U.S. patent application number 17/660266 was filed with the patent office on 2022-08-04 for pump assembly for a penile prosthesis having an outer protective casing.
The applicant listed for this patent is Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.. Invention is credited to John Anders Bostrom, Mark DiLoreto, Ryan Earl Fredrick, James Ryan Mujwid.
Application Number | 20220241073 17/660266 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006289213 |
Filed Date | 2022-08-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220241073 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Mujwid; James Ryan ; et
al. |
August 4, 2022 |
PUMP ASSEMBLY FOR A PENILE PROSTHESIS HAVING AN OUTER PROTECTIVE
CASING
Abstract
According to an aspect, an inflatable penile prosthesis includes
a fluid reservoir configured to hold fluid, an inflatable member,
and a pump assembly configured to transfer the fluid between the
fluid reservoir and the inflatable member. The pump assembly
includes a valve body having one or more valves, and an outer
protective casing disposed over the valve body.
Inventors: |
Mujwid; James Ryan; (Hudson,
WI) ; Fredrick; Ryan Earl; (Eden Prairie, MN)
; DiLoreto; Mark; (Chaska, MN) ; Bostrom; John
Anders; (Minneapolis, MN) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. |
Maple Grove |
MN |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000006289213 |
Appl. No.: |
17/660266 |
Filed: |
April 22, 2022 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
16680129 |
Nov 11, 2019 |
11337814 |
|
|
17660266 |
|
|
|
|
62768402 |
Nov 16, 2018 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61F 2230/0069 20130101;
A61F 2/26 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61F 2/26 20060101
A61F002/26 |
Claims
1. An inflatable penile prosthesis comprising: a fluid reservoir
configured to hold fluid; an inflatable member; and a pump assembly
configured to transfer the fluid between the fluid reservoir and
the inflatable member, the pump assembly including: a valve body
having one or more valves; and an outer protective casing disposed
over the valve body.
2. The inflatable penile prosthesis of claim 1, wherein the outer
protective casing includes a tactile feature configured to assist a
user to locate a deflation mode actuator of the inflatable penile
prosthesis.
3. The inflatable penile prosthesis of claim 2, wherein the tactile
feature includes a plurality of ridges.
4. The inflatable penile prosthesis of claim 2, wherein the tactile
feature includes a depression.
5. The inflatable penile prosthesis of claim 2, wherein the outer
protective casing includes an opening, the deflation mode actuator
extending through the opening of the outer protective casing.
6. The inflatable penile prosthesis of claim 1, wherein the pump
assembly includes a pump bulb, a plurality of fluid ports, and a
deflation mode actuator, the outer protective casing including a
first end portion defining a first opening, and a second end
portion defining a second opening, the outer protective casing
defining a third opening, the pump bulb extending through the first
opening, the plurality of fluid ports extending through the second
opening, the deflation mode actuator extending through the third
opening.
7. The inflatable penile prosthesis of claim 6, wherein the outer
protective casing includes a protruded side portion having a
three-dimensional shape, the protruded side portion having a
surface that defines at least one ridge.
8. The inflatable penile prosthesis of claim 1, wherein the outer
protective casing includes a polymer material.
9. The inflatable penile prosthesis of claim 1, wherein the outer
protective casing includes a silicone material.
10. An inflatable penile prosthesis comprising: a fluid reservoir
configured to hold fluid; an inflatable member; and a pump assembly
configured to transfer the fluid between the fluid reservoir and
the inflatable member, the pump assembly including: a deflation
mode actuator; a valve body having one or more valves; and an outer
protective casing disposed over the valve body, the outer
protective casing having a tactile feature configured to assist a
user locate the deflation mode actuator.
11. The inflatable penile prosthesis of claim 10, wherein the
tactile feature includes a plurality of ridges.
12. The inflatable penile prosthesis of claim 10, wherein the
tactile feature includes a depression.
13. The inflatable penile prosthesis of claim 10, wherein the pump
assembly includes a pump bulb, and a plurality of fluid ports, the
outer protective casing including a first end portion defining a
first opening, and a second end portion defining a second opening,
the outer protective casing defining a third opening, the pump bulb
extending through the first opening, the plurality of fluid ports
extending through the second opening, the deflation mode actuator
extending through the third opening.
14. The inflatable penile prosthesis of claim 10, wherein the outer
protective casing includes: a first protruded side portion; and a
second protruded side portion, at least one of the first protruded
side portion and the second protruded side portion defining at
least one ridge.
15. The inflatable penile prosthesis of claim 10, wherein the outer
protective casing includes a central portion, and a plurality of
projections extending from the central portion, the plurality of
projections defining at least one groove.
16. The inflatable penile prosthesis of claim 10, wherein the outer
protective casing includes a material that is different than the
valve body.
17. A pump assembly for an inflatable penile prosthesis comprising:
a valve body having one or more valves; a deflation mode actuator
movably coupled to the valve body; a pump bulb coupled to the valve
body; one or more fluid ports coupled to the valve body; and an
outer protective casing disposed over the valve body, the outer
protective casing having a tactile feature configured to assist a
user to locate the deflation mode actuator.
18. The pump assembly of claim 17, wherein the outer protective
casing includes a first end portion defining a first opening, a
second end portion defining a second opening, and a side portion
defining a third opening, the pump bulb extending through the first
opening, the one or more fluid ports extending through the third
opening, the deflation mode actuator extending through the third
opening.
19. The pump assembly of claim 17, wherein the tactile feature
includes one or more ridges.
20. The pump assembly of claim 17, wherein the tactile feature
includes one or more depressions.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of, and claims priority
to, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/680,129, filed on Nov. 11,
2019, entitled "PUMP ASSEMBLY FOR A PENILE PROSTHESIS HAVING AN
OUTER PROTECTIVE CASING", which claims priority to U.S. Patent
Application No. 62/768,402, filed on Nov. 16, 2018, entitled "PUMP
ASSEMBLY FOR A PENILE PROSTHESIS HAVING AN OUTER PROTECTIVE
CASING", the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference
herein in their entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] This disclosure relates generally to bodily implants and
more specifically to bodily implants, such as penile prosthesis
that includes an outer protective casing disposed over a valve
block of a pump assembly.
BACKGROUND
[0003] One treatment for male erectile dysfunction is the
implantation of a penile prosthesis that mechanically erects the
penis. Some existing penile prostheses include inflatable cylinders
or members that can be inflated or deflated using a pump mechanism.
The pump mechanism pulls fluid from a fluid reservoir and then
transfers the fluid to the inflatable members. The pump mechanism
may include a valve body that is used by patients as a place to
hold the device while they are pumping the device to achieve
inflation. However, according to some existing designs, patients
have reported issues with locating the deflation mechanism and
differentiating the valve body from the pump bulb.
SUMMARY
[0004] According to an aspect, an inflatable penile prosthesis
includes a fluid reservoir configured to hold fluid, an inflatable
member, and a pump assembly configured to transfer the fluid
between the fluid reservoir and the inflatable member. The pump
assembly includes a valve body having one or more valves, and an
outer protective casing disposed over the valve body.
[0005] According to some aspects, the inflatable penile prosthesis
may include one or more of the following features (or any
combination thereof). The outer protective casing includes a
tactile feature configured to assist a user to locate a deflation
mode actuator of the inflatable penile prosthesis. The tactile
feature includes a plurality of ridges. The tactile feature
includes a depression. The outer protective casing includes an
opening, and the deflation mode actuator extends through the
opening of the outer protective casing. The pump assembly includes
a pump bulb, a plurality of fluid ports, and a deflation mode
actuator. The outer protective casing includes a first end portion
defining a first opening, and a second end portion defining a
second opening. The outer protective casing defines a third
opening, the pump bulb extends through the first opening, the
plurality of fluid ports extends through the second opening, and
the deflation mode actuator extends through the third opening. The
outer protective casing includes a protruded side portion having a
three-dimensional shape, and the protruded side portion has a
surface that defines at least one ridge. The outer protective
casing includes a polymer material. The outer protective casing
includes a silicone material.
[0006] According to an aspect, an inflatable penile prosthesis
includes a fluid reservoir configured to hold fluid, an inflatable
member, and a pump assembly configured to transfer the fluid
between the fluid reservoir and the inflatable member. The pump
assembly includes a deflation mode actuator, a valve body having
one or more valves, and an outer protective casing disposed over
the valve body, where the outer protective casing has a tactile
feature configured to assist a user locate the deflation mode
actuator.
[0007] According to some aspects, the inflatable penile prosthesis
may include one or more of the above/below features (or any
combination thereof). The tactile feature includes a plurality of
ridges. The tactile feature includes a depression. The pump
assembly includes a pump bulb, and a plurality of fluid ports, and
the outer protective casing includes a first end portion defining a
first opening, and a second end portion defining a second opening.
The outer protective casing defines a third opening. The pump bulb
extends through the first opening, the plurality of fluid ports
extend through the second opening, and the deflation mode actuator
extends through the third opening. The outer protective casing
includes a first protruded side portion, and a second protruded
side portion, where at least one of the first protruded side
portion and the second protruded side portion defines at least one
ridge. The outer protective casing includes a central portion, and
a plurality of projections extending from the central portion,
where projections define at least one groove. The outer protective
casing includes a material that is different than the valve
body.
[0008] According to an aspect, a pump assembly for an inflatable
penile prosthesis includes a valve body having one or more valves,
a deflation mode actuator movably coupled to the valve body, a pump
bulb coupled to the valve body, one or more fluid ports coupled to
the valve body, and an outer protective casing disposed over the
valve body. The outer protective casing has a tactile feature
configured to assist a user to locate the deflation mode
actuator.
[0009] According to some aspects, the pump assembly may include any
one or more of the above/below features (or any combination
thereof). The outer protective casing includes a first end portion
defining a first opening, a second end portion defining a second
opening, and a side portion defining a third opening. The pump bulb
extends through the first opening, the one or more fluid ports
extends through the third opening, and the deflation mode actuator
extends through the third opening. The tactile feature includes one
or more ridges. The tactile feature includes one or more
depressions.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] FIG. 1A illustrates an inflatable penile prosthesis having a
pump assembly with an outer protective casing according to an
aspect.
[0011] FIG. 1B illustrates an outer protective casing having a
tactile feature configured to help a user locate a deflation mode
actuator of the pump assembly according to an aspect.
[0012] FIG. 2 illustrates a pump assembly having an outer
protective casing disposed over a valve body according to an
aspect.
[0013] FIG. 3 illustrates an outer protective casing according to
an aspect.
[0014] FIG. 4 illustrates an outer protective casing according to
an aspect.
[0015] FIG. 5 illustrates a pump assembly having an outer
protective casing disposed over a valve body according to an
aspect.
[0016] FIG. 6 illustrates a pump assembly having an outer
protective casing disposed over a valve body according to an
aspect.
[0017] FIG. 7 illustrates a pump assembly having an outer
protective casing disposed over a valve body according to an
aspect.
[0018] FIG. 8 illustrates a pump assembly having an outer
protective casing disposed over a valve body according to an
aspect.
[0019] FIGS. 9-48 illustrate pump assemblies having outer
protective casings according to various aspects.
[0020] FIGS. 49-56 illustrate outer protective casings according to
various aspects.
[0021] FIGS. 57-59 illustrate pump assemblies having outer
protective casings according to various aspects.
[0022] FIG. 60 illustrates an inflatable penile prosthesis
according to an aspect.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0023] Detailed embodiments are disclosed herein. However, it is
understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples,
which may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific
structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be
interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and
as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to
variously employ the embodiments in virtually any appropriately
detailed structure. Further, the terms and phrases used herein are
not intended to be limiting, but to provide an understandable
description of the present disclosure.
[0024] The terms "a" or "an," as used herein, are defined as one or
more than one. The term "another," as used herein, is defined as at
least a second or more. The terms "including" and/or "having", as
used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e., open transition). The
term "coupled" or "moveably coupled," as used herein, is defined as
connected, although not necessarily directly and mechanically.
[0025] In general, the embodiments are directed to bodily implants.
The term patient or user may hereafter be used for a person who
benefits from the medical device or the methods disclosed in the
present disclosure. For example, the patient can be a person whose
body is implanted with the medical device or the method disclosed
for operating the medical device by the present disclosure.
[0026] The penile prosthesis discussed herein includes an outer
protective casing that is disposed over a valve body of a pump
assembly. The outer protective casing may increase ease of
identification of a deflation mode actuator. In some examples, the
outer protective casing may reduce the profile of the valve body.
Also, the outer protective casing may provide flexibility to adapt
the valve body to a variety of shapes and textures to meet the
needs of patients. Further, the outer protective casing may protect
the valves (and other components associated with the valve body)
from grip forces by the patient to prevent valve dislocation or
accidental cylinder deflation.
[0027] FIG. 1A illustrates an inflatable penile prosthesis 100
including a fluid reservoir 102, an inflatable member 104, and a
pump assembly 106 configured to transfer fluid between the fluid
reservoir 102 and the inflatable member 104 according to an aspect.
The inflatable member 104 may be implanted into the corpus
cavernosae of the user, the fluid reservoir 102 may be implanted in
the abdomen or pelvic cavity of the user (e.g., the fluid reservoir
102 may be implanted in the lower portion of the user's abdominal
cavity or the upper portion of the user's pelvic cavity), and the
pump assembly 106 may be implanted in the scrotum of the user.
[0028] The pump assembly 106 includes a pump bulb 108, a valve body
110, a deflation mode actuator 112, and an outer protective casing
120 disposed over the valve body 110. In an inflation mode, the
user may operate the pump bulb 108 (e.g., squeeze the pump bulb
108, release, then squeeze again, etc.) to transfer fluid from the
fluid reservoir 102 to the pump assembly 106, and from the pump
assembly 106 to the inflatable member 104 such that a desired
rigidity is achieved in the inflatable member 104. In order to
deflate the inflatable member 104, the user may locate the
deflation mode actuator 112, and activate the deflation mode
actuator 112 to place the inflatable penile prosthesis 100 in a
deflation mode.
[0029] The deflation mode actuator 112 is movably coupled to the
valve body 110. In some examples, the deflation mode actuator 112
includes a protrusion, that when pressed, causes the valve body 110
to define a fluid passageway from the inflatable member 104 to the
fluid reservoir 102 in order to deflate the inflatable member 104.
In some examples, the deflation mode actuator 112 includes a push
rod or button. In some examples, the user presses the deflation
mode actuator 112 once (e.g., does not need to hold the deflation
mode actuator 112) to cause fluid to drain from the inflatable
member 104. In some examples, due to the pressure inside of the
inflatable member 104, some of the fluid may be automatically
transferred from the inflation member 104 to the fluid reservoir
102 via the pump assembly 106, and then the user may squeeze the
inflatable member 104 to transfer some of the remaining fluid in
the inflatable member 104.
[0030] The valve body 110 includes passageways and valve components
such as one or more valves (e.g., inflation valve, refill valve,
check valve, ball valve, one-way valve, and/or two-way valve, etc.)
and a spool, for example. The valve body 110 may include a silicone
material. For example, the valve body 110 may be molded from a
silicone material having a medium durometer value.
[0031] The pump bulb 108 may be a flexible member defining a
cavity. The pump bulb 108 is coupled to and extends from the valve
body 110. The pump bulb 108 may be a squeeze pump. In some
examples, the pump bulb 108 includes ribbing or dimples to aid the
user in gripping the pump bulb 108. The pump bulb 108 may use
suction and pressure to move the fluid in and out of the cavity of
the pump bulb 108 in the inflation mode. For example, the user may
depress or squeeze the pump bulb 108 to expel the fluid out of the
cavity, and, when the flexible member returns to its original
shape, the resulting suction pushes the fluid into the cavity of
the pump bulb 108. In some examples, the pump bulb 108 may have a
bulb spring rate that is designed to refill the pump bulb 108 in a
selected time frame.
[0032] The outer protective casing 120 is configured to protect the
valve components of the valve body 110, and assist a user in
locating the deflation mode actuator 112 of the inflatable penile
prosthesis 100. In some examples, the outer protective casing 120
is a single unitary body that is separate from the valve body 110,
but placed over the valve body 110.
[0033] As shown in FIG. 1B, the outer protective casing 120
includes tactile features 132 that assist the user in locating the
deflation mode actuator 112. In some examples, the tactile features
132 are features that are perceptible by touching the outer
protective casing 120. In some examples, the tactile features 132
include one or more protruded (or extended) portions that extend
away from a surface of the outer protective casing 120. In some
examples, the tactile features 132 include ridges or ribs. In some
examples, the tactile features 132 include depressions or recessed
portions. In some examples, the tactile features 132 include a
combination of ridges and depressions. In some examples, the
tactile features 132 include protrusions and grooves. In some
examples, the protrusions and grooves are alternatively disposed on
one or more surfaces of the outer protective casing 120 (e.g., a
first protrusion, then a first groove, then, a second protrusion,
then a second groove, etc.). In some examples, the tactile features
132 include bumps. The tactile features 132 are located on one or
more of the surfaces of the outer protective casing 120 in order to
distinguish the valve body 110 and the pump bulb 108. In some
examples, the tactile features 132 are disposed on the outer
protective casing 120 at a location proximate (e.g., close to) the
deflation mode actuator 112.
[0034] The outer protective casing 120 may be an enclosure that
surrounds and protects the valve body 110. For example, the outer
protective casing 120 may define a cavity that contains the valve
body 110. In some examples, at least a portion of the outer
protective casing 120 has a shape that conforms to the shape of the
valve body 110. In some examples, the outer protective casing 120
includes a polymer material. For example, the outer protective
casing 120 is molded from a medical grade polymer. In some
examples, the outer protective casing 120 includes a silicon
material. For example, the outer protective casing 120 may include
a high durometer silicone material that is stiffer than the valve
body 110.
[0035] The outer protective casing 120 includes a first end portion
134 that defines an opening 122, a second end portion 136 that
defines an opening 126, and a sidewall portion 135 that defines an
opening 124. The opening 122, the opening 124, and the opening 126
may be separate and distinct openings on different locations on the
outer protective casing 120. In some examples, the outer protective
casing 120 includes more than three opening. In some examples, the
opening 122 and the opening 126 are located on opposite ends of the
outer protective casing 120. In some examples, the opening 122 has
a shape that is different than a shape of the opening 126. In some
examples, the opening 122 has a circular shape. In some examples,
the opening 122 has a size (e.g., a diameter) slightly larger than
a size (e.g., a diameter) of a portion of the pump bulb 108 that
extends from the valve body 110. The pump bulb 108 extends through
the opening 122.
[0036] The pump assembly 106 includes a reservoir fluid port 114
that extends from the valve body 110. The reservoir fluid port 114
is configured to be coupled to the fluid reservoir 102 (via a first
conduit connector 103). For example, the reservoir fluid port 114
is coupled to the first conduit connector 103, and the first
conduit connector 103 is coupled to the fluid reservoir 102. In
some examples, the reservoir fluid port 114 includes a tubular
member defining a cavity that is fluidly connected to the valve
body 110. The pump assembly 106 includes one or more cylinder fluid
ports 115 that extend from the valve body 110, and are fluidly
coupled to the inflatable member 104 (via a second conduit
connector 105). In some examples, the one or more cylinder fluid
ports 115 includes a first cylinder fluid port configured to be
fluidly coupled to a first cylinder of the inflatable member 104
(via the second conduit connector 105), and a second cylinder fluid
port configured to be fluidly coupled to a second cylinder of the
inflatable member 104 (via the second conduit connector 105). For
example, the cylinder fluid ports 115 are configured to be coupled
to the second conduit connector 105, and the second conduit
connector 105 is configured to be coupled to the inflatable member
104. In some examples, the cylinder fluid ports 115 include tubular
members that define cavities fluidly connected to the valve body
110.
[0037] The opening 126 is slightly larger than a collective size of
the reservoir fluid port 114 and the one or more cylinder fluid
ports 115. The reservoir fluid port 114 and the one or more
cylinder fluid ports 115 extend through the opening 126. The
opening 124 is disposed on the sidewall portion 135 of the outer
protection casing 120 between the first end portion 134 and the
second end portion 136. The opening 124 has a size that is slightly
larger than a size of the deflation mode actuator 112. In some
examples, the opening 124 has a circular shape. However, the shape
of the opening 124 may depend on the shape of the deflation mode
actuator 112. The deflation mode actuator 112 extends through the
opening 124.
[0038] Each of the first conduit connector 103 and the second
conduit connector 105 may define a lumen configured to transfer the
fluid to and from the pump assembly 106. The first conduit
connector 103 may be coupled to the pump assembly 106 and the fluid
reservoir 102 such that fluid can be transferred between the pump
assembly 106 and the fluid reservoir 102 via the first conduit
connector 103. For example, the first conduit connector 103 may
define a first lumen configured to transfer fluid between the pump
assembly 106 and the fluid reservoir 102. The first conduit
connector 103 may include a single or multiple tube members for
transferring the fluid between the pump assembly 106 and the fluid
reservoir 102.
[0039] The second conduit connector 105 may be coupled to the pump
assembly 106 and the inflatable member 104 such that fluid can be
transferred between the pump assembly 106 and the inflatable member
104 via the second conduit connector 105. For example, the second
conduit connector 105 may define a second lumen configured to
transfer fluid between the pump assembly 106 and the inflatable
member 104. The second conduit connector 105 may include a single
or multiple tube members for transferring the fluid between the
pump assembly 106 and the inflatable member 104. In some examples,
the first conduit connector 103 and the second conduit connector
105 may include a silicone rubber material. In some examples, the
pump assembly 106 may be directly connected to the fluid reservoir
102.
[0040] The inflatable member 104 may be capable of expanding upon
the injection of fluid into a cavity of the inflatable member 104.
For instance, upon injection of the fluid into the inflatable
member 104, the inflatable member 104 may increase its length
and/or width, as well as increase its rigidity. In some examples,
the inflatable member 104 may include a pair of inflatable
cylinders or at least two cylinders, e.g., a first cylinder member
and a second cylinder member. The volumetric capacity of the
inflatable member 104 may depend on the size of the inflatable
cylinders. In some examples, the volume of fluid in each cylinder
may vary from about 10 milliliters in smaller cylinders and to
about 50 milliliters in larger sizes. In some examples, the first
cylinder member may be larger than the second cylinder member. In
other examples, the first cylinder member may have the same size as
the second cylinder member.
[0041] The fluid reservoir 102 may include a container having an
internal chamber configured to hold or house fluid that is used to
inflate the inflatable member 104. The volumetric capacity of the
fluid reservoir 102 may vary depending on the size of the
inflatable penile prosthesis 100. In some examples, the volumetric
capacity of the fluid reservoir 102 may be 3 to 150 cubic
centimeters. In some examples, the fluid reservoir 102 is
constructed from the same material as the inflatable member 104. In
other examples, the fluid reservoir 102 is constructed from a
different material than the inflatable member 104. In some
examples, the fluid reservoir 102 contains a larger volume of fluid
than the inflatable member 104.
[0042] FIG. 2 illustrates a pump assembly 206 having an outer
protective casing 220 disposed over a valve body according to an
aspect. The pump assembly 206 may include any of the features
described with reference to the pump assembly 106 of FIG. 1A, and
the outer protective casing 220 may include any of the features
described with reference to the outer protective casing 120 of
FIGS. 1A and 1B. In addition, the pump assembly 106 of FIG. 1A
and/or the outer protective casing 120 of FIGS. 1A and 1B may
include any of the features described with reference to the pump
assembly 206 of FIG. 2.
[0043] The pump assembly 206 includes a pump bulb 208, a valve body
(not shown in FIG. 2 because it is covered by the outer protective
casing 220), a deflation mode actuator 212, the outer protective
casing 220, and fluid ports such as a first cylinder fluid port
213, a second cylinder fluid port 215, and a reservoir fluid port
214. The reservoir fluid port 214 is configured to be connected to
the first conduit connector 103 of FIG. 1, and the first cylinder
fluid port 213 and the second cylinder fluid port 215 are
configured to be connected to the second conduit connector 105 of
FIG. 1. The first cylinder fluid port 213 includes a first tubular
member defining a cavity, and the first tubular member is coupled
to the valve body. The second cylinder fluid port 215 include
includes a second tubular member defining a cavity, and the second
tubular member is coupled to the valve body. The reservoir fluid
port 214 includes a third tubular member defining a cavity, and the
third tubular member is coupled to the valve body. In some
examples, the first tubular member, the second tubular member, and
the third tubular member are disposed parallel to each other.
[0044] As shown in FIG. 2, the outer protective casing 220 may be a
single unitary body (e.g., a single piece) that defines an internal
cavity, and the valve body is disposed within the internal cavity
of the outer protective casing 220. The outer protective casing 220
may be an enclosure that surrounds and protects the valve body. In
some examples, at least a portion of the outer protective casing
220 has a shape that conforms to the shape of the valve body.
[0045] The outer protective casing 220 includes a first end portion
234 that defines an opening 222, and a second end portion 236 that
defines an opening 226. The opening 222 and the opening 226 are
disposed on opposite ends of the outer protective casing 220. In
some examples, the opening 222 is circular. In some examples, the
opening 226 has a different shape than the opening 222. In some
examples, the opening 226 has a non-circular shape. The pump bulb
208 extends from the opening 222, and the fluid ports (e.g., the
first cylinder fluid port 213, the second cylinder fluid port 215,
and the reservoir fluid port 214) extend from the opening 226. The
opening 222 may have a size (e.g., a diameter) slightly larger than
a size (e.g., a diameter) of a portion of the pump bulb 208 that
extends from the valve body. In some examples, the first end
portion 234 covers a portion of the pump bulb 208. The opening 226
may have a size that is slightly larger than the collective size of
the first cylinder fluid port 213, the second cylinder fluid port
215, and the reservoir fluid port 214.
[0046] The outer protective casing 220 defines an opening 224. The
deflation mode actuator 212 extends through the opening 224. In
some examples, the opening 224 is circular. The opening 224 has a
size (e.g., a diameter) that is slightly larger than a size of the
deflation mode actuator 212. In some examples, the opening 224 is
located on a side portion of the outer protective casing 220 at a
location between the first end portion 234 and the second end
portion 236. In some examples, the deflation mode actuator 212
extends in a direction that is orthogonal to a longitudinal axis
209 of the pump bulb 208.
[0047] The outer protective casing 220 includes a first protruded
side portion 238, and a second protruded side portion 240. The
first protruded side portion 238 extends in a first direction
(e.g., orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 209 of the pump bulb
208), and the second protruded side portion 240 extending in a
second direction (e.g., orthogonal to longitudinal axis 209 of the
pump bulb 208), where the second direction is opposite to the first
direction. In some examples, the opening 224 is disposed between
the first protruded side portion 238 and the second protruded side
portion 240.
[0048] The first protruded side portion 238 has a three-dimensional
shape, where one or more of its surfaces define one or more tactile
features configured to assist a user to locate the deflation mode
actuator 212. The second protruded side portion 240 may have a
three-dimensional shape, where one or more of its surfaces define
one or more tactile features configured to assist the user to
locate the deflation mode actuator 212.
[0049] The first protruded side portion 238 includes a surface 241,
and a surface 243 disposed opposite to the surface 241. In some
examples, the surface 241 is curved (e.g., a concave surface). In
some examples, the surface 243 is curved (e.g., a concave surface).
In some examples, the surface 241 and/or the surface 243 is devoid
of surface tactile features (e.g., bumps, ridges, depressions,
etc.). In some examples, the surface 241 and/or the surface 243 are
smooth. The first protruded side portion 238 includes an outer
surface 242 between the surface 241 and the surface 243. In some
examples, the outer surface 242 includes a concave portion. In some
examples, the outer surface 242 defines a depression or a recessed
portion. In some examples, the depression defined by the outer
surface 242 is a tactile feature that help the user locate the
deflation mode actuator 212.
[0050] The first protruded side portion 238 includes a surface 229
and a surface 231 disposed opposite to the surface 229. The surface
231 may be disposed adjacent to the opening 224 (e.g., disposed in
a plane that also includes the opening 224). The surface 231 may
include a ridge 232. The ridge 232 is disposed on a location on the
surface 231 that is proximate to the deflation mode actuator 212.
In some examples, the ridge 232 is an elongated raised member. In
some examples, the ridge 232 is curved. The ridge 232 is located
proximate to the deflation mode actuator 212. Since the second
protruded side portion 240 may include the same features as the
first protruded side portion 238, the details of the second
protruded side portion 340 are omitted for the same of brevity.
[0051] FIG. 3 illustrates an outer protective casing 320 according
to another aspect. The outer protective casing 320 may include any
of the features discussed with reference to the outer protective
casing 120 of FIGS. 1A and 1B and the outer protective casing 220
of FIG. 2. In addition, in some examples, the outer protective
casing 120 of FIGS. 1A and 1B and/or the outer protective casing
220 of FIG. 2 may include any of the features discussed with
reference to the outer protective casing 320 of FIG. 3.
[0052] The outer protective casing 320 includes a cavity 301 that
is configured to hold a valve body of a pump assembly of a penile
prosthesis. The outer protective casing 320 includes a first end
portion 334 that defines an opening 322 (where a pump bulb extends
through), and a second end portion 336 that defines an opening 326
(where fluid ports extends through). Also, the outer protective
casing 320 defines an opening 324 between the first end portion 334
and the second end portion 336. A deflation mode actuator may
extend through the opening 324.
[0053] The outer protective casing 320 includes a first protruded
side portion 338 that extends from one side of the outer protective
casing 320, and a second protruded side portion 340 that extends
from the other side of the outer protective casing 320. The opening
324 may be disposed between the first protruded side portion 338
and the second protruded side portion 340. The first protruded side
portion 338 may have a three-dimensional shape, where one or more
of its surfaces define one or more tactile features configured to
assist the user to locate the deflation mode actuator. In some
examples, the first protruded side portion 338 includes one or more
ridges 332 on at least two of its surfaces, where each ridge 332 is
an elongated raised member.
[0054] The first protruded side portion 338 includes a surface 341,
and a surface 343 disposed opposite to the surface 341. In some
examples, the surface 341 is curved (e.g., a concave surface). In
some examples, the surface 343 is curved (e.g., a concave surface).
In some examples, the surface 341 and/or the surface 343 are devoid
of surface tactile features. In some examples, the surface 341
and/or the surface 343 are smooth. The first protruded side portion
338 includes an outer surface 342 that extends between the surface
341 and the surface 343. In some examples, the outer surface 342
includes a plurality of the ridges 332. In some examples, each
ridge 332 on the outer surface 342 is an elongated raised member,
and the ridges 332 are arranged parallel to each other. In some
examples, the elongated raised member is a linear member. The first
protruded side portion 338 includes a surface 329 and a surface 331
disposed opposite to the surface 329. The surface 331 may be
disposed adjacent to the opening 324 (e.g., disposed in a plane
that also includes the opening 324). The surface 331 may include
one or more ridges 332. In some examples, the surface 331 has a
single ridge 332. In some examples, the ridge 332 on the surface
331 is an elongated raised elongated member that includes a curved
portion. Since the second protruded side portion 340 may include
the same features as the first protruded side portion 338, the
details of the second protruded side portion 340 are omitted for
the same of brevity.
[0055] FIG. 4 illustrates an outer protective casing according to
another aspect. The outer protective casing 420 may include any of
the features discussed with reference to the outer protective
casing 120 of FIGS. 1A and 1B, the outer protective casing 220 of
FIG. 2, and the outer protective casing 320 of FIG. 3. In addition,
in some examples, the outer protective casing 120 of FIGS. 1A and
1B, the outer protective casing 220 of FIG. 3, and/or the outer
protective casing 320 of FIG. 3 may include any of the features
discussed with reference to the outer protective casing 420 of FIG.
4.
[0056] The outer protective casing 420 includes a first protruded
side portion 438 and a second protruded side portion 440. In the
example of FIG. 4, the first protruded side portion 438 is devoid
of a ridge, and the second protruded side portion 440 is devoid of
a ridge. Rather, the first and second protruded side portions 438,
440 themselves may be used as tactile features that enable the user
to locate a deflation mode actuator.
[0057] The outer protective casing 420 includes a cavity 401 that
is configured to hold a valve body of a pump assembly of a penile
prosthesis. The outer protective casing 420 includes a first end
portion 434 that defines an opening 422 (where a pump bulb extends
through), and a second end portion 436 that defines an opening 426
(where fluid ports extends through). Also, the outer protective
casing 420 defines an opening 424 between the first end portion 434
and the second end portion 436. The deflation mode actuator of the
pump assembly may extend through the opening 424.
[0058] The opening 424 may be disposed between the first protruded
side portion 438 and the second protruded side portion 440. The
first protruded side portion 438 may have a three-dimensional
shape, and the second protruded side portion 440 may have a
three-dimensional shape, which may assist the user to locate the
deflation mode actuator. For example, the first protruded side
portion 438 includes a surface 441, and a surface 443 disposed
opposite to the surface 441. In some examples, the surface 441 is
curved (e.g., a concave surface). In some examples, the surface 443
is curved (e.g., a concave surface). In some examples, the surface
441 and the surface 443 have the same curvature. In some examples,
the surface 441 and/or the surface 443 are devoid of surface
tactile features. In some examples, the surface 441 and/or the
surface 443 are smooth.
[0059] The first protruded side portion 438 includes an outer
surface 442 that extends between the surface 441 and the surface
443. In some examples, the outer surface 442 is devoid of surface
tactile features. In some examples, the outer surface 442 defines a
depression. In some examples, the outer surface 442 is devoid of a
depression. In some examples, the outer surface 442 is smooth. The
first protruded side portion 438 includes a surface 429 and a
surface 431 disposed opposite to the surface 429. The surface 431
may be disposed adjacent to the opening 424 (e.g., disposed in a
plane that also includes the opening 424). In some examples, the
surface 431 is devoid of a ridge. In some examples, the surface 431
is smooth. Since the second protruded side portion 440 may include
the same features as the first protruded side portion 438, the
details of the second protruded side portion 440 are omitted for
the same of brevity.
[0060] FIG. 5 illustrates a pump assembly 506 having an outer
protective casing 520 disposed over a valve body according to an
aspect. The pump assembly 506 may include any of the features
described with reference to the pump assembly 506 of FIG. 1A, the
outer protective casing 520 may include any of the features
described with reference to the outer protective casing 120 of
FIGS. 1A and 1B, the pump assembly 206 of FIG. 2, the outer
protective casing 320 of FIG. 3, and/or the outer protective casing
420 of FIG. 4. In addition, the pump assembly 106 of FIG. 1A, the
outer protective casing 120 of FIGS. 1A and 1B, the pump assembly
206 of FIG. 2, the outer protective casing 320 of FIG. 3, the outer
protective casing 420 of FIG. 4 may include any of the features
described with reference to the pump assembly 506 of FIG. 2.
[0061] The pump assembly 506 includes a pump bulb 508, a valve body
(not shown in FIG. 5 because it is covered by the outer protective
casing 520), a deflation mode actuator 512, the outer protective
casing 520, and fluid ports such as a first cylinder fluid port
513, a second cylinder fluid port 515, and a reservoir fluid port
514. The reservoir fluid port 514 is configured to be connected to
the first conduit connector 103 of FIG. 1, and the first cylinder
fluid port 513 and the second cylinder fluid port 515 are
configured to be connected to the second conduit connector 105 of
FIG. 1.
[0062] The outer protective casing 520 includes a first end portion
534 that defines an opening 522, and a second end portion 536 that
defines an opening 526. The opening 522 and the opening 526 are
disposed on opposite ends of the outer protective casing 520. The
pump bulb 508 extends from the opening 522, and the fluid ports
(e.g., the first cylinder fluid port 513, the second cylinder fluid
port 515, and the reservoir fluid port 514) extend from the opening
526. The opening 522 may have a size (e.g., a diameter) slightly
larger than a size (e.g., a diameter) of a portion of the pump bulb
508 that extends from the valve body. The opening 526 may have a
size that is slightly larger than the collective size of the first
cylinder fluid port 513, the second cylinder fluid port 515, and
the reservoir fluid port 514.
[0063] The outer protective casing 520 defines an opening 524. The
deflation mode actuator 512 may extend through the opening 524. The
opening 524 has a size (e.g., a diameter) that is slightly larger
than a size of the deflation mode actuator 512. In some examples,
the opening 524 is located on a side portion of the outer
protective casing 520 at a location between the first end portion
534 and the second end portion 536. In some examples, the deflation
mode actuator 512 extends in a direction that is orthogonal to a
longitudinal axis 509 of the pump bulb 508.
[0064] The outer protective casing 520 includes a first protruded
side portion 538, and a second protruded side portion 540. The
first protruded side portion 538 extends in a first direction
(e.g., orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 509 of the pump bulb
508), and the second protruded side portion 540 extending in a
second direction (e.g., orthogonal to longitudinal axis 509 of the
pump bulb 508), where the second direction is opposite to the first
direction. In some examples, the deflation mode actuator 512
extends in a direction orthogonal to the first protruded side
portion 538 and the second protruded side portion 540. In some
examples, the opening 524 is disposed between the first protruded
side portion 538 and the second protruded side portion 540.
[0065] The first protruded side portion 538 has a three-dimensional
shape, where one or more of its surfaces define one or more tactile
features configured to assist a user to locate the deflation mode
actuator 512. The second protruded side portion 540 may have a
three-dimensional shape, where one or more of its surfaces define
one or more tactile features configured to assist the user to
locate the deflation mode actuator 512.
[0066] The first protruded side portion 538 includes an outer
surface 542, protrusions 553, and grooves 551 configured to assist
the user to locate the deflation mode actuator 512. For example,
the first protruded side portion 538 includes a central portion
552, and a plurality of spaced-apart protrusions 553 extend from
one side of the central portion 552, and a plurality of spaced-part
protrusions 553 extend from the other side of the central portion
552. A particular groove 551 is disposed between adjacent
protrusions 553. In some examples, the protrusions 553 include
curved portions. In some examples, the number of protrusions 553 on
each side of the central portion 552 is three. In some examples,
the number of protrusions 553 on each side of the central portion
552 is more than three. The protrusions 553 may extend in a
direction parallel to the deflation mode actuator 512. Since the
second protruded side portion 540 may include the same features as
the first protruded side portion 538, the details of the second
protruded side portion 540 are omitted for the same of brevity.
[0067] FIG. 6 illustrates a pump assembly 606 having an outer
protective casing 620 disposed over a valve body according to an
aspect. The pump assembly 606 may include any of the features
described with reference to the previous figures. In addition, the
pump assembly 106 of FIG. 1A, the pump assembly 206, the outer
protective casing 320 of FIG. 3, the outer protective casing 420 of
FIG. 4, and/or the pump assembly 506 of FIG. 5 may include any of
the features described with reference to the pump assembly 606 of
FIG. 6. The pump assembly 606 may be similar to the pump assembly
506 of FIG. 5 except that first and second protruded side portions
638, 640 include two protrusions 653.
[0068] The pump assembly 606 includes a pump bulb 608, a valve body
(not shown in FIG. 6 because it is covered by the outer protective
casing 620), a deflation mode actuator 612, the outer protective
casing 620, and fluid ports such as a first cylinder fluid port
613, a second cylinder fluid port 615, and a reservoir port 614.
The outer protective casing 620 includes a first end portion 634
that defines an opening 622, and a second end portion 636 that
defines an opening 626. The pump bulb 608 extends from the opening
622, and the fluid ports extend from the opening 626.
[0069] The outer protective casing 620 defines an opening 624. The
deflation mode actuator 612 extends through the opening 624. In
some examples, the opening 624 is located on a side portion of the
outer protective casing 620 at a location between the first end
portion 634 and the second end portion 636. In some examples, the
deflation mode actuator 612 extends in a direction that is
orthogonal to a longitudinal axis 609 of the pump bulb 608. The
outer protective casing 620 includes a first protruded side portion
638, and a second protruded side portion 640. The first protruded
side portion 638 extends in a first direction (e.g., orthogonal to
the longitudinal axis 609 of the pump bulb 608), and the second
protruded side portion 640 extending in a second direction (e.g.,
orthogonal to longitudinal axis 609 of the pump bulb 608), where
the second direction is opposite to the first direction. In some
examples, the deflation mode actuator 612 extends in a direction
orthogonal to the first protruded side portion 638 and the second
protruded side portion 640. In some examples, the opening 624 is
disposed between the first protruded side portion 638 and the
second protruded side portion 640.
[0070] The first protruded side portion 638 has a three-dimensional
shape, where one or more of its surfaces define one or more tactile
features configured to assist a user to locate the deflation mode
actuator 612. The second protruded side portion 640 may have a
three-dimensional shape, where one or more of its surfaces define
one or more tactile features configured to assist the user to
locate the deflation mode actuator 612.
[0071] The first protruded side portion 638 includes an outer
surface 642, protrusions 653, and grooves 651 configured to assist
the user to locate the deflation mode actuator 512. For example,
the first protruded side portion 638 includes a central portion
652, and a plurality of spaced-apart protrusions 653 extend from
one side of the central portion 652, and a plurality of spaced-part
protrusions 653 extend from the other side of the central portion
652. A particular groove 651 is disposed between adjacent
protrusions 653. In some examples, the protrusions 653 are curved.
In some examples, the number of protrusions 653 on each side of the
central portion 652 is two. In some examples, the number of
protrusions 653 on each side of the central portion 652 is less
than two. The protrusions 653 may extend in a direction parallel to
the deflation mode actuator 612. Since the second protruded side
portion 640 may include the same features as the first protruded
side portion 638, the details of the second protruded side portion
640 are omitted for the same of brevity.
[0072] FIG. 7 illustrates a pump assembly 706 having an outer
protective casing 720 disposed over a valve body according to an
aspect. The pump assembly 706 may include any of the features
described with reference to the previous figures. In addition, the
pump assembly 106 of FIG. 1A, the pump assembly 206, the outer
protective casing 320 of FIG. 3, the outer protective casing 420 of
FIG. 4, the pump assembly 506 of FIG. 5, and/or the pump assembly
606 of FIG. 6 may include any of the features described with
reference to the pump assembly 706 of FIG. 7. The pump assembly 706
may be similar to the pump assembly 506 of FIG. 5 except that the
outer protective casing 720 includes a single protruded side
portion 738 that extends from a location on the outer protective
casing 720 that is opposite to a deflation mode actuator 712.
[0073] The pump assembly 706 includes a pump bulb 708, a valve body
(not shown in FIG. 7 because it is covered by the outer protective
casing 720), the deflation mode actuator 712, the outer protective
casing 720, and fluid ports such as a first cylinder fluid port
713, a second cylinder fluid port 715, and a reservoir port 714.
The outer protective casing 720 includes a first end portion 734
that defines an opening 722, and a second end portion 736 that
defines an opening 726. The pump bulb 708 extends from the opening
722, and the fluid ports extend from the opening 726.
[0074] The outer protective casing 720 defines an opening 724. The
deflation mode actuator 712 extends through the opening 724. In
some examples, the opening 724 is located on a first side portion
of the outer protective casing 720 at a location between the first
end portion 734 and the second end portion 736. In some examples,
the deflation mode actuator 712 extends in a direction that is
orthogonal to a longitudinal axis 709 of the pump bulb 708. The
protruded side portion 738 extends from a second side portion of
the outer protective casing 720 at a location between the first end
portion 734 and the second end portion 736, where the second side
portion is opposite to the first side portion. The protruded side
portion 738 may extend in a direction opposite to the deflation
mode actuator 712.
[0075] The protruded side portion 738 includes protrusions 753 and
grooves 751 configured to assist the user to locate the deflation
mode actuator 712. For example, the protruded side portion 738
includes a central portion 752, and a plurality of spaced-apart
protrusions 753 extend from one side of the central portion 752,
and a plurality of spaced-part protrusions 753 extend from the
other side of the central portion 752. A particular groove 751 is
disposed between adjacent protrusions 753. In some examples, the
protrusions 753 include curved portions. The protrusions 753 may
extend in a direction orthogonal to the deflation mode actuator
712.
[0076] FIG. 8 illustrates a pump assembly 806 having an outer
protective casing 820 disposed over a valve body according to an
aspect. The pump assembly 806 may include any of the features
described with reference to the previous figures. In addition, the
pump assembly 106 of FIG. 1A, the pump assembly 206, the outer
protective casing 320 of FIG. 3, the outer protective casing 420 of
FIG. 4, the pump assembly 506 of FIG. 5, the pump assembly 606 of
FIG. 6, and/or the pump assembly 706 of FIG. 7 may include any of
the features described with reference to the pump assembly 806 of
FIG. 8. The pump assembly 806 may be similar to the pump assembly
706 of FIG. 7 except that the protruded side portion 838 includes
two protrusions 653. For example, the protruded side portion 838
has a smaller length than a length of the protruded side portion
738 of FIG. 7.
[0077] The pump assembly 806 includes a pump bulb 808, a valve body
(not shown in FIG. 8 because it is covered by the outer protective
casing 820), a deflation mode actuator 812, the outer protective
casing 820, and fluid ports such as a first cylinder fluid port
813, a second cylinder fluid port 815, and a reservoir port 814.
The outer protective casing 820 includes a first end portion 834
that defines an opening 822, and a second end portion 836 that
defines an opening 826. The pump bulb 808 extends from the opening
822, and the fluid ports extend from the opening 826.
[0078] The outer protective casing 820 defines an opening 824. The
deflation mode actuator 812 extends through the opening 824. In
some examples, the opening 824 is located on a first side portion
of the outer protective casing 820 at a location between the first
end portion 834 and the second end portion 836. In some examples,
the deflation mode actuator 812 extends in a direction that is
orthogonal to a longitudinal axis 809 of the pump bulb 808. The
protruded side portion 838 extends from a second side portion of
the outer protective casing 820 at a location between the first end
portion 834 and the second end portion 836, where the second side
portion is opposite to the first side portion. The protruded side
portion 838 may extend in a direction opposite to the deflation
mode actuator 812.
[0079] The protruded side portion 838 includes protrusions 853 and
grooves 851 configured to assist the user to locate the deflation
mode actuator 812. For example, the protruded side portion 838
includes a central portion 852, and spaced-apart protrusions 853
that extend from one side of the central portion 852, and
spaced-part protrusions 853 that extend from the other side of the
central portion 852. A groove 851 is disposed between adjacent
protrusions 853. In some examples, the protrusions 853 are curved.
The protrusions 853 may extend in a direction orthogonal to the
deflation mode actuator 812.
[0080] FIG. 9 is a top view of a pump assembly 1006. FIG. 10 is a
bottom view of the pump assembly 1006. FIG. 11 is a perspective
view of the pump assembly 1006. The pump assembly 1006 has an outer
protective casing 1020 disposed over a valve body according to an
aspect. The pump assembly 1006 may include any of the features
described with reference to the previous figures. The pump assembly
1006 includes a pump bulb, a valve body, a deflation mode actuator,
the outer protective casing 1020, and fluid ports such as a first
cylinder fluid port, a second cylinder fluid port, and a reservoir
port. The outer protective casing 1020 includes a first end portion
that defines a first opening, and a second end portion that defines
a second opening. The pump bulb extends from the first opening, and
the fluid ports extend from the second opening. The outer
protective casing 1020 also defines a third opening. The deflation
mode actuator extends through the third opening.
[0081] In the illustrated embodiment, the casing or the outer
protective casing 1020 includes concave portions 1022 and 1024. The
concave portions 1022 and 1024 may help the user detect the
orientation and various features of the valve assembly 1006. For
example, in some embodiments, the concave portions 1022 and 1024
may help the user detect the orientation and various features of
the valve assembly 1006 after the assembly has been placed in the
body of the user and bodily tissue has encapsulated the assembly.
The outer protective casing 1020 also includes a ridge or a raised
portion 1026 located on the side opposite the deflation button. The
ridge or raised portion 1026 may also assist in feature detection
by the user.
[0082] FIG. 12 is a top view of a pump assembly 1106. FIG. 13 is a
bottom view of the pump assembly 1106. FIG. 14 is a perspective
view of the pump assembly 1106. The pump assembly 1106 has an outer
protective casing 1120 disposed over a valve body according to an
aspect. The pump assembly 1106 may include any of the features
described with reference to the previous figures. The pump assembly
1106 includes a pump bulb, a valve body, a deflation mode actuator,
the outer protective casing 1120, and fluid ports such as a first
cylinder fluid port, a second cylinder fluid port, and a reservoir
port. The outer protective casing 1120 includes a first end portion
that defines a first opening, and a second end portion that defines
a second opening. The pump bulb extends from the first opening, and
the fluid ports extend from the second opening. The outer
protective casing 1120 also defines a third opening. The deflation
mode actuator extends through the third opening.
[0083] In the illustrated embodiment, the casing or the outer
protective casing 1120 includes concave portions 1122 and 1124 with
curved or smooth edges 1121. The concave portions 1122 and 1124 may
help the user detect the orientation and various features of the
valve assembly 1106. For example, in some embodiments, the concave
portions 1122 and 1124 may help the user detect the orientation and
various features of the valve assembly 1106 after the assembly has
been placed in the body of the user and bodily tissue has
encapsulated the assembly. The outer protective casing 1120 also
includes a ridge or a raised portion 1126 located on the side
opposite the deflation button. The ridge or raised portion 1126 may
also assist in feature detection by the user. In the illustrated
embodiment, the outer protective casing 1120 also includes
extension portions or grip features 1128.
[0084] FIG. 15 is a top view of a pump assembly 1206. FIG. 16 is a
bottom view of the pump assembly 1206. FIG. 17 is a perspective
view of the pump assembly 1206. The pump assembly 1206 has an outer
protective casing 1220 disposed over a valve body according to an
aspect. The pump assembly 1206 may include any of the features
described with reference to the previous figures. The pump assembly
1206 includes a pump bulb, a valve body, a deflation mode actuator,
the outer protective casing 1220, and fluid ports such as a first
cylinder fluid port, a second cylinder fluid port, and a reservoir
port. The outer protective casing 1220 includes a first end portion
that defines a first opening, and a second end portion that defines
a second opening. The pump bulb extends from the first opening, and
the fluid ports extend from the second opening. The outer
protective casing 1220 also defines a third opening. The deflation
mode actuator extends through the third opening.
[0085] In the illustrated embodiment, the casing or the outer
protective casing 1220 includes a pointed member or dome member
1226 located on the side opposite the deflation button. The pointed
member or dome member 1226 may assist in feature detection by the
user.
[0086] FIGS. 18-44 illustrate various pump assemblies. The pump
assemblies may include any of the features described with reference
to the previous figures. The pump assemblies include a pump bulb, a
valve body, a deflation mode actuator, the outer protective casing,
and fluid ports such as a first cylinder fluid port, a second
cylinder fluid port, and a reservoir port. The outer protective
casing includes a first end portion that defines a first opening,
and a second end portion that defines a second opening. The pump
bulb extends from the first opening, and the fluid ports extend
from the second opening. The outer protective casing also defines a
third opening. The deflation mode actuator extends through the
third opening.
[0087] FIG. 18 is a top view of a pump assembly 1306. FIG. 19 is a
bottom view of the pump assembly 1306. FIG. 20 is a perspective
view of the pump assembly 1306. In the illustrated embodiment, the
casing or the outer protective casing 1320 includes a concave
portion 1326 located on the side opposite the deflation button. The
concave portion 1326 may assist in feature detection by the
user.
[0088] FIG. 21 is a top view of a pump assembly 1406. FIG. 22 is a
bottom view of the pump assembly 1406. FIG. 23 is a perspective
view of the pump assembly 1406. In the illustrated embodiment, the
casing or the outer protective casing 1420 includes concave
portions 1422 and 1424. The casing or outer protective casing 1420
also includes rounded or smooth corners 1426.
[0089] FIG. 24 is a top view of a pump assembly 1506. FIG. 25 is a
bottom view of the pump assembly 1506. FIG. 26 is a perspective
view of the pump assembly 1506. In the illustrated embodiment, the
casing or the outer protective casing 1520 includes concave
triangle shaped portions 1522 and 1524. The concave triangle
portions 1522 and 1524 may assist in feature detection by the
user.
[0090] FIG. 27 is a top view of a pump assembly 1606. FIG. 28 is a
bottom view of the pump assembly 1606. FIG. 29 is a side view of
the pump assembly 1606. In the illustrated embodiment, the casing
or outer protective casing 1620 includes extended or protruding
side portions 1626. The casing or the outer protective casing 1620
also includes concave triangle shaped portions 1622 and 1624. The
concave triangle portions 1622 and 1624 may assist in feature
detection by the user.
[0091] FIG. 30 is a top view of a pump assembly 1706. FIG. 31 is a
bottom view of the pump assembly 1706. FIG. 32 is a perspective
view of the pump assembly 1706. In the illustrated embodiment, the
casing or outer protective casing 1720 includes protrusion or ridge
1726 that extends along the surface opposite the deflation button.
In the illustrated embodiment, the protrusion or ridge 1726 extends
along the entire length of the surface. The protrusion or ridge
1726 may assist in feature detection by the user.
[0092] FIG. 33 is a top view of a pump assembly 1806. FIG. 34 is a
bottom view of the pump assembly 1806. FIG. 35 is a side view of
the pump assembly 1806. In the illustrated embodiment, the casing
or outer protective casing 1820 includes an extension portion 1828
that extends from the surface opposite the deflation button. In the
illustrated embodiment, the extension portion is triangular. In
other embodiments, the extension portion has a different shape.
[0093] FIG. 36 is a top view of a pump assembly 1906. FIG. 37 is a
bottom view of the pump assembly 1906. FIG. 38 is a perspective
view of the pump assembly 1906. In the illustrated embodiment, the
casing or outer protective casing 1920 includes curved side
portions 1922 and 1924. The casing or outer protective casing 1920
also includes a bottom surface 1930 (the surface opposite the
deflation button). The bottom surface 1930 includes a first finger
portion 1932 (a concave or curved portion) and a second finger
portion 1934 (a concave or curved portion). In some embodiments,
the user may grasp the device such that a first finger is at the
first finger portion 1932 and a second finger or a thumb is at the
second finger portion 1934. In some embodiment, the orientation of
the device facilitates the actuation of the deflate button.
[0094] FIG. 39 is a top view of a pump assembly 2006. FIG. 40 is a
bottom view of the pump assembly 2006. FIG. 41 is a perspective
view of the pump assembly 2006. In the illustrated embodiment, the
casing or outer protective casing 2020 includes sides that have
edges 2022 and concave portions 2024.
[0095] FIG. 42 is a top view of a pump assembly 2106. FIG. 43 is a
side view of the pump assembly 2106. FIG. 44 is a bottom view of
the pump assembly 2106. In the illustrated embodiment, the casing
or outer protective casing 2120 includes sides that have circular
concave portions 2024.
[0096] FIGS. 45-56 illustrate casings or outer protective casings
according to various aspects.
[0097] FIGS. 57-59 illustrate pump assemblies according to various
aspects.
[0098] FIG. 60 schematically illustrates an inflatable penile
prosthesis 900 having a pump assembly 906 according to an aspect.
The pump assembly 906 may be any of the previously-described pump
assemblies (e.g., the pump assembly 906 may include any of the
previously-described outer protection casings). The penile
prosthesis 900 may include a pair of inflatable cylinders 910, and
the inflatable cylinders 910 are configured to be implanted in a
penis. For example, one of the inflatable cylinders 910 may be
disposed on one side of the penis, and the other inflatable
cylinder 910 may be disposed on the other side of the penis. Each
inflatable cylinder 910 may include a first end portion 924, a
cavity or inflation chamber 922, and a second end portion 928
having a rear tip 932.
[0099] The pump assembly 906 may be implanted into the patient's
scrotum. A pair of conduit connectors 905 may attach the pump
assembly 906 to the inflatable cylinders 910 such that the pump
assembly 906 is in fluid communication with the inflatable
cylinders 910. Also, the pump assembly 906 may be in fluid
communication with a fluid reservoir 902 via a conduit connector
903. The fluid reservoir 902 may be implanted into the user's
abdomen. The inflation chamber or portion 922 of the inflatable
cylinder 910 may be disposed within the penis. The first end
portion 924 of the inflatable cylinder 910 may be at least
partially disposed within the crown portion of the penis. The
second end portion 928 may be implanted into the patient's pubic
region PR with the rear tip 932 proximate the pubic bone PB.
[0100] In order to implant the inflatable cylinders 910, the
surgeon first prepares the patient. The surgeon often makes an
incision in the penoscrotal region, e.g., where the base of the
penis meets with the top of the scrotum. From the penoscrotal
incision, the surgeon may dilate the patient's corpus cavernosae to
prepare the patient to receive the inflatable cylinders 910. The
corpus cavernosum is one of two parallel columns of erectile tissue
forming the dorsal part of the body of the penis, e.g., two slender
columns that extend substantially the length of the penis. The
surgeon will also dilate two regions of the pubic area to prepare
the patient to receive the second end portion 928. The surgeon may
measure the length of the corpora cavernosae from the incision and
the dilated region of the pubic area to determine an appropriate
size of the inflatable cylinders 910 to implant.
[0101] After the patient is prepared, the penile prosthesis 900 is
implanted into the patient. The tip of the first end portion 924 of
each inflatable cylinder 910 may be attached to a suture. The other
end of the suture may be attached to a needle member (e.g., Keith
needle). The needle member is inserted into the incision and into
the dilated corpus cavernosum. The needle member is then forced
through the crown of the penis. The surgeon tugs on the suture to
pull the inflatable cylinder 910 into the corpus cavernosum. This
is done for each inflatable cylinder 910 of the pair. Once the
inflation chamber 922 is in place, the surgeon may remove the
suture from the tip. The surgeon then inserts the second end
portion 928. The surgeon inserts the rear end of the inflatable
cylinder 910 into the incision and forces the second end portion
928 toward the pubic bone PB until each inflatable cylinder 910 is
in place.
[0102] A pump bulb 908 of the pump assembly 906 may be squeezed or
depressed by the user in order to facilitate the transfer of fluid
from the fluid reservoir 902 to the inflatable cylinders 910. For
example, in the inflation mode, while the user is operating the
pump bulb 908, the pump bulb 908 may receive the fluid from the
fluid reservoir 902, and then output the fluid to the inflatable
cylinders 910. When the user switches to the deflation mode, at
least some of the fluid can automatically be transferred back to
the fluid reservoir 902 (due to the difference in pressure from the
inflatable cylinders 910 to the fluid reservoir 902). Then, the
user may squeeze the inflatable cylinders 910 to facilitate the
further transfer of fluid through the pump bulb 908 to the fluid
reservoir 902.
[0103] While certain features of the described implementations have
been illustrated as described herein, many modifications,
substitutions, changes and equivalents will now occur to those
skilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that the
appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and
changes as fall within the scope of the embodiments.
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