WO1997017909A1 - Procede et dispositif pour lutter contre l'incontinence urinaire - Google Patents

Procede et dispositif pour lutter contre l'incontinence urinaire Download PDF

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Publication number
WO1997017909A1
WO1997017909A1 PCT/US1996/018333 US9618333W WO9717909A1 WO 1997017909 A1 WO1997017909 A1 WO 1997017909A1 US 9618333 W US9618333 W US 9618333W WO 9717909 A1 WO9717909 A1 WO 9717909A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
housing
plate
valving member
lumen
member comprises
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US1996/018333
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Michelle D. Maxfield
Jeffrey C. Cerier
Original Assignee
Uromed Corporation
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
Application filed by Uromed Corporation filed Critical Uromed Corporation
Priority to AU76808/96A priority Critical patent/AU7680896A/en
Publication of WO1997017909A1 publication Critical patent/WO1997017909A1/fr

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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
    • A61F2/0009Closure means for urethra or rectum, i.e. anti-incontinence devices or support slings against pelvic prolapse placed in or outside the body opening close to the surface of the body
    • 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
    • A61F2/0009Closure means for urethra or rectum, i.e. anti-incontinence devices or support slings against pelvic prolapse placed in or outside the body opening close to the surface of the body
    • A61F2/0018Closure means for urethra or rectum, i.e. anti-incontinence devices or support slings against pelvic prolapse placed in or outside the body opening close to the surface of the body magnetic

Definitions

  • This invention relates to the control of urinary incontinence in vivo and is directed more particularly to a urinary continence device that is inserted into the urethra by the user for an extended period, and a methodology for controlling incontinence by using such a device.
  • Urinary stress incontinence is the involuntary loss of urine when the pressure within the urethra exceeds the maximum urethral pressure required for maintaining closure or continence. While the problem of urinary incontinence occurs in men and women, it is an affliction especially common in women of child bearing age and beyond.
  • Indwelling devices that are inserted by a physician, without involving surgical implantation, are also known.
  • 5,352,182 describes a device that includes a valved catheter for temporary placement in the female urethra comprising a hollow shaft with an extendable sealing portion on one end for placement through the urethra into the bladder and a crown on the other end for placement external of the body, and a spike for opening the valve in the catheter to allow voiding of the contents of the bladder.
  • Indwelling devices that are inserted by a physician have generally been very complicated, difficult to manufacture and therefore expensive. In practice, such devices have proven difficult to use for the wearer as they are uncomfortable and prove cumbersome to manipulate to void. Additionally, such devices, if present in the bladder, can leave the wearer susceptible to bladder infection, as bacteria may be introduced into the bladder, a sterile area, during insertion.
  • any device in the bladder may also cause abrasion in the bladder, especially during heavy exercise. Additionally, these devices, because they are indwelling, may cause some of the numerous complications associated with surgically implanted devices, such as encrustation, irritation and infection.
  • the problem of incontinence is addressed with a device that is capable of being inserted by the wearer.
  • a urinary continence device that is comfortable and easy for the wearer to insert yet becomes effectively anchored in the urethra and can be easily manipulated by the wearer to allow for voiding without removal of the device.
  • SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is, therefore, an object of the present invention to provide a urinary continence device that is easy to insert by the wearer.
  • Another object of the present invention is to provide a urinary continence device that can be worn for an extended period of time.
  • It is another object of the present invention is to provide a urinary continence device that can be worn in comfort by the wearer for an extended period of time.
  • a further object of the present invention is to provide a urinary continence device that can be manipulated easily by the wearer to allow for voiding without disturbing the tissue- to-device bond.
  • Yet another object of the present invention is to enhance the anchoring and sealing ability of a urinary continence device.
  • Still another object of the present invention is to provide a urinary continence device with which the wearer can achieve a urine flow rate during voiding that approximates that of a normal urethra.
  • Another object of the present invention is to provide a urinary continence device that can be worn during a range of activities performed by the wearer, including heavy exercise, without risk of leakage and/or trauma to the body.
  • a further object of the present invention is to reduce the risk of contamination to the bladder for the wearer of a urinary continence device.
  • Still another object of the present invention is to provide a method for using a urinary continence device to control urinary incontinence.
  • a novel urinary continence device for men and women comprising a housing having an adhesive or other securing means thereon, wherein the adhesive or other securing means secures and/or seals the housing to the tissues surrounding the meatus urinarius , and/or in some embodiments, to the urethral wall.
  • the housing may remain in the body for an extended period through multiple voidings.
  • the housing accommodates a valving member that will block the flow of urine in the urethra until voiding is desired.
  • the valving member is a cap secured to the housing by a flexible hinge.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a housing of a urinary continence device according to the present invention disposed in a male patient immediately following insertion with an applicator.
  • FIG. 2 illustrates a housing of a urinary continence device according to the present invention disposed in a female patient immediately following insertion with a different type of applicator.
  • FIG. 3 is a cross sectional view of a housing of a urinary continence device according to the present invention.
  • FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a urinary continence device according to the present invention disposed on one type of applicator for insertion into a wearer.
  • FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view of a urinary continence device according to the present invention disposed on another type of applicator for insertion into a wearer.
  • FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a housing of the urinary continence device according to the present invention having sealing rings extending from the housing for enhanced anchoring and/or sealing of the device in the urethra.
  • FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view of a urinary continence device according to the present invention having a removable plug valving member.
  • FIG. 8 is a cross sectional view of an applicator for the device of FIG. 7, holding a removable plug valving member, prior to insertion into the device.
  • FIG. 9 is a cross sectional view of a urinary continence device according to the present invention having a limited number of uses type valving member comprising multiple occluding members, with one of the multiple occluding members shown in the occluding position to maintain continence.
  • FIG. 10 is a cross sectional view of the device of FIG. 9, with the valving member in a position enabling the wearer to void.
  • FIG. 11 is a cross sectional view of the device of FIGS. 9 and 10, having a second occluding member positioned so as to occlude the device.
  • FIG. 12 is a cross sectional view of another embodiment of the urinary continence device of the present invention, in an open position.
  • FIG. 13 is a cross sectional view of still another embodiment of the urinary continence device of the present invention.
  • FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the valving member of the device of FIG. 13.
  • FIG. 15 is a cross sectional view of the preferred embodiment of the urinary continence device of the present invention, in an open position.
  • FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the device of FIG. 15 in a closed position.
  • FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the device shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, ready for insertion in a wearer, on an applicator particularly suitable for use with this embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 18 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the urinary continence device of the present invention.
  • FIG. 19 is a cross sectional view of the device shown in FIG. 18 in a closed position.
  • FIG. 20 is a cross sectional view of the device shown in FIGS. 18 and 19 in an open position.
  • FIG. 21 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a housing for use with a urinary continence device according to the present invention.
  • FIG. 22 is a cross sectional partial view of another embodiment of a urinary continence device according to the present invention, in a collapsed configuration prior to insertion in the human body.
  • FIG. 23 is a cross sectional view of the device of FIG. 22, after insertion of the valving member.
  • the present invention is a novel urinary continence device comprising a housing and a valving member.
  • the housing has an adhesive or other anchoring means thereon, wherein the adhesive or other anchoring means secures, and may seal, the housing to the human body, to the tissues surrounding the meatu ⁇ urinarius and/or to the urethral wall.
  • the housing may remain in the body for extended periods of time through multiple voidings.
  • the housing accommodates the valving member that will block the flow of urine in the urethra until voiding is desired.
  • the urinary continence device of the present invention can be used in male and female patients. It will be obvious from the discussion below that certain embodiments may be better for a patient of one sex or the other because of the configuration of the device and the anatomy of the patient. The principles of the present invention, however, are applicable to both sexes.
  • FIGS. 1 and 2 show the housing 10 of the urinary continence device of the present invention in a wearer after insertion.
  • the body 11 of the housing 10 is introduced into the urethra until plate 14 contacts the tissues surrounding the meatu ⁇ urinarius .
  • FIG. 3 illustrates the housing 10 of the urinary continence device of the present invention in more detail.
  • the housing 10 may be comprised of a biocompatible material such as polyurethane, polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon, latex, silicone, foamed urethane, DYNAFLEX (a trademark of GLS Corporation of Cary, Illinois, for a biocompatible thermoplastic elastomer) , KRATON (a trademark of Shell Chemical Company of Houston, Texas, for a biocompatible thermoplastic elastomer) , cellulose, C-FLEX (a trademark of Consolidated Polymer Technologies of Largo, Florida, for a biocompatible thermoplastic elastomer) , polyvinylchloride and the like.
  • Housing 10 defines a lumen 12 and has a body ll, a plate 14 and adhesive 13. Adhesive may be positioned on the plate 14, and/or it may be positioned on the body 11 for anchoring the device in the human body.
  • the body 11 of the housing 10 can be tubular as shown in most of the figures or it may be any geometric shape that can be comfortably and easily inserted into and retained in the urethra by the wearer. See, for example, FIG. 21.
  • the tip of body 11 distal to plate 14 may be blunt, as shown in FIG. 2, or it may be shaped for easier insertion into the urethra, for example, rounded or, preferably, tapered as illustrated with many of the embodiments.
  • the length of the body 11 is determined so as to allow the body 11 to sit within the urethra and provide a good seal between the urethral walls and the body 11 such that urine flows through the lumen 12.
  • the length of the body 11 of the housing 10 can vary, from a length that allows the body 11 to rest immediately within the urethra at the meatus to a length that extends the body 11 to beyond the sphincter muscle.
  • Housing 10 defines a lumen 12, which will provide a path for urine flow, as will be described below.
  • the lumen 12 of the housing 10 will be sized in diameter so as to allow comfortable insertion into the urethra and to provide a pathway of substantially similar size as a normal urethra during urination to simulate normal urine flow.
  • a plate 14 is disposed at the end of the housing 10 and will have a configuration that is comfortable to the wearer when in place in the meatal region and that will provide for sufficient anchoring of the housing to the wearer, as described below.
  • plate 14 is a flanged type member and is shown in its preferred embodiment, circular.
  • plate 14 may be irregularly shaped and may be larger to provide for enhanced anchoring.
  • a larger plate 14 may be particularly suitable for use with female wearers, as plate 14 may extend into the region of the labia inora , and even the vestibule floor.
  • the plate 14 may be concave in shape, or convex, to add to the comfort of the wearer. Plate 14 may even have some depth to it, as shown in FIG. 21. Plate 14 may be either contiguous with the body ll or, alternatively, may comprise a separate attachment to the body 11.
  • the following specification describes the insertion of one embodiment of the urinary continence device of the present invention until the adhesive 13 on the plate 14 contacts the tissues of the meatus urinarius .
  • Use of the alternative configurations of the plate 14, however, will mean that the adhesive 13 on the plate may contact a larger area of the wearer's body, such as those regions described above with reference to female wearers. The description below is intended to refer to those embodiments as well.
  • the adhesive chosen for use in the present invention can be any adhesive which comfortably bonds to tissue and can subsequently be removed. Removal may be done by mechanical force, or by the use of a releasing agent, and/or the adhesive may be formulated to adhere for a predetermined amount of time, ranging from short (a few hours) to extended, and to release and allow the device to fall off after that predetermined amount of time.
  • the releasing agent may be water-based, oil-based, or any emulsion, as is well known in the art.
  • Adhesives suitable for use in the present invention include both natural and synthetic materials. Preferred adhesives include, but are not limited to, hydrogel adhesives, polyvinylether-based adhesives, hydrocolloid, acrylic-based adhesives and natural gum and synthetic rubber adhesives. Hydrocolloid adhesives are particularly suitable for formulation to release after a predetermined amount of time. Other biocompatible adhesive materials known to those skilled in the art may also be used.
  • the urinary continence device of the present invention disposed on the surface of the plate 14 proximal to the body 11 is adhesive 13.
  • the adhesive 13 may be in a continuous layer or it may be present in a discontinuous layer.
  • adhesive 13 is disposed on the external surface of body ll of housing 10 for anchoring the device in the human body.
  • the adhesive may be present in a continuous layer or it may be present in a discontinuous layer as needed for retention in the urethra. Adhesive present on the body may also provide additional protection against urine flowing outside the lumen 12, as opposed to through the lumen 12.
  • adhesive may be present both on the plate 14 and on the body 11.
  • the device of the present invention is described and shown in most figures having adhesive 13 positioned solely on the plate 14. This description is for illustration only and is not intended to be limiting as the alternative embodiment described in this paragraph falls within the concepts of the present invention.
  • the urinary continence device of the present invention may be inserted into the urethra by the wearer using his or her finger, that is, without using an applicator. In a preferred embodiment, however, an applicator will be used to place the housing into a wearer.
  • FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate two applicators that can be used to insert the urinary continence device of the present invention. Those skilled in the art will realize that applicators known in the field can be used with the present invention as well.
  • FIG. 4 illustrates a plug type applicator 20 having a urinary continence device according to the present invention disposed on one end thereof ready for insertion into a patient.
  • the applicator 20 is essentially tubular.
  • the diameter of the tubular applicator is sufficient for the applicator walls to support the housing 10 in which a valving member may or may not be positioned by the plate 14 and, in those embodiments incorporating adhesive 13 on the plate, to exert pressure on the area of the plate 14 on which the adhesive 13 rests on its opposite surface.
  • the wearer grasps the applicator 20 and guides the housing 10 into the urethra, until the plate 14 is disposed proximal to the tissue of the meatus urinarius . If adhesive 13 is present on plate 14, the applicator 20 applies pressure to adhesive 13 to cause the plate 14 to bond to the tissue. It will be recognizable to those skilled in the art that many configurations can be used for applicator 20.
  • the applicator 20 can have concave side walls as shown in applicator 30 in FIG. 5.
  • an applicator usable in the present invention preferably will be configured to apply pressure in the region of the plate 14 against which the adhesive 13 is placed, so as to enhance the device-to-tissue bond, and it will disengage from the housing 10 when the adhesive 13 is secured to the tissue.
  • Applicator 30 has applicator body 31, shown herein with concave side walls although the side walls may be substantially straight, support member 33 for supporting the housing 10 for insertion and applicator head 32. As shown the applicator 30 is one piece, although it will be instantly recognizable to those skilled in the art that the applicator 30 can be configured in an alternate arrangement.
  • Applicator head 32 may have a post-like configuration, of sufficient length to support the housing 10 during insertion into the human body. Alternatively, the applicator head 32 may be of sufficient length to extend through the lumen 12 of housing and out of the end of housing 10 distal to plate 14, as shown in FIG. 5. In that configuration shown in FIG.
  • applicator head 32 supports the housing 10 but also provides a rounded and lubricous leading edge because of its shape, and additionally this preferred leading edge can be optimized by choice of materials chosen for applicator, such as polypropylene or even TEFLON, to facilitate insertion of the applicator 30 into the urethra.
  • applicator head 32 provides the leading edge for insertion of the housing 10 into the urethra, housing 10 can be made more flexible and less stiff than will otherwise be required if no applicator or an applicator as shown in FIG. 4 is used.
  • the wearer places the applicator 30 through the lumen 12 of housing 10 so that applicator head 32 extends out of body 11 and plate 14 rests on support member 33.
  • the applicator 30 and housing 10 may be preassembled in the package for a wearer's convenience.
  • the housing 10 will be inserted into the urethra by grasping applicator body 31 and leading applicator head 32 into the urethra until plate 14 or adhesive 13 meets the tissues surrounding the meatus urinarius , and where applicable, the tissues and adhesive will bond.
  • the applicator 30 can then be pulled out of the urethra and the housing 10 will remain in place.
  • the urethral wall conforms to the shape of the body 11.
  • Adhesive 13 present on the surface of the plate 14 or alternatively on the body 11 functions to secure the housing 10 to the meatal region or the urethral wall respectively, as described above.
  • FIG. 6 An additional means to anchor the body 11 against the urethral walls in a wearer is shown in FIG. 6.
  • One or more sealing rings 15, areas of larger diameter than the diameter of the body 11 and extending from the body 11 in spaced intervals, may be provided on the body 11 of the housing 10.
  • the urethral tissue conforms to the shape of the one or more sealing rings 15 to provide enhanced anchoring and sealing of the device in the wearer.
  • FIG. 3 illustrates an additional guiding member usable with a urinary continence device according to the present invention.
  • Guiding member 16 extends from the housing 10 and may have a ridge 17 for easy gripping. Guiding member 16 may be contiguous with the housing 10 or, alternatively, may comprise a separate attachment to the device. Guiding member 16 may be formed from a biocompatible material such as polyurethane, polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon, latex, foamed urethane, silicone, DYNAFLEX, KRATON, cellulose, C- FLEX, polyvinylchloride and the like. When in use in a wearer, the guiding member 16 rests outside of the human body.
  • the guiding member 16 will preferably be made thin and flexible so that it can collapse and fold with little force and conform to the labial region for the comfort of the wearer. It is preferably symmetrical so no orientation is required.
  • the guiding member 16 When folded, the guiding member 16 may be used as a handle to pull or twist the urinary continence device. In that position, it also seals the lumen 12 at the plate 14 to prevent urine from getting on the wearer's hands. When the guiding member 16 is released and opened, the urine will flow freely in the aimed direction away from the adhesive bond. Additionally, guiding member 16 acts as a guide for the wearer for insertion of the valving member or manipulation of the valving member.
  • guiding member 16 has a funnel-type shape, but one skilled in the art will recognize that a guiding member 16 can be tube-like, or may have walls flaring or narrowing and still provide the features of the illustrated guiding member 16.
  • the guiding member 16 may be used with many of the embodiments of the present invention described below and is shown in several of them by way of illustration, but not limitation.
  • the housing 10 of the urinary continence device of the present invention will be inserted into the urethra, as described above. It will be inserted by the wearer, as the services of a physician are not required. The housing 10 remains in contact with the human body through many voidings for an extended period of time.
  • the wearer simple removes the housing 10, for example by peeling the plate 14 of the housing 10 off the tissue in the area of the meatus urinarius or by moistening the plate 14 with an appropriate releasing agent, such as a remover or even water.
  • an appropriate releasing agent such as a remover or even water.
  • the seal with the body tissue at the meatus urinarius is thus broken, and housing 10 is easily disengaged.
  • the wearer then simply disposes of the entire urinary continence device by flushing the device or through ordinary trash disposal means.
  • a valving member described below in its many embodiments, to void.
  • the selection of a valving member for the urinary continence device of the present invention will depend on the wearer's type of incontinence, as well as the person's ease and comfort in inserting the device, wearing it throughout the period and manipulating the valving member.
  • an illustrative urinary continence device has a removable plug type valving member.
  • the urinary continence device 70 includes housing 71 defining a lumen 72 and having a body 73, plate 74 and adhesive 75 on the plate 74, as described above, and valving member.
  • Valving member is a plug 76 having a plug body 77 and an appendage such as a string 78 secured to the plug body 77.
  • the appendage may, alternatively, be a tab or extension (not shown) of the plug body 77.
  • the plug body 77 comprises a body of biocompatible material, such as polyurethane, polypropylene, nylon, polyethylene, latex, foamed urethane, silicone, DYNAFLEX, KRATON, cellulose, C-FLEX, polyvinylchloride and the like.
  • the plug body 77 may be essentially spherical, as shown in
  • Plug body 77 may be provided with an enlarged base portion, as shown in FIG. 8.
  • the plug body 77 of plug 76 is of sufficient diameter to occlude the lumen 72 of housing 71.
  • This embodiment of the present invention will preferably include an applicator 80, shown in FIG. 8, for positioning and depositing the plug body 77 into the housing 71 in the urethra of a wearer.
  • applicator 80 comprises a tubular shell having first end 82 for supporting the plug body 77 and second end 84. Prior to insertion, as shown in FIG.
  • housing 71 may have means to prevent the plug body 77 from being inserted too far or from migrating out of the housing 71 in either direction.
  • FIG. 7 illustrates one way to prevent this movement. Extending substantially laterally and inwardly into lumen 72 in the body 73 is ridge 85 and spaced apart from ridge 85 is stop 86. Stop 86 may extend laterally around lumen 72 as well, or it may comprise a protuberance of sufficient dimension to completely block plug body 77 from further movement into the housing 71, even if plug body 77 is composed of a deformable material.
  • wearer grasps applicator 80 and inserts first end 82 supporting plug body 77 into the housing 71 until plug body 77 reaches the stop 86.
  • This may be accomplished by configuring the plug body 77 from elastomer or foam as described above to be readily compressible upon application of pressure thereto (as from the ridge 85) and to be expandable upon release of pressure or release from a confined space (as in lumen 72 in all areas except region of ridge 85), as shown in FIG. 7.
  • plug body 77 may be provided with an enlarged base portion 89 as is shown in FIG. 8. When plug body 77 is pushed beyond ridge 85, base portion 89 expands to serve as an anchor on ridge 85.
  • Applicator 80 is configured so that plug body 77 will not release from first end 82 of applicator 80 unless plug body 77 rests in the desired position as described above. The wearer then removes the applicator 80 and the urinary continence device 70 is in place to maintain continence.
  • the string 78 extends from the end of the plug body 77 of the plug 76 through the housing 71 and extends from the human body for removal of the plug 76.
  • the plug body 77 provides occlusion within the housing 71 by virtue of its size and configuration, but also can be achieved by choice of materials for the plug body 77 and the housing 71.
  • the housing 71 may be made relatively stiff and the plug body 77 relatively flexible so that sealing against urine flow is accomplished when the plug body 77 conforms to the relatively stiff housing 71.
  • the housing 71 can be made relatively flexible and the plug body 77 relatively stiff so that occlusion occurs when the housing 71 conforms to the relatively stiff plug body
  • both the plug body 77 and housing 71 will be flexible so that they conform to each other to provide sealing. It is within the skill of those knowledgeable in the art to select the materials for these members to provide an effective occluding device according to this embodiment of the invention.
  • plug body 77 When voiding is desired, a simple, continuous tug on the string 78 serves to unseat the plug body 77 from the housing 71.
  • the material of plug body 77 will resist pressure spikes which occur during physical activity to prevent urine leakage but when the wearer pulls on appendage
  • the plug body 77 material will elongate.
  • the plug 77 slips past ridge 85 and is then easily removed from housing 71 within the urethra.
  • a fresh plug 77 is inserted by means of an applicator into the housing 71 within the urethra.
  • FIGS. 9 though 11 illustrate a second type of urinary continence device 90 comprising housing 91 defining a lumen 92 and having a body 93, plate 94 and adhesive 95 on the plate 94 and a valving member 100 that functions for a limited number of uses and is comprised essentially of multiple occluding members.
  • the multiple occluding members are a series of occluding bodies 102 joined together by a member or members that have a smaller diameter than the diameter of the occluding body 102 (for example by a string 104 or other appendage) and placed in the housing 91.
  • the occluding body 102 may be comprised of a biocompatible material, such as polyurethane, polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon, latex, silicone, DYNAFLEX, KRATON, cellulose, foamed urethane, C-FLEX, polyvinylchloride and the like. For most uses, four to twelve occluding bodies 102 should be sufficient. It is preferable that the valving member 100 is pre-packed into the housing 91 for the ease of the wearer, as shown in FIG. 9, and inserted into the urethra by the wearer while positioned in the housing 91. String 104 extends from the occluding body 102 proximal to plate 94 through the housing 91 and extends from the human body for manipulation of the valving member 100.
  • a biocompatible material such as polyurethane, polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon, latex, silicone, DYNAFLEX, KRATON, cellulose, foamed urethan
  • Each occluding body 102 is sized so as not to occlude lumen 92 unless engaged by opening 96, as described below. It may be preferable to have means within housing 91 to prevent the occluding bodies 102 from bunching up within the lumen 92 above the opening 96 to block urine flow and/or to assist in the travel of each successive occluding body 102 towards the opening 96. Fingers 97 extend inwardly from the inside diameter of lumen 92 in the region above the opening 96 to lead each occluding body 102 in its path of travel and provide a urine path around the occluding body 102 when occluding body 102 is not in the opening 96.
  • lumen 92 of housing 91 includes an opening 96 in the region above the plate 94 so as to provide an interference fit with an occluding body 102 to maintain continence.
  • the opening 96 may be an area of reduced diameter in the lumen 92 of the housing 91, sized in relation to the size of the occluding bodies 102 to provide an interference fit.
  • opening 96 alternatively comprises a ridge radially extending from the inside diameter of the lumen 92 of sufficient length and width to engage an occluding body 102 so as to prevent urine flow.
  • each occluding body 102 is sized in relation to the diameter of the opening 96 of the lumen 92 of the housing 91 so as to form an interference fit with the opening so as to block the lumen 92 of the housing 91.
  • the opening 96 may be deformable and the occluding bodies 102 relatively stiff so as to form the interference fit.
  • the opening 96 may be relatively stiff and the occluding bodies 102 flexible to accomplish that engagement.
  • a simple continuous tug on the string 104 pulls one occluding body 102 through the opening 96, out of the housing 91, as shown in FIG. 10.
  • the string 104 is now located in the area of the opening 96, and will not prevent urine flow so that voiding can be accomplished, with the arrows in FIG. 10 indicating an exemplary path of urine flow.
  • Another tug pulls a second occluding body 102 into engagement with the opening 96 to cause occlusion, as shown in FIG. 11.
  • An occluding body 102 removed from the housing 91 can be disposed of, if desired.
  • An indicator such as a color coded second-to-last occluding body 102 may be used to communicate to the wearer that there is only one more occluding body 102 remaining in the housing 91. After all occluding bodies 102 are used, the housing 91 must be removed and a new urinary continence device 90 inserted to continue with continence maintenance.
  • Urinary continence device 120 comprises housing 121 defining a lumen 122 and having a body 123, a plate 124 and adhesive 125 on the plate 124 and elastomeric type valve 126 positioned within said housing proximal to the plate 124.
  • the elastomeric type valve 126 has converging members 127, 128 that are separable by a straw 129 that is inserted to separate the converging members 127, 128 to open the valve 126 to evacuate the bladder.
  • Straw 129 may be configured so that urine flows through straw 129 for voiding, or straw 129 may merely separate the converging members 127, 128 to allow for urine flow from the device 120 in the region of the plate 124. Upon removal of the straw 129, the converging members 127, 128 automatically converge and close the valve 126 to maintain continence. A fresh straw 129 is used for each voiding.
  • FIG. 13 illustrates another embodiment of the device of the present invention with a patch type valving member to regulate the device.
  • Urinary continence device 130 includes housing 131 defining a lumen 132 and having a body 133, a plate 134 and adhesive 135 on the plate 134 and valving member 140 comprising a patch.
  • the patch 140 is shown more closely shown in FIG. 14.
  • the patch 140 is preferably thin, about 0.005 to about 0.1 inch thick, and of flexible material such as KRATON, polyvinylchloride, or even a metalized or metal filled plastic such as MYLAR, a trademark of E.I. DuPont de Nemours of Wilmington, Delaware.
  • the patch 140 will be secured to the exposed surface of the plate 134 by a bonding agent 145, which may be located on the patch 140 or alternatively on the exposed side of the plate 134.
  • the bonding agent may be any bonding agent known in the art, such as adhesives, magnets or even a configuration of the interlocking surfaces of the plate 134 and patch 140 to promote adhesion.
  • the plate 134 and patch 140 may be provided with a VELCRO-type system for securing to each other.
  • one of the plate 134 and patch 140 may be configured with a discontinuous surface and the other is provided with a surface that will mold into the discontinuous surface, effectively engaging the patch 140 mechanically to the housing 131 until removed.
  • the patch 140 is placed over the opening of the housing 131 at the meatal region.
  • the patch is oversized, it will easily occlude the lumen 132 without precise alignment of the patch 140 on the lumen 132 to maintain continence.
  • Patch material overlapping the housing opening is floppy and will not restrict the comfort of the wearer.
  • the wearer peels the patch 140 off the housing 131. After voiding, a fresh patch 140 is put in place.
  • the urinary continence device 150 includes housing 151 defining a lumen 152 and having a body 153, a plate 154 and adhesive positioned on the plate 155. In use, the housing is inserted into the urethra and the plate 154 is adhered to the meatal region by means of the adhesive 155. Extending from housing 151 as a contiguous member or as a separate attachment secured by heat sealing, a layer of adhesive or the like, or provided as a separate piece is valving member 160 comprising a cap.
  • a cap type valving member can take many forms, from simple to elaborate, so as to form a snap fit with the housing 151 to close the lumen 152 to maintain continence.
  • the cap type valve is preferably configured so as to allow for high internal pressures to maintain continence and low pull forces to open.
  • One such embodiment is illustrated in the figures.
  • Valving member 160 comprises cap top 162 attached to housing 151 by a tab 164 extending from plate 154. Configured as a part of housing 151 or secured to plate 154 by heat sealing, adhesive or the like is ridge 165, configured so as to define an aperture 166 of reduced diameter and a void 167 of generally larger diameter than aperture 166. Protruding from cap top 162 is fitting 168 of approximately the same diameter and size as aperture 166 and conformable knob 169 of approximately the same diameter and size as void 167. The interaction of fitting 168 and conformable knob 169 with the aperture 166 and void 167 respectively forms a snap fit, thereby locking the cap top 162 and closing the valving member 160 to maintain continence.
  • the tab 164 is a flexible hinge, a material such as those described above for the housing and should be made having sufficient flexibility and rigidity so that when tab 164 is activated to open the device 150, the tab 164 goes to a preset position that will position the valving member 160 away from the stream of urine during voiding. Extending from the cap top 162 is a second tab 163 which the wearer can pull to open the cap. Once evacuation is completed, the wearer will push to close the cap top 162 shut and maintain continence.
  • a device 150 according to this embodiment of the present invention is shown ready for insertion on an applicator 30 in FIG. 17. Reference to FIG. 5 and the accompanying description should be made for the applicator 30.
  • FIGS. 18 - 20 shows an alternative embodiment 180 of the present invention including housing 181 defining a lumen 182 and having a body 183, a plate 184 and adhesive 185 on the plate 184.
  • housing 181 is inserted into the urethra and plate 184 is adhered to the meatal region by means of adhesive 185.
  • Valving member 190 is positioned within the housing 181.
  • a lever 191 is provided to swingably mount a cylindrical valve 193 for swinging the valve 193 between closed and open positions, shown in FIG. 19 and FIG. 20, respectively, with respect to the lumen 182.
  • the lever 191 has lever end 192 on which the valve 193 is rotatably mounted.
  • Resilient means provide a sealing engagement between valve 193 and lumen 182. This means resides in the outwardly curved, resilient side portions 187 extending from housing 181.
  • valve 193 is provided with a bore 194 therethrough, for urine flow.
  • the lever 191 may be swung to either of two positions to control continence.
  • the bore 194 is engaged with side portions 187, and occlusion will occur in the housing 181 above the valving member 190.
  • urine When swung to its open position, shown in FIG. 20, urine will readily flow out of the lumen 182 through bore 194 for evacuation of the bladder.
  • valving member 190 will be configured so as to require that lever 191 be swung a sufficient distance so that it is away from the urine stream when voiding is accomplished. As shown in these figures, lever 191 must be swung more than 90 degrees, and optimally, the lever 191 will be swung a full 180 degrees so that the lever 191 is not wet during voiding. In another variation of this embodiment, valving member 190 may be provided with a catch 195 to prevent activation until lever 191 has been swung a sufficient distance for those purposes.
  • lever 191 In a female wearer, lever 191 will preferably be configured so as to rest over the vaginal opening when closed for maximal comfort and ease, i.e., in a longitudinal position on the wearer, not laterally. Upon opening, lever 191 will rest proximal to the clitoris. Placing the device so that the lever 191 rests and swings longitudinally, rather than laterally, will reduce the risk of accidental opening of the device 180, and therefore accidental voidings due to movement and activity of the wearer.
  • FIG. 21 illustrates an alternative configuration of the housing, particularly useful for female wearers, for use with a urinary continence device 210 according to the present invention.
  • Device 210 includes housing 211 defining a lumen 212 and having body 213 and plate 214.
  • plate 214 is a member having thickness and provided with sloping sides to enlarge the top surface of the plate 214 that, in use, adheres to the wearer.
  • Adhesive 215 is positioned on the enlarged surface of the plate 214. In use, housing 211 will rest within the folds of the labia minora .
  • the enlarged surface and the enlarged thickness of the plate 214 on which the adhesive 215 is placed provides enhanced anchoring and preferably enhanced sealing of the device to the wearer.
  • FIG. 21 also provides an example of an alternative configuration for body 213, shaped so that lumen 212 is oval.
  • FIGS. 22 and 23 illustrate the urinary continence device of the present invention, including one valving member as described above with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8, but having adhesive 13 present on the body of the housing for anchoring the device in the human body.
  • a urinary continence device of the present invention having adhesive 13 on the body for anchoring is particularly useful for those devices in which a valving member is inserted each time voiding is accomplished.
  • Adhesive 13 may be in a continuous layer on body, but preferably will be positioned in the region of the body where the valving member rests to maintain continence.
  • the body of the device prior to insertion of the device in the human body, can be collapsed in the region in which the adhesive is positioned, as shown in FIG. 22.
  • the valving member is inserted, forcing the collapsed body open to press the adhesive against the walls of the urethra, as shown in FIG. 23.
  • other types of valving members can be incorporated into the urinary continence device of the present invention having adhesive 13 present on the body of the housing for anchoring the device in the human body.
  • valving members that are actuated by the wearer of the device.
  • valving members actuatable by the wearer of the device could be used in a urinary continence device according to the present invention.
  • any valving member that is manipulated by the wearer using his or her hands may be incorporated into the device of the present invention.
  • valving members that are actuated remotely by the wearer may be utilized with the device of the present invention. The wearer may manipulate a portable magnet to selectively move a steel or magnetic valving member in the urinary continence device in the wearer to open and/or close the valving member.
  • a radio controlled valving member may be used, such as a radio controller that can actuate a solenoid valve.
  • a check valve actuatable by fluid of any type such as urine, can be used as the valving member of a urinary continence device according to the present invention.
  • a pressure relief valving member is configured to intentionally leak at 45 cm of water, or greater, if the pressure is sustained for a period of time, optimally five minutes, but maintains continence with pressure peaks such as a high pressure cough (150 cm of water) , laughter (90 cm of water) or picking up a heavy object (90 cm of water) .
  • Such a valving member may function hydraulically by moving fluid from one chamber to another, which requires both pressure and time prior to opening the pressure relief valving member.
  • the urinary continence device of the present invention provides benefits over known devices.
  • the housing is inserted by the wearer and does not require the services of a health care professional or surgical implantation.
  • the housing is inserted by the wearer once for an extended period of time; it will remain for the any number of voidings that occur during that period.
  • the housing is configured so as to reduce the risk of introduction of bacteria into the bladder and of trauma to the bladder and the urethra.
  • the housing is a lumen of approximately the same diameter as a normal urethra during urination. It thus provides a sufficient opening for urine flow close to that of a normal urethra and therefore promotes normal duration for evacuation.
  • the invention can provide for protection to shield the device from urine which could damage the bond between the adhesive and the tissue.
  • the device of the present invention and/or any or all of its components can be coated with or have integral to its components, therapeutic agents of a wide variety for release into the urinary tract.
  • therapeutic agents for example, could be to reduce pain or the risk of infection from the device to the wearer, or the agents could be designed to treat the wearer for conditions unrelated to the device itself.
  • the agents could be made to release immediately or release at a predetermined rate over time. Any modification to the shape, configuration and/or composition of the elements comprising the invention is within the scope of the present invention.

Abstract

L'invention concerne un nouveau dispositif de continence d'urines et un procédé pour lutter contre l'incontinence urinaire au moyen dudit dispositif. Ce dispositif comprend un boîtier (10) définissant une lumière (12) et présentant un élément (11) introduit dans l'urètre et une plaque (14), ainsi qu'un élément d'obturation. Un adhésif (13) ou un autre élément d'étanchéité, placé sur la plaque (14) et/ou l'élément (11), permet de fixer ledit dispositif sur le corps humain, généralement sur les tissus entourant le méat urinaire et/ou les parois de l'urètre. Le boîtier (10) peut séjourner dans le corps pour une durée prolongée. L'élément d'obturation bloque le flux urinaire dans l'urètre tant qu'une miction n'est pas souhaitée. Dans un mode de réalisation préféré, l'élément d'obturation est un bouchon (76) conçu de manière à s'emboîter dans la lumière interne du boîtier.
PCT/US1996/018333 1995-11-14 1996-11-14 Procede et dispositif pour lutter contre l'incontinence urinaire WO1997017909A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU76808/96A AU7680896A (en) 1995-11-14 1996-11-14 Method and device for controlling urinary incontinence

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US55735095A 1995-11-14 1995-11-14
US08/557,350 1995-11-14

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO1997017909A1 true WO1997017909A1 (fr) 1997-05-22

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US1996/018333 WO1997017909A1 (fr) 1995-11-14 1996-11-14 Procede et dispositif pour lutter contre l'incontinence urinaire

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AU (1) AU7680896A (fr)
WO (1) WO1997017909A1 (fr)

Cited By (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0920841A1 (fr) * 1997-12-04 1999-06-09 American Medical Systems, Inc. Dispositif pour l'atténuation de l'incontinence urinaire
WO1999044532A1 (fr) * 1998-03-04 1999-09-10 American Medical Systems, Inc. Soupape et procedes pour maitriser l'incontinence urinaire
US6030337A (en) * 1998-07-30 2000-02-29 American Medical Systems, Inc. Continence augmentor and methods for urinary control
EP1411821A1 (fr) * 2001-06-29 2004-04-28 Ethicon, Inc. Systeme d'estimation de la fonction urinaire
CN110996862A (zh) * 2017-08-22 2020-04-10 Life360创新公司 用于解决尿失禁的尿道塞和系统

Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4261340A (en) * 1978-02-21 1981-04-14 Laboratories Biotrol S.A. Artificial anus obturating device
WO1993024075A1 (fr) * 1992-05-27 1993-12-09 Ram Michael J Produit et procede de traitement d'incontinence feminine

Patent Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4261340A (en) * 1978-02-21 1981-04-14 Laboratories Biotrol S.A. Artificial anus obturating device
WO1993024075A1 (fr) * 1992-05-27 1993-12-09 Ram Michael J Produit et procede de traitement d'incontinence feminine

Cited By (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0920841A1 (fr) * 1997-12-04 1999-06-09 American Medical Systems, Inc. Dispositif pour l'atténuation de l'incontinence urinaire
US6056687A (en) * 1997-12-04 2000-05-02 American Medical Systems, Inc. Device for alleviating urinary incontinence
AU738815B2 (en) * 1997-12-04 2001-09-27 American Medical Systems, Inc. Device for alleviating urinary incontinence
US6461291B1 (en) 1997-12-04 2002-10-08 American Medical Systems Inc. Device for alleviating urinary incontinence
WO1999044532A1 (fr) * 1998-03-04 1999-09-10 American Medical Systems, Inc. Soupape et procedes pour maitriser l'incontinence urinaire
US6200261B1 (en) 1998-03-04 2001-03-13 American Medical Systems, Inc. Valve and methods for urinary control
US6443886B2 (en) 1998-03-04 2002-09-03 American Medical Systems Inc. Valve and methods for urinary control
US6030337A (en) * 1998-07-30 2000-02-29 American Medical Systems, Inc. Continence augmentor and methods for urinary control
EP1411821A1 (fr) * 2001-06-29 2004-04-28 Ethicon, Inc. Systeme d'estimation de la fonction urinaire
EP1411821A4 (fr) * 2001-06-29 2006-12-27 Ethicon Inc Systeme d'estimation de la fonction urinaire
CN110996862A (zh) * 2017-08-22 2020-04-10 Life360创新公司 用于解决尿失禁的尿道塞和系统

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