Incontinent Type Patents (Class 128/885)
  • Patent number: 6645136
    Abstract: Incontinence insert applicators for placing insert members within a vagina for reducing the occurrence and/or severity of female incontinence. The insert applicator has a non-circular cross-section for maximizing the available space for the insert, while also facilitating insertion of the applicator into the vagina. The applicators have orientation indicators to allow the user to properly orientate the inserts within the vagina.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: MaryAnn Zunker, Herb F. Velazquez, Donald J. Sanders
  • Patent number: 6609522
    Abstract: A urethral compression device prevents male urinary incontinence by compressing the urethra. The device has a pressure-applying element. The urethral compression device compress the urethra. The device is designed to allow the user to manipulate the device using only one hand, if so desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Assignee: UroScientific Incorporated
    Inventors: Gordon Cheng, Sanjaya Kumar, Richard Beane, Richard Simmers
  • Patent number: 6558312
    Abstract: An intraurethral device that can be used to inhibit leakage of urine due to incontinence is provided. The intraurethral device can include a urethral plug made from a biocompatible, flexible material. The intraurethral device can also include a first insertion element in operative communication with a second insertion element to facilitate self-insertion of the urethral plug into the urethra. Furthermore, in some instances, various mechanisms can be provided to keep the intraurethral device substantially sterile and/or clean prior to and/or during the insertion process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: Clemson University
    Inventor: Robert A. Latour, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20030062052
    Abstract: The present invention provides methods, devices, and systems for supporting the urethra in a patient to treat urinary incontinence. Support of the urethra involves forming a loop under the urethra with a structure referred to as a urethral support and applying an upward force with the support to hold the urethra in a more desired position. The present invention utilizes the space of Retzius within which portions of the urethral support are positioned. Ingrowth by surrounding tissues to the urethral support material provide further stability and such ingrowth, combined with the position of the support, allow sufficient tension to be applied to support to hold the urethra in place. Placement of such a urethral support is achieved by minimally invasive techniques, such as with the use of laparoscopic instruments. Such techniques allows placement of the urethral support by accessing the space of Retzius through the vaginal wall without penetrating the abdominal wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2001
    Publication date: April 3, 2003
    Applicant: SURx, Inc.
    Inventors: Garry L. Carter, David R. Stiehr
  • Patent number: 6530879
    Abstract: An intravaginal set and a method of treatment of prolaps of urogenital organs and urinary stress incontinence or in the period of intervals in women when the intravaginal therapeutic insert for treatment of static disorders of the urogenital organs and urinary stress incontinence is not currently inserted, said method being realised by means of an intravaginal set of inserts, characterized by selecting the appropriate size of corrective insert from a subset of intravaginal corrective inserts, consisting of at least two balls with step increase in diameter, ranging between the minimal and maximal woman vaginal diameter, each ball being preferably hollow, each ball has the loosely hanging string and each ball is made preferably of medical material, such as polycarbonate or methyl methacrylate, said selecting being realised by means of an intravaginal measuring subset comprising at least two metal or plastic balls having graduated diameters corresponding to graduated diameters of the balls from the subset of the
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2003
    Assignee: Adamed, SP. Z.O.O.
    Inventor: Marian Adamkiewicz
  • Patent number: 6506169
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for carrying out non-invasive urodynamics investigations on male patients, by controlling urethral pressure, which facilitates diagnosis of, and distinction between, obstructive and non-obstructive voiding dysfunction. A pneumatic cuff (2) is placed around the penis (3) and after commencement of urine flow through the penis, the cuff is automatically inflated over a period of time in order to gradually occlude the urethra before voiding of the bladder is complete. A relationship between the urine flow and the cuff pressure applied is established and this is used to determine a pressure measurement related to the bladder pressure under isovolumetric conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Assignee: Mediplus Limited
    Inventor: Clive Javan Griffiths
  • Publication number: 20020185138
    Abstract: A male urinary incontinence control device (10) including a first element (12) for applying preferential pressure to the penis shaft (14) between the lateral superficial veins (18) and the central dorsal vascular group (20), and a second element (28) for applying pressure ventrally to the penis shaft (14) at the urethra (30) and the corpus spongiosum (32) thereby substantially or completely closing the urethra (30) and preventing or limiting the flow of urine through the urethra (30). Both longitudinally and transversely oriented lower bolsters are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2002
    Publication date: December 12, 2002
    Inventors: Charles H. Single, John D. Cochrane
  • Patent number: 6491713
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for placing a bladder output control device is disclosed in which a tool has a surface which receives the bladder output control device and holds it for accurate placement of the device on the body of a user. The tool includes an illumination device mounted internal to the tool and provides illumination used in placement of the bladder output control device. The tool further includes a mirrored surface to enable better visualization of where the bladder output control device is located relative to its target location during placement of the device on the body of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: AMS Research Corporation
    Inventors: Steven T. Deininger, James E. Cabak
  • Publication number: 20020179093
    Abstract: A method of treating overactive bladder in women involves inserting an intravaginal device of substantially spherical shape and a diameter that fits the width of the vagina into the vagina above the levator ani muscle, and maintaining said device in the appropriate location inside the vagina for an extended period of time to exert its therapeutic effect. The method may further comprise performing pelvic floor exercises, preferably exercises consisting of contracting the levator ani muscle and squeezing soft objects between the knees while in a prone position, preferably twice a day, with said device left inside the vagina.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2002
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Applicant: ADAMED Sp. z.o.o.
    Inventor: Maciej Adamkiewicz
  • Publication number: 20020183711
    Abstract: A urinary incontinence device for alleviating female urinary incontinence is disclosed. The urinary incontinence device includes a resilient member and a non-absorbent positioned adjacent to the resilient member. The non-absorbent is constructed from a fibrous material wherein the fibers do not absorb significant quantities of moisture within the fibers. The resilient member and the non-absorbent are rolled into an elongated softwind with the resilient member located adjacent to an end thereof. The softwind has a larger diameter at one end. The softwind is then radially compressed into an elongated pledget having an insertion end, a trailing end and a uniform cross-sectional area therebetween. The resilient member is capable of expanding the insertion end of the pledget to provide a supportive backdrop for a woman's urethra when inserted into a woman's vagina.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2001
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Applicant: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventor: Julie Ann Moser
  • Patent number: 6482645
    Abstract: The present invention describes methods for producing artificial fascial slings and their subsequent use in treating subjects with urinary incontinence. The invention is based, in part, on the discovery that mesenchymal cells that secrete elastin and collagen, extracellular proteins responsible for elasticity and strength, respectively, can be used to engineer artificial fascia in vitro.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Assignee: Children's Medical Center Corporation
    Inventor: Anthony Atala
  • Publication number: 20020166560
    Abstract: A feminine hygienic Urinary Incontinence Inhibitor Interlabial Device for insertion into the interlabial space; the device having a conical (or polygonal) tapered configuration which (1) facilitates vertical placement of the device into the interlabial space, and (2) by placing the conical (or polygonal) top (larger portion) of the device interlabially directly over and upon the urethra opening, thereby simulating and/or stimulating urethral external sphincter muscle function, has the utility to inhibit involuntary micturition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2002
    Publication date: November 14, 2002
    Inventor: Ruth A. Wolak
  • Patent number: 6475135
    Abstract: A finger-guided suture device is disclosed. The device includes a thimble-like element to surround a portion of a finger and an ejectable substantially semi-circular surgical needle for collecting retaining and guiding a surgical suture via a distal portion of the needle upon contact. Also included is a mechanism for ejecting the needle from, and withdrawing the needle into, the thimble-like element, so as to place a suture. Also disclosed are surgical methods employing the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Assignee: Urogyn Ltd.
    Inventor: Gil Levy
  • Patent number: 6470890
    Abstract: An inflatable vaginal pessary of the invention, which can be mechanically inserted into and removed from the patient's vagina, comprises a tapered body inflatable at its large-diameter side and having an axial channel inflation of the pessary. This channel passes from the small-diameter end to the inflatable chamber and has a check valve at the outer end of the channel for inflation of the pessary. The pessary can be connected to and disconnected from a mechanism for insertion and removal of the pessary into and from the vaginal cavity. This mechanism has a hollow tubular housing with a funnel-like finder for engagement with the tapered end of the pessary. On the bottom of the finder the pessary installation mechanism has a threaded tubular stem that could be screwed into the threaded opening on the tapered end of the pessary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Inventors: Ananias Diokno, German Borodulin, Alexander Shkolnik
  • Publication number: 20020153013
    Abstract: A male urinary incontinence control device (10) including a first element (12) for applying preferential pressure to the penis shaft (14) between the lateral superficial veins (18) and the central dorsal vascular group (20), and a second element (28) for applying pressure ventrally to the penis shaft (14) at the urethra (30) and the corpus spongiosum (32) thereby substantially or completely closing the urethra (30) and preventing or limiting the flow of urine through the urethra (30). Both longitudinally and transversely oriented lower bolsters are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2000
    Publication date: October 24, 2002
    Inventors: Charles H. Single, John D. Cochrane
  • Publication number: 20020153014
    Abstract: A urethral compression device prevents male urinary incontinence by compressing the urethra. The device has a pressure- applying element. The urethral compression device compress the urethra. The device is designed to allow the user to manipulate the device using only one hand, if so desired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2001
    Publication date: October 24, 2002
    Applicant: UroScientific, Incorporated.
    Inventors: Gordon Cheng, Sanjaya Kumar, Richard Beane, Richard Simmers
  • Patent number: 6463932
    Abstract: A male urinary incontinence control device (10) including a first element (12) for applying preferential pressure to the penis shaft (14) between the lateral superficial veins (18) and the central dorsal vascular group (20), and a second element (28) for applying pressure ventrally to the penis shalt (14) at the urethra (30) and the corpus spongiosum (32) thereby substantially or completely closing the urethra (30) and preventing or limiting the flow of urine through the urethra (30). Both longitudinally and transversely oriented lower bolsters are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Inventors: Charles H. Single, John D. Cochrane, III
  • Patent number: 6460542
    Abstract: A female incontinence device and method for placement of an intravaginal device for repositioning and supporting the prolapsed neck of the urinary bladder and realigning the urethra both vertically and laterally to approximate normal anatomical position enable a patient to remain stress-continent. The device includes an open, generally droplet-shaped base coupled with a pair of elongate spaced parallel legs shaped to extend in orthogonal relationship to the plane of the base in a predetermined configuration. Upon installation, the legs provide support for the anterior wall of the vagina and adjacent neck of the urinary bladder at a preconfigured variable distance from the posterior vaginal wall, as well as lateral and vertical alignment and support of the adjacent urethra. Alternatively, the base may be coupled with a single leg having a predetermined configuration which extends orthogonal to the plane of the base and is attached to the base at both ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Assignees: Medical Technology & Innovations, Inc.
    Inventor: Larry W. James
  • Patent number: 6461291
    Abstract: A device for treating leakage from an external orifice in the body of a patent which comprises a first member having a body-contacting first surface and an opposing second surface about an aperture, which first surface is attachable to the patient with said aperture positioned over said orifice, and a second member integral with said second surface, which second member comprises a valve mounted over said aperture, which valve has a closed position which prevents leakage of fluid through the device and an open position which allows fluid to flow through said aperture when desired, the closed and open positions being achievable without removing the device from the body of the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Assignee: American Medical Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Polyak, Sidney F. Hauschild
  • Patent number: 6436029
    Abstract: A device and method for treating urinary as well as fecal incontinence by selectively and controllably imparting stimuli to the pelvic region. The device is adapted to be compressively positioned against the crotch of the user to thus identify target pelvic floor muscles and muscle groups responsible for urinary and/or fecal continence and provide periodic stimulus thereto by way of pressure, stretching, resistance, vibration, and/or heat. The frequency, duration, and extent of the stimulus may be varied as desired for exercise regimens. The device may further be utilized to impart magnetic therapy to the pelvic region of the user or may include a stimulator for imparting a pleasurable sensation to the sex organs. The device may additionally be utilized as a therapy for pain management.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Inventor: Theodore V. Benderev
  • Patent number: 6418930
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Assignee: Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research
    Inventor: Robert Stuart Fowler
  • Patent number: 6387040
    Abstract: A design and method of manufacture are disclosed for a female continence augmentor device used to alleviate urinary incontinence. The female continence augmentor includes a mount formed of a resilient material, an intralumenal part carried on the mount and a resilient portion carried on the intralumenal part of device. The mount adheres to the female body about the urethral exit to support the female augmentor into position to prevent inadvertent urine loss. The intralumenal part of the device extends from the mount into the urethral lumen at least to the mid-urethra. In particular, the resilient portion of the intralumenal part extends into the urethra and is adapted to at least urge the dorsal urethral wall in the dorsal direction to stretch and/or reshape the mid-urethral lumen to have a more arcuate shape. Thus, the mid-urethral lumen in cross-section would preferably exhibit a crescent shape of smaller radius.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Assignee: American Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert C. Grant, Sidney F. Hauschild, Mark Polyak
  • Patent number: 6368859
    Abstract: The present invention describes methods for producing artificial fascial slings and their subsequent use in treating subjects with urinary incontinence. The invention is based, in part, on the discovery that mesenchymal cells that secrete elastin and collagen, extracellular proteins responsible for elasticity and strength, respectively, can be used to engineer artificial fascia in vitro.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: Children's Medical Center Corporation
    Inventor: Anthony Atala
  • Patent number: 6349727
    Abstract: A penile clamp for inhibiting male incontinence is provided as a single, unitary, synthetic resin body having a pair of jaw-like arms, a bridge interconnecting the arms and biasing them to a penis clamping position, and a pair of ears. The ears may be pinched together to spread apart the arms, thereby permitting insertion of a penis between the arms. One of the arms includes a penis-cradling area which is concave to conform to the top of the penis, while the other arm includes a urethral pressuring area which is preferably convex to apply pressure directly against the underside of the penis outside of the urethra. The pressuring area may be either a cantilever spring extending toward the bridge from the remote end of the second arm, or an area of the second arm between its proximate and remote ends. The arms are connected to the bridge at their proximate ends and presenting an opening across from the bridge opposite their remote ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Assignee: Pos-T-Vac, Inc.
    Inventor: Edward Stewart, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6325066
    Abstract: Circuitry for providing playback of an audio message responsive to activation of a device is provided. The playback circuitry and storage for the voice signal may be provided in the form of a module that plugs into a receptacle in the device, and receives an activation signal and electrical power from the device. In some embodiments, the module may be recorded by an instructor or clinician for instructional or therapeutic purposes and changed as a subject progresses. In other embodiments the module may be prerecorded and selected depending on a situation. Applications range from instructional audio messages in a toothbrush or rental car, to advertising modules responsive to proximity of a potential customer or instructions in a medical device such as a defibrillator or glucose monitor. In another embodiment, the module may record audio responsive to activation of a driver upon which a crime is being committed, such as a carjacking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Inventors: Charles B. Hughes, Emory D. Hughes
  • Patent number: 6311689
    Abstract: The disclosure provides an incontinence prevention device provided with a loop type retention structure. The retention structure is in the form of a closed loop attached to the distal end of a shaft. The shaft is configured to function as an incontinence prevention device. The retention structure projecting laterally from and configured non-concentrically about the longitudinal axis of the shaft retains the incontinence prevention device within the patient. The retention structure may additionally include a protuberance extending therefrom. There is further provided a method for using the urethral catheter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: ContiCare Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Claude Tihon
  • Patent number: 6289894
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for treating incontinence, which device includes a frame part (1) and a, at least partially tubular, sensor part (2) fastened at an angle in relation to the frame part, having sensors (3) on its sides for measuring the function of the pelvic floor muscles. According to the invention: the sensor part is detachably attached to the frame part (1), which makes it exchangeable regarding to every patient; the sensors (3) are placed on the sides of the sensor-part-tube, on both sides of the center of the side; and the sensors (3) are electrodes which are arranged to measure the muscle activity of the pelvic floor muscles with the help of the electrical signal produced by them.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Inventor: Arto Remes
  • Patent number: 6289895
    Abstract: A urethral compression device prevents male urinary incontinence by compressing the urethra. The device has a longitudinally extending pressure-applying element. The urethral compression device compress the urethra without applying undue force to other parts of the penis. The device incorporates a latching mechanism for the purpose of securing the device in a locked position with the pressure-applying element compressing the urethra of the penis. The device is designed to allow the user to manipulate the device using only one hand, if so desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Assignee: UroScientific, Inc.
    Inventors: Gordon Cheng, Sanjaya Kumar, Richard Beane, Richard Simmers
  • Patent number: 6234174
    Abstract: A urethral compression device prevents male urinary incontinence by compressing the urethra with a continuous, C-shaped structure which includes a curvilinear compression element extending from the inside surface of the structure. The urethral compression device compress the urethra without applying undue force to other parts of the penis. The device incorporates a ratchet mechanism on the ends of the C-shaped structure for the purpose of securing the device in a locked position. The device is designed to allow the user to manipulate the device using only one hand, if so desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2001
    Assignee: UroScientific, Incorporated
    Inventors: Gordon Cheng, Sanjaya Kumar
  • Patent number: 6223751
    Abstract: The present invention 10 discloses a device for use by patients having incontinence. Disclosed is a cup 16 for receiving the penis of the user. The cup 16 contains a urine pad 30 for absorbing urine which cup is supported in the proper position by a waist belt 22 with buckle 24 having additional straps 12 with buckles 14 for attachment of the cup 16. Clip strings 18 having clip attachment members 20 thereon connect the straps to eyelets 26 disposed on the top rim of the cup 18. The cup 18 is divided into an upper 15 and lower 19 chamber by a funnel-like partition 23 having a drain hole 38 therein. The urine pad 30 is located in the lower chamber 19 of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Douglas K Park
  • Patent number: 6223750
    Abstract: A seat face part 20 of a chair 1 is provided with a stimulating coil 3. A projection 10 is made on the top of the stimulating coil 3. When a treated patient sits in the chair 1, the anus of the treated patient is placed on the top of the projection 10, whereby the treated patient can be made to sit at the optimum position for urinary incontinence treatment relative to the stimulating coil 3.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Nihon Kohden Corporation
    Inventors: Norio Ishikawa, Shin Suda, Tadashi Sasaki, Hidehiro Hosaka
  • Patent number: 6171231
    Abstract: A urinary incontinence device includes an occluding member, such as a tampon or plug that is retained by magnetic forces acting between a support and magnetic inserts located adjacent the urethra. The insets may be implanted or injected and hold the occluding member in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Inventor: John G. Connolly
  • Patent number: 6167886
    Abstract: A device for treatment of human urinary incontinence in the form of a catheter which can be inserted into the urethra and carries a balloon arrangement which can be filled with fluid to close off the urinary bladder, where the balloon arrangement holds the catheter in the lumen of the bladder. The fluid can be admitted to and discharged from the balloon arrangement via at least one channel running along the catheter wall which is closed off at the distal end of the distal part of the catheter. A self-closing valve is formed at a proximal end of the proximal part of the catheter. A hydraulic actuating mechanism is also located in the lumen of the urinary bladder. The hydraulic actuating mechanism can be hydraulically actuated by mechanical pressure exerted on a compressible balloon located at the distal end of the catheter. The compressible balloon is filled with fluid and is connected to the actuating mechanism via a connecting channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2001
    Assignee: Medi-Globe Vertriebs GmbH
    Inventors: Konrad Engel, Kilian Engel
  • Patent number: 6146368
    Abstract: A diaper to eliminate bed sores includes a front section, a back section and a middle section extending longitudinally between the front section and the back section. The middle section includes a liquid-permeable inner sheet, a liquid-impermeable outer sheet aligned with and secured to the inner sheet, and an absorbent body disposed between the inner sheet and the outer sheet. The middle section includes an aperture extending through the inner sheet and the absorbent body and the outer sheet and having a thickened portion completely surrounding the aperture. The aperture is adapted to be located over a bed sore on a body of person with the middle portion disposed between legs of the person and the front section disposed in front of the person and the back section disposed in back of the person and attached to the front portion when the diaper is in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Inventor: Lynn LaPointe
  • Patent number: 6138678
    Abstract: The incontinence control device of the present invention as described includes a cloth strap adapted to encircle a penis, the strap having cooperative pressure adherence layers on portions of the inner and outer surfaces so that the strap can form a circumference when the inner adherence layer is engaged with the outer adherence layer of the strap. The inner surface of the strap also has a compressible pad adjacent the pressure adherence layer and another compressible pad in fixed relation to the first pad. An inflatable sac is affixed to the strap between the two compressible pads. A tube passes through the strap to communicate with the interior of the inflatable sac at one end of the tube. A check valve is attached at the other end of the tube. A syringe is adapted to engage the check valve so that air in the syringe can be injected through the tube into the sac to inflate the sac.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Inventor: Leif Nilsson
  • Patent number: 6131575
    Abstract: A device for managing urinary incontinence comprises a resilient body that engages the external genitalia and sealingly occludes the urethral meatus. In female embodiments, the body fits between the labia minora and the floor of the vulval vestibule, occluding the meatus. An adhesive on the body provides a sealing engagement with the meatus. In a first female embodiment, the body has a base with an adhesive layer that seats against the vestibule floor. A pair of flexible, lateral flaps engage the labia minora. A layer of super-absorbent material may be situated between the base and the adhesive layer, and/or a layer of scrim material may be so situated. The body may have a longitudinal ridge with a posterior edge having a finger hole to facilitate installation and removal of the device. In a second female embodiment, the body is substantially tubular, with the adhesive on the exterior surface of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Jay Lenker, Robert Rosenbluth, Brian Cox, George R. Greene
  • Patent number: 6131576
    Abstract: A clamp is disclosed, which prevents penile leakage. The clamp includes a generally convex lower bow; a generally concave upper bow; and a hinge which pivotally joins the bows at one end. A releasable, preferably removable latch at the opposite end is used to hold the bows closed about the penis. When the clamp is closed, the bows form an enclosure having center and side regions which together approximate the area of the uncompressed penis. The bows are spaced apart a small distance at approximately their center, for compressively closing the urethra. The musculus expands into the side regions of the enclosure to permit blood circulation to the head. One or both of the bows may be a one-piece member of rigid, yet flexible material. Preferably, the hinge and latch are adjustable, to provide spacing between the bows and adjustable compression of the penis. Alternatively, one or both of the bows may comprise a frame member and a tubular cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Inventor: Paul K. Davis
  • Patent number: 6129083
    Abstract: Device (1) for holding a covering (12) in front of the pubic area of a user, for example a textile covering such as a tanga, comprising a bracket (2) for engaging the groin area of the user on either side of the pubic area and the os sacrum and for supporting a covering, and securing means (4) which can be brought into securing engagement with the proximal side of the sphincter of the user so as to thereby be secured into place, wherein the securing means are substantially rigidly connected to the bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Inventor: Adelbertus Gabriel Jansen
  • Patent number: 6129715
    Abstract: Guard devices adapted to protect a medical appliance attached to and in communication with an opening in the body having:a rigid, substantially U-shaped base member extending in a base plane and including a pair of opposing side members extending along the length of the device, both sides members having ends that together define an opening in the base member;a plurality of spaced-apart rigid cross-members extending between the side members and upwardly from the base plane, with the base members and the cross-members cooperatively defining a cavity adapted to completely enclose the medial appliance;one or more rigid base members extending between two or more of the aforementioned members; andmeans for securing the base member to the body of the person, wherein the body has an opening with a medical appliance attached thereto in communication therewith, so that the medical appliance is completely enclosed by the cavity defined by the base member and the cross-member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Inventor: Franklin D. R. Cunningham
  • Patent number: 6119697
    Abstract: A device for the treatment of human urinary incontinence with a catheter which can be inserted into the urethra and carries a balloon arrangement which can be filled with fluid to close off the urinary bladder and to hold the catheter in the lumen of the urethra. The fluid can be admitted to and discharged from this balloon arrangement via at least one closed channel running along the catheter wall which is closed off at the distal end of the catheter, and via a valve mounted at one proximal end section of the catheter in inserted condition. The length of the catheter is dimensioned such that its distal end in inserted condition lies within the urethra. A hydraulic actuating mechanism, also located in the lumen of the urinary bladder, is assigned to the self-closing valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Medi-Globe Vertriebs-GmbH
    Inventors: Konrad Engel, Kilian Engel
  • Patent number: 6110101
    Abstract: A sling for supporting the urethra and neck of the bladder to prevent urinary incontinence is disclosed. The sling is designed to provide sufficient support to inhibit the unintended flow of urine, yet stretch in a controlled fashion so that the bladder can be voided at approximate times.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: ContiCare Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Claude Tihon, Mark A. Rydell, William P. Ryan
  • Patent number: 6105580
    Abstract: An involuntary urine control device (IUCD) having an inflatable collar membrane. The IUCD is inserted a short distance into the distal end of the urethra of a subject user. The IUCD includes the collar membrane which comprises an open ended tube of inflatable membrane material, typically about 30% to 90% of the length of the device. The collar membrane, in its inflated state, serves the purpose of providing sealing between the periphery of the urine control device and the urethra wall. The collar membrane is inflated to move radially outward once the urine control device is inserted into the distal end of the urethra of a patient by the external supply of a fluid. The collar membrane in its deflated state, namely with the inflating fluid removed, is substantially flush with the external diameters of the outer jacket of the urine control device to accommodate the thickness of the collar membrane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: UroScientific, Incorporated
    Inventors: Irwin F. Von Iderstein, Gordon C. Cheng
  • Patent number: 6090098
    Abstract: A method for alleviating female urinary incontinence especially during episodes of increased intra-abdominal pressure is disclosed. The method includes the steps of providing a non-absorbent urinary incontinence device having an initial cross-sectional area, an insertion end and a trailing end. The urinary incontinence device also contains a compressed resilient member which is capable of increasing the cross-section area of the urinary incontinence device when expanded. The urinary incontinence device is inserted into a woman's vagina with the insertion end entering first. The vagina is a canal with an inner periphery made up of right and left lateral walls, an anterior wall and a posterior wall. The urinary incontinence device is inserted such that it contacts at least two of the walls. The urinary incontinence device is positioned in the middle third of the length of the vaginal canal with the insertion end aligned adjacent to a woman's urethral sphincter muscle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Maryann Zunker, Earle Harry Sherrod, Peter Michael Radovanovich
  • Patent number: 6070588
    Abstract: A device, system and method for treating female urinary incontinence is provided. A flexible sheath having distally deployed wings and proximal retainer contains a flow control valve unit within. The wings can be tucked into side access holes to reduce the profile of the sheath for insertion distally into a female urethra. Once inserted sufficiently distally into a female urethra, the wings can be deployed by inserting the flow control valve within sufficiently far to force the tucked wings out of the constraining access holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Assignee: HK Medical Technologies Incorporated
    Inventor: Tu T. Pham
  • Patent number: 6056687
    Abstract: A device for treating leakage from an external orifice in the body of a patient which comprises a first member having a body-contacting first surface and an opposing second surface about an aperture, which first surface is attachable to the patient with said aperture positioned over said orifice, and a second member integral with said second surface, which second member comprises a valve mounted over said aperture, which valve has a closed position which prevents leakage of fluid through the device and an open position which allows fluid to flow through said aperture when desired, the closed and open positions being achievable without removing the device from the body of the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Assignee: American Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Polyak, Sidney F. Hauschild
  • Patent number: 6056699
    Abstract: Apparatus for diagnosing urinary stress incontinence of a subject, including a substantially rigid, disposable probe insertable into the urethra of the subject, generally along a longitudinal axis of the urethra. A reusable sensor unit, is removably coupled to the probe, for sensing physiological parameters of the subject. The apparatus preferably includes a fluid pressure sensor, contained in the sensor unit, in pressure communication with a distal end of the probe. The probe includes a flexible diaphragm in fluid communication with the distal end. The diaphragm provides the pressure communication between the pressure sensor and the distal end while substantially preventing fluid communication between the distal end and the pressure sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Assignee: Influence Medical Technologies Limited
    Inventors: Ze'ev Sohn, Nahman Zimet
  • Patent number: 6048306
    Abstract: A urethral press seals the female bladder against the inadvertent discharge of urine into the urethra. The press comprises a resilient curved band, preferably U-shaped, having a first arm for insertion into the vagina and a second arm extending exteriorly of the vagina along the pubic area to provide a force to compress the bladder and the contiguous urethral walls to thereby seal the bladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2000
    Assignee: Theodore E. Spielberg
    Inventor: Theodore E. Spielberg
  • Patent number: 6042536
    Abstract: A sling for supporting the urethra and neck of the bladder to prevent urinary incontinence is disclosed. The sling is designed to provide sufficient support to inhibit the unintended flow of urine, yet stretch in a controlled fashion so that the bladder can be voided at approximate times.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Assignee: ContiMed, Inc.
    Inventors: Claude Tihon, Mark A. Rydell, William P. Ryan
  • Patent number: 6030338
    Abstract: A device and method for treating urinary as well as fecal incontinence by using proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation. The device is adapted to be compressively positioned against the crotch of the user to thus identify target pelvic floor muscles and muscle groups responsible for urinary and/or fecal continence and provide periodic stimulus thereto by way of pressure, stretching, resistance, vibration, and/or heat. The frequency, duration, and extent of the stimulus may be varied as desired for exercise regimens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Inventor: Theodore V. Benderev
  • Patent number: 6030337
    Abstract: A female continence augmentor stops involuntary urine loss due to transient increases in bladder pressure but allows urine flow when automatically opened by transmitted bladder pressure during voluntary voiding. The augmentor improves coaptation and increases midurethral resistance to opening with a resilient mount releasably adhered adhesively to the body in position to prevent inadvertent urine loss. An intralumenal part on the mount has a resilient portion extending into the urethra for urging the dorsal midurethral wall in a dorsal direction for stretching and/or reshaping the midurethral lumen to an arc. The portion has a member located to engage the midurethral wall. A coaptation improver on the member engages with the adjacent midurethra. The improver carries biocompatible hydrophilic material adapted to coact with mucus and mucosa within the urethra. A coated biocompatible hydrophilic membrane can be the member with opposed generally rectangular major surfaces and is circumscribed by an edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: American Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert C. Grant, Sidney F. Hauschild, Mark Polyak