Implantable device and method for managing erectile dysfunction

Abstract

An implantable device and method for managing a patient's erectile dysfunction, wherein the device generally comprises: at least one power source member that is adapted to be implanted in the patient's lower abdominal wall; at least one pulse generating member that is adapted to be implanted in the patient's lower abdominal wall; and at least one electrode that is adapted to be implanted at the suprapubic level of the patient's neurovascular bundle of the phallus, is connected to said power source member and pulse generating member, and is adapted to electrically stimulate the neurovascular bundle upon selective activation by the patient.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The invention relates to devices and methods for managing erectile dysfunction and more specifically to a method and implantable device adapted to electrically stimulate the neurovascular bundle (NVB) of the phallus. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Erectile dysfunction, which is the persistent inability to attain and maintain penile erection sufficient for intercourse, is a major health issue among males and especially among the aging male population. The causes of erectile dysfunction include vasculogenic, neurogenic, endocrinologic and psychogenic. The etiology of erectile dysfunction is heterogeneous, yet, as noted, is usually associated with vascular disease, endocrinopathy or a neural injury to the central or peripheral nervous system. Management options for erectile dysfunction depend on the cause of the dysfunction and include medical and surgical therapies and vacuum erection devices, each with their own limitations and complications. [0003] ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0006] It is therefore a primary object of this invention to provide an implantable device and method for managing erectile dysfunction that is effective, suitably sized to minimize damage to the NVB, and allows for spontaneity.

[0008] It is a further object of this invention to provide a user with an implantable device and method for managing erectile dysfunction that enables the user to selectively apply a low electrical voltage to the user's NVB.

Problems solved by technology

Erectile dysfunction, which is the persistent inability to attain and maintain penile erection sufficient for intercourse, is a major health issue among males and especially among the aging male population.

However, many men are not suitable candidates for oral agents such as sildenafil (Viagra; Pfizer, New York), a phosphodiesterase inhibitor, because of potential life threatening interactions with cardiac medications such as nitrates.

Moreover, patients are uncomfortable when they travel through public airports or to foreign countries with syringes and medications.

These limitations, associated with the complete loss of spontaneity, are the main reasons for discontinuation in an otherwise successful pharmacologic erection program.

Penile prostheses are generally last resort because implantation results in irreparable damage to the cavernosal tissue.

Agents and devices specifically designed to stimulate the NVB of the phallus have not previously been successful because of the size of the NVB, sensitivity of the NVB to neural fibrosis, and extensive distal, neural damage resulting from surgical procedures such as a radical prostatectomy.

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