U.S. patent application number 17/804893 was filed with the patent office on 2022-09-15 for bodily implant with a tubing connector.
The applicant listed for this patent is Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.. Invention is credited to John Anders Bostrom, Mark Edward DiLoreto, Ryan Earl Fredrick, James Ryan Mujwid.
Application Number | 20220288375 17/804893 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006364572 |
Filed Date | 2022-09-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220288375 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Mujwid; James Ryan ; et
al. |
September 15, 2022 |
BODILY IMPLANT WITH A TUBING CONNECTOR
Abstract
According to an aspect, a bodily implant includes a connector
configured to connect a first tube member and a second tube member
such that fluid can be transferred through the first tube member
and the second tube member. The connector includes a first clip
member having an inner surface, a second clip member having an
inner surface, a hinge member coupled to the first clip member and
the second clip member, a retaining member coupled to the inner
surface of the second clip member, and an inner connector coupled
to the retaining member.
Inventors: |
Mujwid; James Ryan; (Hudson,
WI) ; Fredrick; Ryan Earl; (Eden Prairie, MN)
; Bostrom; John Anders; (Saint Paul, MN) ;
DiLoreto; Mark Edward; (Chaska, MN) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. |
Maple Grove |
MN |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000006364572 |
Appl. No.: |
17/804893 |
Filed: |
June 1, 2022 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
16401481 |
May 2, 2019 |
11376410 |
|
|
17804893 |
|
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|
62667900 |
May 7, 2018 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61F 2/26 20130101; A61F
2250/0013 20130101; A61F 2250/0003 20130101; A61M 39/1011 20130101;
A61F 2/004 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61M 39/10 20060101
A61M039/10; A61F 2/00 20060101 A61F002/00; A61F 2/26 20060101
A61F002/26 |
Claims
1. A bodily implant comprising: a connector configured to connect a
first tube member and a second tube member such that fluid can be
transferred through the first tube member and the second tube
member, the connector including: a first clip member having an
inner surface; a second clip member having an inner surface; a
hinge member coupled to the first clip member and the second clip
member; and a retaining member coupled to the inner surface of the
second clip member; and an inner connector coupled to the retaining
member.
2. The bodily implant of claim 1, wherein the inner connector is
movably coupled to the retaining member.
3. The bodily implant of claim 1, wherein the retaining member
includes an opening and a retaining clip that is coupled to the
second clip member, a portion of the inner connector being disposed
within the opening.
4. The bodily implant of claim 1, wherein the connector is
configured to move from an open position to a closed position, in
the closed position, the first clip member being disposed on top of
the second clip member such that the inner surface of the first
clip member and the inner surface of the second clip member define
a lumen.
5. The bodily implant of claim 4, wherein the first clip member
includes a coupling member, and the second clip member includes a
coupling member, in the closed position, the coupling member of the
first clip member engages the coupling member of the second clip
member to assist with keeping the connector in the closed
position.
6. The bodily implant of claim 5, wherein the coupling member of
the first clip member and the coupling member of the second clip
member, collectively, define a snap-fit joint connection.
7. The bodily implant of claim 1, wherein the hinge member includes
a living hinge.
8. The bodily implant of claim 1, wherein the first clip member
includes an outer surface, the outer surface including a curved
portion and a planar portion.
9. The bodily implant of claim 1, wherein the inner connector
defines a lumen.
10. The bodily implant of claim 1, wherein the inner surface of the
first clip member includes a plurality of protrusions.
11. A bodily implant comprising: a connector configured to connect
a first tube member and a second tube member such that fluid can be
transferred through the first tube member and the second tube
member, the connector including: a first rotational connector
including a lumen; a second rotational connector including a lumen,
the first rotational connector configured to engage with the second
rotational connector and to rotate with respect to the second
rotational connector to couple the first rotational connector and
the second rotational connector in a locked configuration; and an
inner connector configured to be disposed in the lumen of the first
rotational connector and the lumen of the second rotational
connector.
12. The bodily implant of claim 11, wherein a diameter of the lumen
of the first rotational connector and a diameter of the lumen of
the second rotational connector decrease in response to rotation of
the first rotational connector with respect to the second
rotational connector to place the connector in a compressed
configuration.
13. The bodily implant of claim 11, wherein the first rotational
connector includes a protrusion and a connector groove, and the
second rotational connector includes a protrusion and a connector
groove.
14. The bodily implant of claim 13, wherein the protrusion of the
first rotational connector is configured to be inserted into the
connector groove of the second rotational connector while the
protrusion of the second rotational connector is inserted into the
connector groove of the first rotational connector.
15. The bodily implant of claim 14, wherein the protrusion of the
first rotational connector is configured to move along the
connector groove of the second rotational connector in response to
the first rotational connector being rotated with respect to the
second rotational connector.
16. A bodily implant comprising: a connector configured to connect
a first tube member and a second tube member such that fluid can be
transferred through the first tube member and the second tube
member, the connector including: a tab having an inner connector;
and a clip member having a side slot, a tab slot, and a lumen, the
tab configured to be inserted into the clip member via the tab slot
such that the inner connector is inserted within the lumen of the
clip member via the side slot.
17. The bodily implant of claim 16, wherein the clip member is a
c-shaped collar.
18. The bodily implant of claim 16, wherein the tab is a push tab
configured to push the inner connector into the lumen of the clip
member.
19. The bodily implant of claim 16, wherein the tab is a pull tab
configured to pull the inner connector into the lumen of the clip
member.
20. The bodily implant of claim 16, wherein the inner connector
includes a ferrule.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of, and claims priority
to, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/401,481, filed on May 2,
2019, entitled "BODILY IMPLANT WITH A TUBING CONNECTOR", which
claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 62/667,900, filed on
May 7, 2018, entitled "BODILY IMPLANT WITH A TUBING CONNECTOR", 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 having a connector for
connecting tube members to transfer fluid.
BACKGROUND
[0003] A bodily implant may need to transfer fluid from one
component (implanted in a part of the body) to another component
(implanted in another part of the body). One tube member may need
to be connected to another tube member in order to allow the fluid
to be transferred between the components. In some examples, the
tube members may be connected together with the assistance of a
specialized assembly tool. However, the connection process may be
cumbersome due to the higher amount of small pieces that must be
assembled by the physician within the body of the patient using the
specialized assembly tool.
SUMMARY
[0004] According to an aspect, a bodily implant includes a
connector configured to connect a first tube member and a second
tube member such that fluid can be transferred through the first
tube member and the second tube member. The connector includes a
first clip member having an inner surface, a second clip member
having an inner surface, a hinge member coupled to the first clip
member and the second clip member, a retaining member coupled to
the inner surface of the second clip member, and an inner connector
coupled to the retaining member.
[0005] According to some aspects, the bodily implant may include
one or more of the following features (or any combination thereof).
The inner connector is movably coupled to the retaining member. The
retaining member includes an opening and a retaining clip that is
coupled to the second clip member, where a portion of the inner
connector is disposed within the opening. The connector is
configured to move from an open position to a closed position. In
the closed position, the first clip member is disposed on top of
the second clip member such that the inner surface of the first
clip member and the inner surface of the second clip member define
a lumen. The first clip member includes a coupling member, and the
second clip member includes a coupling member. In the closed
position, the coupling member of the first clip member engages the
coupling member of the second clip member to assist with keeping
the connector in the closed position. The coupling member of the
first clip member and the coupling member of the second clip
member, collectively, define a snap-fit joint connection. The hinge
member includes a living hinge. The first clip member includes an
outer surface, and the outer surface includes a curved portion and
a planar portion. The inner connector defines a lumen. The inner
surface of the first clip member includes a plurality of
protrusions.
[0006] According to an aspect, a bodily implant includes a
connector configured to connect a first tube member and a second
tube member such that fluid can be transferred through the first
tube member and the second tube member. The connector includes a
first rotational connector including a lumen, and a second
rotational connector including a lumen. The first rotational
connector is configured to engage with the second rotational
connector and to rotate with respect to the second rotational
connector to couple the first rotational connector and the second
rotational connector in a locked configuration. The connector
includes an inner connector configured to be disposed in the lumen
of the first rotational connector and the lumen of the second
rotational connector.
[0007] According to some aspects, the bodily implant may include
any of the following features (or any combination thereof). The
first rotational connector includes a c-shaped collar, and the
second rotational connector includes a c-shaped collar. The
diameter of the lumen of the first rotational connector and/or the
diameter of the lumen of the second rotational connector may
decrease in response to rotation of the first rotational connector
with respect to the second rotational connector to place the
connector in a compressed configuration. The first rotational
connector includes a protrusion and a connector groove, and the
second rotational connector includes a protrusion and a connector
groove. The protrusion of the first rotational connector is
configured to be inserted into the connector groove of the second
rotational connector while the protrusion of the second rotational
connector is inserted into the connector groove of the first
rotational connector. The protrusion of the first rotational
connector is configured to move along the connector groove of the
second rotational connector in response to the first rotational
connector being rotated with respect to the second rotational
connector.
[0008] According to an aspect, a bodily implant includes a
connector configured to connect a first tube member and a second
tube member such that fluid can be transferred through the first
tube member and the second tube member. The connector includes a
tab having an inner connector, and a clip member having a side
slot, a tab slot, and a lumen. The tab configured to be inserted
into the clip member via the tab slot such that the inner connector
is inserted within the lumen of the clip member via the side
slot.
[0009] According to some aspects, the bodily implant may include
any of the following features (or any combination thereof). The
clip member is a c-shaped collar. The tab is a push tab configured
to push the inner connector into the lumen of the clip member. The
tab is a pull tab configured to pull the inner connector into the
lumen of the clip member. The inner connector includes a
ferrule.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a bodily implant having a
connector that connects a first tube member with a second tube
member according to an aspect.
[0011] FIG. 2A illustrates a clip connector in a closed position
according to an aspect.
[0012] FIG. 2B illustrates the clip connector in an open position
according to an aspect.
[0013] FIG. 2C illustrates the clip connector in the open position
according to another aspect.
[0014] FIG. 2D illustrates the clip connector in the open position
according to another aspect.
[0015] FIG. 2E illustrates a transparent perspective of the clip
connector in the open position according to another aspect.
[0016] FIG. 2F illustrates a perspective of the clip connector with
a retaining member and a locking mechanism according to an
aspect.
[0017] FIG. 2G illustrates an inner connector and the retaining
member of the clip connector according to an aspect.
[0018] FIG. 2H illustrates the clip connector according to another
aspect.
[0019] FIG. 2I illustrates an inner surface of the clip connector
having a surface feature according to an aspect.
[0020] FIG. 2J illustrates the clip connector having protrusions on
an inner surface of a clip member according to an aspect.
[0021] FIG. 2K illustrates the clip connector having a suture
connection tab according to an aspect.
[0022] FIG. 2L illustrates the clip connector according to another
aspect.
[0023] FIG. 2M illustrates the clip connector according to another
aspect.
[0024] FIG. 3A illustrates a rotational connector according to an
aspect.
[0025] FIG. 3B illustrates a first rotational connector of the
rotational connector according to an aspect.
[0026] FIG. 3C illustrates the rotational connector according to
another aspect.
[0027] FIG. 3D illustrates the rotational connector according to
another aspect.
[0028] FIG. 3E illustrates a first rotational connector of the
rotational connector according to an aspect.
[0029] FIG. 3F illustrates the rotational connector having a suture
connection tab according to an aspect.
[0030] FIG. 4A illustrates a push slide clamp connector in an
unassembled state according to an aspect.
[0031] FIG. 4B illustrates the push slide clamp connector in an
assembled state according to an aspect.
[0032] FIG. 5A illustrates a pull slide clamp connector in an
unassembled state according to an aspect.
[0033] FIG. 5B illustrates the pull slide clamp connector in an
assembled state according to an aspect.
[0034] FIG. 6A illustrates a first linear slide member of a linear
slide connector according to an aspect.
[0035] FIG. 6B illustrates the linear slide connector according to
an aspect.
[0036] FIG. 6C illustrates a second linear slide member of the
linear slide connector according to an aspect.
[0037] FIG. 7 illustrates a linear slide connector according to
another aspect.
[0038] FIG. 8A illustrates a linear slide connector with a rotating
disc according to an aspect.
[0039] FIG. 8B illustrates the rotating disc according to an
aspect.
[0040] FIG. 9 illustrates a spring clamp connector according to an
aspect.
[0041] FIG. 10 schematically illustrates an inflatable penile
prosthesis having one or more connectors according to an
aspect.
[0042] FIG. 11 illustrates a urinary control system having one or
more connectors according to an aspect.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0043] 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.
[0044] 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.
[0045] 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. For
example, in some embodiments, the patient may be a human male, a
human female, or any other mammal.
[0046] FIG. 1 illustrates a connector 102 that connects a first
tube member 104 and a second tube member 106 of a bodily implant
100 according to an aspect. The bodily implant 100 may be any type
of medical device that is implanted into a patient of a body. While
at least a portion of the first tube member 104 and the second tube
member 106 are disposed within the body, the connector 102 is
coupled to the first tube member 104 and the second tube member 106
so that fluid can be exchanged between the first tube member 104
and the second tube member 106 during use of the bodily implant. In
some examples, the bodily implant 100 includes a penile prosthesis.
In some examples, the bodily implant 100 includes a urinary control
system. However, the bodily implant 100 may include any type of
medical device that uses tube members to transfer fluid between
components of the bodily implant 100.
[0047] The first tube member 104 includes a first end portion 112
and a second end portion 114. The first tube member 104 includes a
sidewall 103 defining a lumen 101. In some examples, the first tube
member 104 includes Kink Resistant Tubing (KRT). The second tube
member 106 includes a first end portion 116 and a second end
portion 118. The second tube member 106 includes a sidewall 105
defining a lumen 107. In some examples, the second tube member 106
includes KRT.
[0048] The bodily implant 100 includes a first component 108
coupled to the first end portion 112 of the first tube member 104.
The first component 108 may be any part of the bodily implant 100
that is implanted into the body of the patient. In some examples,
the first component 108 includes a pump assembly having a pump
bulb. In some examples, the first component 108 includes an
inflatable member. In some examples, the first component 108
includes a reservoir.
[0049] The bodily implant 100 includes a second component 110
coupled to the first end portion 116 of the second tube member 106.
The second component 110 may be any part of the bodily implant 100
that is implanted into the body of the patient. In some examples,
the second component 110 includes a pump assembly having a pump
bulb. In some examples, the second component 110 includes an
inflatable member. In some examples, the second component 110
includes a reservoir.
[0050] The connector 102 is used to couple the first tube member
104 and the second tube member 106 together. For example, the
connector 102 is coupled to the second end portion 114 of the first
tube member 104, and the connector 102 is coupled to the second end
portion 118 of the second tube member 106, such that fluid can be
transferred between the first component 108 and the second
component 110. In some examples, while the first tube member 104
and the second tube member 106 are disposed within the body of the
patient, the first tube member 104 is connected to the second tube
member 106 using the connector 102.
[0051] The connector 102 may include fewer components than
conventional connectors. In some examples, the connector 102 is a
single-piece. In some examples, the connector 102 is connected to
the first tube member 104 and the second tube member 106 without
the use of a specialized tool. In some examples, the connector 102
is connected to the first tube member 104 and the second tube
member 106 by a hand of the operator (e.g., no tool is required).
In some examples, an ambulatory tool (e.g., mosquito clamp) may be
used to connect the connector 102 to the first tube member 104 and
the second tube member 106.
[0052] FIGS. 2A through 2M illustrate a clip connector 202
according to various aspects. The clip connector 202 is an example
of the connector 102 of FIG. 1.
[0053] The clip connector 202 includes a first clip member 220, a
second clip member 222, and a hinge member 224. In some examples,
the clip connector 202 includes a medical grade plastic material.
In some examples, the first clip member 220, the second clip member
222, and the hinge member 224 are integrally formed from a single
component (e.g., injection molded using a medical grade plastic
material). In some examples, the first clip member 220, the second
clip member 222, and the hinge member 224 are separate components
and coupled together. The first clip member 220 and the second clip
member 222 may move with respect to each other via the hinge member
224. In some examples, the hinge member 224 includes a living
hinge. In some examples, the hinge member 224 includes a thin
flexible plastic material.
[0054] The first clip member 220 includes a first end 251, and a
second end 253. In some examples, the distance between the first
end 251 and the second end 253 defines a length of the first clip
member 220. The first clip member 220 includes a first lateral side
portion 217 and a second lateral side portion 247. The second
lateral side portion 247 is disposed opposite to the first lateral
side portion 217.
[0055] The second clip member 222 includes a first end 255 and a
second end 257. In some examples, the distance between the first
end 255 and the second end 257 defines a length of the second clip
member 222. In some examples, the length of the first clip member
220 is substantially the same as the length of the second clip
member 222. The second clip member 222 includes a first lateral
side portion 219 and a second lateral side portion 249. The second
lateral side portion 249 is disposed opposite to the first lateral
side portion 219. The hinge member 224 is coupled to (or extends
from) the second lateral side portion 247 of the first clip member
220. The hinge member 224 is coupled to (or extends from) the
second lateral side portion 249 of the second clip member 222. In
some examples, the length of the hinge member 224 is substantially
the same as the length of the first clip member 220 and/or the
length of the second clip member 222. In some examples, the length
of the hinge member 224 is less than the length of the first clip
member 220 and/or the length of the second clip member 222.
[0056] The first clip member 220 includes a coupling member 240. In
some examples, the coupling member 240 is defined by or extends
from the first lateral side portion 217 of the first clip member
220. In some examples, the coupling member 240 extends along the
entire length of the first lateral side portion 217. In some
examples, the coupling member 240 extends along only a portion of
the length of the first lateral side portion 217.
[0057] The second clip member 222 includes a coupling member 242
configured to be engaged with the coupling member 240 of the first
clip member 220. In some examples, the coupling member 242 is
defined by or extends from the first lateral side portion 219 of
the second clip member 222. In some examples, the coupling member
242 extends along the entire length of the first lateral side
portion 219. In some examples, the coupling member 242 extends
along only a portion of the length of the first lateral side
portion 219.
[0058] The coupling member 240 and the coupling member 242,
collectively, define a locking mechanism. When moving from the open
position to the closed position, the first clip member 220 and the
second clip member 222 move towards each other. In the closed
position, the first clip member 220 is disposed on top of the
second clip member 222 (or vice versa). The coupling member 240 is
configured to engage with the coupling member 242 in order to keep
the clip connector 202 in the closed position such that the first
clip member 220 and the second clip member 222 do not move apart
from each other during use of the bodily implant.
[0059] In some examples, the coupling member 240 and the coupling
member 242, collectively, define a snap-fit joint connection. In
some examples, referring to FIG. 2F, the coupling member 240
includes a flexible member 270, and an overhang portion 272
defining a contacting edge 274. The coupling member 242 includes an
overhang portion 271 defining a contacting edge 273. When moving to
the closed position, the flexible member 270 may flex in order to
allow the overhang portion 272 to move past the overhang portion
272. When the contacting edge 274 moves past the overhang portion
271, the flexible member 270 snaps back such that the contacting
edge 274 faces the contacting edge 273. In some examples, the
contacting edge 274 is disposed in a plane substantially parallel
with the contacting edge 273. The engagement of the overhang
portion 271 and the overhang portion 272 allows the first clip
member 220 and the second clip member 222 to remain in the closed
position.
[0060] The first clip member 220 includes an outer surface 223 and
an inner surface 243. In some examples, the outer surface 223
includes a convex portion. In some examples, the majority of the
outer surface 223 is convex. In some examples, the outer surface
223 includes a planar portion 221. The planar portion 221 may be a
section of the outer surface 223 that is planar (e.g., devoid of a
curvature). In some examples, the inner surface 243 includes a
convex portion. In some examples, the majority of the inner surface
243 is convex. In some examples, the inner surface 243 of the first
clip member 220 is smooth. In some examples, the inner surface of
the first clip member 220 includes a surface feature 241. In some
examples, the surface feature 241 includes cross-hatching.
Cross-hatching may promote connector tubing connection strength
(tensile). In some examples, referring to FIG. 2J, the surface
feature 241 may include protrusions 282 that extend from the inner
surface 243. The protrusions 282 may also promote connector tubing
connection strength (tensile).
[0061] In some examples, referring to FIG. 2K, the first clip
member 220 includes a suture connection tab 283 that defines an
opening 284. A suture (not shown) may be coupled to the suture
connection tab 283 via the opening 284. The suture connection tab
283 may extend from the outer surface 223 of the first clip member
220.
[0062] The second clip member 222 includes an outer surface 225 and
an inner surface 245. In some examples, the outer surface 225
includes a convex portion. In some examples, the majority of the
outer surface 225 is convex. In some examples, the outer surface
225 includes a planar portion 261. For example, the planar portion
261 of the outer surface 225 may be a section of the outer surface
225 that is planar (e.g., devoid of a curvature). In some examples,
the inner surface 245 includes a convex portion. In some examples,
the majority of the inner surface 245 is convex. In some examples,
the inner surface 245 is smooth. In some examples, the inner
surface 245 includes a surface feature 241. In some examples,
referring to FIG. 2I, the surface feature 241 may include
cross-hatching 280. In some examples, referring to FIG. 2J, the
surface feature 241 may include protrusions 282 that extend from
the inner surface 245.
[0063] In some examples, a tool is used to contact the planar
portion 221 of the first clip member 220 and the planar portion 261
of the second clip member 222 in order to close the clip connector
202 such that the coupling member 240 engages with the coupling
member 242 to place the clip connector 202 in the closed
position.
[0064] In the closed position (as shown in FIG. 2A), the clip
connector 202 defines a lumen 227 along a longitudinal axis 230 of
the clip connector 202. The lumen 227 is formed by the inner
surface 243 of the first clip member 220 and the inner surface 245
of the second clip member 222. For example, the inner surface 243
defines one part of the lumen 227 and the inner surface 245 defines
the other part of the lumen 227. In some examples, the lumen 227
has a circular shape. In some examples, the clip connector 202
defines a cylindrical shape where the first clip member 220 defines
one half of the cylinder and the second clip member 222 defines the
other half of the cylinder. In some examples, the clip connector
202 has a rectangular shape. In some examples, referring to FIGS.
2L and 2M, the clip connector 202 has a pill-type shape.
[0065] The clip connector 202 includes an inner connector 226
disposed within the lumen 227. The inner connector 226 defines a
lumen 229. In some examples, the inner connector 226 is a tubular
member. In some examples, the inner connector 226 includes a
ferrule. Referring to FIG. 2B, the inner connector 226 includes a
first end portion 232, a second end portion 234, a shaft portion
236, and a shaft portion 238. In some examples, the first end
portion 232 is a barbed portion. In some examples, the first end
portion 232 includes an enlarged portion. In some examples, the
first end portion 232 has a size (e.g., diameter) larger than a
size of the shaft portion 236 (and a size of the shaft portion
238). In some examples, the second end portion 234 is a barbed
portion. In some examples, the second end portion 234 is an
enlarged portion. In some examples, the second end portion 234 has
a size larger than the size of the shaft portion 238.
[0066] The clip connector 202 includes a retaining member 228. The
retaining member 228 is configured to hold the inner connector 226
on an inside of the clip connector 202. The retaining member 228
may include a retaining body 263 defining an opening 265. The inner
connector 226 extends through the opening 265 such that the shaft
portion 236 is disposed on one side of the retaining body 263 and
the shaft portion 238 is disposed on the other side of the
retaining body 263. The opening 265 may have a diameter that is
slighter larger than a diameter of the inner connector 226 at the
central region of the inner connector 226. In some examples, the
diameter of the opening 265 may be smaller than one of the
diameters of the first end portion 232 of the inner connector 226.
In some examples, the diameter of the opening 265 may be smaller
than one of the diameters of the second end portion 234 of the
inner connector 226.
[0067] In some examples, the retaining member 228 is coupled to (or
disposed on) the inner surface 243 of the first clip member 220. In
some examples, the retaining member 228 is coupled to (or disposed
on) to the inner surface 245 of the second clip member 222. In some
examples, in the open state, the retaining member 228 holds but
allows the inner connector 226 to move through the opening 265 of
the retaining member 228 (e.g., free floating in the clip connector
202). However, when the clip connector 202 is move to the closed
state, the inner connector 226 is locked into place (e.g.,
prevented from moving through the opening 265 of the retaining
member 228).
[0068] In some examples, the retaining member 228 is a ferrule
retaining clip. For example, referring to FIGS. 2F and 2G, the
retaining member 228 may be clipped into the second clip member
222. For example, the second clip member 222 may define an opening
265, and the retaining body 263 may be inserted into the opening
265 (from the inner surface 245 until a portion 264 of the
retaining body 263 extends through the outer surface 225 of the
second clip member 222. The portion 264 may define a coupling
feature such that the retaining body 263 remains coupled to the
second clip member 222.
[0069] In the open position (as shown in FIGS. 2B-2C), the first
clip member 220 is disposed part from the second clip member 222.
Then, an operator places an end portion 214 of a first tube member
204 over a portion of the inner connector 226. For example, the end
portion 214 of the tube member is disposed on the shaft portion 236
of the inner connector 226. An operator places an end portion 218
of a second tube member 206 over a portion of the inner connector
226. For example, the end portion 218 is disposed on the shaft
portion 238 of the inner connector 226. Then, the first clip member
220 and the second clip member 222 are moved towards each other
until the coupling member 240 engages with the coupling member 242
to place the clip connector 202 in the closed position. In the
closed position, the first end portion 232 of the inner connector
226 and the inner surfaces 243, 245 compress a portion of the first
tube member 204, and the second end portion 234 of the inner
connector 226 and the inner surfaces 243, 245 compress a portion of
the second tube member 206. In some examples, in the closed
position, the protrusions 282 and the shaft portion 236 compress
the end portion 214 of the first tube member 204, and the
protrusions 282 and the shaft portion 238 compress the end portion
218 of the second tube member 206.
[0070] FIGS. 3A through 3G illustrate a rotational connector 302
according to various aspects. The rotational connector 302 is an
example of the connector 102 of FIG. 1. The rotational connector
302 may be assembled to connect tube members without using
equipment. For example, the rotational connector 302 may be
assembled using the hand of the operator. The rotational connector
302 includes a first rotational connector 320 and a second
rotational connector 322
[0071] Referring to FIGS. 3A-3C, the first rotational connector 320
contacts the second rotational connector 322 (such that their
mating features align), and the first rotational connector 320
rotates with respect to the second rotational connector 322 (or
vice versa), which completes a locking mechanism that couples the
first rotational connector 320 and the second rotational connector
322 together. In some examples, the locking mechanism is
irreversible (e.g., the first rotational connector 320 cannot
become separated from the second rotational connector 322 without
damaging the rotational connector 302). In some examples, the
locking mechanism is reversible (e.g., upon application of a
greater rotational force in the opposite direction). In some
examples, the rotation is a quarter turn. In some examples, the
first rotational connector 320 is the same as the second rotational
connector 322. In some examples, the second rotational connector
322 has one or more features than are different or addition to the
first rotational connector 320. The following disclosure further
describes the first rotational connector 320. It is noted that the
second rotational connector 322 has the same features of the first
rotational connector 320, and therefore a detailed description of
the second rotational connector 322 is omitted for the sake of
brevity.
[0072] In some examples, the first rotational connector 320 is a
c-shaped collar. The first rotational connector 320 includes an
interface surface 325 and a back surface 327. The interface surface
325 and the back surface 327 may be separated by a length (L) of
the first rotational connector 320. In some examples, the interface
surface 325 is disposed in a plane that is parallel to a plane of
the back surface 327. The first rotational connector 320 includes
an inner surface 323 and an outer surface 343. The inner surface
323 is curved. The distance between the inner surface 323 and the
outer surface 343 may define a size of the first rotational
connector 320. In some examples, the size is the same (or uniform)
around the first rotational connector 320. In some examples, the
distance may vary (or be different) between the inner surface 323
and the outer surface 343 at different locations around the first
rotational connector 320. The inner surface 323 may define an inner
diameter of the first rotational connector 320. In some examples,
the entire inner surface 323 is curved. The inner surface 323
extends from the interface surface 325 to the back surface 327. The
inner surface 323 defines a lumen 335 along a central axis of the
first rotational connector 320. The outer surface 343 is curved. In
some examples, the entire outer surface 343 is curved. The outer
surface 343 extends from the interface surface 325 to the back
surface 327. The outer surface 343 may define an outer diameter of
the first rotational connector 320. In some examples, the curvature
of the outer surface 343 may substantially correspond to the
curvature of the inner surface 323.
[0073] The first rotational connector 320 defines a side slot 330.
The side slot 330 may be a cutout section of the first rotational
connector 320. The side slot 330 extends from the outer surface 343
to the inner surface 323. For instance, a tube member may be placed
into the lumen 335 via the side slot 330. The side slot 330 defines
a first surface 345 and a second surface 347. The second surface
347 may face the first surface 345. In some examples, the second
surface 347 is parallel to the first surface 345. In some examples,
the first surface 345 and the second surface 347 are disposed at an
angle with respect to each other.
[0074] The first rotational connector 320 includes a protrusion
334, and a connector groove 332. The protrusion 334 extends from
the interface surface 325. In some examples, the protrusion 334
extends from the interface surface 325 at a location that is
proximate (e.g., close to) the first surface 345. In some examples,
the protrusion 334 is linear. In some examples, the protrusion 334
is cylindrical elongated member. In some examples, the protrusion
334 extends in a direction that is orthogonal to the interface
surface 325. In some examples, the protrusion 334 includes mating
features that are configured to interface with mating features of
the connector groove 332 of the second rotational connector 322
when the protrusion 334 of the first rotational connector 320 is
inserted into and rotated within the connector groove 332 of the
second rotational connector 322. In some examples, the protrusion
334 is a male threaded protrusion.
[0075] In some examples, referring to FIGS. 3D-3E, the protrusion
334 includes a barbed fitting. In some examples, the protrusion 334
of the first rotational connector 320 (and the second rotational
connector 322) includes a first flexible member 353 and a second
flexible member 355. The first flexible member 353 and the second
flexible member 355 are configured to move (or flex) towards each
other in order to fit within the connector groove 332. Each of the
first flexible member 353 and the second flexible member 355
includes an enlarged portion (or barbed portion) located at the end
of its length. The second flexible member 355 may be same as the
first flexible member 353. The first flexible member 353 extends
from the interface surface 325, and the second flexible member 355
extends from the interface surface 325.
[0076] In some examples, as referring to FIGS. 3D-3E, the
rotational connector 302 may be pre-assembled prior to the end user
making the tubing connections and compressing the tube members onto
the fittings. For example, the first flexible member 353 and the
second flexible member 355 is pressed into connector groove 332
until the mating edges of the protrusion 334 reach the first depth,
constraining the center portion of the protrusion 334. With the
first rotational connector 320 and the second rotational connector
322 in the uncompressed state, the end user is able to make the
tubing connections and a final rotation along the non-concentric
pathway within the connector groove 332 pulls the first surface 345
and the second surface 347 together to compress the tube members.
Then, the protrusion 334 locks into place within the connector
groove 332. The compressive load acting on the first rotational
connector 320 and the second rotational connector 322 will keep the
protrusion 334 in the locked position.
[0077] The connector groove 332 is defined on the interface surface
325. The connector groove 332 may be disposed on the interface
surface 325 between the inner surface 323 and the outer surface
343. In some examples, the connector groove 332 is defined on the
interface surface 325 at a location proximate to the second surface
347. In some examples, the connector groove 332 has a length that
is larger than its width. In some examples, as shown in FIGS.
3A-3C, the connector groove 332 has a depth smaller than the length
of the first rotational connector 320. For example, the depth of
the connector groove 332 may be measured from the interface surface
325 to the bottom portion of the connector groove 332.
[0078] In some examples, as shown in FIGS. 3A-3C, the connector
groove 332 includes a first portion 331 having a first depth, and a
second portion 333 having a second depth. The second depth may be
larger than the first depth. The connector groove 332 includes
mating features configured to mate with the matting features of the
protrusion 334 of the second rotational connector 322 when the
protrusion 334 of the second rotational connector 322 is inserted
into and rotated in the connector groove 332 of the first
rotational connector 320. In some examples, the connector groove
332 of the first rotational connector 320 is threaded to mate with
the threads of the protrusion 334 of the second rotational
connector 322. In some examples, as shown in FIGS. 3D-3E, the
connector groove 332 extends from the interface surface 325 to the
back surface 327. In other words, the connector groove 332 extends
the entire length of the first rotational connector 320 or the
second rotational connector 322.
[0079] In some examples, as shown in FIG. 3F, each of the first
rotational connector 320 and the second rotational connector 322
includes a suture connection tab 383 that defines an opening 384. A
suture (not shown) may be coupled to the suture connection tab 383
via the opening 384. The suture connection tab 383 may extend from
the outer surface 343.
[0080] The rotational connector 302 is used to connect a first tube
member (not shown in FIGS. 3A and 3C) and a second tube member 306.
The first tube member may include any of the features described
with reference to the first tube member 104 of FIG. 1. The second
tube member 306 may include any of the features described with
reference to the second tube member 106 of FIG. 1. An inner
connector 326 is disposed within an end portion of the first tube
member (not shown in FIGS. 3A and 3C) and within an end portion of
the second tube member 306. The inner connector 326 may include any
of the features discussed with reference to the inner connector 226
of FIGS. 2A through 2M. The end portion of the first tube member is
inserted into the lumen 335 of the first rotational connector 320,
and the end portion of the second tube member 306 is inserted into
the lumen 335 of the second rotational connector 322.
[0081] The operator may move and align the interface surface 325 of
the first rotational connector 320 and the interface surface 325 of
the second rotational connector 322 such that the protrusion 334 of
the first rotational connector 320 is inserted into the first
portion 331 of the connector groove 332 of the second rotational
connector 322 while the protrusion 334 of the second rotational
connector 322 is inserted into the first portion 331 of the
connector groove 332 of the first rotational connector 320. The
operator may rotate the first rotational connector 320 with respect
to the second rotational connector 322 such that the protrusion 334
of the first rotational connector 320 travels within and along the
first portion 331 of the connector groove 332 of the second
rotational connector 322 while the protrusion 334 of the second
rotational connector 322 travels within and along the first portion
331 of the connector groove 332 of the first rotational connector
320. The operator may continue to rotate until the protrusion 334
of the first rotational connector 320 enters the second portion 333
of the connector groove 332 of the second rotational connector 322
and the protrusion 334 of the second rotational connector 322
enters the second portion 333 of the connector groove 332 of the
first rotational connector 320.
[0082] In some examples, as the first rotational connector 320
rotates with respect to the second rotational connector 322, the
diameter of the lumen 335 of the first rotational connector 320 and
the diameter of the lumen 335 of the second rotational connector
322 decreases in order to place the rotational connector 302 in a
compressed state in which the tube members are compressed against
the inner connector 326 (e.g., the first surface 345 and the second
surface 347 contact each other or are disposed proximate to each
other). In some examples, the arc of the connector groove 332 is a
smaller radius with respect to the center of the lumen 335
(non-concentric to the inner surface 323 and the outer surface 343)
such that as the first rotational connector 320 and the second
rotational connector 322 are rotated, the size of the lumen 335
decreases to compress the second tube member 306 onto the inner
connector 326.
[0083] FIG. 4A illustrates a perspective of a push slide clamp
connector 402 in an unassembled state according to an aspect. FIG.
4B illustrates a perspective of the push slide clamp connector 402
in an assembled state according to aspect. The push slide clamp
connector 402 is an example of the connector 102 of FIG. 1. The
push slide clamp connector 402 includes a push tab 420 integrated
with an inner connector 426 (e.g., a ferrule) that is configured to
be pushed into a clip connector 422 in order to couple two tube
members together.
[0084] The push tab 420 includes the inner connector 426. In some
examples, the inner connector 426 is coupled to the push tab 420.
The inner connector 426 may include any of the features discussed
with reference to the inner connector 226 of FIGS. 2A through 2M.
In some examples, the inner connector 426 is orthogonal to the push
tab 420. In some examples, the clip connector 422 is a c-shaped
connector or collar. The clip connector 422 includes an inner
surface 423 and an outer surface 443. The inner surface 423 is
curved. The inner surface 423 may define an inner diameter of the
clip connector 422. The inner surface 423 defines a lumen 435 along
a central axis of the clip connector 422. The outer surface 443 is
curved. The outer surface 443 may define an outer diameter of the
clip connector 422.
[0085] The clip connector 422 defines a side slot 430. The side
slot 430 may be a cutout section of the clip connector 422. The
side slot 430 extends from the outer surface 443 to the inner
surface 423 at a section of the clip connector 422. The side slot
430 defines a first surface 445 and a second surface 447. In some
examples, the first surface 445 and the second surface 447 are
disposed at an angle with respect to each other such that the side
slot 430 is larger towards the outer surface 443. In some examples,
the distance between the first surface 445 and the second surface
447 at the inner surface 423 is smaller than a diameter of the
inner connector 426 (e.g., smaller than the enlarged ends of the
inner connector 426) such that the clip connector 422 expands when
the inner connector 426 is inserted into the lumen 435. In some
examples, the distance between the first surface 445 and the second
surface 447 at the outer surface 443 is larger than the diameter of
the inner connector 426 (e.g., larger than the enlarged ends of the
inner connector 426).
[0086] The clip connector 422 defines a tab slot 410 configured to
receive portions of the push tab 420. In some examples, the tab
slot 410 may have a thickness larger than a thickness of the push
tab 420, and a length greater than the length of the push tab 420.
The tab slot 410 extends into the clip connector 422 from the first
surface 445 in a first direction and extends into the clip
connector 422 from the second surface 447 in a second, opposite
direction. The operator may hold the push tab 420 in order to push
the inner connector 226 into the lumen 435 of the clip connector
422 such that the inner connector 226 enters the lumen 435 via the
side slot 430 and the push tab 420 enters (e.g., at least partially
enters) the clip connector 422 via the tab slot 410. In some
examples, the push tab 420 includes a surface feature (e.g.,
opening, through-hole) that would allow the use of operating room
tools (e.g., hemostat) to aid in the positioning of the inner
connector 426 (loaded with the tube member) in the final clamped
state. As shown in FIG. 4B, an end portion of a tube member 404 is
clamped using the push slide clamp connector 402.
[0087] FIG. 5A illustrates a perspective of a pull slide clamp
connector 502 in an unassembled state according to an aspect. FIG.
5B illustrates a perspective of the pull slide clamp connector 502
in an assembled state according to aspect. The pull slide clamp
connector 502 is an example of the connector 102 of FIG. 1. The
pull slide clamp connector 502 includes a pull tab 520 integrated
with an inner connector 526 (e.g., a ferrule) that is configured to
be pulled into an clip connector 522 in order to couple two tube
members together.
[0088] The inner connector 526 is coupled to the pull tab 520. The
inner connector 526 may include any of the features discussed with
reference to the inner connector 226 of FIGS. 2A through 2M. In
some examples, the inner connector 526 is orthogonal to the pull
tab 520. In some examples, the clip connector 522 is a c-shaped
connector or collar. The clip connector 522 includes an inner
surface 523 and an outer surface 543. The inner surface 523 is
curved. The inner surface 523 may define an inner diameter of the
clip connector 522. The inner surface 523 defines a lumen 535 along
a central axis of the clip connector 522. The outer surface 543 is
curved. The outer surface 543 may define an outer diameter of the
clip connector 522.
[0089] The clip connector 522 defines a side slot 530. The side
slot 530 may be a cutout section of the clip connector 522. The
side slot 530 extends from the outer surface 543 to the inner
surface 523 at a section of the clip connector 522. The side slot
530 defines a first surface 545 and a second surface 547. In some
examples, the first surface 545 and the second surface 547 are
disposed at an angle with respect to each other such that the side
slot 530 is larger towards the outer surface 543. In some examples,
the distance between the first surface 545 and the second surface
547 at the inner surface 523 is smaller than a diameter of the
inner connector 526 (e.g., smaller than the enlarged ends of the
inner connector 526) such that the clip connector 522 expands when
the inner connector 526 is inserted into the lumen 535. In some
examples, the distance between the first surface 545 and the second
surface 547 at the outer surface 543 is larger than the diameter of
the inner connector 526 (e.g., larger than the enlarged ends of the
inner connector 526).
[0090] The clip connector 522 defines a tab slot 510 configured to
receive the pull tab 520. In some examples, the pull tab 520 is
inserted through the side slot 530 and then through the tab slot
510 until a portion 511 of the pull tab 520 extends from the outer
surface 543. In some examples, the portion 511 defines a
through-hole (e.g., D-shaped through-hole). Then, an operator may
pull the pull tab 520 to place the inner connector 526 into the
lumen of the clip connector 522. In some examples, the pull tab 520
includes a surface feature (e.g., opening, through-hole) that would
allow the use of operating room tools (e.g., hemostat) to aid in
the positioning of the inner connector 526 (loaded with the tube
member) in the final clamped state. The tab slot 510 extends from
the inner surface 523 to the outer surface 543 at a section of the
clip connector 522 that is opposite to the side slot 530. In some
examples, the tab slot 510 extends into the clip connector 522 from
the first surface 545 in a first direction and extends into the
clip connector 522 from the second surface 547 in a second,
opposite direction. As shown in FIG. 5B, an end portion of a tube
member 504 is clamped using the pull slide clamp connector 502.
[0091] FIGS. 6A through 6C illustrate a linear slide connector 602
having a first slide member 620 and a second slide member 622
according to an aspect. The linear slide connector 602 is an
example of the connector 102 of FIG. 1.
[0092] In some examples, the linear slide connector 602 is used
with a tool (e.g., a mosquito hemostat) to compress two linear
slides (e.g., the first slide member 620 and the second slide
member 622) with integrated clip collars 614 (e.g., c-clips). As
the first slide member 620 and the second slide member 622 are
compressed (e.g., the tool applying pressure to the back surfaces
627 of the members 620, 622), the clip collar 614 of the first
slide member 620 expands over a barbed portion 632 of an inner
connector 626 (e.g., a ferrule) and the clip collar 614 of the
second slide member 622 expands over a barbed portion 634 of the
inner connector 626. As the first slide member 620 and the second
slide member 622 are further compressed, the clip collar 614 of the
first slide member 620 is moved to a shaft portion 636 of the inner
connector 626, and the clip collar 614 of the second slide member
622 is moved to a shaft portion 638 of the inner connector 626,
which can apply distributed compressed around the shaft portions
636, 638.
[0093] The first slide member 620 includes a coupling member 610
configured to lock (e.g., reversibly or irreversible) with a
coupling member 612 of the second slide member 622. The coupling
member 610 may extend from (or into) an interface surface 625 of
the first slide member 620. The coupling member 612 may extend from
(or into) an interface surface 625 of the second slide member 622.
In some examples, the coupling member 610 and the coupling member
612, collectively, define a linear slide locking mechanism that
keeps the members 620, 622 together, and also operates as the final
locking mechanism once the members 620, 622 are compressed
together. In some examples, the coupling member 610 and the
coupling member 612, collectively, a linear slide locking teeth
mechanism 630. In some examples, the back surface 627 of the first
slide member 620 defines a compressive pad (e.g., recessed feature
or flat face), and the back surface 627 of the second slide member
622 defines a compressive pad (e.g., recessed feature or flat face)
that provides a hemostat the ability to easily squeeze the members
620, 622 together under a compressive load without slipping
off.
[0094] FIG. 7 illustrates a linear slide connector 702 having a
first slide member 720 and a second slide member 722 in an
assembled state over an inner connector 726 in order to couple a
first tube member 704 with a second tube member 706. The linear
slide connector 702 may include any of the features discussed with
reference to the linear slide connector 602 of FIGS. 6A through 6C.
However, as shown in FIG. 7, the first slide member 720 may include
a loop 713 extending from a back surface 727 of the first slide
member 720, and a loop 715 extending from a back surface 727 of the
second slide member 722. In some examples, a hemostat may connect
to the loop 713 and the loop 715 in order to compress the members
720, 722 together. In other examples, the loop 713 and the loop 715
may be used as a feature to anchor the linear slide connector 702
to surrounding tissue.
[0095] FIGS. 8A through 8B illustrate a linear slide connector 802
having a quarter-turn disc 830 according to an aspect. The linear
slide connector 802 includes a first slide member 820 and a second
slide member 822. The first slide member 820 and the second slide
member 822 are configured to be disposed over an inner connector
826 and compressed together (and locked) in order to couple a first
tube member 804 with a second tube member 806.
[0096] The linear slide connector 802 may include any of the
features discussed with reference to the linear slide connector 602
of FIGS. 6A through 6C and/or the linear slide connector 702 of
FIG. 7. However, as shown in FIG. 8, the linear slide connector 802
uses the quarter-turn disc 830 (e.g., rotating or twisting the
quarter-turn disc 830) to pull the first slide member 820 and the
second slide member 822 together. The quarter-turn disc 830 may
define cam slots 832, cam followers 834, and holes 836. The holes
836 may be used for the hemostat to grip, or may be used for
suturing. The linear slide connector 802 allows the operator to
rotate the quarter-turn disc 830 with their fingertips (or using a
hemostat inserted into the holes 836) to turn the quarter-turn disc
830 to lock the first slide member 820 and the second slide member
822 together.
[0097] FIG. 9 illustrates a spring clamp connector 902 according to
an aspect. The spring clamp connector 902 is an example of the
connector 102 of FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 9, a first tube member
904 is disposed over a shaft portion 936 of an inner connector 926,
and a second tube member 906 is disposed over a shaft portion 938
of the inner connector 926. The spring clamp connector 902 is
configured to hold the first tube member 904 and the second tube
member 906 together by compressing the first tube member 904 and
the second tube member 906 against the shaft portion 936 and the
shaft portion 938, respectively.
[0098] The spring clamp connector 902 is a wire-form. The wire-form
may include stainless steel, Nitinol, and/or Titanium in either
diametric wire or ribbon form. The spring clamp connector 902
defines a first compression loop 910 (disposed around the first
tube member 904, and a second compression loop 912 (disposed around
the second tube member 906). Also, the spring clamp connector 902
defines a first connector loop 914 and a second connector loop 916.
In some examples, the spring clamp connector 902 is assembled and
packaged in a tensioned state. The spring clamp connector 902 may
be compressed with a hemostat (e.g., using the first connector loop
914 and the second connector loop 916), and then the members 904,
906 are placed over the inner connector 926. When released from the
compressed state, the first compression loop 910 becomes smaller
(or tightens) to compress the first tube member 904 against the
shaft portion 936, and the second compression loop 912 becomes
smaller (or tightens) to compress the second tube member 906
against the shaft portion 938.
[0099] FIG. 10 schematically illustrates an inflatable penile
prosthesis 1000 having one or more connectors 1002 according to an
aspect. The connectors 1002 may be any of the connectors (e.g.,
102, 202, 302, 402, 502, 602, 702, 802, 902) described with
reference to the previous figures. The penile prosthesis 1000 may
include a pair of cylinders 1010, and the pair of cylinders or
inflatable members 1010 are configured to be implanted in a penis.
For example, one of the cylinders 1010 may be disposed on one side
of the penis, and the other cylinder 1010 of the pair of cylinders
may be disposed on the other side of the penis. The cylinder 1010
may include a first end portion 1024, a cavity or inflation chamber
1022, and a second end portion 1028 having a rear tip 1032.
[0100] The penile prosthesis 1000 may include a pump assembly 1001,
which may be implanted into the patient's scrotum. A pair of
conduit connectors 1005 may attach the pump assembly 1001 to the
pair of inflatable members or cylinders 1010 such that the pump
assembly 1001 is in fluid communication with the pair of inflatable
members or cylinders 1010. In some examples, the conduit connector
1005 includes a first tube member 1004, and a second tube member
1006 that is separated from the first tube member 1004 but
connected together using the connector 1002.
[0101] Also, the pump assembly 1001 may be in fluid communication
with a reservoir 1050 via a conduit connector 1003. In some
examples, the conduit connector 1003 includes a first tube member
1004 and a second tube member 1006 that is separate from the first
tube member 1004 but connected together using the connector 1002.
The reservoir 1050 may be implanted into the user's abdomen. The
inflation chamber or portion 1022 of the cylinder 1010 may be
disposed within the penis. The first end portion 1024 of the
cylinder 1010 may be at least partially disposed within the crown
portion of the penis. The second end portion 1028 may be implanted
into the patient's pubic region PR with the rear tip 1032 proximate
the pubic bone PB.
[0102] In order to implant the inflatable members or cylinders
1010, 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 pair of inflatable
members or cylinders 1010. 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 1028. 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
members or cylinders 1010 to implant.
[0103] After the patient is prepared, the penile prosthesis 1000 is
implanted into the patient. The tip of the first end portion 1024
of each cylinder 1010 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
cylinder 1010 into the corpus cavernosum. This is done for each
cylinder of the pair of cylinders 1010. Once the inflation chamber
1022 is in place, the surgeon may remove the suture from the tip.
The surgeon then inserts the second end portion 1028. The surgeon
inserts the rear end of the cylinder 1010 into the incision and
forces the second end portion 1028 toward the pubic bone PB until
each cylinder 1010 is in place.
[0104] A pump bulb 1031 of the pump assembly 1001 may be squeezed
or depressed by the user in order to facilitate the transfer of
fluid from the reservoir 1050 to the cylinders 1010. For example,
in the inflation mode, while the user is operating the pump bulb
1031, the pump bulb 1031 may receive the fluid from the reservoir
1050, and then output the fluid to the cylinders 1010. When the
user switches to the deflation mode, at least some of the fluid can
automatically be transferred back to the reservoir 1050 (due to the
difference in pressure from the cylinders 1010 to the reservoir
1050). Then, the user may squeeze the cylinders 1010 to facilitate
the further transfer of fluid through the pump bulb 1031 to the
reservoir 1050.
[0105] FIG. 11 illustrates a urinary control system 1100 having one
or more connectors 1102 according to an aspect. The connectors 1102
may be any of the connectors (e.g., 102, 202, 302, 402, 502, 602,
702, 802, 902) described with reference to the previous
figures.
[0106] The artificial urinary sphincter ("AUS") system 1100
includes a pump 1120 attached to a pressure-regulating inflation
balloon or element 1124. The inflation element 1124 is likewise in
operative fluid communication with the cuff 1130 via one or more
tube members 1132, chambers, valves or similar structures. In some
examples, the tube members 1132 are coupled together using the
connector 1102. The inflation element 1124 is constructed of
polymer material that is capable of elastic deformation to reduce
fluid volume within the inflation element 1124 and push fluid out
of the inflation element 1124 and into the cuff 1130. However, the
material of the inflation element 1124 can be biased or include a
shape memory construct adapted to generally maintain the inflation
element 1124 in its expanded state with a relatively constant fluid
volume and pressure. In some examples, this constant level of
pressure exerted from the inflation element 1124 to the cuff 1130
will keep the cuff 1130 at a desired inflated state when open fluid
communication is provided between the inflation element 1124 and
the cuff 1130. This is largely due to the fact that only a small
level of fluid displacement is required to inflate or deflate the
cuff 1130. In some examples, the inflation element 1124 is
implanted into the abdominal space.
[0107] 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.
* * * * *