively, at least one of the first and second activating members may be operable by magnetic means, hydraulic means or electrical control means such as an electric motor. The magnetic means, hydraulic means, or electrical control means may all be activated by manual manipulating means preferably located subcutaneously. This activation may be indirect, for example via a switch. [0041]
  • Advantageously, especially when manual manipulation means are used, a servo system could be used. With servo means less force is needed for controlling the adjustment device. Hydraulic means is preferably used with servo means. One example is a closed system that controls another closed system in which the hydraulic devices of the adjustment device is incorporated. Minor changes in the amount of fluid in a reservoir of the first system could then lead to major changes in the amount of fluid in a reservoir in the second system. In consequence, the change of volume in the reservoir of the second system affects the hydraulic device of the adjustment device, which is incorporated in the second closed system. The great advantage of this servo system is that the larger volume system could be placed inside the abdomen or retroperitoneum where there is more space and still would be possible to use manual manipulation means of the smaller system subcutaneously. The servo reservoir could control the reservoir of the larger volume. The servo reservoir could be controlled directly or indirectly by a fluid supply means. The fluid supply means may be a small reservoir, which may be placed subcutaneously and may be activated by manual manipulation means controlling the servo reservoir. [0042]
  • Preferably, the servo means comprises hydraulic means and a servo reservoir and eventually a fluid supply reservoir. Both reservoirs define a chamber containing servo fluid, and the hydraulic means comprises first and second wall portions of the servo reservoir, which are displaceable relative to each other to change the size of the chamber of the servo reservoir. The hydraulic means may control the adjustment device indirectly, e.g. via an increased amount of fluid in the servo reservoir, in response to a predetermined first displacement of the first wall portion of any of the reservoirs relative to the second wall portion of the reservoir to restrict blood flow leaving the penis, and to control the adjustment device in response to a second displacement of the first wall portion of any reservoir relative to the second wall portion, to indirectly adjust the restriction device to release the tissue. The wall portions of the reservoirs may be designed to be displaceable relative to each other by manual manipulation thereof or be displaceable relative to each other by manually pushing, pulling or rotating any of the wall portions of the reservoir in one direction. Alternatively, the wall portions of the servo reservoir may be displaceable relative to each other by magnetic means, hydraulic means or electric control means including an electric motor. [0043]
  • The magnetic means, hydraulic means, or electrical control means may all be activated by manually manipulated means preferably located subcutaneously. This control may be indirect for example via a switch. [0044]
  • Even in the broadest embodiment of the invention the adjustment device may comprise a servo means. The servo means may comprise a hydraulic operation means, an electrical control means, a magnetic means, mechanical means or a manual manipulation means. The hydraulic operation means, electrical control means, mechanical means or magnetic means may be activated by manual manipulating means. Using a servo system will save the use of force when adjusting the adjustment device which may be of importance in many applications, for example when a battery cannot put out enough current although the total energy in the battery is more than enough to power the system. [0045]
  • All solutions may be controlled by a wireless remote control for controlling the adjustment device. The remote control may advantageously be capable of obtaining information related to the fecal passageway or the pressure against the restriction device or colon or rectum or other important physical parameters and of commanding the adjustment device to adjust the restriction device in response to obtained information. With the wireless remote control the apparatus of the invention is conveniently controlled by the patient when he so desires, which is of great advantage compared to the prior art procedures. With the remote control the apparatus of the invention is conveniently controlled to adjust the implanted restriction device, which controls the defecation. The restriction device may be operable to open and close fecal passageway. The restriction device may steplessly control the cross-sectional area of the passageway. [0046]
  • The apparatus may further comprise a pressure sensor for directly or indirectly sensing the pressure against the restriction device and the restriction device may control the blood flow in response to signals from the pressure sensor. The pressure sensor may be any suitable known or conventional pressure sensor such as shown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,540,731, 4,846,181, 4,738,267, 4,571,749, 4,407,296 or 3,939,823; or an NPC-102 Medical Angioplasty Sensor. The adjustment device preferaby non-invasively adjusts the restriction device to change the size of the cross-sectional area. [0047]
  • The adjustment device and/or other energy consuming components of the apparatus may be energised with wirelessly transmitted energy from outside the patient's body or be powered by an implanted battery or accumulator. [0048]
  • The apparatus may further comprise an implanted energy transfer device for transferring wireless energy directly or indirectly into kinetic energy for operation of the restriction device. [0049]
  • The wireless remote control may comprise means for wireless transfer of energy from outside the patient's body to energy consuming implantable components of the apparatus. A motor may suitably be implanted in the patient for operating the adjustment device and the means for wireless transfer of energy may directly power the motor with transferred energy. The energy transferred by the means for transfer of energy may comprise any suitable kind of energy signals including wave signals, an electric field or a magnetic field. [0050]
  • Preferably, the wireless remote control comprises a separate signal transmitter or receiver and a signal receiver or transmitter implanted in the patient. For example, the signal transmitter and signal receiver may transmit and receive a signal in the form of digital pulses, which may comprise a magnetic or electric field. Alternatively, which is preferred, the signal transmitter and signal receiver may transmit and receive an electromagnetic wave signal, a sound wave signal or a carrier wave signal for a remote control signal. The receiver may comprise an implanted control unit for controlling the adjustment device in response to a control signal from the signal transmitter. [0051]
  • The apparatus of the invention may further comprise an implanted energizer unit for providing energy to energy consuming implanted components of the apparatus, such as electronic circuits and/or a motor for operating the adjustment device. The control unit may power such an implanted motor with energy provided by the energizer unit in response to a control signal received from the signal transmitter. Any known or conventional signal transmitter or signal receiver that is suitable for use with a human or mammal-patient may be provided as the signal transmitter or signal receiver of the invention. Generally, the signals may comprise electromagnetic waves, such as infrared light, visible light, laser light, micro waves, or sound waves, such as ultrasonic waves or infrasonic waves, or any other type of wave signals. The signals may also comprise electric or magnetic fields, or pulses. All of the above-mentioned signals may comprise digital signals. The control signals may be carried by a carrier wave signal, which in an alternative embodiment may be the same signal as the wireless energy signal. Preferably a digital control signal may be carried by an electromagnetic wave signal. The carrier wave or control signal may be amplitude or frequency modulated. [0052]
  • The motor may be any type of motor, such as a pneumatic, hydraulic or electric motor and the energizer unit may power the motor with pressurized gas or liquid, or electric energy, depending on the type of motor. Where the motor is an electric motor, it may power pneumatic or hydraulic equipment. [0053]
  • The energizer unit may comprise a power supply and the control unit may power the motor with energy from the power supply. Preferably, the power supply is an electric power supply, such as a battery, and the motor is an electric motor. In this case, the battery also continuously powers at least part of the circuitry of the signal receiver in a standby mode between the adjustments, in order to keep the signal receiver prepared for receiving signals transmitted from the signal transmitter. [0054]
  • The energizer unit may transfer energy from the control signal, as the control signal is transmitted to the signal receiver, into electric energy for powering the implanted electronic components. For example, the energizer unit may transfer the energy from the control signal into a direct or alternating current. [0055]
  • In case there is an implanted electric motor for operating the adjustment device the energizer unit may also power the motor with the transferred energy. Advantageously, the control unit directly powers the electric motor with electric energy, as the energizer unit transfers the signal energy into the electric energy. This embodiment is particularly simple and does not require any recurrent invasive measures for exchanging empty power supplies, such as batteries, that is required in the first embodiment described above. [0056]
  • For adjustment devices of the type that requires more, but still relatively low, power for its operation, the energizer unit may comprise a rechargeable electric power supply for storing the electric energy obtained and the control unit may power the electric motor with energy from the rechargeable electric power supply in response to a control signal received from the signal transmitter. In this case, the rechargeable power supply can be charged over a relatively long time (e.g. a few seconds up to a half hour) without powering the electric motor. [0057]
  • The electric power supply suitably comprises an inexpensive simple capacitor. In this case, the electric motor may be a stepping motor. In all embodiments the motor may preferable be able to perform a reversing function. [0058]
  • The signal transmitter may transmit an electromagnetic signal and the energizer unit may draw radiant energy from the electromagnetic wave signal, as the latter is transmitted to the signal receiver, and transfer the radiant energy into electric energy. [0059]
  • Alternatively, the energizer unit may comprise a battery or accumulator, an electrically operable switch adapted to connect the battery to the signal receiver in an on mode when the switch is powered and to keep the battery disconnected from the signal receiver in a standby mode when the switch is unpowered, and a rechargeable electric power supply for powering the switch. The control unit may power the electric motor with energy from the battery in response to a control signal received from the signal transmitter, when the switch is in its on mode. Advantageously, the energizer unit may transfer wave energy from the control signal, as the latter is transmitted to the signal receiver, into a current for charging the rechargeable electric power supply, which suitably is a capacitor. Energy from the power supply is then used to change the switch from off (standby mode) to on. This embodiment is suited for adjustment devices of the type that require relatively high power for their operation and has the advantage that the electronic circuitry of the signal receiver does not have to be powered by the battery between adjustments. As a result, the life-time of the battery can be significantly prolonged. The switch may be switched with magnetic, manual or electric energy. [0060]
  • As an example, the signal transmitter may transmit an electromagnetic wave signal and the energizer unit may draw radiant energy from the electromagnetic wave signal, as the latter is transmitted to the signal receiver, and may transfer the radiant energy into said current. The energizer unit suitably comprises a coil of the signal receiver for inducing an alternating current as the electromagnetic wave signal is transmitted through the coil and a rectifier for rectifying the alternating current. The rectified current is used for charging the rechargeable power source. [0061]
  • Alternatively, the signal transmitter and receiver may solely be used for a control signal and a further-pair of signal transmitter and receiver may be provided for transferring signal energy to implanted components. By such a double system of signal transmitters and receivers the advantage is obtained that the two systems can be designed optimally for their respective purposes, namely to transmit a control signal and to transfer energy from an energy signal. Accordingly, the apparatus may further comprise an external energy transmitter for transmitting wireless energy, wherein the energizer unit comprises a battery and an operable switch for connecting the battery to the signal receiver in an on mode when the switch is powered and for keeping the battery disconnected from the signal receiver in a standby mode when the switch is unpowered, and the external energy transmitter powers the switch. Suitably, the energy transmitter may directly power the switch with the wireless energy to switch into the on mode. As should be realized by a skilled person, in many of the above-described embodiments of the invention the adjustment device may be operated by control means or manual manipulation means implanted under the skin of the patient, such as a pump, an electrical switch or a mechanical movement transferring means. In the manual embodiment it is not necessary to use a motor for operating the adjustment device. [0062]
  • In embodiments including hydraulic transmission means, an injection port connected to the hydraulic means may be provided for enabling, normally single, once-and-for-all, calibration of the amount of fluid in the hydraulic system. [0063]
  • In all embodiments a motor may be operatively connected to the adjustment device. A reversing device may be implanted in the patient for reversing the motor. The adjustment device preferably adjusts the restriction device in a non-manual manner without the patient touching his skin. [0064]
  • The restriction device is operable to open and close the fecal passageway steplessly and preferable controled with a remote control. Preferably, a pressure sensor is used for directly or indirectly sensing the pressure against the restriction device or the colon or the rectum to prevent any necrosis of the human tissue. The restriction device may preferably be controlled in response to signals from the pressure sensor. The motor which preferably is used to adjust the restriction device must then be capable of performing a reversible function, that is to say reversed direction of the motor. Preferably the adjustment device may be engergised directly with wirelessly transmitted energy from outside the patient's body. Preferable, the inplanted energy transfer device transfers wireless energy directly or indirectly into kinetic energy for operation of the restriction device. In another embodiment it would also be possible to use an implanted accumulator or battery and control this implanted energy source from outside the patient's body to supply energy to the adjustment device or other energy consuming parts of the implanted apparatus. [0065]
  • The invention also provides a method for treating a patient suffering from anal incontinence comprising surgically implanting in the body of the an adjustable restriction device which directly engages the colon or rectum like an artificial sphincter around the fecal passageway therein, normally closed, and when desired, mechanically adjusting the restriction device to temporarily open the fecal passageway. [0066]
  • The adjustable restriction device may preferably be inplanted in the base or prolongation of the patients rectum. It is possible to use one or serveral restricting devices engages the colon or rectum. [0067]
  • In accordance with the invention, there is further provided a method for treating anal incontince, comprising the steps of placing at least two laparascopical trocars in the body of a patient suffering from anal incontinence, inserting a dissecting tool through the trocars and dissecting an area of the colon or rectum in the abdominal or pelvic or retroperitoneal surroundings, placing at least one adjustable restriction device in the dissected area engaging the rectum or colon, adjusting the restriction device to normally restrict the fecal passageway in the rectum or colon to substantially prevent the passage of fecal material therethrough, and adjusting the restriction device to open the fecal passageway to allow the passage of fecal material therethrough when the patient wants to relieve himself or herself. A mechanically adjustable restriction device may be used when practicing this method, preferably in a non-manual manner, i.e. without touching subcutaneously implanted components of the apparatus. [0068]
  • The method may further comprise implanting a source of energy in the patient and providing a control device for controlling the source of energy from outside the patient's body to supply energy to the restriction device. [0069]
  • It should generally be understood that all the above embodiments may be combined in any working combination.[0070]
  • BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic sectional view of a preferred first embodiment of the anal incontinence treatment apparatus in accordance with the invention; [0071]
  • FIGS. 2 and 3 are cross-sectional views taken along the lines II-II and III-III, respectively, of FIG. 1; [0072]
  • FIGS. 4 and 5 schematically show two alternative designs of the embodiment of FIG. 1; [0073]
  • FIG. 6 schematically illustrates a motor arrangement for the design according to FIG. 5; [0074]
  • FIG. 7 is a schematic sectional view of a second embodiment of the apparatus in accordance with the invention; [0075]
  • FIG. 8 schematically illustrates a hydraulic transmision conduit for the embodiment of FIG. 7; [0076]
  • FIG. 9 is a schematic sectional view of a third embodiment of the apparatus in accordance with the invention; [0077]
  • FIG. 10 is a modification of the embodiment of FIG. 9; [0078]
  • FIG. 11 is a schematic view of a fourth embodiment of the apparatus in accordance with the invention; [0079]
  • FIGS. 12 and 13 are enlarged details of the embodiment of FIG. 11; [0080]
  • FIG. 14 is a cross-section along the line XIV-XIV of FIG. 11; [0081]
  • FIG. 15 is a schematic view of a fifth embodiment of the apparatus in accordance with the invention; [0082]
  • FIG. 16 is an enlarged detail of FIG. 15; [0083]
  • FIG. 17 is a cross-section along the line XVII-XVII of FIG. 15; [0084]
  • FIGS. [0085] 18 to 21 are schematic sectional views of a sixth, seventh, eighth and ninth embodiments, respectively, of the apparatus in accordance with the invention;
  • FIGS. 22 and 23 illustrate a fully open and a reduced restriction opening, respectively, of the embodiment of FIG. 21; [0086]
  • FIG. 24 is a schematic view of a tenth embodiment of the apparatus in accordance with the invention; [0087]
  • FIG. 25 is an enlarged detail of the embodiment of FIG. 24; [0088]
  • FIGS. 26 and 27 illustrate a fully open and a reduced restriction opening, respectively, of the embodiment of FIG. 24; [0089]
  • FIG. 28 schematically illustrates a cushion arrangement for protecting the tissue of the patient; [0090]
  • FIG. 29A-D is a block diagram of four different principal embodiments of the invention; [0091]
  • FIG. 30A-D are cross-sectional views of a pump mechanism according to FIG. 29C, which pumps fluid in opposite directions by mechanically pushing a wall portion in only one direction; [0092]
  • FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view of a reservoir having a variable volume controlled by a remote control motor, in accordance with a particular embodiment of the principal embodiment shown in FIG. 29B or [0093] 30B;
  • FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional view of a reservoir having a variable volume adjustable by manual manipulation, in accordance with a particular embodiment of the principal embodiment shown in FIG. 29B or [0094] 29D;
  • FIG. 33A is a front view of a hydraulic, pneumatic or mechanical servo system in accordance with a particular embodiment of the principal embodiment shown in FIG. 29D; [0095]
  • FIG. 33B is a cross-sectional view taken along line VB-VB of FIG. 33A; [0096]
  • FIG. 34 is a block diagram illustrating remote control components of the apparatus of the invention; [0097]
  • FIG. 35 is a schematic view of a circuitry used for the system of the block diagram of FIG. 34; [0098]
  • FIGS. 36A and 36B are schematic views of an eleventh embodiment of the apparatus in accordance with the invention; [0099]
  • FIGS. 37A and 37B are schematic views of a twelfth embodiment of the apparatus in accordance with the invention; [0100]
  • FIG. 38 is a schematic view of a thirteenth embodiment of the apparatus in accordance with the invention; [0101]
  • FIGS. 39A, 39B and [0102] 39C are a schematic front view and schematic sectional views, respectively, of a fourteenth embodiment of the apparatus in accordance with the invention;
  • FIGS. 40A through 44B are five modifications of the embodiment of FIGS. [0103] 39A-39C;
  • FIG. 45 illustrates the apparatus of the invention with a restriction device implanted around the colon[0104]
  • DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
  • Referring to the drawing FIGURES, like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding elements throughout the several FIGURES. [0105]
  • FIGS. [0106] 1-3 show a preferred embodiment of the anal incontinence treatment apparatus of the invention comprising a restriction device having an elongated restriction member in the form of a circular resilient core 2 with two overlapping end portions 4,6. The core 2 defines a substantially circular restriction opening and is enclosed in an elastic soft hose 8 except at a releasable and lockable joint 10 of the core 2, which when released enables application of the core 2 with its hose 8 around a tissue of a patient, such as the colon or rectum or one or more exit rectum from the patient's colon or rectum. The materials of all of these elements are bio-compatible so that the patient' body will not reject them. A mechanical adjustment device 12 for mechanically adjusting the longitudinal extension of the core 2 to change the size of the restriction opening comprises a drive wheel 14 in frictional engagement with the overlapping end portions 4,6 of the core 2. The drive wheel 14 is journalled on a holder 16 placed in the hose 8 and provided with two counter pressure rollers 18,20 pressing the respective end portions 4, 6 of the core 2 against the drive wheel 14 to increase the frictional engagement there between. An electric motor 22 is connected to the drive wheel 14 via a long flexible drive shaft 24 and is moulded together with a remote controlled power supply unit 26 in a body 28 of silicone rubber. The length of the flexible drive shaft 34 is selected so that the body 28 can be placed in a desired position in the patient_s body, suitably in the abdomen.
  • When the patient doesn't want to relieve himself (defaecation), he controls the [0107] power supply unit 26 to power the electric motor 22 to turn the drive wheel 14 in one direction to reduce the diameter of the core 2, so that the tissue is squeezed and the fecal passageway is restricted. When the patient wishes to relieve himself he controls the power supply unit 26 to power the electric motor 22 to turn the drive wheel 14 in the opposite direction to increase the diameter of the core 2, so that the fecal passageway is open.
  • Alternatively, a rack gear may be formed on one of the [0108] end portions 4,6 of the core 2 and the drive wheel 14 may be replaced by a drive gear wheel connected to the other end portion of the core 2 and in mesh with the rack gear.
  • FIG. 4 shows an embodiment of the invention which is identical to the embodiment of FIGS. [0109] 1-3, except that the motor 22 is encapsulated in a lateral protrusion 30 of the hose 8 so that it is fixed to the core 2 and has a short drive shaft 32 onto which the drive wheel 14 is mounted, and that the motor 22 is positioned relative to the circular core 2 such that the drive shaft 32 extends radially thereto.
  • FIG. 5 shows an embodiment of the invention which likewise is identical to the embodiment of FIGS. [0110] 1-3, except that the motor 22 is encapsulated in the hose 8 so that it is fixed to the core 2 and has a short drive shaft 32, and that the motor 22 is positioned relative to the core 2 such that the drive shaft 32 extends substantially tangentially to the circular core 2. There is an angular gearing 34 connecting the drive shaft 32 to the drive wheel 14.
  • FIG. 6 shows a suitable arrangement for the [0111] motor 22 in the embodiment of FIG. 5, comprising a first clamping member 36 secured to one end portion of the core 2 and a second clamping member 38 secured to the other end portion 6 of the core 2. The motor 22 is secured to the first clamping member 36 and is operatively connected to a worm 40 via a gear transmission 42. The worm 40 is journalled at its opposite ends on holders 44 and 46, which are rigidly secured to the clamping member 36 and the motor 22, respectively. The second clamping member 38 has a pinion in mesh with the worm 40. When the motor 22 is powered the worm 40 rotates and will thereby pull the end portion 6 of the core 2 in one or the opposite longitudinal direction, so that the diameter of the substantially circular core 2 is either increased or decreased.
  • FIG. 7 shows an embodiment of the invention in which the elongated restriction member comprises a [0112] core 48 and a helical spring 50. A spring contracting means in the form of a flexible pulling member 52, i.e. a string, wire or cable, is connected to the core 48 at one end thereof and extends through the helical spring 50. A hydralic motor in the form of a cylinder/piston unit 54 is adapted to pull the flexible pulling member 52 to contract the helical spring 50 against an arresting member 56, which is fixed relative to the core 48. A tube 58 hinged to the arresting member 56 extends between the cylinder/piston unit 54 and the arresting member 56, the flexible pulling member 52 running through the tube 58 and being connected to the piston of the cylinder/piston unit 54. FIG. 8 shows a similar embodiment in which a hydraulic transmission conduit 59 is provided between two piston-cylinder assemblies 54, for use as the hydraulic motor/device in FIG. 7.
  • FIG. 9 shows an embodiment of the invention in which the restriction member comprises two elongated [0113] helical springs 60 and 62 having free ends, and a body 64 to which the springs 60,62 are nonrotatably secured at their opposite ends. The body 64 comprises two separate parts secured to opposite end portions of the enclosing elastic hose 8 and is designed with a releasable and lockable joint between the separate parts. An adjustment device in the form of a drive shaft 66 has two opposite end portions connected to the helical springs 60,62, respectively, at their free ends. The coils of the springs 60,62 form left and right hand helices, respectively. A motor 68 is adapted to rotate the drive shaft 66 in one direction to enlarge the coils of the helical springs 60,62 to longitudinally contract the springs 60,62 and to rotate the drive shaft 66 in the opposite direction to reduce the size of the coils of the springs 60,62 to longitudinally extend the springs 60,62. Thus, the elongated helical springs 60,62 defines a restriction opening, the size of which is increased when the springs 60,62 are extended and decreased when the springs 60,62 are contracted.
  • FIG. 10 shows an embodiment according to the invention which is identical to the embodiment of FIG. 9, except that the adjustment decice comprises a gearing having an [0114] input shaft 72 and two opposite aligned output shafts 74 and 76 connected to the helical springs 60 and 62, respectively, at their free ends. The input shaft 72 is connected to the output shafts 74,76 such that they rotate at opposite directions upon rotation of the input shaft 72. The coils of the springs 60, 62 form the same helices.
  • FIGS. [0115] 11-14 show an embodiment of the device of the invention in which a hydraulic motor comprises two interconnected cylinders 78 and 80 and two pistons 82 and 84 in the respective cylinders 78,80. The cylinders 78,80 have a common fluid supply inlet member 86, which together with the cylinders 78,80 takes the shape of a Y-pipe. The restriction member comprises an elongated resilient arcuate core 88. The adjustment device comprises two bars 90 and 92 secured to opposite ends of the core 88 and connected to the pistons 82 and 84, respectively. The core 88 defines a restriction opening and is provided with a releasable and lockable joint 94 (FIG. 13) to permit application of the core 88 around the tissue. The core 88 and the cylinders 90,92 are enclosed by a soft elastic hose 96 except at the joint 94 and the inlet member 86. The hose 96 has an outer tubular wall 98 and a central coaxial inner tubular wail 100, which is fixed to the outer wall 98 by spoke members 102 (FIG. 14). The core 88 is loosely fit in the inner tubular wall 100. By supplying fluid to or withdrawing fluid from the inlet 86 the pistons 82 and 84 will move towards or from each other, so that the restriction opening defined by the core 88 is changed by the longitudinal displacement of the bars 90,92.
  • FIGS. [0116] 15-17 show an embodiment of the invention which is identical to the embodiment of FIGS. 11-14, except that the adjustment device comprises an elongated voltage responsive element 104 secured to the opposite ends of the core 88, so that the core 88 and the element 104 form the restriction member. The element 104 is capable of bending inwardly into a bow in response to a voltage applied across the element 104. The radius of curvature of said bow is adjustable by changing the level of the voltage applied to element 104.
  • FIG. 18 shows an embodiment of the invention comprising a loop forming means in the form of a substantially rigid outer [0117] circular element 106 with a releasable and lockable joint 108. In this embodiment the restriction member comprises an elastic inner circular element 110 formed by the innermost wall portion of an elastic hose 112 extending along the outer element 106. The inner circular element 110 is disposed concentrically within the outer circular element 106. The adjustment device comprises a plurality of threads 114 secured to the elastic inner element 110 along the circumference thereof and running from the inner element 110 via guide members 116 attached to the outer element 106. By pulling all the threads 114 the inner elastic element 110 is pulled under expansion radially outwardly towards the outer element 106.
  • FIG. 19 shows an embodiment which is identical to the embodiment of FIG. 9, except that it comprises a loop forming means in the form of a substantially rigid outer [0118] circular element 118 supporting the helical springs 60,62, and a soft elastic inner wall 120 extending along the springs 60,62. When the motor 68 rotates the helical springs 60, 62 in a direction that enlarges the coils of the springs 60,62, the coils are forced by the rigid outer element 118 to expand radially inwardly thereby reducing the size of the restriction opening formed by the circumferential confinement surface of the restriction member (springs 60,62 and body 64).
  • FIG. 20 shows an embodiment of the invention in which a restriction member comprises a plurality of [0119] arcuate lamellae 122 arranged like the conventional adjustable aperture mechanism of a camera. The adjustment device, not shown, is conventional and is operated by a motor 124 to adjust the lamellae 122 to change the size of an restriction opening defined by the lamellae 122.
  • FIGS. [0120] 21-23 show an embodiment of the invention in which a restriction member comprises two semi-circular elements 126 and 128 which are hinged together such that the semi-circular elements 126,128 are swingable relative to each other between a fully open state in which they substantially form a circle, illustrated in FIG. 22 and an angular state, in which the size of the restriction opening defined by the semi-circular elements 126,128 is reduced, illustrated in FIGURE, 23. The adjustment device, not shown, is conventional and is operated by a motor 130 to swing the semi-circular elements 126,128 relative to each other.
  • FIGS. [0121] 24-27 show an embodiment of the invention in which a restriction member comprises an elastic belt 130 forming a circle and having a substantially oval cross-section. The restriction member 130 is provided with a releasable and lockable joint 132. An elastic double walled hose 134 encloses the belt 130 except at the joint 132. The adjustment device, not shown, is conventional and is operated by a motor 136 to turn the belt 130 around the longitudinal extension thereof between a fully open state, in which the inner broader side of the belt 130 forms a substantially cylindrical surface, illustrated in FIG. 26, and a reduced open state, in which the inner broader side of the belt 130 forms a substantially conical surface, illustrated in FIG. 27.
  • FIG. 28 schematically illustrates a cushion arrangement for protecting the tissue, comprising a plurality of [0122] cushions 138 disposed in series along a substantially circular holding member 140. This cushion arrangement may be utilized in any of the above described embodiments of the invention.
  • FIGS. [0123] 29A-D provide a block diagram of four different hydraulic transmission conFIGUREurations. FIG. 29A shows an adjustment device 202, a separate reservoir 204, a one way pump 206 and an alternate valve 208. FIG. 29B shows the adjustment device 202 and an adjustable reservoir 210. FIG. 29C shows the adjustment device 202, a two way pump 212 and the reservoir 204. FIG. 30D shows a servo system with a first closed system controlling a second system. The servo system comprises the adjustable reservoir 210 and a passive adjustable reservoir 214. Any of the reservoirs can be the active reservoir, either the servo reservoir 210 or the fluid supply reservoir 214. The reservoir 214 controls a larger adjustable reservoir 216 which is used for the operation of the adjustment device 202 for changing the restriction opening of the restriction member.
  • FIGS. [0124] 30A-D are cross-sectional views of a pump mechanism adapted to pump fluid in both directions only by mechanically pushing a separate sealing wall portion 218 in one direction. FIG. 30A shows a piston 220 pushed forwards against a spring 222 towards the wall portion 218 and located in a pump housing 224 conducting fluid from a right upper fluid passage 226 of the housing 224 to a left fluid passage 228 of the housing 224. A main valve 230 is open and a nonreturn valve 232 is closed. FIG. 30B illustrates the first pump movement in which the piston 220 has moved forwards and reaches the wall portion 218. FIG. 30C illustrates how the piston 220 moves backwards by the action of the spring 222. The main valve 230 is now closed and the nonreturn valve 232 is open for fluid from the right upper passage 226. FIG. 30D illustrates how the piston 220 is moved further downwards from its position according to FIG. 30B while pushing the wall portion 218 downwards against a second spring 234 that is stronger than spring 222, so that fluid escapes from a right lower fluid passage 236. When moving the piston 220 backwards from the position of FIG. 30D, fluid enters the left fluid passage 228 and a valve 238 in the lower right fluid passage 236 closes.
  • FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view of a [0125] reservoir 240 defining a chamber 242, the size of which is variable and is controlled by a remote controlled motor 244, in accordance with FIG. 29B or 29D. The reservoir 240 and the motor 244 are placed in a housing 246. The chamber 242 is varied by moving a large wall 248. The wall 248 is secured to a nut 250, which is threaded on a rotatable spindle 252. The spindle 252 is rotated by the motor 244 via an angular gearing, which comprises two conical gear wheels 254 and 256 in mesh with each other. The motor 244 is powered by a battery 258 placed in the housing 246. A signal receiver 260 for controlling the motor 244 is also placed in the housing 246. Alternatively, the battery 258 and the signal receiver 260 may be mounted in a separate place. The signal receiver may comprise any known or conventional device which is capable of receiving a control signal and then operating the motor 244.
  • FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional view of a [0126] reservoir 262 defining a chamber 264, the size of which is variable and is controlled by manual manipulation. A gable wall portion 266 of an open ended inner cylindrical housing 68 is adapted to be pushed downwards to fit in a desired locking groove 270 of a plurality of locking grooves 270 on the mantle wall of the cylindrical housing 268, to reduce the size of the chamber 64. The inner cylindrical housing 268 is suspended by springs 272 and is telescopically applied on an outer cylindrical housing 274. When pushing the inner cylindrical housing 268 it moves downwards relative to the outer cylindrical housing 274 causing the gable wall portion 266 to release from the locking groove 270 and move upwards relative to the inner cylindrical housing 268. When the inner housing 268 is moved upwardly by the action of the springs 272 the size of the chamber 264 is increased.
  • FIGS. 33A and 33B show a servo means comprising a main ring-shaped [0127] fluid reservoir 276 defining a chamber 278, the size of which is variable. Centrally positioned in the main ring-shaped reservoir 276 there is a servo fluid reservoir 280 defining a chamber 282, the size of which is variable. The chamber 282 of the servo reservoir 280 is significantly smaller than the chamber 278 of the main reservoir 276. The two reservoirs 276 and 280 are situated between two opposite separate walls 284 and 286, and are secured thereto. When changing the amount of fluid in the servo reservoir 280, the two opposite walls 284,286 are moved towards or away from each other, whereby the size of the chamber 278 of the main reservoir 276 is changed.
  • FIG. 34 shows the basic parts of a remote control system of the apparatus of the invention including a motor, for instance the [0128] electric motor 22. In this case, the remote control system is based on the transmission of an electromagnetic wave signal, often of a high frequency in the order of 100 kHz-1 gHz, through the skin 330 of the patient. In FIG. 34, all parts placed to the left of the skin 330 are located outside the patient_s body and all parts placed to the right of the skin 330 are implanted in the patient_s body.
  • An external [0129] signal transmitting antenna 332 is to be positioned close to a signal receiving antenna 334 implanted in the patient_s body close to the skin 330. As an alternative, the receiving antenna 334 may be placed for example inside the abdomen of the patient. The receiving antenna 334 comprises a coil, approximately 1-100 mm, preferably 25 mm in diameter, wound with a very thin wire and tuned with a capacitor to a specific high frequency. A small coil is chosen if it is to be implanted under the skin of the patient and a large coil is chosen if it is to be implanted in the abdomen of the patient. The transmitting antenna 332 comprises a coil having about the same size as the coil of the receiving antenna 334 but wound with a thick wire that can handle the larger currents that is necessary. The coil of the transmitting antenna 332 is tuned to the same specific high frequency as the coil of the receiving antenna 334.
  • An [0130] external control unit 336 comprises a microprocessor, a high frequency electromagnetic signal generator and a power amplifier. The microprocessor of the control unit 336 is adapted to switch on/off the generator and to modulate signals generated by the generator to send digital information via the power amplifier and the antennas 332,334 to an implanted control unit 338. To avoid that accidental random high frequency fields trigger control commands, digital signal codes are used. A keypad placed on the external control unit 336 is connected to the microprocessor thereof. The keypad is used to order the microprocessor to send a digital signal to either increase or decrease the size of the restriction opening defined by the loop of the restriction member (e.g. as described above). The microprocessor starts a command by applying a high frequency signal on the antenna 332. After a short time, when the signal has energized the implanted parts of the control system, commands are sent to increase or decrease the size of the restriction opening of the restriction member in predefined steps. The commands are sent as digital packets in the form illustrated below.
    Start pattern, Command, Count, Checksum,
    8 bits 8 bits 8 bits 8 bits
  • The commands are sent continuously during a rather long time period (e.g. 30 seconds or more). When a new increase or decrease step is desired the Count byte is increased by one to allow the implanted [0131] control unit 338 to decode and understand that another step is demanded by the external control unit 336. If any part of the digital packet is erroneous, its content is simply ignored.
  • Through a [0132] line 340, an implanted energizer unit 326 draws energy from the high frequency electromagnetic wave signal received by the receiving antenna 334. The energizer unit 326 stores the energy in a power supply, such as a large capacitor, powers the control unit 338 and powers the electric motor 22 via a line 342.
  • The [0133] control unit 338 comprises a demodulator and a microprocessor. The demodulator demodulates digital signals sent from the external control unit 336. The microprocessor of the control unit 338 receives the digital packet, decodes it and, provided that the power supply of the energizer unit 326 has sufficient energy stored, sends a signal via a signal line 344 to the motor 22 to either increase or decrease the size of the restriction opening of the restriction member depending on the received command code.
  • Alternatively, the energy stored in the power supply of the energizer unit may only be used for powering a switch, and the energy for powering the [0134] motor 22 may be obtained from another implanted power source of relatively high capacity, for example a battery. In this case the switch is adapted to connect the battery to the control unit 338 in an_on_mode when said switch is powered by said power supply and to keep said battery disconnected from the control unit in a_standby_mode when the switch is unpowered.
  • With reference to FIG. 35, the remote control system schematically described above will now be described in accordance with a more detailed embodiment. The [0135] external control unit 336 comprises a microprocessor 346, a signal generator 348 and a power amplifier 350 connected thereto. The microprocessor 346 is adapted to switch the signal generator 348 on/off and to modulate signals generated by the signal generator 348 with digital commands that are sent to implanted components of the device of the invention. The power amplifier 350 amplifies the signals and sends them to the external signal transmitting antenna 332. The antenna 332 is connected in parallel with a capacitor 352 to form a resonant circuit tuned to the frequency generated by the signal generator 348.
  • The implanted signal receiving [0136] antenna coil 334 forms together with a capacitor 354 a resonant circuit that is tuned to the same frequency as the transmitting antenna 332. The signal receiving antenna coil 334 induces a current from the received high frequency electromagnetic waves and a rectifying diode 360 rectifies the induced current, which charges a storage capacitor 358. A coil 356 connected between the antenna coil 334 and the diode 360 prevents the capacitor 358 and the diode 360 from loading the circuit of the signal receiving antenna 334 at higher frequencies. Thus, the coil 356 makes it possible to charge the capacitor 358 and to transmit digital information using amplitude modulation.
  • A [0137] capacitor 362 and a resistor 364 connected in parallel and a diode 366 forms a detector used to detect amplitude modulated digital information. A filter circuit is formed by a resistor 368 connected in series with a resistor 370 connected in series with a capacitor 372 connected in series with the resistor 368 via ground, and a capacitor 374, one terminal of which is connected between the resistors 368,370 and the other terminal of which is connected between the diode 366 and the circuit formed by the capacitor 362 and resistor 364. The filter circuit is used to filter out undesired low and high frequencies. The detected and filtered signals are fed to an implanted microprocessor 376 that decodes the digital information and controls the motor 22 via an H-bridge 378 comprising transistors 380,382,384 and 386. The motor 22 can be driven in two opposite directions by the H-bridge 378.
  • The [0138] microprocessor 376 also monitors the amount of stored energy in the storage capacitor 358. Before sending signals to activate the motor 22, the microprocessor 376 checks whether the energy stored in the storage capacitor 358 is enough. If the stored energy is not enough to perform the requested operation, the microprocessor 376 waits for the received signals to charge the storage capacitor 358 before activating the motor 22.
  • FIGS. 36A and 36B show an embodiment of the apparatus of the invention comprising a [0139] restriction device 402 having an elongated flexible restriction member 404, such as a belt, a cord or the like. The flexible member 404 extends in a loop around the tissue, suitably the rectum or colon or its prolongation. (Alternatively, the flexible member 404 may comprise two separate parts on opposite sides of the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof) One portion 404A of member 404 is attached to a frame 408 and another portion 404B of member 404 opposite portion 404A in the loop of the flexible member 404 is connected to an adjustment device 410, which is fixed to the frame 408. The adjustment device 410 pulls the flexible member 404 in the direction from portion 404A to squeeze the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof between two opposite lengths of the flexible member 404 to thereby restrict the fecal passageway in the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof 406, see FIG. 36A, and releases the colon or rectum or the prolongation thereof from the flexible member 404 to thereby increase the fecal passageway to allow defaecation 406, see FIG. 36B.
  • FIGS. 37A and 37B show an embodiment of the apparatus of the invention comprising a [0140] restriction device 412 having two plate or bar elements 414 on opposite sides of the rectum 406. An adjustment device 416 moves the elements 412 in parallel towards each other to squeeze the rectum 406 between the elements 412 to thereby restrict the blood flow in the rectum 406, see FIG. 37A, and moves the elements 412-away from each other to release the rectum 406, see FIG. 37B.
  • FIG. 38 shows an embodiment of the apparatus of the invention comprising a [0141] restriction device 418 having two rigid articulated clamping elements 420 positioned on opposite sides of the rectum 406. An adjustment device 422 turns the clamping elements 420 toward each other to clamp the rectum 406 between the clamping elements 420 to thereby restrict the fecal passageway in the rectum 406, and turns the clamping elements 420 away from each other to release the rectum 406 from the clamping elements 420 to thereby increase the restriction of the fecal passageway to allow defaecation.
  • FIGS. 39A, 39B and [0142] 39C show an embodiment of the apparatus of the invention comprising a restriction device 424 having three bending members in the form of cylindrical rollers 426, 428 and 430 displaced relative one another in a row along the rectum 406 and positioned alternately on opposite sides of the rectum 406. (Alternatively, each roller 426, 428 and 430 may take the shape of an hour-glass.) An adjustment device 432 moves the two outer rollers 426,430 laterally against the rectum 406 in one direction and the intermediate roller 428 against the rectum 406 in the opposite direction to bend the rectum to thereby restrict the fecal passageway in the rectum 406, see FIG. 39B. To increase the fecal passageway to allow defaecation 406, the adjustment device 432 moves the rollers 426-430 away from the rectum 406 to release the latter from the rollers 426-430, see FIG. 39C.
  • FIGS. 40A through 44B schematically illustrates modifications of the above embodiment according to FIGS. [0143] 39A-39C. Thus, FIGS. 40A and 40B show an embodiment similar to that of FIGS. 39A-39C except that the bending members are oval and not rotatable. FIGS. 41A and 41B show an embodiment similar to that of FIGS. 40A and 40B except that the oval bending members are rotatable to release the rectum, see FIG. 41A, and squeeze the rectum, see FIG. 41B. FIGS. 42A and 42B show an embodiment similar to that of FIGS. 39A-39C except that the intermediate roller has a changeable diameter to release the rectum, see FIG. 42A, and squeeze the rectum, see FIG. 42B. FIGS. 43A and 43B show an embodiment similar to that of FIGS. 37A-37C except that the rigid elements are replaced by two cylindrical rollers positioned on opposite sides of the rectum. Finally, FIGS. 44A and 44B show an embodiment substantially similar to that of FIGS. 43A and 43B except that the restriction device is curved to form an S-shaped curvature of the rectum.
  • FIG. 45 schematically illustrates how any of the above-described embodiments of the anal incontinence treatment apparatus of the invention may be implanted in a patient. Thus, the apparatus comprises an [0144] adjustable restriction device 434 extending around the the rectum 435 of the patient and a motor operated adjustment device 436 for mechanically adjusting the restriction device 434 to squeeze rectum to thereby restrict the fecal passageway in the rectum. The motor, not shown, is integrated in the adjustment device 436 and is reversible to operate the adjustment device 436 to release the rectum from the restriction device 434 to allow defaecation. A wireless remote control of the apparatus comprises an external signal transmitter 438 incorporated in a portable remote-control unit and an implanted signal receiver 440, which comprises a control unit for controlling the adjustment device 436 in response to a control signal, for example an electromagnetic wave signal, from the transmitter 438. The signal receiver 440 further comprises an energizer unit which transfers energy from the control signal transmitted by the transmitter 438 into electric energy for energy consuming implanted components of the apparatus, such as the motor for operating the adjustment device 436. The electric energy is conducted via an implanted conductor 442 from the signal receiver 440 to the motor. When the patient needs to relieve himself (defaecation), he readily uses the portable remote control unit to activate the implanted adjustment device 436 to temporarily adjust the implanted restriction device 434 to start release the fecal passageway to allow defaecation.
  • A [0145] pressure sensor 439 is implanted for sensing the pressure on the restriction device 434. The control unit of the signal receiver 449 controls the adjustment device 436 to release the restriction device 434 in response to the pressure sensor 439 sensing an abnormal high pressure.
  • In the practice of the present invention the details of the elongated restriction device (such as a gastric band) and the adjustment/operation device (which may have electric, hydraulic, or mechanical, etc. actuation), may be as described in copending application Ser. No. 09/133,319, filed Aug. 13, 1998 (Atty Ref: 2333-12), Ser. No. 09/133,320, filed Aug. 13, 1998 (Atty Ref: 2333-11) and Ser. No. 09/133,322, filed Aug. 13, 1998 (Atty Ref: 2333-13), the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein. [0146]
  • There are a number of other conceivable alternative embodiments of the invention that give the same result as the above-described embodiments. For example, the microprocessor of the external and implanted, respectively, control unit may be replaced by discrete components. The power amplifier of the external control unit may be omitted if the signals generated by the signal generator are strong enough. Therefore the invention is to be accorded the broadest interpretation of the appended claims to encompass all equivalent structures and assemblies. [0147]

Claims (93)

What is claimed is:
1. An anal incontinence treatment apparatus, comprising:
an adjustable restriction device implanted in a patient, who suffers from anal incontinence, and engaging a portion of the colon or rectum of the patient to restrict the fecal passageway therein, and
an adjustment device which mechanically adjusts said restriction device to restrict or release the fecal passageway.
2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said adjustment device adjusts said restriction device in a non-magnetic manner.
3. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a powered operation device for operating said adjustment device.
4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said restriction device comprises at least one elongated restriction member and forming means for forming said restriction member into at least a substantially closed loop around said portion of the colon or rectum, said loop defining a restriction opening, whereby said adjustment device adjusts said restriction member in said loop to change the size of said restriction opening.
5. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said restriction device is implanted in the base of the rectum or the prolongation thereof.
6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said restriction device comprises at least two elements on different sides of said portion of the colon or rectum, and said adjustment device squeezes said portion of the colon or rectum between said elements to decrease the fecal passageway.
7. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said restriction device comprises one element on one side of said portion of the colon or rectum, and said adjustment device squeezes said portion of the colon or rectum between said element and the human bone or tissue to decrease the fecal passageway.
8. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein said restriction device comprises several elongated restriction members extending around the colon or rectum.
9. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said restriction device is non-inflatable.
10. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein said adjustment device adjusts the longitudinal extension of said elongated restriction member.
11. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein said restriction member comprises a main portion and two elongated end portions, and said adjustment device establishes a longitudinal relative displacement between said end portions of said restriction member, such that the size of said restriction opening is adjusted.
12. The apparatus according to claim 11, wherein said adjustment device comprises a movement transferring member in engagement with at least one of said end portions of said restriction member and operable to displace said one end portion relative to said other end portion of said restriction member.
13. The apparatus according to claim 12, further comprising a motor, which is fixed relative to said main portion of said restriction member and has a rotating drive shaft operatively connected to said movement transferring member.
14. The apparatus according to claim 13, wherein said motor is positioned relative to said elongated restriction member such that said drive shaft extends in parallel with a chord in said loop of the restriction member.
15. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein said elongated restriction member is longitudinally resilient and said adjustment device comprises a contraction device, which longitudinally contracts said resilient restriction member.
16. The apparatus according to claim 15, wherein said elongated restriction member comprises a substantially nonresilient main portion and an end portion forming an elongated helical spring, which is contractable by said contraction device.
17. The apparatus according to claim 16, wherein said contraction device comprises an elongated flexible pulling member connected to said main portion of said restriction member and extending through said helical spring to contract said helical spring against an arresting member, which is fixed relative to said main portion of said restriction member.
18. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein said restriction member comprises an elongated helical spring having a free end, and a body to which said spring is nonrotatably secured at its opposite end, said adjustment device rotates said helical spring in one direction to enlarge the coils of said helical spring to longitudinally contract said elongated helical spring and to rotate said helical spring in the opposite direction to reduce the size of the coils of said helical spring to longitudinally extend said helical spring.
19. The apparatus according to claim 18, wherein said restriction member comprises a further elongated helical spring having a free end and nonrotatably secured to said body at its opposite end, and said adjustment device comprises a drive shaft having two opposite end portions connected to said helical springs, respectively, at their free ends, said helical coils forming left and right hand helices, respectively.
20. The apparatus according to claim 19, wherein said restriction member comprises a further elongated helical spring having a free end and nonrotatably secured to said body at its opposite end, and said adjustment device comprises a gearing having an input shaft and two opposite aligned output shafts connected to said helical springs, respectively, at their free ends, said input shaft being connected to said output shafts such that said output shafts rotate in opposite directions upon rotation of said input shaft, said helical coils forming the same helices.
21. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein said restriction member forms a radially innermost at least partly circumferential confinement surface of said restriction member, and said adjustment device mechanically adjusts said restriction member such that at least a portion of said confinement surface is substantially radially displaced in said loop.
22. The apparatus according to claim 21, wherein said adjustment device comprises an elongated voltage responsive element forming part of said confinement surface and capable of bending into a bow in response to a voltage applied across said element, the radius of curvature of said bow being adjustable by changing the level of said voltage.
23. The apparatus according to claim 21, wherein said restriction member comprises an elastic annular element forming said confinement surface, and said adjustment device changes the diameter of said elastic annular element.
24. The apparatus according to claim 21, wherein said forming means comprises a substantially rigid outer annular element, and said restriction member comprises an elongated helical spring extending internally along said outer annular element and contacting the latter, said helical spring forming part of said circumferential confinement surface and having a free end, and a body to which said helical spring is nonrotatably secured at its opposite end, and said adjustment device rotates said helical spring in one direction to enlarge the coils of said helical spring to contract said circumferential confinement surface and rotates said helical spring in the opposite direction to reduce the size of the coils of said helical spring to expand said circumferential confinement surface.
25. The apparatus according to claim 21, wherein said forming means comprises a substantially rigid outer annular element, and said restriction member comprises a first and a second elongated helical spring extending internally along said outer annular element and contacting the latter, said helical springs forming part of said circumferential confinement surface, said first and said second spring, respectively, having a free end, and a body to which said first and said second spring, respectively, is nonrotatably secured at its opposite end, and said adjustment device rotates said first and said second spring, respectively, in one direction to enlarge the coils of said spring to contract said circumferential confinement surface and rotates said first and said second spring, respectively, in the opposite direction to reduce the size of the coils of said spring to expand said circumferential confinement surface.
26. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein said restriction member comprises at least two separate elements, at least one of which is pivoted such that it may turn in a plane in which said loop of said restriction member extends, and said adjustment device turns said pivoted element to change the size of said restriction opening.
27. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said restriction device comprises at least two frame elements, which are foldable towards each other by said adjustment device.
28. The apparatus according to claim 27, wherein said foldable frame elements comprise two substantially or partly semi-circular frame elements. which are hinged together such that said semi-circular elements are swingable relative to each other from a fully open state in which they substantially or partly form a circle to a fully folded state in which they substantially form a semi-circle.
29. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein said elongated restriction member is elastic and varies in thickness as seen in a cross-section therethrough, and said adjustment device turns said restriction member around the longitudinal extension thereof.
30. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a motor operatively connected to said adjustment device.
31. The apparatus according to claim 30, wherein said motor is fixed to said restriction device.
32. The apparatus according to claim 31, wherein said motor is remote from said restriction device and is connected to said adjustment device by a power transmission conduit.
33. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a hydraulic device which operates said adjustment device.
34. The apparatus according to claim 33, further comprising a reservoir containing a predetermined amount of fluid for supplying said hydraulic device with fluid.
35. The apparatus according to claim 34, wherein said reservoir defines a chamber for said predetermined amount of fluid and said hydraulic device changes the size of said chamber.
36. The apparatus according to claim 34, wherein said hydraulic device comprises an activatable pump for pumping fluid between said reservoir and said adjustment device.
37. The apparatus according to claim 34, wherein said hydraulic device comprises a servo means.
38. The apparatus according to claim 37, wherein said hydraulic device comprises first and second wall portions of said reservoir, and said servo means provides relative displacement between said first and second wall portions of said reservoir.
39. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a wireless remote control for controlling said adjustment device.
40. The apparatus according to claim 39, wherein said remote control comprises a separate signal transmitter and/or receiver and a signal receiver and/or transmitter implanted in the patient.
41. The apparatus according to claim 40, wherein said signal receiver comprises a control unit for controlling said adjustment device in response to a control signal received from said signal transmitter.
42. The apparatus according to claim 41, further comprising an energizer unit implanted in the patient for providing energy to energy consuming components of said restriction device.
43. The apparatus according to claim 42, further comprising a motor implanted in the patient for operating said adjustment device.
44. The apparatus according to claim 43, wherein said control unit powers said motor with energy provided by said energizer unit in response to a control signal received from said signal transmitter.
45. The apparatus according to claim 43, wherein said motor comprises an electric motor.
46. The apparatus according to claim 42, wherein said energizer unit transfers energy from said control signal, as the latter is transmitted to said signal receiver, into electric energy.
47. The apparatusaccording to claim 46, further comprising an electric motor implanted in the patient for operating said adjustment device, said energizer unit comprising a rechargeable electric power supply for storing said electric energy and said control unit powers said electric motor with energy from said rechargeable electric power supply in response to a control signal received from said signal transmitter.
48. The apparatus according to claim 42, wherein said energizer unit comprises a battery, an electrically operable switch for connecting said battery to said signal receiver in an “on” mode when said switch is powered and to keep said battery disconnected from said signal receiver means in a “standby” mode when said switch is unpowered, and a rechargeable electric power supply for powering said switch.
49. The apparatus according to claim 48, wherein said control unit powers said electric motor with energy from said battery in response to a control signal received from said signal transmitter, when said switch is in its “on” mode.
50. The apparatus according to claim 42, further comprising an external energy transmitter for transmitting wireless energy, wherein said energizer unit comprises a battery and an operable switch for connecting said battery to said signal receiver in an “on” mode when said switch is powered and to keep said battery disconnected from said signal receiver in a “standby” mode when said switch is unpowered, said external energy transmitter for powering said switch.
51. The apparatus according to claim 50, wherein said energy transmitter directly powers said switch with said wireless energy to switch into said “on” mode.
52. The apparatus according to claim 39, wherein said remote control comprises means for wireless transfer of energy from outside the patient's body to energy consuming components of said restriction device.
53. The apparatus according to claim 52, wherein said means for wireless transfer of energy directly powers said energy consuming components of said restriction device.
54. The apparatus according to claim 52, further comprising a motor implanted in the patient for operating said adjustment device, wherein said means for wireless transfer of energy directly powers said motor with transferred energy.
55. The apparatus according to claim 52, wherein said energy transferred by said means for transfer of energy comprises a wave signal.
56. The apparatus according to claim 52, wherein said energy transferred by said means for transfer of energy comprises an electric or magnetic field.
57. The apparatus according to claim 40, wherein said signal transmitter and signal receiver transmit and receive a signals in the form of digital pulses.
58. The apparatus according to claim 57, wherein said digital pulses comprise an electric or magnetic field.
59. The apparatus according to claim 40, wherein said signal transmitter and signal receiver transmit and receive a wave signal.
60. The apparatus according to claim 59, wherein said wave signal comprises an electromagnetic wave signal, a sound wave signal or a carrier wave signal for a remote control signal.
61. The apparatus according to claim 42, wherein said energizer unit transfers said energy from said control signal into a direct or alternating current.
62. The apparatus according to claim 39, wherein said remote control is capable of obtaining information related to the pressure against the restriction device, directly or indirectly, and of commanding said adjustment device to directly or indirectly adjust said restriction device in response to obtained information.
63. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein said adjustment device changes the size of said restriction opening such that the outer circumferential confinement surface of said restriction member is changed.
64. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein said adjustment device changes the size of said restriction opening such that the outer circumferential confinement surface of the restriction member is unchanged.
65. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein said forming means comprises a spring material forming said elongated restriction member into said loop, such that said restriction opening has a predetermined size, and said adjustment device adjusts said restriction member against the spring action of said spring material.
66. The apparatus according to claim 65, wherein said spring material is integrated in said restriction member.
67. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein said forming means form said restriction member into a loop having a predetermined size.
68. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein said elongated restriction member is flexible, and said adjustment device pulls a first portion of said flexible restriction member from a second portion of said flexible restriction member opposite said first portion in said loop to squeeze said portion of the rectum or colon between two opposite lengths of said elongated flexible restriction member to decrease the fecal passageway.
69. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said restriction device comprises at least two elements rotating in opposite direction thereof and being located spaced apart engaging the colon or rectum, and said adjustment device squeezes said portion of the colon or rectum between said elements when they are rotated to decrease the fecal passageway.
70. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said restriction device comprises at least two articulated clamping elements positioned on different sides of said portion of the colon or rectum, and said adjustment device moves said clamping elements towards each other to clamp said portion of the colon or rectum between said clamping elements to decrease the fecal passageway.
71. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said restriction device bends said portion of the colon or rectum.
72. The apparatus according to claim 71, wherein said restriction device comprises at least two bending members positioned on opposite or diferent sides of said portion of the colon or rectum, and said adjustment device moves said bending members against said portion of the colon or rectum in two opposite spaced apart directions to bend said portion of the colon or rectum to restrict the fecal passageway.
73. The apparatus according to claim 72, wherein said bending members comprise rollers.
74. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said restriction device rotates a portion of the colon or rectum.
75. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the colon or rectum form a fecal passageway and said restriction device controls the cross-sectional area of said fecal passageway.
76. The apparatus according to claim 75, wherein said restriction device is operable to open and close said fecal passageway to respectively allow, or substantially completely prevent, the passage of fecal material through said passageway.
77. The apparatus according to claim 76, wherein said restriction device steplessly controls the cross-sectional area of said fecal passageway.
78. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a pressure sensor for directly or indirectly sensing the pressure against the restriction device.
79. The apparatus according to claim 78, wherein said restriction device is controlled in response to signals from said pressure sensor.
80. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an implanted energy transfer device transferring wireless energy directly or indirectly into kinetic energy for operation of said restriction device.
81. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a reversing device implanted in the patient, wherein said restriction device is capable of performing a reversible function and said reversing device reverses said function.
82. The apparatus according to claim 30, comprising a reversing device implanted in the patient for reversing said motor.
83. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said adjustment device or other energy consuming components of the apparatus are energised with wirelessly transmitted energy from outside the patient's body.
84. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an implanted accumulator or battery and means for controlling said accumulator or battery from outside the patient's body to supply energy to said adjustment device or other implanted energy consuming components of the apparatus
85. The apparatus according to claim 42, wherein said energizer unit comprise an implanted battery or accumulator for providing energy to energy consuming components of said restriction device.
86. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said adjustment device adjusts said restriction device in a non-manual manner.
87. A method for treating anal incontinence, comprising:
surgically implanting in the body of a patient suffering from anal incontinence an adjustable restriction device which directly engages the colon or rectum to form a normally closed fecal passageway therein, and
when desired, mechanically adjusting the restriction device to temporarily open the fecal passageway to allow the passage of fecal material therethrough.
88. A surgical method as recited in claim 87, further comprising implanting the adjustable restriction device in the base or prolongation of the patient's rectum.
89. A surgical method as recited in claim 87, further comprising implanting at least two restriction devices engaging the colon or rectum
90. A method for treating anal incontinence, comprising the steps of:
placing at least two laparascopical trocars in the body of a patient suffering from anal incontinence,
inserting a dissecting tool through the trocars and dissecting an area of the colon or rectum in the abdominal or pelvic or retoperitoneal surroundings,
placing at least one adjustable restriction device in the dissected area engaging the rectum or colon, and'
adjusting the restriction device to normally restrict the fecal passageway in the rectum or colon to substantially prevent the passage of fecal material therethrough, and when defaecation is needed release the fecal passageway to allow the passage of fecal material therethrough.
91. A surgical method as recited in claim 90, further comprising mechanically adjusting the restriction device.
92. A surgical method as recited in claim 90, further comprising adjusting the restriction device in a non-manual manner.
93. A surgical method as recited in claim 90, further comprising implanting a source of energy in the patient and providing a control device for controlling the source of energy from outside the patient's body to supply energy to the restriction device
US10/269,949 2000-02-11 2002-10-15 Mechanical anal incontinence Abandoned US20030032857A1 (en)

Priority Applications (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US10/269,949 US20030032857A1 (en) 2000-02-11 2002-10-15 Mechanical anal incontinence
US11/476,107 US8734318B2 (en) 2000-02-11 2006-06-28 Mechanical anal incontinence
US14/265,373 US9883934B2 (en) 2000-02-11 2014-04-30 Mechanical anal incontinence apparatus
US15/888,891 US20180250113A1 (en) 2000-02-11 2018-02-05 Mechanical anal incontinence

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US09/503,148 US6464628B1 (en) 1999-08-12 2000-02-11 Mechanical anal incontinence
US10/269,949 US20030032857A1 (en) 2000-02-11 2002-10-15 Mechanical anal incontinence

Related Parent Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US09/503,148 Continuation US6464628B1 (en) 1999-08-12 2000-02-11 Mechanical anal incontinence

Related Child Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US11/476,107 Continuation US8734318B2 (en) 2000-02-11 2006-06-28 Mechanical anal incontinence

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20030032857A1 true US20030032857A1 (en) 2003-02-13

Family

ID=24000910

Family Applications (5)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US09/503,148 Expired - Lifetime US6464628B1 (en) 1999-08-12 2000-02-11 Mechanical anal incontinence
US10/269,949 Abandoned US20030032857A1 (en) 2000-02-11 2002-10-15 Mechanical anal incontinence
US11/476,107 Expired - Fee Related US8734318B2 (en) 2000-02-11 2006-06-28 Mechanical anal incontinence
US14/265,373 Expired - Fee Related US9883934B2 (en) 2000-02-11 2014-04-30 Mechanical anal incontinence apparatus
US15/888,891 Abandoned US20180250113A1 (en) 2000-02-11 2018-02-05 Mechanical anal incontinence

Family Applications Before (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US09/503,148 Expired - Lifetime US6464628B1 (en) 1999-08-12 2000-02-11 Mechanical anal incontinence

Family Applications After (3)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US11/476,107 Expired - Fee Related US8734318B2 (en) 2000-02-11 2006-06-28 Mechanical anal incontinence
US14/265,373 Expired - Fee Related US9883934B2 (en) 2000-02-11 2014-04-30 Mechanical anal incontinence apparatus
US15/888,891 Abandoned US20180250113A1 (en) 2000-02-11 2018-02-05 Mechanical anal incontinence

Country Status (7)

Country Link
US (5) US6464628B1 (en)
EP (2) EP1518514A3 (en)
AT (1) ATE315371T1 (en)
AU (1) AU3427101A (en)
DE (1) DE60116600T2 (en)
HK (1) HK1052854A1 (en)
WO (1) WO2001047431A2 (en)

Cited By (89)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20030125605A1 (en) * 2000-02-11 2003-07-03 Peter Forsell Controlled impotence treatment
WO2005065575A1 (en) * 2004-01-02 2005-07-21 Yehiel Ziv Gastrointestinal device
US20060111791A1 (en) * 2002-07-29 2006-05-25 Peter Forsell Durable implant
US20060199997A1 (en) * 2005-02-24 2006-09-07 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Monitoring of a food intake restriction device
US20060211912A1 (en) * 2005-02-24 2006-09-21 Dlugos Daniel F External pressure-based gastric band adjustment system and method
US20060211914A1 (en) * 2005-02-24 2006-09-21 Hassler William L Jr System and method for determining implanted device positioning and obtaining pressure data
US20060211913A1 (en) * 2005-02-24 2006-09-21 Dlugos Daniel F Non-invasive pressure measurement in a fluid adjustable restrictive device
US20060235263A1 (en) * 2005-03-18 2006-10-19 Jacobson Technologies, Llc Palpable, implantable actuator
US20060244291A1 (en) * 2005-04-29 2006-11-02 Buell Motorcycle Company Movable tailrack for a motorcycle
US20060264982A1 (en) * 2005-05-20 2006-11-23 Viola Frank J Gastric restrictor assembly and method of use
US20060264981A1 (en) * 2005-05-20 2006-11-23 Viola Frank J Gastric restrictor assembly and method of use
US20060264983A1 (en) * 2005-05-20 2006-11-23 Henry Holsten Gastric restrictor assembly and method of use
US20070015959A1 (en) * 2000-02-14 2007-01-18 Obtech Medical Ag Male impotence prosthesis apparatus with wireless energy supply
US20070016230A1 (en) * 2005-07-15 2007-01-18 Jambor Kristin L Gastric band
US20070015954A1 (en) * 2005-07-15 2007-01-18 Dlugos Daniel F Gastric band with mating end profiles
US20070015955A1 (en) * 2005-07-15 2007-01-18 Mark Tsonton Accordion-like gastric band
US20070016231A1 (en) * 2005-07-15 2007-01-18 Jambor Kristin L Precurved gastric band
US20070016229A1 (en) * 2005-07-15 2007-01-18 Jambor Kristin L Gastric band suture tab extender
US20070173685A1 (en) * 2005-07-15 2007-07-26 Jambor Kristin L Method of implating a medical device using a suture tab extender
WO2007107990A2 (en) * 2006-03-20 2007-09-27 Svip 2 Llc Pyloric devices and methods
US20070250086A1 (en) * 2005-07-15 2007-10-25 Wiley Jeffrey P Gastric band composed of different hardness materials
US20080004487A1 (en) * 2006-06-29 2008-01-03 Haverfield Maxwell E Method of treating anal incontinence
US20080045783A1 (en) * 2002-07-29 2008-02-21 Peter Forsell Multi-material incontinence treatment construction device
US20080097496A1 (en) * 2006-10-20 2008-04-24 Arvin Chang System and method for securing an implantable interface to a mammal
US20080097487A1 (en) * 2006-10-20 2008-04-24 Scott Pool Method and apparatus for adjusting a gastrointestinal restriction device
US20080200753A1 (en) * 2003-01-31 2008-08-21 Potencia Medical Ag Electrically operable incontinence treatment apparatus
US20080200965A1 (en) * 2003-01-31 2008-08-21 Potencia Medical Ag Electrically operable incontinence treatment apparatus
US7416528B2 (en) 2005-07-15 2008-08-26 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Latching device for gastric band
US20080319470A1 (en) * 2007-06-20 2008-12-25 Viola Frank J Gastric restrictor assembly and method of use
US20090054725A1 (en) * 2000-02-10 2009-02-26 Obtech Medical Ag Mechanical impotence treatment apparatus
US20090156891A1 (en) * 2007-12-12 2009-06-18 Ams Research Corporation Prolapse and Perineal Repair Concepts
US20090240100A1 (en) * 2007-10-11 2009-09-24 Milux Holding S.A. Schneider, Luxembourg Method for controlling flow of intestinal contents in a patient's intestines
US7658196B2 (en) 2005-02-24 2010-02-09 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. System and method for determining implanted device orientation
US20100145139A1 (en) * 2000-02-10 2010-06-10 Obtech Medical Ag Controlled urinary incontinence treatment
US7844342B2 (en) 2008-02-07 2010-11-30 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Powering implantable restriction systems using light
US20100312164A1 (en) * 2008-01-28 2010-12-09 Peter Forsell Implantable drainage device
US20100331616A1 (en) * 2008-10-10 2010-12-30 Peter Forsell Method and instrument for treating obesity
US20110015473A1 (en) * 2009-07-17 2011-01-20 Teslux Holdings S.A. Vaginal operation method for the treatment of urinary incontinence in women
US20110040143A1 (en) * 2000-02-11 2011-02-17 Obtech Medical Ag Impotence treatment apparatus with energy transforming means
US20110066254A1 (en) * 2007-10-11 2011-03-17 Peter Forsell Method for controlling flow in a bodily organ
US7909754B2 (en) 2005-02-24 2011-03-22 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Non-invasive measurement of fluid pressure in an adjustable gastric band
US20110082328A1 (en) * 2007-01-03 2011-04-07 Christian Gozzi Methods for installing sling to treat fecal incontinence, and related devices
US20110087337A1 (en) * 2007-10-11 2011-04-14 Peter Forsell Apparatus for controlling flow in a bodily organ
US20110087250A1 (en) * 2008-04-14 2011-04-14 Compagnie Europeenne d'Etude et de Recherche de Recherhe de Dispositifs pour I'lmplantation par La Gastric ring with switching pockets
US7927270B2 (en) 2005-02-24 2011-04-19 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. External mechanical pressure sensor for gastric band pressure measurements
US20110196485A1 (en) * 2008-10-10 2011-08-11 Peter Forsell Heart help device, system, and method
US20110192402A1 (en) * 2008-10-10 2011-08-11 Milux Holding S.A. Apparatus for temporary male contraception
US20110202041A1 (en) * 2008-10-10 2011-08-18 Milux Holding Sa Fastening means for implantable medical control assembly
US20110202131A1 (en) * 2008-10-10 2011-08-18 Milux Holding Sa Heart help device, system, and method
US8034065B2 (en) 2008-02-26 2011-10-11 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Controlling pressure in adjustable restriction devices
US8057492B2 (en) 2008-02-12 2011-11-15 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Automatically adjusting band system with MEMS pump
US8066629B2 (en) 2005-02-24 2011-11-29 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Apparatus for adjustment and sensing of gastric band pressure
US20110301668A1 (en) * 2008-11-21 2011-12-08 Milux Holding Sa System, method and apparatus for supplying energy to an implantable medical device
US8096938B2 (en) 1999-08-12 2012-01-17 Obtech Medical Ag Controlled anal incontinence disease treatment
US8096939B2 (en) 2000-02-10 2012-01-17 Obtech Medical Ag Urinary incontinence treatment with wireless energy supply
US8100870B2 (en) 2007-12-14 2012-01-24 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Adjustable height gastric restriction devices and methods
US8114345B2 (en) 2008-02-08 2012-02-14 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. System and method of sterilizing an implantable medical device
US8126558B2 (en) 2000-02-14 2012-02-28 Obtech Medical Ag Controlled penile prosthesis
US8142452B2 (en) 2007-12-27 2012-03-27 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Controlling pressure in adjustable restriction devices
US8152710B2 (en) 2006-04-06 2012-04-10 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Physiological parameter analysis for an implantable restriction device and a data logger
US8187163B2 (en) 2007-12-10 2012-05-29 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Methods for implanting a gastric restriction device
US8187162B2 (en) 2008-03-06 2012-05-29 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Reorientation port
US8192350B2 (en) 2008-01-28 2012-06-05 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Methods and devices for measuring impedance in a gastric restriction system
US8221439B2 (en) 2008-02-07 2012-07-17 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Powering implantable restriction systems using kinetic motion
US8233995B2 (en) 2008-03-06 2012-07-31 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. System and method of aligning an implantable antenna
US8313423B2 (en) 2000-02-14 2012-11-20 Peter Forsell Hydraulic anal incontinence treatment
US8337389B2 (en) 2008-01-28 2012-12-25 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Methods and devices for diagnosing performance of a gastric restriction system
US8377079B2 (en) 2007-12-27 2013-02-19 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Constant force mechanisms for regulating restriction devices
US8439819B2 (en) 2007-11-08 2013-05-14 Renew Medical, Inc. Fecal incontinence device, system and method
US8545384B2 (en) 1999-08-12 2013-10-01 Obtech Medical Ag Anal incontinence disease treatment with controlled wireless energy supply
US8591532B2 (en) 2008-02-12 2013-11-26 Ethicon Endo-Sugery, Inc. Automatically adjusting band system
US8591395B2 (en) 2008-01-28 2013-11-26 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Gastric restriction device data handling devices and methods
US8600510B2 (en) 2008-10-10 2013-12-03 Milux Holding Sa Apparatus, system and operation method for the treatment of female sexual dysfunction
US8734318B2 (en) 2000-02-11 2014-05-27 Obtech Medical Ag Mechanical anal incontinence
US8764627B2 (en) 2000-02-14 2014-07-01 Obtech Medical Ag Penile prosthesis
US20140213988A1 (en) * 2011-09-02 2014-07-31 Perouse Medical Kit for maneuvering an element present in the body of a patient, comprising an implantable chamber
US8795153B2 (en) 2007-10-11 2014-08-05 Peter Forsell Method for treating female sexual dysfunction
US8874215B2 (en) 2008-10-10 2014-10-28 Peter Forsell System, an apparatus, and a method for treating a sexual dysfunctional female patient
US8870742B2 (en) 2006-04-06 2014-10-28 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. GUI for an implantable restriction device and a data logger
US9198755B2 (en) 2008-03-25 2015-12-01 Ellipse Technologies, Inc. Adjustable implant system
US9949812B2 (en) 2009-07-17 2018-04-24 Peter Forsell Vaginal operation method for the treatment of anal incontinence in women
US10016220B2 (en) 2011-11-01 2018-07-10 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. Adjustable magnetic devices and methods of using same
US10219898B2 (en) 2008-10-10 2019-03-05 Peter Forsell Artificial valve
US10238427B2 (en) 2015-02-19 2019-03-26 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. Systems and methods for vertebral adjustment
US10271885B2 (en) 2014-12-26 2019-04-30 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. Systems and methods for distraction
US10349995B2 (en) 2007-10-30 2019-07-16 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. Skeletal manipulation method
US10405891B2 (en) 2010-08-09 2019-09-10 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. Maintenance feature in magnetic implant
US10517643B2 (en) 2009-02-23 2019-12-31 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. Non-invasive adjustable distraction system
US11246694B2 (en) 2014-04-28 2022-02-15 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. System for informational magnetic feedback in adjustable implants

Families Citing this family (115)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2002011696A2 (en) 2000-08-08 2002-02-14 Ev & M Active tissue augmentation materials and method
ES2362583T3 (en) 2000-08-25 2011-07-07 Contura A/S POLYACRYLAMIDE HYDROGEL AND ITS USE AS AN ENDOPROOTHESIS.
MY130475A (en) 2000-08-25 2007-06-29 Contura As Polyacrylamide hydrogel and its use as an endoprosthesis
US7087088B2 (en) * 2001-05-24 2006-08-08 Torax Medical, Inc. Methods and apparatus for regulating the flow of matter through body tubing
US7497822B1 (en) 2003-04-10 2009-03-03 Torax Medical, Inc. Stomach reduction methods and apparatus
US7695427B2 (en) * 2002-04-26 2010-04-13 Torax Medical, Inc. Methods and apparatus for treating body tissue sphincters and the like
US7445010B2 (en) 2003-01-29 2008-11-04 Torax Medical, Inc. Use of magnetic implants to treat issue structures
US7338433B2 (en) 2002-08-13 2008-03-04 Allergan, Inc. Remotely adjustable gastric banding method
DE60331457D1 (en) 2002-08-28 2010-04-08 Allergan Inc TEMPTING MAGNETIC BANDING DEVICE
US7972346B2 (en) * 2002-09-04 2011-07-05 Allergan Medical S.A. Telemetrically controlled band for regulating functioning of a body organ or duct, and methods of making, implantation and use
WO2004066887A1 (en) * 2003-01-31 2004-08-12 Potencia Medical Ag Incontinence treatment apparatus with connection device
DE60316035T2 (en) 2003-01-31 2008-05-15 Potencia Medical Ag DEVICE FOR SAFE INCONTINENCE TREATMENT
PT2399528E (en) 2004-01-23 2013-02-26 Allergan Inc Releasably-securable one-piece adjustable gastric band
CA2559056A1 (en) 2004-03-08 2005-09-22 Endoart S.A. Closure system for tubular organs
EP1732635B1 (en) 2004-03-18 2011-07-27 Allergan, Inc. Apparatus for volume adjustment of intragastric balloons
DE102004018807B4 (en) * 2004-04-15 2006-02-09 Universitätsklinikum Freiburg Implantable sphincter prosthesis system, in particular for use in the region of the anal canal
ES2268612T3 (en) * 2004-05-03 2007-03-16 C.R.F. Societa Consortile Per Azioni SHUTTER DEVICE WITH MEMORY FORM.
US7727140B2 (en) * 2004-06-21 2010-06-01 Department Of Veterans Affairs Surgically implantable perineal urinary incontinence device
US7955357B2 (en) 2004-07-02 2011-06-07 Ellipse Technologies, Inc. Expandable rod system to treat scoliosis and method of using the same
US7360544B2 (en) * 2004-09-29 2008-04-22 Levien David H Inhibition action incontinence device and method
JP2008537898A (en) * 2005-02-11 2008-10-02 ミカーディア コーポレーション Dynamically adjustable gastric implant and method for treating obesity using the same
US8251888B2 (en) 2005-04-13 2012-08-28 Mitchell Steven Roslin Artificial gastric valve
US20070010815A1 (en) * 2005-06-30 2007-01-11 Sdgi Holdings, Inc. Fixation systems with modulated stiffness
TWM279378U (en) * 2005-07-01 2005-11-01 Shao-Ling Ting The enclosing structure of the golf clubs bags
US7850778B2 (en) * 2005-09-06 2010-12-14 Lemaire Charles A Apparatus and method for growing fullerene nanotube forests, and forming nanotube films, threads and composite structures therefrom
BRPI0505102A (en) * 2005-11-22 2007-08-07 Renato Samy Assad Improvements introduced in pulmonary trunk bandage device
US7798954B2 (en) 2006-01-04 2010-09-21 Allergan, Inc. Hydraulic gastric band with collapsible reservoir
US8043206B2 (en) 2006-01-04 2011-10-25 Allergan, Inc. Self-regulating gastric band with pressure data processing
US20070185260A1 (en) * 2006-02-03 2007-08-09 Hsi-Liang Lin Heat-resisting silicone materials containing inorganic ceramic hollow microspheres
US20070181697A1 (en) * 2006-02-03 2007-08-09 Power Data Communications Co., Ltd. & Chien-Yuan Chen Method of a USB interface device with a discrimination function
US7908700B2 (en) * 2006-02-28 2011-03-22 Dipippo Joe J Self-cleaning hair brush
US7763039B2 (en) * 2006-06-09 2010-07-27 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Articulating blunt dissector/gastric band application device
US20070288033A1 (en) * 2006-06-09 2007-12-13 Allergan, Inc. Intragastric balloon retrieval mechanisms
US9326877B2 (en) * 2006-09-29 2016-05-03 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Apparatus and method for intragastric balloon with in situ adjustment means
US20080255601A1 (en) * 2007-04-13 2008-10-16 Allergan, Inc. Apparatus and method for remote deflation of intragastric balloon
AU2008311439A1 (en) * 2007-10-12 2009-04-16 Milux Holding Sa An ostomy accessory
US11202707B2 (en) 2008-03-25 2021-12-21 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. Adjustable implant system
EP2471572A3 (en) 2008-04-17 2012-10-17 Allergan, Inc. Implantable access port device
US9023063B2 (en) 2008-04-17 2015-05-05 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Implantable access port device having a safety cap
AU2009257591A1 (en) 2008-06-11 2009-12-17 Allergan, Inc. Implantable pump system
EP2362762A1 (en) 2008-10-06 2011-09-07 Allergan Medical Sàrl Mechanical gastric band with cushions
US20100185049A1 (en) 2008-10-22 2010-07-22 Allergan, Inc. Dome and screw valves for remotely adjustable gastric banding systems
US8382756B2 (en) 2008-11-10 2013-02-26 Ellipse Technologies, Inc. External adjustment device for distraction device
US9622792B2 (en) 2009-04-29 2017-04-18 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. Interspinous process device and method
US8715158B2 (en) 2009-08-26 2014-05-06 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Implantable bottom exit port
US8708979B2 (en) 2009-08-26 2014-04-29 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Implantable coupling device
US8506532B2 (en) 2009-08-26 2013-08-13 Allergan, Inc. System including access port and applicator tool
US8882728B2 (en) 2010-02-10 2014-11-11 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Implantable injection port
US8678993B2 (en) 2010-02-12 2014-03-25 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Remotely adjustable gastric banding system
US8758221B2 (en) 2010-02-24 2014-06-24 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Source reservoir with potential energy for remotely adjustable gastric banding system
US8764624B2 (en) 2010-02-25 2014-07-01 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Inductively powered remotely adjustable gastric banding system
US8840541B2 (en) 2010-02-25 2014-09-23 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Pressure sensing gastric banding system
US9289278B2 (en) 2010-03-16 2016-03-22 Pelvalon, Inc. Intra-vaginal devices and methods for treating fecal incontinence
CA2793488C (en) 2010-03-16 2018-06-19 Pelvalon, Inc. Intra-vaginal device for fecal incontinence
US8939888B2 (en) 2010-04-28 2015-01-27 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Method and system for determining the pressure of a fluid in a syringe, an access port, a catheter, and a gastric band
US9028394B2 (en) 2010-04-29 2015-05-12 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Self-adjusting mechanical gastric band
US9044298B2 (en) 2010-04-29 2015-06-02 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Self-adjusting gastric band
US20110270024A1 (en) 2010-04-29 2011-11-03 Allergan, Inc. Self-adjusting gastric band having various compliant components
US8992415B2 (en) 2010-04-30 2015-03-31 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Implantable device to protect tubing from puncture
US20110270025A1 (en) 2010-04-30 2011-11-03 Allergan, Inc. Remotely powered remotely adjustable gastric band system
US20110270021A1 (en) 2010-04-30 2011-11-03 Allergan, Inc. Electronically enhanced access port for a fluid filled implant
US8594806B2 (en) 2010-04-30 2013-11-26 Cyberonics, Inc. Recharging and communication lead for an implantable device
US9226840B2 (en) 2010-06-03 2016-01-05 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Magnetically coupled implantable pump system and method
US8517915B2 (en) 2010-06-10 2013-08-27 Allergan, Inc. Remotely adjustable gastric banding system
US9248043B2 (en) 2010-06-30 2016-02-02 Ellipse Technologies, Inc. External adjustment device for distraction device
US20120041258A1 (en) 2010-08-16 2012-02-16 Allergan, Inc. Implantable access port system
US9211207B2 (en) 2010-08-18 2015-12-15 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Power regulated implant
US8698373B2 (en) 2010-08-18 2014-04-15 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Pare piezo power with energy recovery
US20120059216A1 (en) 2010-09-07 2012-03-08 Allergan, Inc. Remotely adjustable gastric banding system
US20120065460A1 (en) 2010-09-14 2012-03-15 Greg Nitka Implantable access port system
WO2012054514A2 (en) 2010-10-18 2012-04-26 Allergan, Inc. Intragastric implants with duodenal anchors
US8870966B2 (en) 2010-10-18 2014-10-28 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Intragastric balloon for treating obesity
ES2565348T3 (en) 2010-10-18 2016-04-04 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Intragastric implant reagent devices
US9463107B2 (en) 2010-10-18 2016-10-11 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Variable size intragastric implant devices
US8920447B2 (en) 2010-10-19 2014-12-30 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Articulated gastric implant clip
US9398969B2 (en) 2010-10-19 2016-07-26 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Upper stomach gastric implants
US8864840B2 (en) 2010-10-19 2014-10-21 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Intragastric implants with collapsible frames
ES2593753T3 (en) 2010-10-19 2016-12-13 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Duodenal sleeve with anchor without perforation
US9198790B2 (en) 2010-10-19 2015-12-01 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Upper stomach gastric implants
US9498365B2 (en) 2010-10-19 2016-11-22 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Intragastric implants with multiple fluid chambers
US8961393B2 (en) 2010-11-15 2015-02-24 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Gastric band devices and drive systems
WO2012112396A2 (en) 2011-02-14 2012-08-23 Ellipse Technologies, Inc. Device and method for treating fractured bones
US8888732B2 (en) 2011-03-11 2014-11-18 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Intraluminal sleeve with active agents
US8725435B2 (en) 2011-04-13 2014-05-13 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Syringe-based leak detection system
US8821373B2 (en) 2011-05-10 2014-09-02 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Directionless (orientation independent) needle injection port
US8801597B2 (en) 2011-08-25 2014-08-12 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Implantable access port with mesh attachment rivets
EP2757987A4 (en) 2011-09-22 2015-07-08 Pelvalon Inc Intra-vaginal devices and methods for treating fecal incontinence
US10743794B2 (en) 2011-10-04 2020-08-18 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. Devices and methods for non-invasive implant length sensing
US9199069B2 (en) 2011-10-20 2015-12-01 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Implantable injection port
US8858421B2 (en) 2011-11-15 2014-10-14 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Interior needle stick guard stems for tubes
US9089395B2 (en) 2011-11-16 2015-07-28 Appolo Endosurgery, Inc. Pre-loaded septum for use with an access port
US8876694B2 (en) 2011-12-07 2014-11-04 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Tube connector with a guiding tip
US8961394B2 (en) 2011-12-20 2015-02-24 Apollo Endosurgery, Inc. Self-sealing fluid joint for use with a gastric band
US8801594B2 (en) 2012-05-08 2014-08-12 Terence M. Fogarty Fluid control system for inflatable sphincter prostheses
CA2785105C (en) 2012-08-09 2014-04-22 Lotek Wireless Inc. Self-adjusting magnetic link
US9343923B2 (en) 2012-08-23 2016-05-17 Cyberonics, Inc. Implantable medical device with backscatter signal based communication
US9935498B2 (en) 2012-09-25 2018-04-03 Cyberonics, Inc. Communication efficiency with an implantable medical device using a circulator and a backscatter signal
EP2911616B1 (en) 2012-10-29 2020-10-07 NuVasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. Adjustable devices for treating arthritis of the knee
US9999490B2 (en) 2013-02-14 2018-06-19 Pelvalon, Inc. Intra-vaginal devices and methods for treating fecal incontinence
US10751094B2 (en) 2013-10-10 2020-08-25 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. Adjustable spinal implant
CN103637859B (en) * 2013-12-19 2015-05-27 上海交通大学 Finger lock type artificial anal sphincter prosthesis
US9387129B2 (en) 2014-07-14 2016-07-12 Jorge Bravo Device and method to avert anal fecal leakage
BR112018007347A2 (en) 2015-10-16 2018-10-23 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. adjustable devices for the treatment of knee arthritis
WO2017100774A1 (en) 2015-12-10 2017-06-15 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. External adjustment device for distraction device
KR20180107173A (en) 2016-01-28 2018-10-01 누베이시브 스페셜라이즈드 오소페딕스, 인크. System for osteotomy
US10603199B2 (en) 2017-05-15 2020-03-31 Covidien Lp Sphincter assist device and method of use
US10548604B2 (en) * 2018-01-05 2020-02-04 Richard A Rizzolo Slow blood vessel occlusion apparatus
US11324512B2 (en) 2018-10-26 2022-05-10 Torax Medical, Inc. Magnetic sphincter augmentation device for urinary incontinence
US11051931B2 (en) 2018-10-31 2021-07-06 Cilag Gmbh International Active sphincter implant to re-route flow through gastrointestinal tract
US11376146B2 (en) 2018-12-17 2022-07-05 Cilag Gmbh International Tissue interface features for implantable sphincter assistance device
US11478347B2 (en) 2018-12-17 2022-10-25 Cilag Gmbh International Sphincter sizing instrument
US11071619B2 (en) 2018-12-17 2021-07-27 Cilag Gmbh International Coupling assembly for implantable sphincter assistance device
US10842496B2 (en) 2018-12-17 2020-11-24 Ethicon Llc Implantable sphincter assistance device with tuned magnetic features
US11399928B2 (en) 2018-12-19 2022-08-02 Cilag Gmbh International Linking elements for implantable sphincter assistance device
US11298136B2 (en) 2018-12-19 2022-04-12 Cilag Gmbh International Implantable sphincter assistance device with deformable elements

Citations (16)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3750194A (en) * 1971-03-16 1973-08-07 Fairchild Industries Apparatus and method for reversibly closing a natural or implanted body passage
US3875928A (en) * 1973-08-16 1975-04-08 Angelchik Jean P Method for maintaining the reduction of a sliding esophageal hiatal hernia
US4246893A (en) * 1978-07-05 1981-01-27 Daniel Berson Inflatable gastric device for treating obesity
US4592355A (en) * 1983-01-28 1986-06-03 Eliahu Antebi Process for tying live tissue and an instrument for performing the tying operation
US4696288A (en) * 1985-08-14 1987-09-29 Kuzmak Lubomyr I Calibrating apparatus and method of using same for gastric banding surgery
US5074868A (en) * 1990-08-03 1991-12-24 Inamed Development Company Reversible stoma-adjustable gastric band
US5160338A (en) * 1991-11-13 1992-11-03 Inamed Development Co. Device for removing implantable articles
US5226429A (en) * 1991-06-20 1993-07-13 Inamed Development Co. Laparoscopic gastric band and method
US5449368A (en) * 1993-02-18 1995-09-12 Kuzmak; Lubomyr I. Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding device and method for implantation and removal thereof
US5509888A (en) * 1994-07-26 1996-04-23 Conceptek Corporation Controller valve device and method
US5704893A (en) * 1994-07-11 1998-01-06 Dacomed Corportion Vessel occlusive apparatus and method
US5769877A (en) * 1995-01-04 1998-06-23 Plexus, Inc. High value capacitive, replenishable power source
US5910149A (en) * 1998-04-29 1999-06-08 Kuzmak; Lubomyr I. Non-slipping gastric band
US5938669A (en) * 1997-05-07 1999-08-17 Klasamed S.A. Adjustable gastric banding device for contracting a patient's stomach
US5978712A (en) * 1996-10-30 1999-11-02 Nihon Kohden Corporation Stimulating apparatus for preventing urinary incontinence
US6074341A (en) * 1998-06-09 2000-06-13 Timm Medical Technologies, Inc. Vessel occlusive apparatus and method

Family Cites Families (530)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2060913A (en) 1934-07-07 1936-11-17 Western Electric Co Electrical conductor
US2245030A (en) 1940-07-19 1941-06-10 Gottesfeld Benjamin Harvey Tubing clamp for intravenous operations
US2455859A (en) 1946-05-13 1948-12-07 Frederic E B Foley Artificial sphincter and method
US2795641A (en) 1953-12-03 1957-06-11 Rowell Ross Fredrick Cord supporting coil
GB885674A (en) 1959-07-20 1961-12-28 Interscience Res Corp Improvements in or relating to mechanical hearts
US3209081A (en) 1961-10-02 1965-09-28 Behrman A Ducote Subcutaneously implanted electronic device
US3357432A (en) 1965-02-09 1967-12-12 Edwards Lab Inc Anastomotic coupling
SE344275B (en) 1966-02-10 1972-04-10 R Gruenert
GB1194358A (en) 1967-11-22 1970-06-10 Dana Christopher Mears Fluid Flow Control Valve.
GB1222731A (en) 1968-07-01 1971-02-17 Bireswar Bysakh Vibrator device
US3662758A (en) 1969-06-30 1972-05-16 Mentor Corp Stimulator apparatus for muscular organs with external transmitter and implantable receiver
US3598287A (en) 1969-08-01 1971-08-10 Heiko T De Man Liquid dispenser with level control
US3705575A (en) 1969-09-26 1972-12-12 Lynn Euryl Edwards Incontinence device for female use
US3731681A (en) 1970-05-18 1973-05-08 Univ Minnesota Implantable indusion pump
US3731679A (en) 1970-10-19 1973-05-08 Sherwood Medical Ind Inc Infusion system
US3810259A (en) 1971-01-25 1974-05-14 Fairchild Industries Implantable urinary control apparatus
US3692027A (en) 1971-04-23 1972-09-19 Everett H Ellinwood Jr Implanted medication dispensing device and method
FR2138333B1 (en) 1971-05-24 1974-03-08 Rhone Poulenc Sa
DE2220117C3 (en) 1972-04-25 1975-01-09 Bleier, Waldemar, Dr.Med., 6630 Saarlouis Clip for long-term reversible or permanent interruption of express parents and vas deferens within the human or animal organism as well as instruments for setting the clip
US3817237A (en) 1972-08-24 1974-06-18 Medtronic Inc Regulatory apparatus
US3863622A (en) 1973-01-09 1975-02-04 Robert Enno Buuck Incontinence system and methods of implanting and using same
FR2248015A1 (en) 1973-10-17 1975-05-16 Rhone Poulenc Ind Artificial ureter or urethra - watertight flexible tube has helical rib in outside wall to prevent creasing
US3906674A (en) 1973-12-13 1975-09-23 Lowell D Stone Valve cleaner
US4003379A (en) 1974-04-23 1977-01-18 Ellinwood Jr Everett H Apparatus and method for implanted self-powered medication dispensing
US3923060A (en) 1974-04-23 1975-12-02 Jr Everett H Ellinwood Apparatus and method for implanted self-powered medication dispensing having timing and evaluator means
US4146029A (en) 1974-04-23 1979-03-27 Ellinwood Jr Everett H Self-powered implanted programmable medication system and method
US3954102A (en) 1974-07-19 1976-05-04 American Medical Systems, Inc. Penile erection system and methods of implanting and using same
US3939823A (en) 1975-01-28 1976-02-24 The United States Of America As Represented By The Department Of Health, Education And Welfare Esophageal transducer
US4026305A (en) 1975-06-26 1977-05-31 Research Corporation Low current telemetry system for cardiac pacers
FR2347030A1 (en) 1975-08-04 1977-11-04 Guiset Jacques PROTHETIC BLADDER
US4050449A (en) 1976-02-25 1977-09-27 Medical Products Development Corporation Apparatus for exercising muscles of a female patient's pelvic diaphragm
US4009711A (en) 1976-03-17 1977-03-01 Uson Aurelio C Penile prosthesis for the management of erectile impotence
US4118805A (en) * 1977-02-28 1978-10-10 Codman & Shurtleff, Inc. Artificial sphincter
US4153059A (en) 1977-10-25 1979-05-08 Minnesota Mining And Manufacturing Company Urinary incontinence stimulator system
US4243306A (en) 1978-05-30 1981-01-06 Bononi Walter H Pad device
US4245623A (en) 1978-06-06 1981-01-20 Erb Robert A Method and apparatus for the hysteroscopic non-surgical sterilization of females
US4190040A (en) 1978-07-03 1980-02-26 American Hospital Supply Corporation Resealable puncture housing for surgical implantation
US4221219A (en) 1978-07-31 1980-09-09 Metal Bellows Corporation Implantable infusion apparatus and method
US4201202A (en) 1978-09-25 1980-05-06 Medical Engineering Corp. Penile implant
US4235222A (en) 1978-10-19 1980-11-25 Istrate Ionescu Heat-responsive alignment system and solar collection device
US4265241A (en) 1979-02-28 1981-05-05 Andros Incorporated Implantable infusion device
US4304225A (en) 1979-04-30 1981-12-08 Lloyd And Associates Control system for body organs
US4271827A (en) 1979-09-13 1981-06-09 Angelchik Jean P Method for prevention of gastro esophageal reflux
CA1156003A (en) 1979-10-30 1983-11-01 Juan Voltas Baro Apparatus for the continence of digestive stomas and anal incontinence
US4274407A (en) 1979-11-13 1981-06-23 Med Pump, Inc. Fluid injection system
US4692147A (en) 1980-04-02 1987-09-08 Medtronic, Inc. Drug administration device
US4318396A (en) 1980-05-15 1982-03-09 Medical Engineering Corporation Penile prosthesis
US4419985A (en) 1980-08-28 1983-12-13 Medical Engineering Corporation Apparatus for reversibly closing a body passage
US4407296A (en) 1980-09-12 1983-10-04 Medtronic, Inc. Integral hermetic impantable pressure transducer
US4342308A (en) 1980-10-02 1982-08-03 Medical Engineering Corporation Penile erectile system
US4400169A (en) 1980-10-27 1983-08-23 University Of Utah Research Foundation Subcutaneous peritoneal injection catheter
WO1982003176A1 (en) 1981-03-18 1982-09-30 Bramm Guenter Walter Otto Megnetically suspended and rotated impellor pump apparatus and method
US4412530A (en) 1981-09-21 1983-11-01 American Medical Systems, Inc. Dual-mode valve pressure regulating system
US4369771A (en) 1981-09-24 1983-01-25 Medical Engineering Corporation Penile erectile system
US4424807A (en) 1981-10-20 1984-01-10 Evans Sr Alvin S Penile implant
US4408597A (en) 1982-04-23 1983-10-11 The United States Of America As Represented By The Administrator Of The National Aeronautics And Space Administration Prosthetic occlusive device for an internal passageway
US4549531A (en) 1982-04-26 1985-10-29 Medical Engineering Corporation Artificial sphincter with inflatable cuff
US4509947A (en) 1982-08-02 1985-04-09 Medtronic, Inc. Self-cleaning drug delivery catheter and storage bladder
CA1211795A (en) 1982-08-09 1986-09-23 Medtronic, Inc. Robotic implantable medical device and/or component restoration system
US4628928A (en) 1982-08-09 1986-12-16 Medtronic, Inc. Robotic implantable medical device and/or component restoration system
US4771772A (en) 1982-08-09 1988-09-20 Medtronic, Inc. Robotic implantable medical device and/or component restoration system
US4571749A (en) 1982-09-21 1986-02-25 The Johns Hopkins University Manually actuated hydraulic sphincter
US4599081A (en) 1982-09-30 1986-07-08 Cohen Fred M Artificial heart valve
US4483341A (en) 1982-12-09 1984-11-20 Atlantic Richfield Company Therapeutic hypothermia instrument
US4542753A (en) 1982-12-22 1985-09-24 Biosonics, Inc. Apparatus and method for stimulating penile erectile tissue
US4602625A (en) 1983-03-04 1986-07-29 Medical Engineering Corporation Penile erectile system
US4559931A (en) 1983-03-21 1985-12-24 Fischell Robert Manually actuated fully implantable penile erection device
DE3317118C2 (en) 1983-05-06 1986-08-28 Richard Wolf Gmbh, 7134 Knittlingen Device for the treatment of the female incontinentia urinae
US4505710A (en) 1983-05-13 1985-03-19 Collins Earl R Implantable fluid dispensing system
EP0134340B1 (en) 1983-08-22 1988-11-30 The University of Utah Research Foundation Peritoneal injection catheter apparatus
US4584994A (en) 1983-09-30 1986-04-29 Charles Bamberger Electromagnetic implant
US4550720A (en) 1983-11-15 1985-11-05 Medical Engineering Corporation Capacitance device for medical implant
FR2555056B1 (en) 1983-11-18 1986-02-28 Aerospatiale TOTAL HEART PROSTHESIS COMPRISING TWO DECOUPLED PUMPS ASSOCIATED IN A FUNCTIONALLY INDEPENDENT UNIT, AND ELECTRICALLY CONTROLLED VALVES FOR SUCH A PROSTHESIS
US4563175A (en) 1983-12-19 1986-01-07 Lafond Margaret Multiple syringe pump
US4587954A (en) 1983-12-29 1986-05-13 Habley Medical Technology Corporation Elastomeric prosthetic sphincter
US4538607A (en) 1984-02-06 1985-09-03 Ab Fixfabriken Tracheostomy valve
WO1985004112A1 (en) 1984-03-21 1985-09-26 Mclaughlin, William, Francis Method and apparatus for filtration
US4556050A (en) 1984-05-02 1985-12-03 Hodgson Darel E Artificial sphincter including a shape memory member
US4559930A (en) 1984-05-07 1985-12-24 Cobiski John F Thoracic bench
US4583523A (en) 1984-07-02 1986-04-22 Lloyd & Associates Implantable heart assist device and method of implanting same
EP0192712A1 (en) 1984-09-05 1986-09-03 Intra Optics Laboratories Pty. Limited Control of blood flow
US4568851A (en) 1984-09-11 1986-02-04 Raychem Corporation Piezoelectric coaxial cable having a helical inner conductor
US4728328A (en) 1984-10-19 1988-03-01 Research Corporation Cuffed tubular organic prostheses
US4664100A (en) 1984-11-19 1987-05-12 Rudloff David A C Penile implant
US4756949A (en) 1984-11-29 1988-07-12 Kimberly-Clark Corporation Method for producing pad structures with viscoelastic cores and article so made
US4602621A (en) 1984-12-18 1986-07-29 Hakky Said I Manually actuated, self contained penile implant
US4828990A (en) 1984-12-27 1989-05-09 Naoki Higashi Method for purifying an interferon
DE3588108T2 (en) 1984-12-28 1996-11-07 Toshiba Kawasaki Kk Stabilizing power source device
US4610658A (en) 1985-02-21 1986-09-09 Henry Buchwald Automated peritoneovenous shunt
EP0200286A3 (en) 1985-02-28 1987-01-14 Quotidian No. 100 Pty. Limited Control of blood flow
FR2579092B1 (en) 1985-03-22 1989-06-16 Univ Toulouse IMPLANTABLE INTRACRANIAL PRESSURE SENSOR
US4679560A (en) 1985-04-02 1987-07-14 Board Of Trustees Of The Leland Stanford Junior University Wide band inductive transdermal power and data link
US4592339A (en) 1985-06-12 1986-06-03 Mentor Corporation Gastric banding device
US4634443A (en) 1985-07-05 1987-01-06 Habley Medical Technology Corporation Single circuit elastofluidic sphincter
US4780064A (en) 1986-02-10 1988-10-25 Flow Industries, Inc. Pump assembly and its method of operation
DE3618390C1 (en) 1986-05-31 1987-11-26 Fresenius Ag Injection site for medical fluids
US4723538A (en) 1986-10-16 1988-02-09 Stewart Edward T Penile constrictor ring
US4711231A (en) 1986-11-03 1987-12-08 Aaron N. Finegold Implantable prosthesis system
US4771780A (en) 1987-01-15 1988-09-20 Siemens-Pacesetter, Inc. Rate-responsive pacemaker having digital motion sensor
US5098369A (en) 1987-02-27 1992-03-24 Vascor, Inc. Biocompatible ventricular assist and arrhythmia control device including cardiac compression pad and compression assembly
US4925443A (en) 1987-02-27 1990-05-15 Heilman Marlin S Biocompatible ventricular assist and arrhythmia control device
US4829990A (en) 1987-06-25 1989-05-16 Thueroff Joachim Implantable hydraulic penile erector
US4786276A (en) 1987-07-01 1988-11-22 Habley Medical Technology Corporation Triple cushion sphincteric web
NL8701644A (en) 1987-07-13 1989-02-01 Cordis Europ DEVICE FOR DOSING IN THE BODY OF A LIQUID MATERIAL.
US4846794A (en) 1987-08-13 1989-07-11 The Cleveland Clinic Foundation Coiled tubing for intravenous and intra-arterial applications
US4773403A (en) 1987-08-17 1988-09-27 Medical Engineering Corporation Penile prosthesis
US4846181A (en) 1987-10-02 1989-07-11 Staodynamics, Inc. Soft tissue wound healing therapy utilizing pulsed electrical stimulation
US4822341A (en) 1987-11-20 1989-04-18 Impra, Inc. Vascular access fistula
US4942668A (en) 1988-05-11 1990-07-24 Zircon International, Inc. Digital inclinometer
US4979955A (en) 1988-06-06 1990-12-25 Smith Robert M Power assisted prosthetic heart valve
US4878889A (en) 1988-06-24 1989-11-07 American Medical Systems, Inc. Artificial sphincter device
US5151082A (en) 1988-08-05 1992-09-29 Heathdyne, Inc. Apparatus and method for kidney dialysis using plasma in lieu of blood
US5152743A (en) 1988-08-05 1992-10-06 Healthdyne, Inc. Apparatus and method for selective separation of blood cholesterol
US5224926A (en) 1988-08-05 1993-07-06 Healthdyne, Inc. Transvivo plasma extraction catheter device
US4950224A (en) 1988-08-05 1990-08-21 Healthdyne, Inc. Apparatus and method for in vivo plasma separation
AU4191989A (en) 1988-08-24 1990-03-23 Marvin J. Slepian Biodegradable polymeric endoluminal sealing
US4902279A (en) 1988-10-05 1990-02-20 Autoject Systems Inc. Liquid medicament safety injector
US5012822A (en) 1988-10-11 1991-05-07 Schwarz Gerald R Method for controlling urinary incontinence
US5123428A (en) 1988-10-11 1992-06-23 Schwarz Gerald R Laparoscopically implanting bladder control apparatus
US4982731A (en) 1988-10-26 1991-01-08 The Regents Of The University Of California Implantable system and method for augmenting penile erection
US5062416A (en) 1988-12-01 1991-11-05 Stucks Albert A Penile erection system
US4961747A (en) 1988-12-05 1990-10-09 General Electric Company Implantable articifical bladder system
SU1635980A1 (en) 1988-12-27 1991-03-23 Всесоюзный научный центр хирургии АМН СССР Device for esophagus stenosis endoprosthesis installation
US4976735A (en) 1989-04-20 1990-12-11 Griffith Donald P Prosthetic bladder and method of prosthesis implantation
US4976722A (en) 1989-05-22 1990-12-11 Ethicon, Inc. Surgical hemostatic clips
DE58903472D1 (en) 1989-08-09 1993-03-18 Siemens Ag IMPLANTABLE INJECTION BODY.
US4941461A (en) 1989-09-05 1990-07-17 Fischell Robert Electrically actuated inflatable penile erection device
US5042084A (en) 1989-09-07 1991-08-20 Cochlear Pty. Limited Three wire system for Cochlear implant processor
US5876425A (en) 1989-09-22 1999-03-02 Advanced Bionics Corporation Power control loop for implantable tissue stimulator
US4958630A (en) 1989-10-06 1990-09-25 Advanced Surgical Intervention, Inc. Method and apparatus for treating impotence
US5048511A (en) 1989-10-06 1991-09-17 Advanced Surgical Intervention, Inc. Method and apparatus for treating impotence
US5324263A (en) 1989-11-02 1994-06-28 Danforth Biomedical, Inc. Low profile high performance interventional catheters
FR2653993B1 (en) 1989-11-03 1992-01-10 Synthelabo HYDRAULIC PRESSURE INVERTER FOR THE CONTROL OF AN ARTIFICIAL SPHINCTER, AND IMPLANTABLE PROSTHESIS COMPRISING SAID INVERTER.
US5057075A (en) 1989-12-13 1991-10-15 Moncrief Jack W Method for implanting a catheter
US4983177A (en) 1990-01-03 1991-01-08 Wolf Gerald L Method and apparatus for reversibly occluding a biological tube
US5065751A (en) 1990-01-03 1991-11-19 Wolf Gerald L Method and apparatus for reversibly occluding a biological tube
US5112202A (en) 1990-01-31 1992-05-12 Ntn Corporation Turbo pump with magnetically supported impeller
US5350360A (en) 1990-03-01 1994-09-27 Michigan Transtech Corporation Implantable access devices
US5006106A (en) 1990-10-09 1991-04-09 Angelchik Jean P Apparatus and method for laparoscopic implantation of anti-reflux prosthesis
US5261898A (en) 1990-11-13 1993-11-16 Polin Stanton G Temporary colostomy apparatus
US5316543A (en) 1990-11-27 1994-05-31 Cook Incorporated Medical apparatus and methods for treating sliding hiatal hernias
WO1992016162A1 (en) * 1991-03-13 1992-10-01 Greater Glasgow Health Board Prosthetic anal sphincter
US5358474A (en) 1991-07-02 1994-10-25 Intermed, Inc. Subcutaneous drug delivery device
EP0594619A4 (en) 1991-07-15 1994-07-13 Reebok Int Ltd Inflation mechanism
US5250020A (en) 1991-09-12 1993-10-05 Mentor Corporation Unitary inflatable penile prosthesis
US5304206A (en) 1991-11-18 1994-04-19 Cyberonics, Inc. Activation techniques for implantable medical device
SE503716C2 (en) 1991-12-12 1996-08-12 Nobel Biocare Ab Device for stabilizing the nipple base of an intestinal reservoir
FR2688693A1 (en) 1992-03-19 1993-09-24 Ferriere Xavier Artificial sphincter, especially urethral (urinary) sphincter
US5282811A (en) 1992-04-16 1994-02-01 Cook Pacemaker Corporation Two part surgical ligating clip, applicator and method of use
US6387125B1 (en) 1992-06-23 2002-05-14 Sun Medical Technology Research Corporation Auxiliary artificial heart of an embedded type
FR2692777A1 (en) 1992-06-26 1993-12-31 Alfieri Patrick Remote control unit for implant esp. artificial sphincter in human body - uses oscillator, amplifier, and transmitting antenna to send energy to tuned receiving antenna on implant
WO1994003142A1 (en) 1992-07-30 1994-02-17 Temple University - Of The Commonwealth System Of Higher Education Direct manual cardiac compression device and method of use thereof
US5397354A (en) 1992-08-19 1995-03-14 Wilk; Peter J. Method and device for removing a toxic substance from blood
US5297536A (en) 1992-08-25 1994-03-29 Wilk Peter J Method for use in intra-abdominal surgery
US5337736A (en) 1992-09-30 1994-08-16 Reddy Pratap K Method of using a laparoscopic retractor
US5336157A (en) 1992-12-04 1994-08-09 Ralph Hale Penile clamp for impotence
US20020095164A1 (en) 1997-06-26 2002-07-18 Andreas Bernard H. Device and method for suturing tissue
US5447526A (en) 1992-12-24 1995-09-05 Karsdon; Jeffrey Transcutaneous electric muscle/nerve controller/feedback unit
US5632753A (en) 1992-12-31 1997-05-27 Loeser; Edward A. Surgical procedures
US5743917A (en) 1993-01-13 1998-04-28 Saxon; Allen Prosthesis for the repair of soft tissue defects
DK0611561T3 (en) 1993-02-18 1999-08-16 Lubomyr Ihor Kuzmak Laparoscopically adjustable gastric band
US5272664A (en) 1993-04-21 1993-12-21 Silicon Graphics, Inc. High memory capacity DRAM SIMM
US5437605A (en) 1993-05-27 1995-08-01 Helmy; Ali M. Remote controllable penile prosthetic system
DE4317752C2 (en) 1993-05-27 1997-10-16 Peter Dr Feindt Device for supporting cardiac function
US5505733A (en) 1993-10-22 1996-04-09 Justin; Daniel F. Intramedullary skeletal distractor and method
US5997501A (en) 1993-11-18 1999-12-07 Elan Corporation, Plc Intradermal drug delivery device
US5518504A (en) 1993-12-28 1996-05-21 American Medical Systems, Inc. Implantable sphincter system utilizing lifting means
US5415660A (en) 1994-01-07 1995-05-16 Regents Of The University Of Minnesota Implantable limb lengthening nail driven by a shape memory alloy
US5501703A (en) 1994-01-24 1996-03-26 Medtronic, Inc. Multichannel apparatus for epidural spinal cord stimulator
US6129685A (en) 1994-02-09 2000-10-10 The University Of Iowa Research Foundation Stereotactic hypothalamic obesity probe
US5504700A (en) 1994-02-22 1996-04-02 Sun Microsystems, Inc. Method and apparatus for high density sixteen and thirty-two megabyte single in-line memory module
US5454840A (en) 1994-04-05 1995-10-03 Krakovsky; Alexander A. Potency package
CN1047447C (en) 1994-04-15 1999-12-15 蔡勇飞 Computer imput method of figure-sign coding
US5453079A (en) 1994-06-15 1995-09-26 Schwaninger; Claude L. Blood flow valve for treatment of male sexual impotence
US5569187A (en) 1994-08-16 1996-10-29 Texas Instruments Incorporated Method and apparatus for wireless chemical supplying
US5562598A (en) 1994-09-20 1996-10-08 Whalen Biomedical Inc. Artificial urethral sphincter
US5540731A (en) 1994-09-21 1996-07-30 Medtronic, Inc. Method and apparatus for pressure detecting and treating obstructive airway disorders
US5571116A (en) 1994-10-02 1996-11-05 United States Surgical Corporation Non-invasive treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease
AU708529B2 (en) 1994-11-10 1999-08-05 University Of Kentucky Research Foundation, The Implantable refillable controlled release device to deliver drugs directly to an internal portion of the body
EP0714636B1 (en) 1994-11-28 2003-04-16 The Ohio State University Interventional medicine apparatus
US5704915A (en) 1995-02-14 1998-01-06 Therex Limited Partnership Hemodialysis access device
US5738628A (en) * 1995-03-24 1998-04-14 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Surgical dissector and method for its use
DE19511998A1 (en) 1995-03-31 1996-10-02 Eska Medical Gmbh & Co Controller for discharge of urine from urethra
JPH08336069A (en) 1995-04-13 1996-12-17 Eastman Kodak Co Electronic still camera
US5665065A (en) 1995-05-26 1997-09-09 Minimed Inc. Medication infusion device with blood glucose data input
US5518499A (en) 1995-06-06 1996-05-21 Aghr; Arif H. Intracavernous vasoactive pharmacological pump
US5702431A (en) 1995-06-07 1997-12-30 Sulzer Intermedics Inc. Enhanced transcutaneous recharging system for battery powered implantable medical device
US6176240B1 (en) 1995-06-07 2001-01-23 Conceptus, Inc. Contraceptive transcervical fallopian tube occlusion devices and their delivery
KR100373772B1 (en) 1995-07-31 2003-09-13 심영택 Treatment apparatus for erectile disorder
IE77523B1 (en) 1995-09-11 1997-12-17 Elan Med Tech Medicament delivery device
US6102922A (en) 1995-09-22 2000-08-15 Kirk Promotions Limited Surgical method and device for reducing the food intake of patient
EP0769282B1 (en) 1995-09-22 2000-05-03 Kirk Promotions Limited Device for reducing the food intake of a patient
US5578069A (en) 1995-12-06 1996-11-26 Vnetritex, Inc. Electrode deployment mechanism and method using artificial muscle
ZA9610374B (en) 1995-12-11 1997-06-23 Elan Med Tech Cartridge-based drug delivery device
WO1997027829A1 (en) 1996-01-31 1997-08-07 The Trustees Of The University Of Pennsylvania Remote control drug delivery device
US5690691A (en) 1996-05-08 1997-11-25 The Center For Innovative Technology Gastro-intestinal pacemaker having phased multi-point stimulation
CN2275859Y (en) 1996-06-14 1998-03-11 广东省计划生育科学技术研究所 Fallopian tube contraceptive device and its laying up apparatus
US6689085B1 (en) 1996-07-11 2004-02-10 Eunoe, Inc. Method and apparatus for treating adult-onset dementia of the Alzheimer's type
US6835207B2 (en) 1996-07-22 2004-12-28 Fred Zacouto Skeletal implant
CA2262792C (en) 1996-08-09 2000-05-16 Alain Carpentier Mechanical prosthetic valve, and methods of its construction and operation
US5713939A (en) 1996-09-16 1998-02-03 Sulzer Intermedics Inc. Data communication system for control of transcutaneous energy transmission to an implantable medical device
US5902336A (en) 1996-10-15 1999-05-11 Mirimedical, Inc. Implantable device and method for removing fluids from the blood of a patient method for implanting such a device and method for treating a patient experiencing renal failure
US5845646A (en) 1996-11-05 1998-12-08 Lemelson; Jerome System and method for treating select tissue in a living being
US5749909A (en) 1996-11-07 1998-05-12 Sulzer Intermedics Inc. Transcutaneous energy coupling using piezoelectric device
JP3158154B2 (en) 1996-11-08 2001-04-23 広文 稲田 Slope vegetation method using staircase wire mesh
US5735809A (en) 1996-12-05 1998-04-07 Matria Healthcare, Inc. Fiber assembly for in vivo plasma separation
US5735887A (en) 1996-12-10 1998-04-07 Exonix Corporation Closed-loop, RF-coupled implanted medical device
JP3455040B2 (en) 1996-12-16 2003-10-06 株式会社日立製作所 Source clock synchronous memory system and memory unit
US5827286A (en) 1997-02-14 1998-10-27 Incavo; Stephen J. Incrementally adjustable tibial osteotomy fixation device and method
DE69832713T2 (en) 1997-02-26 2006-07-27 Alfred E. Mann Foundation For Scientific Research, Santa Clarita BATTERY OPERATING DEVICE FOR IMPLANTING IN A PATIENT
US6056762A (en) 1997-05-22 2000-05-02 Kensey Nash Corporation Anastomosis system and method of use
US6213979B1 (en) 1997-05-29 2001-04-10 Venetec International, Inc. Medical line anchoring system
WO1998055046A1 (en) 1997-06-05 1998-12-10 Adiana, Inc. Method and apparatus for tubal occlusion
US6003736A (en) 1997-06-09 1999-12-21 Novo Nordisk A/S Device for controlled dispensing of a dose of a liquid contained in a cartridge
US6332466B1 (en) 1997-07-08 2001-12-25 Inbae Yoon Ovarian capsules and methods of surgical contraception by ovarian encapsulation
ATE426430T1 (en) 1997-07-16 2009-04-15 Metacure N V DEVICE FOR CONTROLLING A SMOOTH MUSCLE
CA2302466A1 (en) 1997-07-31 1999-02-11 Stanford Syncom Inc. Means and method for a synchronous network communications system
US6135945A (en) 1997-08-04 2000-10-24 Sultan; Hashem Anti-incontinence device
US6039748A (en) 1997-08-05 2000-03-21 Femrx, Inc. Disposable laparoscopic morcellator
US5971967A (en) 1997-08-19 1999-10-26 Abbeymoor Medical, Inc. Urethral device with anchoring system
US5980478A (en) 1997-10-10 1999-11-09 Transvivo, Inc. Apparatus and method for the treatment of acute and chronic renal disease by continuous passive plasma ultrafiltration
US6050982A (en) 1997-11-03 2000-04-18 Wheeler; Alton D. Concealed colostomy apparatus and method
US5938584A (en) 1997-11-14 1999-08-17 Cybernetic Medical Systems Corporation Cavernous nerve stimulation device
US20040236877A1 (en) 1997-12-17 2004-11-25 Lee A. Burton Switch/network adapter port incorporating shared memory resources selectively accessible by a direct execution logic element and one or more dense logic devices in a fully buffered dual in-line memory module format (FB-DIMM)
EP1563866B1 (en) 1998-02-05 2007-10-03 Biosense Webster, Inc. Intracardiac drug delivery
US5995874A (en) 1998-02-09 1999-11-30 Dew Engineering And Development Limited Transcutaneous energy transfer device
US7468060B2 (en) 1998-02-19 2008-12-23 Respiratory Diagnostic, Inc. Systems and methods for treating obesity and other gastrointestinal conditions
US6095969A (en) 1998-03-03 2000-08-01 Karram; Mickey M. Female incontinence control device actuated by abdominal pressure
ES2149091B1 (en) 1998-03-10 2001-05-16 Gil Vernet Vila Jose Maria DEVICE FOR FIXING AND ADJUSTABLE SUPPORT AT HEIGHT OF INTERNAL ANATOMICAL ORGANS.
US6638303B1 (en) 1998-03-13 2003-10-28 Carbomedics, Inc. Heart valve prosthesis
US6319191B1 (en) 1998-03-26 2001-11-20 Precision Medical Devices, Inc. Implantable body fluid flow control device
US6095968A (en) 1998-04-10 2000-08-01 Cardio Technologies, Inc. Reinforcement device
US6099460A (en) 1998-04-28 2000-08-08 Denker; Stephen Electromagnetic heart assist technique and apparatus
US6936060B2 (en) 1998-05-13 2005-08-30 Arteria Medical Sciences, Inc. Apparatus and methods for removing emboli during a surgical procedure
US6361559B1 (en) 1998-06-10 2002-03-26 Converge Medical, Inc. Thermal securing anastomosis systems
US6266560B1 (en) 1998-06-19 2001-07-24 Genetronics, Inc. Electrically assisted transdermal method and apparatus for the treatment of erectile dysfunction
US6113574A (en) 1998-07-27 2000-09-05 Spinello; Ronald P. Anesthetic injection apparatus and methods
US7935409B2 (en) 1998-08-06 2011-05-03 Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. Tissue sheets having improved properties
AU5394099A (en) 1998-08-07 2000-02-28 Infinite Biomedical Technologies, Incorporated Implantable myocardial ischemia detection, indication and action technology
US6102887A (en) 1998-08-11 2000-08-15 Biocardia, Inc. Catheter drug delivery system and method for use
US6210347B1 (en) * 1998-08-13 2001-04-03 Peter Forsell Remote control food intake restriction device
US6460543B1 (en) * 1998-08-13 2002-10-08 Obtech Medical Ag Non-injection port food intake restriction device
US6067991A (en) * 1998-08-13 2000-05-30 Forsell; Peter Mechanical food intake restriction device
WO2000012152A1 (en) 1998-08-28 2000-03-09 Juan Hernandez Herrero Apparatus aiding physiologic systolic and diastolic dynamics of cardiac cavities
AU5909399A (en) 1998-09-15 2000-04-03 Infinite Biomedical Technologies, Incorporated Intraurethral continent prothesis
IL127481A (en) 1998-10-06 2004-05-12 Bio Control Medical Ltd Incontinence treatment device
US6077215A (en) 1998-10-08 2000-06-20 Implex Gmbh Spezialhorgerate Method for coupling an electromechanical transducer of an implantable hearing aid or tinnitus masker to a middle ear ossicle
US6275737B1 (en) 1998-10-14 2001-08-14 Advanced Bionics Corporation Transcutaneous transmission pouch
US6134470A (en) 1998-11-09 2000-10-17 Medtronic, Inc. Method and apparatus for treating a tachyarrhythmic patient
JP2000148656A (en) 1998-11-09 2000-05-30 Mitsubishi Electric Corp Memory system
AU1733400A (en) 1998-11-18 2000-06-05 Urometrics, Inc. Clitoral treatment devices and methods
US6964643B2 (en) 1998-11-18 2005-11-15 Nugyn, Inc. Devices and methods for treatment of incontinence
US6097984A (en) 1998-11-25 2000-08-01 Medtronic, Inc. System and method of stimulation for treating gastro-esophageal reflux disease
JP4559630B2 (en) 1998-11-25 2010-10-13 ユナイテッド ステイツ サージカル コーポレイション Biopsy system
US6486207B2 (en) 1998-12-10 2002-11-26 Nexmed (Holdings), Inc. Compositions and methods for amelioration of human female sexual dysfunction
US6193732B1 (en) 1999-01-08 2001-02-27 Cardiothoracic System Surgical clips and apparatus and method for clip placement
US6309384B1 (en) 1999-02-01 2001-10-30 Adiana, Inc. Method and apparatus for tubal occlusion
ES2150881B1 (en) 1999-02-11 2002-02-16 Univ Madrid Complutense EXTERNAL MAGNETIC OPERATING VALVE FOR AN INTRAURETRAL ARTIFICIAL URINARY SPINTER.
US6338144B2 (en) 1999-02-19 2002-01-08 Sun Microsystems, Inc. Computer system providing low skew clock signals to a synchronous memory unit
DE19909427C1 (en) 1999-02-23 2000-05-25 Bimek Clemens Contraceptive semen blocker for men has valve positioned in sperm duct and actuated by external pressure
US6162238A (en) 1999-02-24 2000-12-19 Aaron V. Kaplan Apparatus and methods for control of body lumens
US6464655B1 (en) 1999-03-17 2002-10-15 Environmental Robots, Inc. Electrically-controllable multi-fingered resilient heart compression devices
AU4684500A (en) 1999-04-30 2000-11-17 Uromedica, Inc. Method and apparatus for adjustable sling for treatment of urinary stress incontinence
AUPQ090499A0 (en) 1999-06-10 1999-07-01 Peters, William S Heart assist device and system
US6835200B2 (en) 1999-06-22 2004-12-28 Ndo Surgical. Inc. Method and devices for tissue reconfiguration
US7744613B2 (en) 1999-06-25 2010-06-29 Usgi Medical, Inc. Apparatus and methods for forming and securing gastrointestinal tissue folds
US6197055B1 (en) 1999-07-06 2001-03-06 Herbert L. Matthews Single chamber mechanical heart
US6839393B1 (en) 1999-07-14 2005-01-04 Rambus Inc. Apparatus and method for controlling a master/slave system via master device synchronization
US6516227B1 (en) 1999-07-27 2003-02-04 Advanced Bionics Corporation Rechargeable spinal cord stimulator system
AUPQ202699A0 (en) 1999-08-04 1999-08-26 University Of Melbourne, The Prosthetic device for incontinence
FR2797181B1 (en) 1999-08-05 2002-05-03 Richard Cancel REMOTE GASTRIC BAND DEVICE FOR FORMING A RESTRICTED STOMA OPENING IN THE ESTOMAC
US20040102804A1 (en) 1999-08-10 2004-05-27 Chin Albert K. Apparatus and methods for endoscopic surgical procedures
DE60043853D1 (en) 1999-08-12 2010-04-01 Potencia Medical Ag DEVICE FOR FORMING A STOMATIC OPENING
US6471635B1 (en) * 2000-02-10 2002-10-29 Obtech Medical Ag Anal incontinence disease treatment with controlled wireless energy supply
US6461292B1 (en) * 1999-08-12 2002-10-08 Obtech Medical Ag Anal incontinence treatment with wireless energy supply
US6464628B1 (en) 1999-08-12 2002-10-15 Obtech Medical Ag Mechanical anal incontinence
US6454701B1 (en) * 1999-08-12 2002-09-24 Obtech Medical Ag Heartburn and reflux disease treatment apparatus with energy transfer device
US6453907B1 (en) * 1999-08-12 2002-09-24 Obtech Medical Ag Food intake restriction with energy transfer device
US6482145B1 (en) * 2000-02-14 2002-11-19 Obtech Medical Ag Hydraulic anal incontinence treatment
US6454698B1 (en) * 1999-08-12 2002-09-24 Obtech Medical Ag Anal incontinence treatment with energy transfer device
US6454699B1 (en) * 2000-02-11 2002-09-24 Obtech Medical Ag Food intake restriction with controlled wireless energy supply
US6321282B1 (en) 1999-10-19 2001-11-20 Rambus Inc. Apparatus and method for topography dependent signaling
US6116193A (en) 1999-11-05 2000-09-12 Goeckner; Troy C. Sow breeding saddle
FR2802798B1 (en) 1999-12-22 2002-02-01 Promedon S A PAD STRAP FOR THE TREATMENT OF URINARY INCONTINENCE
US6502161B1 (en) 2000-01-05 2002-12-31 Rambus Inc. Memory system including a point-to-point linked memory subsystem
US6764472B1 (en) 2000-01-11 2004-07-20 Bard Access Systems, Inc. Implantable refillable infusion device
US6447443B1 (en) 2001-01-13 2002-09-10 Medtronic, Inc. Method for organ positioning and stabilization
US6974437B2 (en) 2000-01-21 2005-12-13 Medtronic Minimed, Inc. Microprocessor controlled ambulatory medical apparatus with hand held communication device
US6600953B2 (en) 2000-12-11 2003-07-29 Impulse Dynamics N.V. Acute and chronic electrical signal therapy for obesity
US20030050591A1 (en) 2000-02-08 2003-03-13 Patrick Mchale Anthony Loading system and method for using the same
US6454700B1 (en) * 2000-02-09 2002-09-24 Obtech Medical Ag Heartburn and reflux disease treatment apparatus with wireless energy supply
ATE304336T1 (en) 2000-02-10 2005-09-15 Potencia Medical Ag CONTROLLED URINARY INCONTINENCE TREATMENT
US6463935B1 (en) * 2000-02-10 2002-10-15 Obtech Medical Ag Controlled heartburn and reflux disease treatment
EP1598030B1 (en) 2000-02-10 2008-06-25 Potencia Medical AG Controlled urinary incontinence treatment
ATE490790T1 (en) * 2000-02-10 2010-12-15 Abdomica Ag TREATMENT APPARATUS FOR ANAL INCONTINENCE WITH WIRELESS POWER SUPPLY
ATE295136T1 (en) 2000-02-10 2005-05-15 Potencia Medical Ag MECHANICAL DEVICE FOR TREATING IMPOTENCY
DE60113965T2 (en) * 2000-02-10 2006-07-06 Potencia Medical Ag TREATMENT OF HARNINE CONTINENCE WITH WIRELESS ENERGY SUPPLY
US6470892B1 (en) * 2000-02-10 2002-10-29 Obtech Medical Ag Mechanical heartburn and reflux treatment
EP1563814B1 (en) 2000-02-10 2007-06-13 Potencia Medical AG Mechanical impotence treatment apparatus
CN1200658C (en) * 2000-02-10 2005-05-11 波滕西亚医疗公司 Anal incontinence treatment with controlled wireless energy supply
ATE380006T1 (en) 2000-02-11 2007-12-15 Potencia Medical Ag CONTROLLED IMPOTENCY TREATMENT
DE60125351T2 (en) 2000-02-11 2007-05-16 Potencia Medical Ag URINARY INCONTINENCE TREATMENT DEVICE
EP1253886B1 (en) 2000-02-11 2008-12-10 Potentica AG Impotence treatment apparatus with energy transforming means
EP1759665B1 (en) 2000-02-11 2014-10-22 Urologica AG Urinary incontinence treatment apparatus
US6450946B1 (en) * 2000-02-11 2002-09-17 Obtech Medical Ag Food intake restriction with wireless energy transfer
US20030100929A1 (en) 2000-02-14 2003-05-29 Peter Forsell Controlled penile prosthesis
US6475136B1 (en) * 2000-02-14 2002-11-05 Obtech Medical Ag Hydraulic heartburn and reflux treatment
WO2001050833A2 (en) 2000-02-14 2001-07-19 Potencia Medical Ag Hydraulic urinary incontinence treatment apparatus
US7442165B2 (en) 2000-02-14 2008-10-28 Obtech Medical Ag Penile prosthesis
AU2001232581A1 (en) * 2000-02-14 2001-08-07 Potencia Medical Ag Male sexual impotence treatment apparatus
CN1196451C (en) * 2000-02-14 2005-04-13 波滕西亚医疗公司 Male impotence prosthesis apparatus with wireless energy supply
US6471688B1 (en) 2000-02-15 2002-10-29 Microsolutions, Inc. Osmotic pump drug delivery systems and methods
US6400988B1 (en) 2000-02-18 2002-06-04 Pacesetter, Inc. Implantable cardiac device having precision RRT indication
US6170484B1 (en) 2000-03-10 2001-01-09 Du Xiong Feng Female contraceptive device
US6558315B1 (en) 2000-03-15 2003-05-06 Ams Research Corporation Parylene-coated components for inflatable penile prosthesis
IL138632A (en) 2000-09-21 2008-06-05 Minelu Zonnenschein Multiple view endoscopes
US6215727B1 (en) 2000-04-04 2001-04-10 Intel Corporation Method and apparatus for utilizing parallel memory in a serial memory system
US6650943B1 (en) 2000-04-07 2003-11-18 Advanced Bionics Corporation Fully implantable neurostimulator for cavernous nerve stimulation as a therapy for erectile dysfunction and other sexual dysfunction
US7470228B2 (en) 2000-04-14 2008-12-30 Attenuex Technologies, Inc. Method of treating benign hypertrophy of the prostate
US6456883B1 (en) 2000-04-26 2002-09-24 Medtronic, Inc. Apparatus and method for allowing immediate retrieval for information and identification from an implantable medical device having a depleted power source
US6773428B2 (en) 2000-05-12 2004-08-10 Stephen M. Zappala Implantable delivery system and method for the pharmacologic management of erectile dysfunction
JP3757757B2 (en) 2000-05-18 2006-03-22 株式会社日立製作所 Read priority memory system
US7530964B2 (en) 2000-06-30 2009-05-12 Elan Pharma International Limited Needle device and method thereof
US6576010B2 (en) 2000-07-20 2003-06-10 Izaak A. Ulert Circular artificial heart
US6589229B1 (en) 2000-07-31 2003-07-08 Becton, Dickinson And Company Wearable, self-contained drug infusion device
US6746461B2 (en) 2000-08-15 2004-06-08 William R. Fry Low-profile, shape-memory surgical occluder
US6862479B1 (en) 2000-08-30 2005-03-01 Advanced Bionics Corporation Spinal cord stimulation as a therapy for sexual dysfunction
US6592515B2 (en) 2000-09-07 2003-07-15 Ams Research Corporation Implantable article and method
US20020040208A1 (en) 2000-10-04 2002-04-04 Flaherty J. Christopher Data collection assembly for patient infusion system
US6745077B1 (en) 2000-10-11 2004-06-01 Advanced Bionics Corporation Electronic impedance transformer for inductively-coupled load stabilization
TW458771B (en) 2000-12-13 2001-10-11 Jiang R Chung Structure of blood-propelling cavity of artificial left ventricle
US7740623B2 (en) 2001-01-13 2010-06-22 Medtronic, Inc. Devices and methods for interstitial injection of biologic agents into tissue
US6652450B2 (en) 2001-01-23 2003-11-25 American Medical Systems, Inc. Implantable article and method for treating urinary incontinence using means for repositioning the implantable article
DE10104806A1 (en) 2001-01-26 2002-08-14 Univ Eberhard Karls Vessel prosthesis for humans or animals uses connector at main body sleeve end as flat and expanded sleeve joined by transition surface and pressed to vessel at connector by flexible encircling band.
US6761700B2 (en) 2001-02-09 2004-07-13 Orqis Medical Corporation Extra-corporeal vascular conduit
AU2002255245A1 (en) 2001-04-18 2002-10-28 Impulse Dynamics Nv Analysis of eating habits
US6516282B2 (en) 2001-04-19 2003-02-04 Ge Medical Systems Global Technology Company Predictive thermal control used with a vacuum enclosed coil assembly of a magnetic resonance imaging device
US20050240229A1 (en) 2001-04-26 2005-10-27 Whitehurst Tood K Methods and systems for stimulation as a therapy for erectile dysfunction
US6885895B1 (en) 2001-04-26 2005-04-26 Advanced Bionics Corporation Methods and systems for electrical and/or drug stimulation as a therapy for erectile dysfunction
US7756582B2 (en) 2001-05-01 2010-07-13 Intrapace, Inc. Gastric stimulation anchor and method
US6535764B2 (en) 2001-05-01 2003-03-18 Intrapace, Inc. Gastric treatment and diagnosis device and method
US6623507B2 (en) 2001-05-07 2003-09-23 Fathy M.A. Saleh Vascular filtration device
DE10123769C1 (en) 2001-05-16 2002-12-12 Infineon Technologies Ag Method for adapting different signal propagation times between a controller and at least two processing units and a computer system
US6678561B2 (en) 2001-05-23 2004-01-13 Surgical Development Ag Heartburn and reflux disease treatment apparatus
SE0102312D0 (en) 2001-06-28 2001-06-28 Obtech Medical Ag Urinary dysfunction treatment apparatus
US6551235B2 (en) 2001-06-28 2003-04-22 Potencia Medical Ag Implantable pump
SE0102313D0 (en) 2001-06-28 2001-06-28 Obtech Medical Ag Intestine dysfunction treatment apparatus
EP1275344A1 (en) 2001-07-09 2003-01-15 Bioring SA Device for vascular anastomosis, maintenance and protection
US6796963B2 (en) 2001-07-10 2004-09-28 Myocardial Therapeutics, Inc. Flexible tissue injection catheters with controlled depth penetration
KR100407467B1 (en) 2001-07-12 2003-11-28 최수봉 Insulin pump operated by remote-controller
US6901295B2 (en) 2001-07-14 2005-05-31 Virender K. Sharma Method and apparatus for electrical stimulation of the lower esophageal sphincter
US6627206B2 (en) 2001-07-25 2003-09-30 Greg A. Lloyd Method and apparatus for treating obesity and for delivering time-released medicaments
JP4883852B2 (en) 2001-07-30 2012-02-22 日東電工株式会社 Heat peeling method of chip cut piece from heat release type adhesive sheet
US6928338B1 (en) 2001-08-10 2005-08-09 Medtronic, Inc. Decision information system for drug delivery devices
US6845776B2 (en) 2001-08-27 2005-01-25 Richard S. Stack Satiation devices and methods
US6675809B2 (en) 2001-08-27 2004-01-13 Richard S. Stack Satiation devices and methods
US6736809B2 (en) 2001-09-26 2004-05-18 Cryocath Technologies Inc. Method and device for treatment of aneurysms
US20030208247A1 (en) 2001-09-28 2003-11-06 Michele Spinelli Implantable stimulation lead with tissue in-growth anchor
FR2830455B1 (en) 2001-10-09 2004-06-25 Saphir Medical CATHETER WITH RETRACTABLE PERFORATING OR STITCHING TOOL
US7429258B2 (en) 2001-10-26 2008-09-30 Massachusetts Institute Of Technology Microneedle transport device
DK2298370T3 (en) 2002-02-21 2014-01-27 Design Mentor Inc fluid pump
US7311690B2 (en) 2002-02-25 2007-12-25 Novashunt Ag Implantable fluid management system for the removal of excess fluid
US7003684B2 (en) 2002-03-27 2006-02-21 Via Technologies, Inc. Memory control chip, control method and control circuit
US7001367B2 (en) 2002-04-16 2006-02-21 Arkinstall William W Valved ostomy drainage device
US6960233B1 (en) 2002-12-10 2005-11-01 Torax Medical, Inc. Methods and apparatus for improving the function of biological passages
US7043295B2 (en) 2002-04-26 2006-05-09 Medtronic, Inc. Methods and apparatus for delivering a drug influencing appetite for treatment of eating disorders
US6743220B2 (en) 2002-05-01 2004-06-01 Michael Sheffer Grasper device for use in minimally invasive surgery
JP2005524485A (en) 2002-05-09 2005-08-18 ディー.イーガン トマス Gastric bypass prosthesis
US6749556B2 (en) 2002-05-10 2004-06-15 Scimed Life Systems, Inc. Electroactive polymer based artificial sphincters and artificial muscle patches
JP3866618B2 (en) 2002-06-13 2007-01-10 エルピーダメモリ株式会社 Memory system and control method thereof
US7998190B2 (en) 2002-06-17 2011-08-16 California Institute Of Technology Intravascular miniature stent pump
US20040024285A1 (en) 2002-06-21 2004-02-05 Helmut Muckter Blood pump with impeller
US20050238506A1 (en) 2002-06-21 2005-10-27 The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory, Inc. Electromagnetically-actuated microfluidic flow regulators and related applications
US6997888B2 (en) 2002-07-08 2006-02-14 Rehrig Glenn A Libido stimulating device and method of using
US20040015041A1 (en) 2002-07-18 2004-01-22 The University Of Cincinnati Protective sheath apparatus and method for use with a heart wall actuation system for the natural heart
JP4691445B2 (en) 2002-07-22 2011-06-01 ベクトン・ディキンソン・アンド・カンパニー Patch injection device
US20040034275A1 (en) 2002-07-29 2004-02-19 Peter Forsell Multi-material incontinence treatment constriction device
US20040242956A1 (en) 2002-07-29 2004-12-02 Scorvo Sean K. System for controlling fluid in a body
MXPA05001229A (en) 2002-08-02 2005-06-08 Potencia Medical Ag Apparatus for distributing liquid in a patient's body.
US6772011B2 (en) 2002-08-20 2004-08-03 Thoratec Corporation Transmission of information from an implanted medical device
US7214233B2 (en) 2002-08-30 2007-05-08 Satiety, Inc. Methods and devices for maintaining a space occupying device in a relatively fixed location within a stomach
EP1403519A1 (en) 2002-09-27 2004-03-31 Novo Nordisk A/S Membrane pump with stretchable pump membrane
US20040064110A1 (en) 2002-10-01 2004-04-01 Peter Forsell Injection port
US7103418B2 (en) 2002-10-02 2006-09-05 Medtronic, Inc. Active fluid delivery catheter
US20040220516A1 (en) 2002-11-04 2004-11-04 Stephen Solomon Food extraction apparatus and method
US20040098545A1 (en) 2002-11-15 2004-05-20 Pline Steven L. Transferring data in selectable transfer modes
DE10256027B4 (en) 2002-11-30 2005-09-22 Willy Rüsch GmbH Artificial endosphincter
US6843766B1 (en) 2002-12-21 2005-01-18 X-L Synergy Fecal incontinence management device
US7141071B2 (en) 2002-12-23 2006-11-28 Python Medical, Inc. Implantable digestive tract organ
US7037343B2 (en) 2002-12-23 2006-05-02 Python, Inc. Stomach prosthesis
US6826663B2 (en) 2003-01-13 2004-11-30 Rambus Inc. Coded write masking
DE60316035T2 (en) 2003-01-31 2008-05-15 Potencia Medical Ag DEVICE FOR SAFE INCONTINENCE TREATMENT
EP1587456B1 (en) 2003-01-31 2007-08-29 Potencia Medical AG Careful impotence treatment apparatus
US20060142635A1 (en) 2003-01-31 2006-06-29 Peter Forsell Electrically operable incontinence treatment apparatus
WO2004066887A1 (en) 2003-01-31 2004-08-12 Potencia Medical Ag Incontinence treatment apparatus with connection device
US7407481B2 (en) 2003-01-31 2008-08-05 Peter Forsell Impotence treatment apparatus with connection device
WO2004066879A1 (en) 2003-01-31 2004-08-12 Potencia Medical Ag Electrically operable impotence treatment apparatus
US7844338B2 (en) 2003-02-03 2010-11-30 Enteromedics Inc. High frequency obesity treatment
US7081087B2 (en) 2003-02-05 2006-07-25 Carmella Jannuzzi Sexual aid device
US7118525B2 (en) 2003-04-23 2006-10-10 Coleman Edward J Implantable cardiac assist device
US20040215283A1 (en) 2003-04-23 2004-10-28 Antoine Camps Electrical stimulation of the colon to treat chronic constipation
US20050166006A1 (en) 2003-05-13 2005-07-28 Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. System including a host connected serially in a chain to one or more memory modules that include a cache
US7217236B2 (en) 2003-05-30 2007-05-15 Innovamedica S.A. De C.V. Universal pneumatic ventricular assist device
CA2528134C (en) 2003-06-04 2015-05-12 University Of South Carolina Tissue scaffold having aligned fibrils, apparatus and method for producing the same, and artificial tissue and methods of use thereof
US7165153B2 (en) 2003-06-04 2007-01-16 Intel Corporation Memory channel with unidirectional links
TW590007U (en) 2003-06-06 2004-06-01 Univ Tamkang Tri-leaflet mechanical heart valve
US7201757B2 (en) 2003-06-20 2007-04-10 Enteromedics Inc. Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) treatment method and apparatus
WO2005018507A2 (en) 2003-07-18 2005-03-03 Ev3 Santa Rosa, Inc. Remotely activated mitral annuloplasty system and methods
US20050049509A1 (en) 2003-08-28 2005-03-03 Mansour Hebah Noshy Cervix monitoring system and related devices and methods
US8140168B2 (en) 2003-10-02 2012-03-20 Medtronic, Inc. External power source for an implantable medical device having an adjustable carrier frequency and system and method related therefore
US7473261B2 (en) 2003-10-20 2009-01-06 Henry Rennich External incontinence clamp
US6960218B2 (en) 2003-10-20 2005-11-01 Henry Rennich External incontinence clamp
EP1563886A1 (en) 2004-01-23 2005-08-17 Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd. Extraction system
CA2555011C (en) 2004-02-02 2013-03-26 Ams Research Corporation Enhancing tissue ingrowth for contraception
US8052669B2 (en) 2004-02-25 2011-11-08 Femasys Inc. Methods and devices for delivery of compositions to conduits
US20060195139A1 (en) 2004-03-23 2006-08-31 Michael Gertner Extragastric devices and methods for gastroplasty
US20060264699A1 (en) 2004-10-27 2006-11-23 Michael Gertner Extragastric minimally invasive methods and devices to treat obesity
US20060129028A1 (en) 2004-03-31 2006-06-15 Krakousky Alexander A Potency package
US7993397B2 (en) 2004-04-05 2011-08-09 Edwards Lifesciences Ag Remotely adjustable coronary sinus implant
WO2005105003A1 (en) 2004-04-26 2005-11-10 Synecor, Llc Restrictive and/or obstructive implant for inducing weight loss
US20050245957A1 (en) 2004-04-30 2005-11-03 Medtronic, Inc. Biasing stretch receptors in stomach wall to treat obesity
JP4934024B2 (en) 2004-05-03 2012-05-16 フルフィリウム, インコーポレイテッド Method and system for controlling stomach volume
EP2422751A3 (en) 2004-05-05 2013-01-02 Direct Flow Medical, Inc. Unstented heart valve with formed in place support structure
US6949067B1 (en) 2004-05-11 2005-09-27 Dann Jeffrey A Device and method for enhancing female sexual stimulation
US7222224B2 (en) 2004-05-21 2007-05-22 Rambus Inc. System and method for improving performance in computer memory systems supporting multiple memory access latencies
US7112186B2 (en) 2004-05-26 2006-09-26 Shah Tilak M Gastro-occlusive device
US20050266042A1 (en) 2004-05-27 2005-12-01 Medtronic Vascular, Inc. Methods and apparatus for treatment of aneurysmal tissue
US7390294B2 (en) 2004-05-28 2008-06-24 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Piezo electrically driven bellows infuser for hydraulically controlling an adjustable gastric band
US7516029B2 (en) 2004-06-09 2009-04-07 Rambus, Inc. Communication channel calibration using feedback
US7894913B2 (en) 2004-06-10 2011-02-22 Medtronic Urinary Solutions, Inc. Systems and methods of neuromodulation stimulation for the restoration of sexual function
US7274960B2 (en) 2004-08-05 2007-09-25 Medtronic Vascular, Inc. Method and apparatus for treating aneurysms by electrostimulation
KR100643605B1 (en) 2004-08-16 2006-11-10 삼성전자주식회사 Adaptive preemphasis apparatus, data communication transmitter, data communication receiver, and adaptive preemphasis method
CN101035487A (en) 2004-08-25 2007-09-12 帕瓦德医学公司 Artificial sphincter
EP1805439A1 (en) 2004-10-28 2007-07-11 Pall Corporation Valve
US20060161217A1 (en) 2004-12-21 2006-07-20 Jaax Kristen N Methods and systems for treating obesity
US7722529B2 (en) 2004-12-28 2010-05-25 Palo Alto Investors Expandable vessel harness for treating vessel aneurysms
US20060149129A1 (en) 2005-01-05 2006-07-06 Watts H D Catheter with multiple visual elements
US7601162B2 (en) 2005-01-14 2009-10-13 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Actuator for an implantable band
US7963989B2 (en) 2005-01-24 2011-06-21 Technology Advancement Group, Inc. Implantable prosthetic device for connection to a fluid flow pathway of a patient
EP1841368B1 (en) 2005-01-25 2015-06-10 Covidien LP Structures for permanent occlusion of a hollow anatomical structure
US20060173238A1 (en) 2005-01-31 2006-08-03 Starkebaum Warren L Dynamically controlled gastric occlusion device
JP2008529730A (en) 2005-02-15 2008-08-07 イエール ユニバーシティ Uterine fallopian tube occlusion device and method of use thereof
US7955344B2 (en) 2005-04-01 2011-06-07 Nexgen Medical Systems, Inc. Thrombus removal system and process
US7801602B2 (en) 2005-04-08 2010-09-21 Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation Controlling stimulation parameters of implanted tissue stimulators
US7835796B2 (en) 2005-04-29 2010-11-16 Cyberonics, Inc. Weight loss method and device
US7899540B2 (en) 2005-04-29 2011-03-01 Cyberonics, Inc. Noninvasively adjustable gastric band
US7310557B2 (en) 2005-04-29 2007-12-18 Maschino Steven E Identification of electrodes for nerve stimulation in the treatment of eating disorders
US7984717B2 (en) 2005-04-29 2011-07-26 Medtronic, Inc. Devices for augmentation of lumen walls
KR100588599B1 (en) 2005-05-03 2006-06-14 삼성전자주식회사 Memory module and memory system
US9233203B2 (en) 2005-05-06 2016-01-12 Medtronic Minimed, Inc. Medical needles for damping motion
WO2006126653A1 (en) 2005-05-27 2006-11-30 Olympus Corporation Device for introduction into subject
SE528738C2 (en) 2005-06-16 2007-02-06 Sinova Safetech Innovation Ab intestinal Implants
EP1907049B1 (en) 2005-07-19 2011-11-30 Zvi Ben Shalom Organ assist system
US20070038232A1 (en) 2005-08-12 2007-02-15 Kraemer Stefan J M Apparatus and method for securing the stomach to the diaphragm for use, for example, in treating hiatal hernias and gastroesophageal reflux disease
US7699769B2 (en) 2005-09-01 2010-04-20 Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. Adjustable surgical sling
US8118750B2 (en) 2005-10-21 2012-02-21 Medtronic, Inc. Flow sensors for penile tumescence
CN101351240B (en) 2005-11-02 2011-12-07 英杰克蒂卡股份公司 Implantable infusion device with advanceable and retractable needle
CA2627164C (en) 2005-11-02 2014-06-17 Prosthesica Ag Artificial valve for implantation
US7368950B2 (en) 2005-11-16 2008-05-06 Montage Technology Group Limited High speed transceiver with low power consumption
US7577039B2 (en) 2005-11-16 2009-08-18 Montage Technology Group, Ltd. Memory interface to bridge memory buses
US7558124B2 (en) 2005-11-16 2009-07-07 Montage Technology Group, Ltd Memory interface to bridge memory buses
US7720547B2 (en) 2006-01-04 2010-05-18 Kenergy, Inc. Extracorporeal power supply with a wireless feedback system for an implanted medical device
US20070185373A1 (en) 2006-02-03 2007-08-09 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Gastric band introduction device
US20070193632A1 (en) 2006-02-21 2007-08-23 Jianchao Shu Artificial heart valve and rotary pressure porting mechanisms
US8195296B2 (en) 2006-03-03 2012-06-05 Ams Research Corporation Apparatus for treating stress and urge incontinence
US8070768B2 (en) 2006-04-19 2011-12-06 Vibrynt, Inc. Devices and methods for treatment of obesity
US20090131959A1 (en) 2006-04-20 2009-05-21 Liquidia Technologies Inc. Biological Vessel Flow Control Devices and Methods
US20100016657A1 (en) 2006-04-24 2010-01-21 Continence Control Systems International Pty Ltd Method and Apparatus for Managing Erectile Dysfunction
US20070255336A1 (en) 2006-04-28 2007-11-01 Medtronic, Inc. Gastric constriction device with selectable electrode combinations
US20070255335A1 (en) 2006-04-28 2007-11-01 Medtronic, Inc. Controller for gastric constriction device with selectable electrode configurations
US20070265675A1 (en) 2006-05-09 2007-11-15 Ams Research Corporation Testing Efficacy of Therapeutic Mechanical or Electrical Nerve or Muscle Stimulation
US7991476B2 (en) 2006-05-22 2011-08-02 Empire Bio-Medical Devices, Inc. Method and device for enhanced blood flow
US7828715B2 (en) 2006-06-29 2010-11-09 Ams Research Corporation Method of treating anal incontinence
US8075471B2 (en) 2006-07-12 2011-12-13 Allegheny-Singer Research Institute Apical torsion device for cardiac assist
US7682338B2 (en) 2006-08-23 2010-03-23 Medtronic Minimed, Inc. Infusion medium delivery system, device and method with needle inserter and needle inserter device and method
US7738961B2 (en) 2006-10-09 2010-06-15 Endostim, Inc. Method and apparatus for treatment of the gastrointestinal tract
US7452326B2 (en) 2006-10-13 2008-11-18 British Columbia Institute Of British Columbia User-friendly vibrostimulation device
US7749235B2 (en) 2006-10-20 2010-07-06 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Stomach invagination method and apparatus
US7862502B2 (en) 2006-10-20 2011-01-04 Ellipse Technologies, Inc. Method and apparatus for adjusting a gastrointestinal restriction device
US20080103544A1 (en) 2006-10-28 2008-05-01 Weiner Richard L Method of treating female sexual dysfunction
FR2908979A1 (en) 2006-11-28 2008-05-30 Saidi Abdelkader Erectile dysfunction treating device for use during e.g. prostatectomy, has infusing unit for infusing therapeutic solution into cavernous tissue of penis of patient having erectile dysfunction in discontinuous or continuous manner
US7846160B2 (en) 2006-12-21 2010-12-07 Cytyc Corporation Method and apparatus for sterilization
US8469908B2 (en) 2007-04-06 2013-06-25 Wilson T. Asfora Analgesic implant device and system
US9259233B2 (en) 2007-04-06 2016-02-16 Hologic, Inc. Method and device for distending a gynecological cavity
JP2010524635A (en) 2007-04-28 2010-07-22 ザ ボード オブ トラスティーズ オブ ザ リーランド スタンフォード ジュニア ユニバーシティ Dynamic and adjustable support equipment
US8204597B2 (en) 2007-05-30 2012-06-19 Medtronic, Inc. Evaluating patient incontinence
WO2010042045A1 (en) 2008-10-10 2010-04-15 Milux Holding S.A. A system, an apparatus, and a method for treating a sexual dysfunctional female patient
US8696543B2 (en) 2007-10-11 2014-04-15 Kirk Promotion Ltd. Method for controlling flow of intestinal contents in a patient's intestines
US9555241B2 (en) 2007-10-11 2017-01-31 Peter Forsell Method of obtaining male contraception
US10307597B2 (en) 2007-10-11 2019-06-04 Peter Forsell Method for controlling flow of urine in a patient's urethra, ureter, renal pelvis or bladder
EP2211776B1 (en) 2007-10-11 2016-01-06 Kirk Promotion LTD. Implantable tissue connector
US9949871B2 (en) 2007-10-11 2018-04-24 Peter Forsell Method for controlling flow of eggs in a uterine tube
US9795320B2 (en) 2007-10-11 2017-10-24 Peter Forsell Device for treatment of aneurysm
US20090248033A1 (en) 2007-10-11 2009-10-01 Milux Holding S.A. Method for the treatment of gallstones
BRPI0817871B8 (en) 2007-10-11 2021-06-22 Implantica Patent Ltd device for controlling the flow in an organ of the body
US8795153B2 (en) 2007-10-11 2014-08-05 Peter Forsell Method for treating female sexual dysfunction
SI2214607T1 (en) 2007-10-11 2022-01-31 Implantica Patent Ltd. System for thermal treatment of hypertension, hypotension or aneurysm
WO2009048372A1 (en) 2007-10-11 2009-04-16 Milux Holding Sa Device, method and system for monitoring and treatment of aneurysm
US10195325B2 (en) 2007-10-11 2019-02-05 Peter Forsell Method for controlling flow of sperms in a uterine tube
US8992409B2 (en) 2007-10-11 2015-03-31 Peter Forsell Method for controlling flow in a bodily organ
US11389288B2 (en) 2007-10-11 2022-07-19 Peter Forsell Implantable tissue connector
WO2009048400A1 (en) 2007-10-11 2009-04-16 Milux Holding Sa Method for controlling flow in a bodily organ
EP2211775A4 (en) 2007-10-11 2017-03-15 Kirk Promotion LTD. A device for treatment of aneurysm
EP3970664A1 (en) 2008-01-28 2022-03-23 Implantica Patent Ltd. A fluid movement device
EP3964243A1 (en) 2008-01-28 2022-03-09 Implantica Patent Ltd Blood clot removal device, system, and method
HUE054386T2 (en) 2008-01-29 2021-09-28 Implantica Patent Ltd Apparatus for treating obesity
US7844342B2 (en) 2008-02-07 2010-11-30 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Powering implantable restriction systems using light
US7998057B2 (en) 2008-02-25 2011-08-16 Melissa Mia Kain Erogenic stimulator with expandable bulbous end
US7987853B2 (en) 2008-04-25 2011-08-02 Conceptus, Inc. Devices and methods for occluding a fallopian tube
US10668196B2 (en) 2008-10-10 2020-06-02 Peter Forsell Heart assisting device
DK2349106T3 (en) 2008-10-10 2017-04-24 Kirk Promotion Ltd System for the treatment of sexual dysfunction in men.
SI2349082T1 (en) 2008-10-10 2021-09-30 Implantica Patent Ltd. Implantable device for internal urinary control
EP2349098B8 (en) 2008-10-10 2023-01-11 MedicalTree Patent Ltd. An improved artificial valve
US8475355B2 (en) 2008-10-10 2013-07-02 Milux Holding S.A. Heart help device, system, and method
WO2010042010A1 (en) 2008-10-10 2010-04-15 Milux Holding Sa Variable sling for urinary incontinence
WO2010042058A1 (en) 2008-10-10 2010-04-15 Milux Holding S.A. An improved artificial valve
CA2776475A1 (en) 2008-10-10 2010-04-15 Peter Forsell An improved artificial valve
EP2349078A4 (en) 2008-10-10 2018-02-07 Kirk Promotion LTD. Fastening means for implantable medcial control assembly
CA2776506C (en) 2008-10-10 2023-05-23 Peter Forsell An apparatus for temporary male contraception
AU2009301392B9 (en) 2008-10-10 2018-05-24 Implantica Patent Ltd. Stimulation of sexually responsive tissue of the vulva
EP2349170B1 (en) 2008-10-10 2023-09-27 Implantica Patent Ltd. Apparatus for the treatment of female sexual dysfunction
PL2344218T3 (en) 2008-10-10 2022-01-10 Medicaltree Patent Ltd. Heart help pump
EP2349076B1 (en) 2008-10-10 2018-06-13 Kirk Promotion LTD. A system, an apparatus for treating a sexual dysfunctional female patient
EP3708136A1 (en) 2008-10-10 2020-09-16 MedicalTree Patent Ltd. Heart help device, system, and method
CA3004075C (en) 2008-10-10 2020-06-02 Medicaltree Patent Ltd. Heart help device, system, and method
EP2367486A4 (en) 2008-10-31 2014-07-09 Kirk Promotion Ltd Device and method for bone adjustment with anchoring function
CN102365065B (en) 2009-01-29 2014-10-22 米卢克斯控股股份有限公司 Obesity treatment
EP2416839B1 (en) 2009-04-07 2020-03-11 Dignity Health Uterine electrical stimulation system and method
US9949812B2 (en) 2009-07-17 2018-04-24 Peter Forsell Vaginal operation method for the treatment of anal incontinence in women
US10952836B2 (en) 2009-07-17 2021-03-23 Peter Forsell Vaginal operation method for the treatment of urinary incontinence in women

Patent Citations (16)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3750194A (en) * 1971-03-16 1973-08-07 Fairchild Industries Apparatus and method for reversibly closing a natural or implanted body passage
US3875928A (en) * 1973-08-16 1975-04-08 Angelchik Jean P Method for maintaining the reduction of a sliding esophageal hiatal hernia
US4246893A (en) * 1978-07-05 1981-01-27 Daniel Berson Inflatable gastric device for treating obesity
US4592355A (en) * 1983-01-28 1986-06-03 Eliahu Antebi Process for tying live tissue and an instrument for performing the tying operation
US4696288A (en) * 1985-08-14 1987-09-29 Kuzmak Lubomyr I Calibrating apparatus and method of using same for gastric banding surgery
US5074868A (en) * 1990-08-03 1991-12-24 Inamed Development Company Reversible stoma-adjustable gastric band
US5226429A (en) * 1991-06-20 1993-07-13 Inamed Development Co. Laparoscopic gastric band and method
US5160338A (en) * 1991-11-13 1992-11-03 Inamed Development Co. Device for removing implantable articles
US5449368A (en) * 1993-02-18 1995-09-12 Kuzmak; Lubomyr I. Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding device and method for implantation and removal thereof
US5704893A (en) * 1994-07-11 1998-01-06 Dacomed Corportion Vessel occlusive apparatus and method
US5509888A (en) * 1994-07-26 1996-04-23 Conceptek Corporation Controller valve device and method
US5769877A (en) * 1995-01-04 1998-06-23 Plexus, Inc. High value capacitive, replenishable power source
US5978712A (en) * 1996-10-30 1999-11-02 Nihon Kohden Corporation Stimulating apparatus for preventing urinary incontinence
US5938669A (en) * 1997-05-07 1999-08-17 Klasamed S.A. Adjustable gastric banding device for contracting a patient's stomach
US5910149A (en) * 1998-04-29 1999-06-08 Kuzmak; Lubomyr I. Non-slipping gastric band
US6074341A (en) * 1998-06-09 2000-06-13 Timm Medical Technologies, Inc. Vessel occlusive apparatus and method

Cited By (158)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US8545384B2 (en) 1999-08-12 2013-10-01 Obtech Medical Ag Anal incontinence disease treatment with controlled wireless energy supply
US8096938B2 (en) 1999-08-12 2012-01-17 Obtech Medical Ag Controlled anal incontinence disease treatment
US8287444B2 (en) 2000-02-10 2012-10-16 Obtech Medical Ag Mechanical impotence treatment apparatus
US8602966B2 (en) 2000-02-10 2013-12-10 Obtech Medical, AG Mechanical impotence treatment apparatus
US20100145139A1 (en) * 2000-02-10 2010-06-10 Obtech Medical Ag Controlled urinary incontinence treatment
US8556796B2 (en) 2000-02-10 2013-10-15 Obtech Medical Ag Controlled urinary incontinence treatment
US20090054725A1 (en) * 2000-02-10 2009-02-26 Obtech Medical Ag Mechanical impotence treatment apparatus
US8096939B2 (en) 2000-02-10 2012-01-17 Obtech Medical Ag Urinary incontinence treatment with wireless energy supply
US20030125605A1 (en) * 2000-02-11 2003-07-03 Peter Forsell Controlled impotence treatment
US8290594B2 (en) 2000-02-11 2012-10-16 Obtech Medical Ag Impotence treatment apparatus with energy transforming means
US20110040143A1 (en) * 2000-02-11 2011-02-17 Obtech Medical Ag Impotence treatment apparatus with energy transforming means
US20110184230A1 (en) * 2000-02-11 2011-07-28 Obtech Medical Ag Controlled impotence treatment
US8734318B2 (en) 2000-02-11 2014-05-27 Obtech Medical Ag Mechanical anal incontinence
US9655724B2 (en) 2000-02-11 2017-05-23 Peter Forsell Controlled impotence treatment
US7931582B2 (en) 2000-02-11 2011-04-26 Obtech Medical Ag Controlled impotence treatment
US8126558B2 (en) 2000-02-14 2012-02-28 Obtech Medical Ag Controlled penile prosthesis
US20070015959A1 (en) * 2000-02-14 2007-01-18 Obtech Medical Ag Male impotence prosthesis apparatus with wireless energy supply
US8764627B2 (en) 2000-02-14 2014-07-01 Obtech Medical Ag Penile prosthesis
US8678997B2 (en) 2000-02-14 2014-03-25 Obtech Medical Ag Male impotence prosthesis apparatus with wireless energy supply
US8313423B2 (en) 2000-02-14 2012-11-20 Peter Forsell Hydraulic anal incontinence treatment
US20080045783A1 (en) * 2002-07-29 2008-02-21 Peter Forsell Multi-material incontinence treatment construction device
US9427301B2 (en) 2002-07-29 2016-08-30 Peter Forsell Durable implant
US20060111791A1 (en) * 2002-07-29 2006-05-25 Peter Forsell Durable implant
US9278158B2 (en) 2002-07-29 2016-03-08 Peter Forsell Multi-material incontinence treatment construction device
US20080200753A1 (en) * 2003-01-31 2008-08-21 Potencia Medical Ag Electrically operable incontinence treatment apparatus
US20080200965A1 (en) * 2003-01-31 2008-08-21 Potencia Medical Ag Electrically operable incontinence treatment apparatus
US7828713B2 (en) 2004-01-02 2010-11-09 Yehiel Ziv Gastrointestinal device
US20080294257A1 (en) * 2004-01-02 2008-11-27 Yehiel Ziv Gastrointestinal Device
WO2005065575A1 (en) * 2004-01-02 2005-07-21 Yehiel Ziv Gastrointestinal device
US7699770B2 (en) 2005-02-24 2010-04-20 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Device for non-invasive measurement of fluid pressure in an adjustable restriction device
US7658196B2 (en) 2005-02-24 2010-02-09 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. System and method for determining implanted device orientation
US7909754B2 (en) 2005-02-24 2011-03-22 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Non-invasive measurement of fluid pressure in an adjustable gastric band
US20060211913A1 (en) * 2005-02-24 2006-09-21 Dlugos Daniel F Non-invasive pressure measurement in a fluid adjustable restrictive device
US20060211914A1 (en) * 2005-02-24 2006-09-21 Hassler William L Jr System and method for determining implanted device positioning and obtaining pressure data
US8066629B2 (en) 2005-02-24 2011-11-29 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Apparatus for adjustment and sensing of gastric band pressure
US8016745B2 (en) 2005-02-24 2011-09-13 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Monitoring of a food intake restriction device
US8016744B2 (en) 2005-02-24 2011-09-13 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. External pressure-based gastric band adjustment system and method
US20060211912A1 (en) * 2005-02-24 2006-09-21 Dlugos Daniel F External pressure-based gastric band adjustment system and method
US20060199997A1 (en) * 2005-02-24 2006-09-07 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Monitoring of a food intake restriction device
US20110130626A1 (en) * 2005-02-24 2011-06-02 Hassler Jr William L Non-Invasive Measurement of Fluid Pressure In An Adjustable Gastric Band
US7927270B2 (en) 2005-02-24 2011-04-19 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. External mechanical pressure sensor for gastric band pressure measurements
US7775966B2 (en) 2005-02-24 2010-08-17 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Non-invasive pressure measurement in a fluid adjustable restrictive device
US7775215B2 (en) 2005-02-24 2010-08-17 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. System and method for determining implanted device positioning and obtaining pressure data
US20060235263A1 (en) * 2005-03-18 2006-10-19 Jacobson Technologies, Llc Palpable, implantable actuator
US20060244291A1 (en) * 2005-04-29 2006-11-02 Buell Motorcycle Company Movable tailrack for a motorcycle
US20060264982A1 (en) * 2005-05-20 2006-11-23 Viola Frank J Gastric restrictor assembly and method of use
US20100145472A1 (en) * 2005-05-20 2010-06-10 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Gastric Restrictor Assembly And Method Of Use
US7691053B2 (en) 2005-05-20 2010-04-06 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Gastric restrictor assembly and method of use
US7666180B2 (en) * 2005-05-20 2010-02-23 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Gastric restrictor assembly and method of use
US20060264981A1 (en) * 2005-05-20 2006-11-23 Viola Frank J Gastric restrictor assembly and method of use
US20060264983A1 (en) * 2005-05-20 2006-11-23 Henry Holsten Gastric restrictor assembly and method of use
US8114010B2 (en) 2005-05-20 2012-02-14 Tyco Healthcare Group Lp Gastric restrictor assembly and method of use
US7615001B2 (en) 2005-07-15 2009-11-10 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Precurved gastric band
US7618365B2 (en) 2005-07-15 2009-11-17 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Method of implating a medical device using a suture tab extender
US8298133B2 (en) 2005-07-15 2012-10-30 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Gastric band composed of different hardness materials
US7364542B2 (en) 2005-07-15 2008-04-29 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Gastric band suture tab extender
US20070250086A1 (en) * 2005-07-15 2007-10-25 Wiley Jeffrey P Gastric band composed of different hardness materials
US20070015955A1 (en) * 2005-07-15 2007-01-18 Mark Tsonton Accordion-like gastric band
US20070173685A1 (en) * 2005-07-15 2007-07-26 Jambor Kristin L Method of implating a medical device using a suture tab extender
US8182411B2 (en) 2005-07-15 2012-05-22 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Gastric band with mating end profiles
US20070015954A1 (en) * 2005-07-15 2007-01-18 Dlugos Daniel F Gastric band with mating end profiles
US20070016229A1 (en) * 2005-07-15 2007-01-18 Jambor Kristin L Gastric band suture tab extender
US7367937B2 (en) 2005-07-15 2008-05-06 Ethicon Endo-Surgey, Inc. Gastric band
US20070016230A1 (en) * 2005-07-15 2007-01-18 Jambor Kristin L Gastric band
US20070016231A1 (en) * 2005-07-15 2007-01-18 Jambor Kristin L Precurved gastric band
US7416528B2 (en) 2005-07-15 2008-08-26 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Latching device for gastric band
US20090118749A1 (en) * 2006-03-20 2009-05-07 Svip 2 Llc Pyloric Devices and Methods
WO2007107990A3 (en) * 2006-03-20 2009-02-12 Svip 2 Llc Pyloric devices and methods
WO2007107990A2 (en) * 2006-03-20 2007-09-27 Svip 2 Llc Pyloric devices and methods
US8870742B2 (en) 2006-04-06 2014-10-28 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. GUI for an implantable restriction device and a data logger
US8152710B2 (en) 2006-04-06 2012-04-10 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Physiological parameter analysis for an implantable restriction device and a data logger
US7828715B2 (en) 2006-06-29 2010-11-09 Ams Research Corporation Method of treating anal incontinence
US8801593B2 (en) 2006-06-29 2014-08-12 Ams Research Corporation Method of treating anal incontinence
US20110060180A1 (en) * 2006-06-29 2011-03-10 Haverfield Maxwell E Method of treating anal incontinence
US20080004487A1 (en) * 2006-06-29 2008-01-03 Haverfield Maxwell E Method of treating anal incontinence
US8371998B2 (en) 2006-06-29 2013-02-12 American Research Corporation Method of treating anal incontinence
US8808163B2 (en) 2006-10-20 2014-08-19 Ellipse Technologies, Inc. Adjustable implant and method of use
US20090062825A1 (en) * 2006-10-20 2009-03-05 Scott Pool Adjustable implant and method of use
US10039661B2 (en) 2006-10-20 2018-08-07 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. Adjustable implant and method of use
US9526650B2 (en) 2006-10-20 2016-12-27 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. Adjustable implant and method of use
US20080097496A1 (en) * 2006-10-20 2008-04-24 Arvin Chang System and method for securing an implantable interface to a mammal
US7862502B2 (en) 2006-10-20 2011-01-04 Ellipse Technologies, Inc. Method and apparatus for adjusting a gastrointestinal restriction device
US7981025B2 (en) 2006-10-20 2011-07-19 Ellipse Technologies, Inc. Adjustable implant and method of use
US20080097487A1 (en) * 2006-10-20 2008-04-24 Scott Pool Method and apparatus for adjusting a gastrointestinal restriction device
US8246533B2 (en) 2006-10-20 2012-08-21 Ellipse Technologies, Inc. Implant system with resonant-driven actuator
US9271857B2 (en) 2006-10-20 2016-03-01 Ellipse Technologies, Inc. Adjustable implant and method of use
US8715159B2 (en) 2006-10-20 2014-05-06 Ellipse Technologies, Inc. Adjustable implant and method of use
US20110082328A1 (en) * 2007-01-03 2011-04-07 Christian Gozzi Methods for installing sling to treat fecal incontinence, and related devices
US8435203B2 (en) 2007-06-20 2013-05-07 Covidien Lp Gastric restrictor assembly and method of use
US8790290B2 (en) 2007-06-20 2014-07-29 Covidien Lp Gastric restrictor assembly and method of use
US20080319470A1 (en) * 2007-06-20 2008-12-25 Viola Frank J Gastric restrictor assembly and method of use
US8992409B2 (en) 2007-10-11 2015-03-31 Peter Forsell Method for controlling flow in a bodily organ
US8696543B2 (en) 2007-10-11 2014-04-15 Kirk Promotion Ltd. Method for controlling flow of intestinal contents in a patient's intestines
US20110066254A1 (en) * 2007-10-11 2011-03-17 Peter Forsell Method for controlling flow in a bodily organ
US20110087337A1 (en) * 2007-10-11 2011-04-14 Peter Forsell Apparatus for controlling flow in a bodily organ
US9662117B2 (en) 2007-10-11 2017-05-30 Peter Forsell Apparatus for controlling flow in a bodily organ
US20090240100A1 (en) * 2007-10-11 2009-09-24 Milux Holding S.A. Schneider, Luxembourg Method for controlling flow of intestinal contents in a patient's intestines
US8795153B2 (en) 2007-10-11 2014-08-05 Peter Forsell Method for treating female sexual dysfunction
US10349995B2 (en) 2007-10-30 2019-07-16 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. Skeletal manipulation method
US11172972B2 (en) 2007-10-30 2021-11-16 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. Skeletal manipulation method
US8449448B2 (en) 2007-11-08 2013-05-28 Renew Medical, Inc. Fecal incontinence device, systems and method
US8568292B2 (en) 2007-11-08 2013-10-29 Renew Medical, Inc. Fecal incontinence device, system and method
US8439819B2 (en) 2007-11-08 2013-05-14 Renew Medical, Inc. Fecal incontinence device, system and method
US8444546B2 (en) 2007-11-08 2013-05-21 Renew Medical, Inc. Fecal incontinence device, system and method
US9211172B2 (en) 2007-11-08 2015-12-15 Renew Medical, Inc. Fecal incontinence device, system and method
US8187163B2 (en) 2007-12-10 2012-05-29 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Methods for implanting a gastric restriction device
US20090156891A1 (en) * 2007-12-12 2009-06-18 Ams Research Corporation Prolapse and Perineal Repair Concepts
US8100870B2 (en) 2007-12-14 2012-01-24 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Adjustable height gastric restriction devices and methods
US8377079B2 (en) 2007-12-27 2013-02-19 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Constant force mechanisms for regulating restriction devices
US8142452B2 (en) 2007-12-27 2012-03-27 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Controlling pressure in adjustable restriction devices
US8337389B2 (en) 2008-01-28 2012-12-25 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Methods and devices for diagnosing performance of a gastric restriction system
US8591395B2 (en) 2008-01-28 2013-11-26 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Gastric restriction device data handling devices and methods
US8961448B2 (en) 2008-01-28 2015-02-24 Peter Forsell Implantable drainage device
US20100312164A1 (en) * 2008-01-28 2010-12-09 Peter Forsell Implantable drainage device
US8192350B2 (en) 2008-01-28 2012-06-05 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Methods and devices for measuring impedance in a gastric restriction system
US9060771B2 (en) 2008-01-29 2015-06-23 Peter Forsell Method and instrument for treating obesity
US8636809B2 (en) 2008-01-29 2014-01-28 Milux Holding Sa Device for treating obesity
US20100332000A1 (en) * 2008-01-29 2010-12-30 Peter Forsell Device for treating obesity
US8221439B2 (en) 2008-02-07 2012-07-17 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Powering implantable restriction systems using kinetic motion
US7844342B2 (en) 2008-02-07 2010-11-30 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Powering implantable restriction systems using light
US8114345B2 (en) 2008-02-08 2012-02-14 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. System and method of sterilizing an implantable medical device
US8591532B2 (en) 2008-02-12 2013-11-26 Ethicon Endo-Sugery, Inc. Automatically adjusting band system
US8057492B2 (en) 2008-02-12 2011-11-15 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Automatically adjusting band system with MEMS pump
US8034065B2 (en) 2008-02-26 2011-10-11 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Controlling pressure in adjustable restriction devices
US8187162B2 (en) 2008-03-06 2012-05-29 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. Reorientation port
US8233995B2 (en) 2008-03-06 2012-07-31 Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. System and method of aligning an implantable antenna
US9198755B2 (en) 2008-03-25 2015-12-01 Ellipse Technologies, Inc. Adjustable implant system
US10076413B2 (en) 2008-03-25 2018-09-18 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. Adjustable implant system
US20110087250A1 (en) * 2008-04-14 2011-04-14 Compagnie Europeenne d'Etude et de Recherche de Recherhe de Dispositifs pour I'lmplantation par La Gastric ring with switching pockets
US8600510B2 (en) 2008-10-10 2013-12-03 Milux Holding Sa Apparatus, system and operation method for the treatment of female sexual dysfunction
US8509894B2 (en) 2008-10-10 2013-08-13 Milux Holding Sa Heart help device, system, and method
US9072907B2 (en) 2008-10-10 2015-07-07 Peter Forsell Heart help device, system, and method
US20100331616A1 (en) * 2008-10-10 2010-12-30 Peter Forsell Method and instrument for treating obesity
US10583234B2 (en) 2008-10-10 2020-03-10 Peter Forsell Heart help device, system and method
US20110202131A1 (en) * 2008-10-10 2011-08-18 Milux Holding Sa Heart help device, system, and method
US20110202041A1 (en) * 2008-10-10 2011-08-18 Milux Holding Sa Fastening means for implantable medical control assembly
US9370656B2 (en) 2008-10-10 2016-06-21 Peter Forsell System, an apparatus, and a method for treating a sexual dysfunctional female patient
US20110192402A1 (en) * 2008-10-10 2011-08-11 Milux Holding S.A. Apparatus for temporary male contraception
US9526649B2 (en) 2008-10-10 2016-12-27 Peter Forsell Method and instrument for treating obesity
US20110196485A1 (en) * 2008-10-10 2011-08-11 Peter Forsell Heart help device, system, and method
US10219898B2 (en) 2008-10-10 2019-03-05 Peter Forsell Artificial valve
US20110224787A1 (en) * 2008-10-10 2011-09-15 Milux Holding Sa Heart help device, system, and method
US11123171B2 (en) 2008-10-10 2021-09-21 Peter Forsell Fastening means for implantable medical control assembly
US8874215B2 (en) 2008-10-10 2014-10-28 Peter Forsell System, an apparatus, and a method for treating a sexual dysfunctional female patient
US8696745B2 (en) 2008-10-10 2014-04-15 Kirk Promotion Ltd. Heart help device, system, and method
US20110301668A1 (en) * 2008-11-21 2011-12-08 Milux Holding Sa System, method and apparatus for supplying energy to an implantable medical device
US8862241B2 (en) * 2008-11-21 2014-10-14 Peter Forsell System for supplying energy to an implantable medical device
US10517643B2 (en) 2009-02-23 2019-12-31 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. Non-invasive adjustable distraction system
US10952836B2 (en) 2009-07-17 2021-03-23 Peter Forsell Vaginal operation method for the treatment of urinary incontinence in women
US9949812B2 (en) 2009-07-17 2018-04-24 Peter Forsell Vaginal operation method for the treatment of anal incontinence in women
US20110015473A1 (en) * 2009-07-17 2011-01-20 Teslux Holdings S.A. Vaginal operation method for the treatment of urinary incontinence in women
US10405891B2 (en) 2010-08-09 2019-09-10 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. Maintenance feature in magnetic implant
US9895152B2 (en) * 2011-09-02 2018-02-20 Perouse Medical Kit for maneuvering an element present in the body of a patient, comprising an implantable chamber
US20140213988A1 (en) * 2011-09-02 2014-07-31 Perouse Medical Kit for maneuvering an element present in the body of a patient, comprising an implantable chamber
US10016220B2 (en) 2011-11-01 2018-07-10 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. Adjustable magnetic devices and methods of using same
US11246694B2 (en) 2014-04-28 2022-02-15 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. System for informational magnetic feedback in adjustable implants
US10271885B2 (en) 2014-12-26 2019-04-30 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. Systems and methods for distraction
US10238427B2 (en) 2015-02-19 2019-03-26 Nuvasive Specialized Orthopedics, Inc. Systems and methods for vertebral adjustment

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP1253888B1 (en) 2006-01-11
ATE315371T1 (en) 2006-02-15
AU3427101A (en) 2001-07-09
US20180250113A1 (en) 2018-09-06
DE60116600D1 (en) 2006-04-06
US9883934B2 (en) 2018-02-06
WO2001047431A2 (en) 2001-07-05
US20070073099A1 (en) 2007-03-29
US6464628B1 (en) 2002-10-15
EP1518514A2 (en) 2005-03-30
HK1052854A1 (en) 2003-10-03
EP1518514A3 (en) 2006-01-25
US20150057490A1 (en) 2015-02-26
DE60116600T2 (en) 2006-07-20
EP1253888A2 (en) 2002-11-06
US8734318B2 (en) 2014-05-27
WO2001047431A3 (en) 2002-01-24

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US9883934B2 (en) Mechanical anal incontinence apparatus
US6709385B2 (en) Urinary incontinence treatment apparatus
EP1586283B1 (en) Urinary incontinence treatment apparatus
US20190183650A1 (en) Mechanical impotence treatment apparatus
US6470892B1 (en) Mechanical heartburn and reflux treatment
EP1563814B1 (en) Mechanical impotence treatment apparatus
US8313423B2 (en) Hydraulic anal incontinence treatment
EP1105073B1 (en) Food intake restriction device

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
STCB Information on status: application discontinuation

Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION