Abstract: A medical device and methods of delivery of the medical device within a patient's body are disclosed by the present invention. The medical device includes a first elongate member, a second elongate member and a coupling member. The coupling member is configured to be coupled to and extend between the first elongate member and the second elongate member to couple the first elongate member to the second elongate member when the medical device is in a first configuration. The coupling member is configured to be decoupled from at least one of the first elongate member and the second elongate member when the medical device is in a second configuration.

Abstract: A compactable vaginal pessary for managing pelvic organ prolapse is provided. The compactable pessary easily expands once inside a patient's vagina, remaining firmly anchored in the vaginal cavity during movement, thereby effectively countering the effects of any prolapsing organ. In a first embodiment, the vaginal pessary employs an expandable and collapsible frame member, while in a second embodiment; the frame member is an open, substantially cone-shaped, collapsible frame member that is biased to an open position. In a third embodiment, the compactable vaginal pessary is a yieldably extensible, self-retracting pessary. The vaginal pessary of the present invention may be easily inserted and removed by a patient on a daily basis, or as needed, thereby facilitating good hygiene and thus reducing or eliminating common pessary related complications.

Abstract: Devices for treating stress incontinence, having a horizontal proximal portion supported on the pubococcygeus muscle and a distal portion extending downward and away from the proximal portion at an angle approximating the vagina in an erect female as it passes down and between the anterior segments of the pubococcygeus. The distal portion may terminate with a protrusion that is positioned to provide midurethral support, thereby preserving the urethrovesical angle.

Abstract: A compactable vaginal pessary for managing pelvic organ prolapse is provided. The compactable pessary easily expands once inside a patient's vagina, remaining firmly anchored in the vaginal cavity during movement, thereby effectively countering the effects of any prolapsing organ. In a first embodiment, the vaginal pessary employs an expandable and collapsible frame member, while in a second embodiment; the frame member is an open, substantially cone-shaped, collapsible frame member that is biased to an open position. In a third embodiment, the compactable vaginal pessary is a yieldably extensible, self-retracting pessary. The vaginal pessary of the present invention may be easily inserted and removed by a patient on a daily basis, or as needed, thereby facilitating good hygiene and thus reducing or eliminating common pessary related complications.

Abstract: An implant configured to treat prolapse of a pelvic organ includes a support member and an extension portion projecting from the support member. The extension portion has a barbed fixation means provided thereon for anchoring the extension portion into pelvic paravaginal tissue. The barbed fixation means allow bi-directional adjustment of the barbed fixation means relative to the tissue, and when suitably located, the barbed fixation means engage the tissue. The support member comprises a mesh material having a mass density of less than 50 g/m2.

Abstract: An implant suitable for treatment of treatment of vaginal and/or uterine prolapse and/or pelvic floor reconstruction. The implant comprises a vaginal support member substantially sized or shaped to the portion of the vaginal wall to be supported and at least two extension portions projecting from the support member, wherein at least one extension portion has fixation means for anchoring the extension portion into pelvic paravaginal fibro-fatty issue without being faxed into defined structural tissues. A method of treating treatment of vaginal and/or uterine prolapse and/or pelvic floor reconstruction using the implant is also provided.

Abstract: A method for repairing a vaginal wall (35) which has been damaged by one or more prolapsed pelvic organs said method including: (a) mobilizing the vaginal epithelium off the underlying fascia of at least a portion of the damaged vaginal wall; (b) positioning a prosthetic material (36) over the exposed fascia; (c) re-fixing the vaginal epithelium over the prosthetic material (36) and the fascia; and thereafter (d) locating an intra-vaginal splint into the vagina.

Abstract: It is hereby described an oral prophylactic device constructed of vulcanized natural latex or similar material, having a reinforced edge, a crown-shaped middle portion slightly thinner and a central portion representing a protuberance similar to a nipple (though bigger in size) which is absolutely flexible due to its lower thickness. It allows the practice of oral-vaginal or anal sexual intercourse without any risk of contagion of venereal diseases or AIDS and it also eliminates foul smells.

Abstract: A vaginal drug delivery system includes a device formed of porous material that holds a flowable therapeutic formulation. The device, preferably in a soft, prewetted state, is inserted into the vagina to reside typically at or near the cervix where it continuously releases the flowable therapeutic formulation through its outer surface which is in contact with the vaginal surfaces. In operation, the flowable therapeutic formulation migrates via capillary forces from a reservoir that is centrally located in the device and through a covering that envelopes the reservoir.

Abstract: An apparatus for treating pelvic organ prolapse, comprising a main body adapted to provide pelvic organ support when inserted into a vagina; and, an applicator for inserting the main body into a vagina.

Abstract: A female condom and an improved method for manufacturing a female condom is disclosed. The invention provides a device that is effective in both acting as a contraceptive and inhibiting the transmission of disease during coitus. The invention employs synthetic latex in an efficient and cost effect manufacturing method that results in an improved product.

Abstract: A method of treating prolapse of a vagina includes securing a base of a support to tissue by inserting an anchor into the tissue, the anchor coupled to the support via an interconnecting member, securing a leg of the support that extends from the base of the support to a cuff of the vagina, and adjusting elevation of the cuff of the vagina relative to a patient's sacrum by sliding the interconnecting member relative to the anchor.

Abstract: A formix manipulator includes a collar and stabilizer. The collar has a first end and a second end, the second end having an opening and diameter greater than the first end and the first end having an opening to receive a cervix into the collar. The stabilizer has a base portion defining a guide hole and a plurality of prongs extending from the base portion to contact the first end of the collar.

Abstract: A uterine implant device suitable for treatment of vaginal vault prolapsed which occurs in a women after a partial or total hysterectomy. The implant device is formed in the shape of a normal uterus and filled with a suitable fluid. The uterine implant device is placed within the pelvic vault and can be held in place by sutured attached ligaments or scar tissue. The implant device can be inserted utilizing surgery or a specialized insertion tool.

Abstract: A mesh delivery system for sacral colpopexy procedures is disclosed. The system uses a mesh stabilizer (30) that is introduced in a compressed configuration through a surgical port into the abdomen, and a vaginal probe (10) (inserted through the vagina) with a magnetic or non-magnetic head that engages with the mesh stabilizer (30), anchoring it in position. The mesh stabilizer (30) employs a pseudoelastic shape memory alloy, and folds compact to deliver multiple mesh straps or a single Y-shaped surgical mesh in a streamlined configuration into the abdomen for facilitating the sacral colpopexy procedure. After delivery, the stabilizer (30) expands to a functional configuration where it interfaces with the probe (10) head and stabilizes and adjustably feeds the mesh strap(s) for suturing while maintaining stabilization of the mesh on the vaginal apex and while keeping excess mesh from obscuring the surgeons view. After suturing, the stabilizer can be removed back through the surgical port.

Abstract: Devices for treating stress incontinence, having a horizontal proximal portion supported on the pubococcygeus muscle and a distal portion extending downward and away from the proximal portion at an angle approximating the vagina in an erect female as it passes down and between the anterior segments of the pubococcygeus. The distal portion may terminate with a protrusion that is positioned to provide midurethral support, thereby preserving the urethovesical angle.

Abstract: An implant suitable for treatment of treatment of vaginal and/or uterine prolapse and/or pelvic floor reconstruction. The implant comprises a vaginal support member substantially sized or shaped to the portion of the vaginal wall to be supported and at least two extension portions projecting from the support member, wherein at least one extension portion has fixation means for anchoring the extension portion into pelvic paravaginal fibro-fatty issue without being faxed into defined structural tissues. A method of treating treatment of vaginal and/or uterine prolapse and/or pelvic floor reconstruction using the implant is also provided.

Abstract: This invention is related to the medicine branch, more exactly it is related to a prosthetic, preformed, non absorbable or mixed mesh with specific form and size. This is a T-cup mesh or T mesh-cup which is composed by two rectangular attachments with T-cup shape to be used in pelvic or urogynecological surgery in the treatment of: Uterine prolapse: hysterocele. Post-hysterectomy vaginal vault prolapse: cupolocele Related or not to posterior enterocele or elongation of Douglas' bag bottom.

Abstract: A prosthesis for addressing pelvic organ prolapse in females comprises a frame fabricated from a shape memory material that supports a thin, flexible mesh sheet in a stretched condition when the frame is unconstrained. The mesh sheet is formed with two finger receiving pockets proximate its posterior periphery to be used by the surgeon in steering the prosthesis to a desired disposition within the pelvic basin. The frame is shaped so as to conform to and be supported by bone structures and muscle tissue in the pelvic basin while providing needed support to pelvic organs to maintain them in a proper position. The use of a shape memory material allows the prosthesis to be rolled or folded into a reduced size for ease of placement through a small incision in the wall of the vagina, but that springs back to its memorized shape following deployment from a delivery sheath.

Abstract: A female condom has a pouch with an open end, a closed end, and a tubular body extending longitudinally therebetween. The female condom also includes an anchor attached to and outside of the closed end of the pouch.

Abstract: Kits for treating pelvic conditions such as levator avulsion, by placing an implant between an anterior incision and a posterior incision to support the levator tissue are described. A kit comprises an implant (70) comprising a support portion and two end portions extending from the support portion, two insertion tools comprising a needle comprising a helical curve and one insertion tool (54) comprising a needle (58) comprising a two-dimensional curve.

Abstract: Vaginal splints and methods for their use for treating various pelvic floor conditions are provided. One embodiment of the vaginal splint includes a base portion having a configuration defined by first and second sides, a first connecting portion at a proximal side of the base portion and extending between a first end of each of the first and second sides, and a second connecting portion at a distal side of the base portion and extending between a second end of each of the first and second sides. The splint further includes an adjustable portion coupled to the base portion and positioned substantially adjacent to and distal of the second connecting portion of the base portion. The adjustable portion is removable by a user to thereby change the size of the splint.

Abstract: A method for repairing a vaginal wall (35) which has been damaged by one or more prolapsed pelvic organs said method including:(a) mobilising the vaginal epithelium off the underlying fascia of at least a portion of the damaged vaginal wall; (b) positioning a prosthetic material (36) over the exposed fascia; (c) re-fixing the vaginal epithelium over the prosthetic material (36) and the fascia; and thereafter (d) locating an intra-vaginal splint into the vagina.

Abstract: A female condom and an improved method for manufacturing a female condom is disclosed. The invention provides a device that is effective in both acting as a contraceptive and inhibiting the transmission of disease during coitus. The invention employs synthetic latex in an efficient and cost effect manufacturing method that results in an improved product.

Abstract: Vaginal splint assemblies and methods for their use for treating various pelvic floor conditions are provided. One embodiment of a vaginal splint assembly includes a base portion having a connecting portion and first and second sides extending outwardly from first and seconds ends of the connecting portion to first and second free ends respectively. It further includes a plurality of apical sections each of a different size and each having a connecting portion and first and second sides extending outwardly from first and second ends of the connecting portion to first and second free ends respectively, and at least first and second coupling elements. The first coupling element is capable of securing the first free end of the base portion to the first free end of any one of the plurality of apical sections, and the second coupling element is capable of securing the second free end of the base portion to the second free end of the one apical section.

Abstract: An exercising set and a method for enabling a user to exercise his/her pelvic floor muscles. The exercising set may include: at least one body member; an elongated member; at least one weight; and at least one fastening means. The elongated member may extend from the lower part of the body member. The body member may be inserted into the user's body cavity, where a lower part of the elongated member emerges outside the cavity. The fastening means may be connected to the weight, where the fastening means allows fastening of the weight to the emerging lower part of the elongated member, thereby enabling changing weights for the exercise without having to remove and re-insert the body member for each weight exercised. Methods of using the exercising set are disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to intravaginal devices having a rigid support, methods of making, and uses thereof. The devices comprise (a) a rigid support having a Shore A Hardness of at least about 20 and a tensile strength of at least about 1 MPa, (b) a matrix, and (c) an active agent dispersed in the matrix, wherein the support and the matrix are adjacent and wherein the device is annular.

Abstract: Vaginal splints and methods for their use for treating various pelvic floor conditions are provided. One embodiment of the vaginal splint includes a base portion having a configuration defined by first and second sides, a first connecting portion at a proximal side of the base portion and extending between a first end of each of the first and second sides, and a second connecting portion at a distal side of the base portion and extending between a second end of each of the first and second sides. The splint further includes an adjustable portion coupled to the base portion and positioned substantially adjacent to and distal of the second connecting portion of the base portion. The adjustable portion is removable by a user to thereby change the size of the splint.

Abstract: A vaginal wall which has been damaged by one or more prolapsed organs may be repaired by a surgical procedure including the steps of: (a) mobilizing the vaginal epithelium off of the underlying fascia of at least a portion of the damaged vaginal wall; (b) positioning a reinforcing material over the exposed fascia; (c) re-fixing the vaginal epithelium over the reinforcing material; and, thereafter, (d) locating an intra-vaginal splint into the vagina such that the splint supports the vaginal wall and prevents substantial movement and displacement of the reinforcing material.

Abstract: A compactable vaginal pessary for managing pelvic organ prolapse is provided. The compactable pessary easily expands once inside a patient's vagina, remaining firmly anchored in the vaginal cavity during movement, thereby effectively countering the effects of any prolapsing organ. In a first embodiment, the vaginal pessary employs an expandable and collapsible frame member, while in a second embodiment; the frame member is an open, substantially cone-shaped, collapsible frame member that is biased to an open position. In a third embodiment, the compactable vaginal pessary is a yieldably extensible, self-retracting pessary. The vaginal pessary of the present invention may be easily inserted and removed by a patient on a daily basis, or as needed, thereby facilitating good hygiene and thus reducing or eliminating common pessary related complications.

Abstract: Vaginal splints and methods for their use for treating various pelvic floor conditions are provided. One embodiment of the vaginal splint includes a base portion having a configuration defined by first and second sides, a first connecting portion at a proximal side of the base portion and extending between a first end of each of the first and second sides, and a second connecting portion at a distal side of the base portion and extending between a second end of each of the first and second sides. The splint further includes an adjustable portion coupled to the base portion and positioned substantially adjacent to and distal of the second connecting portion of the base portion. The adjustable portion is removable by a user to thereby change the size of the splint.

Abstract: Disclosed are devices for supporting a prolapsed organ. An exemplary device comprises a ring-like body optionally having a naturally occurring substantially flat and substantially planar compact configuration, the ring-like body configured with a size suitable for insertion into a vagina and to be expanded by a support element such that in the expanded configuration an outer periphery of the ring-like body contacts a portion of the vagina and stretches at least a portion of a prolapsed vaginal wall, thereby substantially alleviating prolapse of at least one pelvic organ. The device optionally includes a support element comprising two moveably connected arms configured to support the ring in the expanded configuration.

Abstract: A pessary comprising a main stem and an inflatable bladder disposed about the proximal larger diameter section of the main stem. The main stem further comprises a distal smaller diameter portion having a cap at its distal tip and a check valve disposed there under. The check valve communicates with a central fluid passage that may extend into the proximal larger diameter section of the main stem. Secondary fluid passages connect the central fluid passage to the inflatable bladder volume disposed about the outer circumference of the proximal larger diameter section of the main stem. The main stem provides support to the pelvic structures and the inflatable bladder acts to hold the device in position. At least one void through the proximal larger diameter portion of the main stem allows bodily material to pass from the vagina through the pessary device thereby decreasing the amount of vaginal discharge.

Abstract: The invention is an intra-vaginal pessary device constructed of bio-compatible, medical grade, non-latex silicone, to manage and diagnose mild to moderate stress incontinence in women by providing a user-friendly, non-surgical, occasional, non-invasive option for mid-urethral support. The invention is an approximately oval, non-absorbent device with an embedded pull-string for removal when not in use. The pessary is self-inserted into the vagina by a woman, using the same technique she would use if she were inserting a tampon. The pressure the pessary provides against the vaginal wall has the effect of closing the urethra and thereby preventing urine leakage.

Abstract: A device for degenerating a fibroid comprises a gripper mechanism sized and shaped so as to grip a uterine artery and a rotating mechanism attached to the gripper mechanism. The rotating mechanism may be rotated so as to rotate said gripper mechanism, thereby twisting a gripped uterine artery so as to obstruct blood flow through the artery. In a method of degenerating a uterine fibroid, the aforesaid gripping device is used to catch hold of a uterine artery and is rotated in a direction so as to twist the uterine artery about itself, thereby obstructing blood flow to the uterine fibroid. The gripping device is held in place for a period of time needed to degenerate the fibroid.

Abstract: A device comprising a tubular applicator and lotion dispenser in combination. The device includes a tubular applicator and a lotion dispenser for applying lotion to the tubular applicator. The lotion dispenser includes a lotion selected from the group consisting of gels, solutions, compositions, lubricants, and creams.

Abstract: An implant suitable for treatment of treatment of vaginal and/or uterine prolapse and/or pelvic floor reconstruction. The implant comprises a vaginal support member substantially sized or shaped to the portion of the vaginal wall to be supported and at least two extension portions projecting from the support member, wherein at least one extension portion has fixation means for anchoring the extension portion into pelvic paravaginal fibro-fatty issue without being faxed into defined structural tissues. A method of treating treatment of vaginal and/or uterine prolapse and/or pelvic floor reconstruction using the implant is also provided.

Abstract: An apparatus for treating pelvic organ prolapse, comprising a main body adapted to provide pelvic organ support when inserted into a vagina; and, an applicator for inserting the main body into a vagina.

Abstract: A ring for preventing a prolapse of the uterus and the urinary bladder has an annular part and a flexible curved rod-shaped part whose one end and other end are so formed as to be connected to the annular part and whose intermediate portion interposed between the one end and the other end is so formed as to be disposed over a central region of an annular plane formed with the annular part The annular part has an open portion formed by a partial absence thereof.

Abstract: An adjustable vaginal pessary (2) comprising a body (4) with an outer periphery, and an inner periphery defining an aperture (10). The pessary further comprises at least one adjustable portion (12,13) located on the body between said inner and out peripheries. The adjustable portion is bounded by two ends (12a, 12b, 13a, 13b) of the body interfacing therewith. T portion is adapted to vary the distance between the two ends in the direction along the body's perimeter, thereby adjusting the length of the peripheries.

Abstract: A vaginal insert has a flexible body either in the form of a belt or a split cylinder. In either case, the insert may be coiled into a coiled state. The body has a reduced diameter when coiled and exhibits a resilient bias toward uncoiling and expanding in diameter from the coiled state. When the insert is inserted into the vagina of a patient, it expands and presses against the vaginal wall. This pressure in itself may be therapeutic, e.g., in treating cystocele and incontinence. A medicament may be conjoined with the insert that is introduced to the patient through contact with the insert. The insert can have a simultaneous mechanical and pharmacological effect, e.g., in the instance of treating incontinence with a drug and pressure. The belt-type body may incorporate mating ridges and grooves to keep the insert in a cylindrical configuration. Latch elements may be incorporated on the insert to support the insert in an expanded, partially uncoiled state.

Abstract: A device for treating female incontinence and prolapse includes a vaginal insert. The insert may also be loaded with various pharmacological compounds/drugs, such as hormones for treatment of various diseases within or outside the urogenital tract. The insert has a generally cylindrical body dimensioned to allow insertion into the vagina. The body has a pair of spaced peripheral rings extending from the exterior surface of the body, which displaces the vaginal wall, the tissue between the vaginal wall and the urethra to apply pressure to the urethra to treat the various defects. The pessary may be split to allow coiling to aid in inserting the device.

Abstract: An incontinence pessary device for use within a vaginal vault of a woman, the incontinence pessary device comprising a resilient main support body, at least two resilient lateral support bodies, and a suburethral support body. The resilient main support body has a primary plane of orientation that will correspond to the sagittal plane of the woman's pelvis when inserted and be at least responsive to forces oriented along the main plane. The at least two resilient lateral support bodies project from a position on the main support body toward generally opposite sides of the main support body in a secondary plane generally perpendicular to the primary plane. Thus, when inserted, the at least two resilient lateral support bodies provide lateral and additional rotational stabilization, being at least responsive to forces oriented along the secondary plane.

Abstract: Thermoset polymer controlled release devices are produced by an injection molding of two or more polymers in a mold to produce a core surrounded by a sheath. The polymers may be injected sequentially or simultaneously.

Abstract: An improved cervical cap positioned over a cervix to concentrate sperm and effect fertilization having a thin-walled, flexible, and pliant dome with an integrally-molded flexible annular rim. The cervical cap further includes an elongated string of elastomeric material having first and second ends. The first end of the elongated string is connected to the apex portion of the dome and the second end is connected to a loop for removing the cap from a vaginal cavity. The loop is intended to remain outside the vaginal cavity when the cap is positioned over the cervix.

Abstract: An improved pessary, comprising a frame made of an elongated material of generally circular cross-section. This elongated material is then formed into a closed figure of a generally rectangular shape. The frame is then formed into a configuration which has a generally horseshoe shape, in side view. The frame comprises four arms, including a first, second, third, and fourth arm. With the frame in its initial rectangular shape, the first and second arms are generally parallel to each other. In this initial rectangular shape, the third and fourth arms are also generally parallel to each other. In addition, these third and fourth arms are generally perpendicular to the first and second arms. The first and second arms include springs that are crimped onto each of the first and second arms at a position generally in the middle of each of the first and second arms. The springs permit flexing of the first and second arms.

Abstract: The pessary 22, which will alleviate the common female problems of stress incontinence and prolapse, includes an annular hollow body 24 and an air tube 26. The hollow body is ring shaped and is made deflatable. While the body 24 is being inserted into the vagina it is evacuated which diminishes its size and thereby reduces the discomfort associated with insertion. Once in place in the vagina, air is given free access to the hollow device 24 whereby elasticity of the device causes it to expand to its normal shape. When the device 24 is to be removed from the vagina the tube 26, which is preferable coiled and stowed at the center of the ring shaped device 24, is extracted and connected to the hollow needle of a syringe. When the syringe sucks out air, the hollow body 24 diminished in size, which reduces the discomfort associated with its removal.

Abstract: An approach for providing a female contraceptive device is disclosed. The contraceptive device has an upper portion that contacts the cervix and an outer wall. A lower portion of the contraceptive device has corrugated inner walls that form a hollow petal-shaped sections with the outer wall. Each of the petal-shaped sections has a curled edge and is capable of storing semen. The inner wall of the lower portion forms a cavity that receives the penis. The outer wall of the lower portion has surface protrusions that creates a barrier to the flow of semen, yet permits the flow of vaginal secretion. The contraceptive device occupies the upper portion of the vaginal canal, leaving the lower portion of the canal exposed to enhance sensitivity. The bulbous shape of the contraceptive device provides additional sensual stimulation for the female, while the corrugated inner walls enhance simulation for the male.

Abstract: A pessary for vaginal use that prevents rotation after insertion is disclosed. An oval shape prevents rotation of the pessary once installed and a novel unitary molded structure with different hardnesses of biocompatible material eliminates the use of wire inserts that can become exposed and injure the user while facilitating folding of the pessary during insertion and removal. Further embodiments add an inner membrane to aid in controlling uterine prolapse and a novel raised portion or porch to support the urethra and control incontinence.

Abstract: A cervical collection device (20) for collecting uterine and cervical secretions for medical diagnostic purposes. The cervical collection device (20) is placed over the cervical opening (14). Collection device (20) includes an outer elastomeric receptacle (22) of a hemispherical shape having a collection capsule or pad (26) fitting thereon. Collection pad (26) includes an inner layer or core (28) of absorbent material and an outer water-resistant cover (32). Collection member (26) has an outer convex surface conforming to the inner surface of the elastomeric receptacle (22). Receptacle (22) has an outer rim (24) arranged for fitting over the cervical opening (14) for removable securement of collection device (20) to a user. Inner layer (28) may be formed of various materials and impregnated with selected substances.