Inflatable penile prosthesis with guide in the valve of the pump assembly

Abstract

An inflatable penile prosthesis (100) can include a reservoir (102), an inflatable member (104), and a pump assembly (101). The pump assembly can include at least one valve (150) including an inlet tube interface (158) configured to attach to an inlet tube and defining an inlet passage, an inlet portion adjacent the inlet tube interface, a middle portion (152) adjacent the inlet portion, an outlet portion adjacent the middle portion, the outlet portion being narrower than the middle portion, the outlet portion defining an outlet portion passage and including a plurality of guides extending toward a longitudinal outlet axis, the plurality of guides being symmetric about the longitudinal outlet axis, an outlet tube interface (166) adjacent the outlet portion, and a poppet (168) disposed within the chamber, the poppet being biased to rest against the inlet portion.

Description

[0001] Cross Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application is a continuation of, and claims priority to, U.S. Nonprovisional Patent Application No. 16 / 947,473, filed August 3, 2020, entitled “INFLATABLE PENILE PROSTHESIS WITH GUIDES IN VALVE OF PUMP ASSEMBLY,” which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 883,207, filed August 6, 2019, entitled “INFLATABLE PENILE PROSTHESIS WITH GUIDES IN VALVE OF PUMP ASSEMBLY,” the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

[0003] This application also claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 883,207, filed August 6, 2019, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0004] This specification relates to body implants, and more particularly to body implants such as penile prostheses that include a refill valve and / or an inflation valve. BACKGROUND

[0005] One treatment for male erectile dysfunction is to implant a penile prosthesis to mechanically erect the penis. Some existing penile prostheses include an inflatable cylinder or member that can be inflated or deflated using a pump mechanism. The pump mechanism draws fluid from a fluid reservoir and then delivers the fluid to the inflatable member. In some existing devices, the pump mechanism includes a pump bulb that creates a vacuum by expanding upon the application of manual compression by the patient or a physician. This expansion creates negative pressure (vacuum) that draws fluid (from the fluid reservoir to the pump bulb) through a refill valve. Then, compression of the pump bulb causes the pressure in the pump bulb to rise until a point at which an inflation valve opens, which allows fluid to be delivered out of the pump valve and into the inflatable cylinder. In some existing devices that focus on maximizing efficiency through the fluid path, the oscillation causes noise and vibration within the pump. The noise can be objectionable, unnatural, and / or continuous to the patient. SUMMARY

[0006] An inflatable penile prosthesis can include a reservoir configured to hold fluid, an inflatable member, and a pump assembly. The pump assembly can be configured to deliver fluid from the reservoir to the inflatable member, the pump assembly including a pump bulb, at least one valve, an inlet tube configured to provide fluid to the at least one valve, and an outlet tube configured to convey fluid from the at least one valve, the pump bulb configured to deliver fluid from the reservoir through the at least one valve and to the inflatable member in response to the pump bulb being compressed. The at least one valve can include an inlet tube interface configured to attach to the inlet tube and defining an inlet passage; an inlet portion adjacent the inlet tube interface, the inlet portion being circular about a longitudinal inlet portion axis and defining an inlet portion passage, the longitudinal inlet portion axis being parallel to a direction in which the inlet tube interface extends from the inlet portion; a middle portion adjacent the inlet portion, the middle portion being wider than the inlet portion and defining a chamber; an outlet portion adjacent the middle portion, the outlet portion being narrower than the middle portion, the outlet portion defining an outlet portion passage and including a plurality of guides extending toward a longitudinal outlet axis extending through a center of the outlet portion parallel to a direction in which the outlet tube interface extends from the outlet portion, the plurality of guides being symmetric about the longitudinal outlet axis; an outlet tube interface adjacent the outlet portion, the outlet tube interface being configured to attach to the outlet tube, the outlet tube interface being narrower than the middle portion, the outlet tube interface defining an outlet passage; and a poppet disposed within the chamber, the poppet being biased to rest against the inlet portion.

[0007] An inflatable penile prosthesis can include a reservoir configured to hold fluid, an inflatable member, and a pump assembly. The pump assembly can be configured to deliver fluid from the reservoir to the inflatable member, the pump assembly including a pump bulb, at least one valve, an inlet tube configured to provide fluid to the at least one valve, and an outlet tube configured to exhaust fluid from the at least one valve, the pump bulb configured to deliver fluid from the reservoir through the at least one valve and to the inflatable member in response to the pump bulb being compressed. The at least one valve can include an inlet tube interface configured to attach to the inlet tube and defining an inlet passage; an inlet portion adjacent the inlet tube interface, the inlet portion being circular about a longitudinal inlet portion axis and defining an inlet portion passage, the longitudinal inlet portion axis being parallel to a direction in which the inlet tube interface extends from the inlet portion; a middle portion adjacent the inlet portion, the middle portion being wider than the inlet portion and defining a chamber; an outlet portion adjacent the middle portion, the outlet portion being narrower than the middle portion, the outlet portion defining an outlet portion passage and including a plurality of guides extending toward a longitudinal outlet axis extending through a center of the outlet portion parallel to a direction in which the outlet tube interface extends from the outlet portion, the plurality of guides being symmetric about the longitudinal outlet axis; an outlet tube interface adjacent the outlet portion, the outlet tube interface being configured to attach to the outlet tube, the outlet tube interface being narrower than the middle portion, the outlet tube interface defining an outlet passage; a poppet disposed within the chamber; and a biasing member biasing the poppet to rest against the inlet portion.

[0008] An inflatable penile prosthesis can include a reservoir configured to hold fluid, an inflatable member, and a pump assembly. The pump assembly can be configured to deliver fluid from the reservoir to the inflatable member, the pump assembly including a pump bulb, at least one valve, an inlet tube configured to provide fluid to the at least one valve, and an outlet tube configured to convey fluid from the at least one valve, the pump bulb configured to deliver fluid from the reservoir through the at least one valve and to the inflatable member in response to the pump bulb being compressed. The at least one valve can include an inlet tube interface configured to attach to the inlet tube and defining an inlet passage; an inlet portion adjacent the inlet tube interface, the inlet portion being circular about a longitudinal inlet portion axis and defining an inlet portion passage, the longitudinal inlet portion axis extending parallel to a direction the inlet tube interface extends from the inlet portion; a middle portion adjacent the inlet portion, the middle portion being wider than the inlet portion and defining a chamber; an outlet portion adjacent the middle portion, the outlet portion being narrower than the middle portion, the outlet portion defining an outlet portion passage and including a plurality of guides extending toward a longitudinal outlet axis extending through a center of the outlet portion parallel to a direction the outlet tube interface extends from the outlet portion, the plurality of guides being symmetric about the longitudinal outlet axis; an outlet tube interface adjacent the outlet portion, the outlet tube interface being configured to attach to the outlet tube, the outlet tube interface being narrower than the middle portion, the outlet tube interface defining an outlet passage; and a poppet disposed within the chamber, the poppet being biased to rest against the inlet portion. The poppet can include a cap member including a circular portion facing the inlet portion; an outlet stem extending through the outlet portion passage and into the outlet passage from a portion of the cap member opposite the circular portion, the outlet stem being cylindrical in shape; and an inlet portion stem extending through the inlet portion and into the inlet passage from the circular portion. The cap member can define a plurality of grooves equally spaced from one another, the plurality of grooves extending in a direction that is between thirty degrees (30°) and sixty degrees (60°) from a direction the outlet stem extends from the cap member.

[0009] The details of one or more implementations are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features will be apparent from the description and drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1A A penile prosthesis according to an aspect is schematically illustrated.

[0011] Figure 1B A valve included in a penile prosthesis according to an aspect is illustrated.

[0012] Figure 1C A valve according to another aspect is illustrated.

[0013] Figure 1D A valve according to another aspect is illustrated.

[0014] Figure 1E A valve is shown in accordance with another aspect.

[0015] Figure 2 A penile prosthesis is shown in accordance with another aspect.

[0016] Figure 3 A penile prosthesis is shown in accordance with another aspect.

[0017] Figure 4A And 4B A portion of a pump assembly is shown in accordance with an aspect.

[0018] Figure 5 A portion of a pump assembly is shown in accordance with another aspect.

[0019] Figure 6 A portion of a pump assembly is shown in accordance with another aspect.

[0020] Figure 7 A portion of a pump assembly is shown in accordance with another aspect.

[0021] Figure 8 A portion of a pump assembly is shown in accordance with another aspect.

[0022] Figure 9 A portion of a pump assembly is shown in accordance with another aspect.

[0023] Figure 10A A poppet that can be included in a valve in accordance with an aspect is shown.

[0024] Figure 10B A valve including a poppet in accordance with an aspect is shown. Figure 10A

[0025] A poppet that can be included in a valve in accordance with an aspect is shown. Figure 11A

[0026] A valve including a poppet in accordance with an aspect is shown. Figure 11B Figure 11A A poppet that can be included in a valve in accordance with an aspect is shown.

[0027] Figure 12A A valve including a poppet in accordance with an aspect is shown.

[0028] Figure 12B Figure 12A A poppet that can be included in a valve in accordance with an aspect is shown.

[0029] Figure 13A A valve including a poppet in accordance with an aspect is shown.

[0030] Figure 13B A poppet that can be included in a valve in accordance with an aspect is shown. Figure 13A ​​a poppet of the valve.

[0031] Figure 14A A poppet that can be included in a valve according to an aspect is shown.

[0032] Figure 14B A poppet of the valve according to an aspect is shown. Figure 14A

[0033] Figure 15A A poppet that can be included in a valve according to an aspect is shown.

[0034] Figure 15B A poppet of the valve according to an aspect is shown. Figure 15A DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] Detailed embodiments are disclosed herein. It should be understood, however, that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples and can be practiced in various forms. Thus, 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. Further, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting, but rather to provide an understandable description of the concepts.

[0036] The term "a" or "an" is defined as one or more than one. The terms "comprise" and / or "have" are defined as including (i.e., open transition). The terms "coupled" and / or "movably coupled" are defined as connected, although not necessarily directly and mechanically connected.

[0037] Generally, embodiments are directed to medical devices, such as penile prostheses or other body implants. The term patient can hereafter be used for a person who benefits from a medical device or method disclosed in the present disclosure. For example, a patient can be a human male, a human female, or any other mammal whose body is implanted with a medical device disclosed in the present disclosure or for whom a method for operating a medical device disclosed in the present disclosure is used. For example, in some embodiments, a patient can be a human male, a human female, or any other mammal.

[0038] Embodiments discussed herein provide a valve within an inflatable penile prosthesis that can reduce noise generated due to oscillation of a poppet within the valve.

[0039] Figure 1A ​​A penile prosthesis according to an aspect is schematically illustrated. The inflatable penile prosthesis 100 can include a reservoir 102, an inflatable member 104, and a pump assembly 101 configured to transport fluid between the reservoir 102 and the inflatable member 104. In some examples, the inflatable member 104 can be implanted into the patient’s corpus cavernosum, the reservoir 102 can be implanted into the patient’s abdomen or pelvic cavity (e.g., the reservoir 102 can be implanted into the lower portion of the patient’s abdominal cavity or the upper portion of the patient’s pelvic cavity), and the pump assembly 101 can be implanted into the patient’s scrotum.

[0040] The inflatable member 104 is capable of expanding upon injection of fluid into a cavity of the inflatable member 104. For example, upon injection of fluid into the inflatable member 104, the inflatable member 104 can increase its length and / or width as well as increase its rigidity. In some examples, the inflatable member 104 can include a pair of cylinders or at least two cylinders, such as a first cylinder member and a second cylinder member. The volumetric capacity of the inflatable member 104 can depend on the size of the cylinders. In some examples, the volume of fluid in each cylinder can vary from about 10 milliliters in a smaller cylinder to about 50 milliliters in a larger size. In some examples, the first cylinder member can be larger than the second cylinder member. In other examples, the first cylinder member can have the same size as the second cylinder member.

[0041] The reservoir 102 can include a container having an internal chamber configured to hold or contain fluid for inflating the inflatable member 104. The volumetric capacity of the reservoir 102 can vary depending on the size of the inflatable penile prosthesis 100. In some examples, the volumetric capacity of the reservoir 102 can be 3 to 150 cubic centimeters. In some examples, the reservoir 102 is constructed of the same material as the inflatable member 104. In other examples, the reservoir 102 is constructed of a different material than the inflatable member 104.

[0042] The inflatable penile prosthesis 100 can include a first conduit connector 103 and a second conduit connector 105. The conduit connectors 103, 105 can also be considered inlet tubes for carrying fluid into the valve (as described below) and outlet tubes for carrying fluid out of the valve. Each of the first conduit connector 103 and the second conduit connector 105 can define a lumen configured to transport fluid to and from the pump assembly 101. The first conduit connector 103 can be coupled to the pump assembly 101 and the reservoir 102 such that fluid can be transported between the pump assembly 101 and the reservoir 102 via the first conduit connector 103. For example, the first conduit connector 103 can define a first lumen configured to transport fluid between the pump assembly 101 and the reservoir 102. The first conduit connector 103 can include a single or multiple tube members for transporting fluid between the pump assembly 101 and the reservoir 102.

[0043] The second conduit connector 105 can be coupled to the pump assembly 101 and the inflatable member 104 such that fluid can be transported between the pump assembly 101 and the inflatable member 104 via the second conduit connector 105. For example, the second conduit connector 105 can define a second lumen configured to transport fluid between the pump assembly 101 and the inflatable member 104. The second conduit connector 105 can include a single or multiple tube members for transporting fluid between the pump assembly 101 and the inflatable member 104. In some examples, the first conduit connector 103 and the second conduit connector 105 can include a silicone rubber material.

[0044] The pump assembly 101 can switch between an inflation mode in which fluid in the reservoir 102 is transported through the pump assembly 101 in a first direction (e.g., an inflation direction) to the inflatable member 104 and a deflation mode in which fluid in the inflatable member 104 is transported through the pump assembly 101 in a second direction (e.g., a deflation direction) back to the reservoir 102.

[0045] The pump assembly 101 can include a pump balloon 106 and at least one valve, such as a valve body 107. In some examples, the pump balloon 106 can include a flexible member that defines a cavity. In some examples, the pump balloon 106 can define a pump housing having a flexible bulb and a valve body connector designed to at least partially fit over the valve body 107. In some examples, the pump balloon 106 can include a squeeze pump. In some examples, the pump balloon 106 can include a circular or substantially circular portion. In some examples, the pump balloon 106 can include ribs or dimples to help a patient grip the pump balloon 106. In an inflation mode, the pump balloon 106 can use suction and pressure to move fluid into and out of the cavity of the pump balloon 106. For example, a patient can press or squeeze the pump balloon 106 to expel fluid out of the cavity, and the resulting suction will push fluid into the cavity of the pump balloon 106 as the flexible member returns to its original shape. In some examples, the pump balloon 106 can have a bulb spring rate designed to refill the pump balloon 106 within a selected time range.

[0046] A patient can squeeze or press the pump balloon 106 to facilitate the delivery of fluid from the reservoir 102 to the inflatable member 104. For example, in an inflation mode, the pump balloon 106 can receive fluid from the reservoir 102 and then output the fluid to the inflatable member 104 as the patient operates the pump balloon 106. When the patient switches the pump balloon 106 to a deflation mode, at least some of the fluid can be automatically delivered back to the reservoir 102 (due to a pressure differential from the inflatable member 104 to the reservoir 102). The patient can then squeeze the inflatable member 104 to facilitate the further delivery of fluid through the pump balloon 106 to the reservoir 102.

[0047] The valve body 107 can include at least one valve, such as a refill valve 108 and / or an inflation valve 110. The valve body 107 can define a first fluid passageway connecting the pump balloon 106 to the first catheter connector 103. The first fluid passageway can be a cavity extending through the valve body 107. The first fluid passageway can define a cylindrical cavity having different diameter sections. The refill valve 108 is disposed within at least one section of the first fluid passageway. The valve body 107 can define a second fluid passageway connecting the pump balloon 106 to the second catheter connector 105. The second fluid passageway can be a cavity extending through the valve body 107. The second fluid passageway is separate from the first fluid passageway. The second fluid passageway can define a cylindrical cavity having different diameter sections. The inflation valve 110 is disposed within at least one section of the second fluid passageway.

[0048] Refill valve 108 moves within the first fluid passageway between an open position and a closed position (or sealed position). Refill valve 108 can include a biasing member to return the poppet to the sealed position. The biasing member can bias the refill valve to the closed and / or sealed position. Fluid flowing from reservoir 102 to pump balloon 106 can overcome the force of the biasing member and move the refill valve to the open position, allowing fluid to flow through refill valve 108. The absence of fluid flowing through refill valve 108, or fluid flowing from pump balloon 106 to reservoir 102, causes refill valve 108 to close and / or seal.

[0049] Expansion valve 110 moves within the second fluid passageway between an open position and a closed position (or sealed position), and a biasing member is used to bias expansion valve 110 to the sealed position. In some examples, the biasing member is a spring. Expansion valve 110 can provide a reliable seal in order to maintain fluid pressure within inflatable member 104, but also allow fluid to enter during inflation of inflatable member 104. In response to pump balloon 106 being compressed, pump balloon 106 can deliver fluid from reservoir 102 through at least one valve 108, 110 to inflatable member 104. As a patient compresses pump balloon 106, the pressure within pump balloon 106 increases and eventually opens expansion valve 110, allowing fluid to pass through expansion valve 110. The initial opening of expansion valve 110 requires compression of pump balloon 106, resulting in a pressure spike that opens expansion valve 110. The maintenance of expansion valve 110 being open is dependent on the pressure differential across the expansion valve seat, which is determined by the force applied by the patient in addition to the spring pre-load / rate and downstream flow resistance.

[0050] Figure 1B A valve 150 included in penile prosthesis 100 is shown in accordance with an aspect. Valve 150 can represent refill valve 108 or expansion valve 110. Figure 1B is a cross-sectional view of valve 150.

[0051] Valve 150 can include an inlet tube interface 158, a base 154, and / or an inlet portion adjacent to inlet tube interface 158, a bulb 152 and / or a middle portion adjacent to base 154, a tail 160 and / or an outlet portion adjacent to bulb 152, and an outlet tube interface 166 adjacent to tail 160.

[0052] Inlet tube interface 158 can be configured to be attached to and / or can be attached to an inlet tube. The inlet tube can carry fluid into valve 150 and can include either of first or second conduit connectors 103, 105. Inlet tube interface 158 can be narrower than bulb 152. Inlet tube interface 158 can define an inlet passageway 159 via which fluid can flow from the inlet tube into valve 150 and / or bulb 152.

[0053] The base 154 can be circular about a longitudinal base axis 156 and / or a longitudinal inlet portion axis. The longitudinal base axis 156 can extend through the center of the base 154 parallel to the direction in which the inlet tube interface 158 extends from the base 154. The base 154 can define a base channel 155 (labeled in Figure 1D ) and / or an inlet portion channel. Fluid can flow between the inlet channel 159 and the bulb 152 via the base channel 155. A lift head 168 (as shown in Figure 1C ) can rest against the base 154, closing and / or sealing the valve 150.

[0054] The bulb 152 can be wider than both the inlet tube interface 158 and the outlet tube interface 166. The bulb 152 can define a chamber 153. The lift head 168 can be disposed in the chamber 153. Fluid can flow through the chamber 153 from the inlet tube interface 158 to the outlet tube interface 166.

[0055] The tail 160 can be narrower than the bulb 152. The tail 160 can define a tail channel 161 (labeled in Figure 1E ) and / or an outlet portion channel through which fluid can flow between the chamber 153 and an outlet channel 167 defined by the outlet tube interface 166.

[0056] The tail 160 can include a plurality of guides 164A, 164C, two of which are shown in Figure 1B . The guides 164A, 164C can extend into the chamber 153, into the tail channel 161 (labeled in Figure 1E ), and / or toward a longitudinal tail axis 162. The longitudinal tail axis 162 can extend through the center of the tail 160 parallel to the direction in which the outlet tube interface 166 extends from the tail 160. The plurality of guides 164A, 164C can be symmetric about the longitudinal tail axis 162. In examples with four guides 164A, 164C, the guides 164A, 164C can be separated by, for example, ninety degrees (90°), or in examples with three guides 164A, 164C, by one hundred twenty degrees (120°).

[0057] The outlet tube interface 166 can be configured to be attached to and / or can be attached to an outlet tube. The outlet tube can carry fluid from the valve 150 and can include either of the first or second conduit connectors 103, 105. The outlet tube interface 166 can be narrower than the bulb 152. The outlet tube interface 166 can define an outlet channel 167 via which fluid can flow from the valve 150 and / or the bulb 152 to the outlet tube. The inlet channel 159, the base channel 155, the chamber 153, the tail channel 161, and the outlet channel 167 can collectively form the flow path described above with respect toFigure 1A The first fluid channel or the second fluid channel.

[0058] Figure 1C Valve 150 according to another aspect is shown. Figure 1C Is with Figure 1B A cross-sectional view of the same valve 150.

[0059] A lifting head 168 may be included in a chamber 153. The lifting head 168 may include at least one circular portion that contacts and / or seals with the base 154, thereby sealing and / or closing the valve 150. As a non-limiting example, the lifting head 168 may include various shapes, such as a sphere having a spherical member and a partially tapered member extending from the spherical member; a cap member having a circular portion facing the base 154 and a flat portion facing the tail 160, and a rod extending from the flat portion of the cap member; a spherical member having a cylindrical member extending from the spherical member and a partially tapered member extending from the cylindrical member; or a cap member having a circular portion and one or two rods extending from the cap member. In some examples, the lifting head 168 may include one or more recesses. Examples of the lifting head 168 are shown in... Figure 10A , Figure 11A , Figure 12A , Figure 13A , Figure 14A and Figure 15A As shown in the image.

[0060] Valve 150 may include a biasing member 170. The biasing member 170 may include a coil and / or a spring. The biasing member 170 may be at least partially disposed within chamber 153. The biasing member 170 may press against and / or abut against base 154 and / or bias lift head 168, thereby placing valve 150 in a sealed and / or closed position, as described above. Figure 1A As described above. The lifting head 168 can press against the base 154 until the fluid pressure from the inlet channel 159 forces the lifting head 168 away from the base 154, thereby opening the valve 150 and / or moving the valve 150 to the open position, as described above. Figure 1A The biasing member 170 can be fixed to the guides 164A, 164C or other components of the valve 150.

[0061] Figure 1D Valve 150 according to another aspect is shown. Figure 1D It is valve 150 along Figure 1B A cross-sectional view along the line marked "A". Base 154 may define base channel 155. Base axis 156 may extend through the center of base 154.

[0062] Figure 1E Valve 150 according to another aspect is shown. Figure 1Eis the valve 150 along Figure 1B A cross-sectional view of the line labeled "B" in FIG. 16. The tail 160 can define a tail passage 161. A tail axis 162 can extend through the center of the tail 160. The guides 164A, 164B, 164C, 164D can extend toward the tail axis 162. The guides 164A, 164B, 164C, 164D can be symmetric about the tail axis 162. The guides can be separated by intervals of 360° divided by the number of guides 164A, 164B, 164C, 164D. In the example shown, where the tail 160 includes four guides 164A, 164B, 164C, 164D, the guides 164A, 164B, 164C, 164D are separated by intervals of 90°. Fluid can flow through the spaces between the guides 164A, 164B, 164C, 164D even when fluid pressure presses the lift head 168 against the guides 164A, 164B, 164C, 164D. The guides 164A, 164B, 164C, 164D can reduce oscillation of the lift head 168, thereby reducing noise and / or vibration emitted by the valve 150. Figure 1E

[0063] Figure 2 A penile prosthesis 200 according to an aspect is shown. Figure 3 A penile prosthesis 200 placed in a patient's body according to an aspect is shown. The penile prosthesis 200 can include a pair of cylinders 204 and the pair of cylinders 204 or inflatable members are implanted into a penis 214. For example, one of the cylinders 204 can be disposed on one side of the penis 214. The other cylinder 204 of the pair (not shown) can be disposed on the other side of the penis 214. The cylinder 204 can include a first end portion 224, a lumen or inflation chamber 222, and a second end portion 228 having a posterior tip 232. Figure 3

[0064] The penile prosthesis 200 can include a pump assembly 201 that can be implanted into a patient's scrotum 218. A pair of conduit connectors 205 can attach the pump assembly 201 to the pair of inflatable members or cylinders 204 such that the pump assembly 201 is in fluid communication with the pair of inflatable members or cylinders 204. Further, the pump assembly 201 can be in fluid communication with a reservoir 202 via a conduit connector 203. The reservoir 202 can be implanted into a patient's abdomen 219. The inflation chamber 222 or a portion of the cylinder 204 can be disposed within the penis 214. The first end portion 224 of the cylinder 204 can be at least partially disposed within a coronal portion 226 of the penis 214. The second end portion 228 can be implanted into a patient's pubic region PR with the posterior tip 232 proximate to the pubic bone PB.

[0065] ​​To implant the inflatable members or cylinders 204, the surgeon first prepares the patient. The surgeon often makes an incision in the penile corpora region, such as where the base of the penis 214 intersects with the top of the scrotum 218. From the penile corpora incision, the surgeon can dilate the patient’s corpora 240 to prepare the patient to receive the pair of inflatable members or cylinders 204. The penile corpora is one of two parallel erectile tissue columns that form the dorsal portion of the shaft of the penis 214, such as two elongated columns that extend substantially the length of the penis 214. The surgeon will also dilate two areas of the pubic region to prepare the patient to receive the second end portion 228. The surgeon can measure the length of the corpora from the incision and dilated areas of the pubic region to determine the appropriate size of the inflatable members or cylinders 204 to implant.

[0066] After the patient is prepared, the penile prosthesis 200 is implanted into the patient. The tip of the first end portion 224 of each cylinder 204 can be attached to a suture. The other end of the suture can be attached to a needle member, such as a Keith needle. The needle member is inserted into the incision and dilated corpora. The needle member is then forced through the coronal portion of the penis 214. The surgeon pulls the suture to pull the cylinder 204 into the corpora. This is done for each of the pair of cylinders 204. Once the inflation chambers 222 are in place, the surgeon can remove the suture from the tip. The surgeon then inserts the second end portion 228. The surgeon inserts the back end of the cylinder 204 into the incision and forces the second end portion 228 toward the pubic bone PB until each cylinder 204 is in place.

[0067] The pump assembly 201 includes a pump bulb 231, a valve body 233, and a selection member 239. The selection member 239 can be used to select or change the mode of the pump assembly 201. For example, the selection member 239 can be moved from a first position to a second position to place the device in its deflation mode. The selection member 239 can then be moved from the second position back to the first position to place the device in the inflation mode. In some embodiments, the selection member 239 is movable relative to the valve body 233.

[0068] The pump bulb 231 can be squeezed or pressed by the patient to facilitate the delivery of fluid from the reservoir 202 to the cylinders 204. For example, in the inflation mode, when the patient operates the pump bulb 231, the pump bulb 231 can receive fluid from the reservoir 202 and then output the fluid to the cylinders 204. When the patient switches to the deflation mode, at least some of the fluid can be automatically delivered back to the reservoir 202 (due to the pressure differential from within the cylinders 204 to the reservoir 202). The patient can then squeeze the cylinders 204 to facilitate the further delivery of fluid through the pump bulb 231 to the reservoir 202.

[0069] Figure 4A and 4B A portion of a pump assembly 401 is shown in accordance with an aspect. The pump assembly 401 can include any combination of the features of the above-described pump assemblies 101, 201.

[0070] A portion of a valve can include a tail 460. The tail 460 can include any combination of the features of the above-described tail 160. The tail 460 can include and / or define a plurality (e.g., four) of guides 464A, 464B, 464C, 464D. The guides 464A, 464B, 464C, 464D can include any combination of the features of the above-described guides 164A, 164B, 164C, 164D. The guides 464A, 464B, 464C, 464D can extend toward a center of the tail 460.

[0071] The valve can include a poppet 468. The poppet 468 can include any combination of the features of the above-described poppet 168. A stem of the poppet 468 can extend through an outlet tube interface 466. The outlet tube interface 466 can include any combination of the features of the above-described outlet tube interface 166. The poppet 468 can rest against the guides 464A, 464B, 464C, 464D when fluid flows through the valve. Fluid can still flow between the guides 464A, 464B, 464C, 464D and between the poppet 468 and the tail 460 as the poppet 468 rests against the guides 464A, 464B, 464C, 464D. The valve can include a biasing member that biases the poppet 468 away from the tail 460, as Figure 4A and Figure 4B as shown in another tail 430 in

[0072] A biasing member 440 (such as a spring or coil) can bias a poppet 438 away from a tail 430 of a second valve. The biasing member 40 can include any combination of the features described above with respect to the biasing member 170. The tail 430 can include any combination of the features described above with respect to the tails 160, 460. The poppet 438 can include any combination of the features described above with respect to the poppets 168, 468. The tail 430 can include and / or define a plurality of guides 434A (one of which is shown in Figure 4A and 4B ). The guides 434A can include any combination of the features described above with respect to the guides 164A, 164B, 164C, 164D, 464A, 464B, 464C, 464D. The poppet 438 can be included in a ball tube 422 of the valve. The ball tube 422 can include any combination of the features described above with respect to the ball tube 452.

[0073] Figure 5A portion of a pump assembly 501 according to another aspect is shown. The pump assembly 501 can include two valves 520, 550. In some examples, the valve 520 is an example of the refill valve 108 and the valve 550 is an example of the expansion valve 110. In some examples, the valve 520 is an example of the expansion valve 110 and the valve 550 is an example of the refill valve 108.

[0074] The valves 520, 550 can include a bulb 522, 552 having any combination of the features of the bulb 152, 422 described above. The bulb 522, 552 can each define a chamber 553 (not labeled with respect to the bulb 522). A poppet 538, 568 can be included in the chamber 553 and can include any combination of the features of the poppet 168, 438, 468 described above. The valves 520, 550 can include a base 524, 554 having any combination of the features of the base 154 described above. The valves 520, 550 can include a tail 530, 560 having any combination of the features of the tail 160, 460, 430 described above. The tail 530, 560 can include a guide 564A, 564C (not labeled with respect to the tail 560) having any combination of the features of the guides 164A, 164B, 164C, 164D, 464A, 464B, 464C, 464D, 434A described above. In some examples, the valve 550 can include a biasing member similar to the biasing member 540 shown in the valve 520. The biasing member 540 can include any combination of the features of the biasing member 170, 440 described above.

[0075] In some examples, the poppet 538, 568 can be considered a guided comet valve. The poppet 538, 568 can include a spherical member, a cylindrical member extending from the spherical member, and a partial conical member extending from the spherical member. The partial conical member can extend through the tail 530, 560. This example of the poppet 538, 568 will be described with reference to the poppet 168, 438, 468 described above. Figure 13A and 13B are further described.

[0076] Figure 6 A portion of a pump assembly 601 according to another aspect is shown. The pump assembly 601 can include two valves 620, 650. In some examples, the valve 620 is an example of the refill valve 108 and the valve 650 is an example of the expansion valve 110. In some examples, the valve 620 is an example of the expansion valve 110 and the valve 650 is an example of the refill valve 108.

[0077] Valves 620, 650 can include a bulb 622, 652 having any combination of the features of the above-described bulbs 152, 422, 522, 552. Bulbs 622, 652 can each define a chamber 653 (not labeled with respect to bulb 622). Lift heads 638, 668 can be included in chamber 653 and can include any combination of the features of the above-described lift heads 168, 438, 468, 538, 568. Valves 620, 650 can include a base 624, 654 having any combination of the features of the above-described bases 154, 524, 554. Valves 620, 650 can include a tail 630, 660 having any combination of the features of the above-described tails 160, 460, 430, 530, 560. Tail 630, 660 can include a guide 664A, 664C (not labeled with respect to tail 630) having any combination of the features of the above-described guides 164A, 164B, 164C, 164D, 464A, 464B, 464C, 464D, 434A, 564A, 564C. In some examples, valve 650 can include a biasing member similar to biasing member 640 shown in valve 620. Biasing member 640 can include any combination of the features of the above-described biasing members 170, 440, 540.

[0078] In some examples, lift heads 638, 668 can be considered to be piloted vortex valves. Lift heads 638, 668 can include a cap member having a circular portion facing base 654, 624 and defining a plurality of grooves, a base stem extending from the circular portion and through base 624, 654 and / or an inlet portion stem, and an outlet stem extending from a portion of the cap member opposite the circular portion and through tail 630, 660. This example of lift heads 638, 668 will be described with reference to FIGS. 6A-6C. Figure 15A and 15B are further described.

[0079] Figure 7 A portion of a pump assembly 701 according to another aspect is shown. Pump assembly 701 can include two valves 720, 750. In some examples, valve 720 is an example of refill valve 108 and valve 750 is an example of expansion valve 110. In some examples, valve 720 is an example of expansion valve 110 and valve 750 is an example of refill valve 108.

[0080] Valves 720, 750 can include a bulb 722, 752 having any combination of the features of the above-described bulbs 152, 422, 522, 552, 622, 652. Bulbs 722, 752 can each define a chamber 753 (not labeled with respect to bulb 722). Lift heads 738, 768 can be included in chamber 753 and can include any combination of the features of the above-described lift heads 168, 438, 468, 538, 568, 638, 668. Valves 720, 750 can include a base 724, 754 having any combination of the features of the above-described bases 154, 524, 554, 624, 654. Valves 720, 750 can include a tail 730, 760 having any combination of the features of the above-described tails 160, 460, 430, 530, 560, 630, 660. Tail 730, 760 can include a guide (not labeled) having any combination of the features of the above-described guides 164A, 164B, 164C, 164D, 464A, 464B, 464C, 464D, 434A, 564A, 564C, 664A, 664C. In some examples, valve 750 can include a biasing member similar to biasing member 740 shown in valve 720. Biasing member 740 can include any combination of the features of the above-described biasing members 170, 440, 540, 640.

[0081] In some examples, lift heads 738, 768 can be considered mushroom valves. Lift heads 738, 768 can include a cap member and a stem. The cap member can have a semi-spherical shape and / or a rounded portion facing base 754, 724 and a flat portion facing tail 730, 760. The stem can extend from the flat portion of the cap member. This example of lift heads 738, 768 will be described with reference to Figure 12A and 12B are further described.

[0082] Figure 8 A portion of a pump assembly 801 according to another aspect is shown. Pump assembly 801 can include two valves 820, 850. In some examples, valve 820 is an example of refill valve 108 and valve 850 is an example of expansion valve 110. In some examples, valve 820 is an example of expansion valve 110 and valve 850 is an example of refill valve 108.

[0083] Valves 820, 850 can include a bulb 822, 852 having any combination of the features of the above-described bulbs 152, 422, 522, 552, 622, 652, 722, 752. Bulbs 822, 852 can each define a chamber 853 (not labeled with respect to bulb 822). Lift heads 838, 868 can be included in chambers 853, and can include any combination of the features of the above-described lift heads 168, 438, 468, 538, 568, 638, 668, 738, 768. Valves 820, 850 can include a base 824, 854 having any combination of the features of the above-described bases 154, 524, 554, 624, 654, 724, 754. Valves 820, 850 can include a tail 830, 860 having any combination of the features of the above-described tails 160, 460, 430, 530, 560, 630, 660, 730, 760. Tail 830, 860 can include a guide (not labeled) having any combination of the features of the above-described guides 164A, 164B, 164C, 164D, 464A, 464B, 464C, 464D, 434A, 564A, 564C, 664A, 664C. In some examples, valve 850 can include a biasing member similar to biasing member 840 shown in valve 820. Biasing member 840 can include any combination of the features of the above-described biasing members 170, 440, 540, 640, 740.

[0084] In some examples, lift heads 838, 868 can be considered vortex valves. Lift heads 838, 868 can include a cap member and a stem. The cap member can include a circular portion facing base 824, 854, and can define a plurality of grooves. The grooves can be equally spaced from one another, and can extend in directions that are between 30 degrees and 60 degrees offset from one another. The stem can extend from a portion of the cap member opposite base 824, 854, through tail 830, 860.

[0085] Figure 9 A portion of a pump assembly 901 is shown in accordance with another aspect. Pump assembly 901 can include two valves 920, 950. In some examples, valve 920 is an example of refill valve 108, and valve 950 is an example of expansion valve 110. In some examples, valve 920 is an example of expansion valve 110, and valve 950 is an example of refill valve 108.

[0086] Valves 920, 950 can include a ball 922, 952 having any combination of the features of the above-described ball 152, 422, 522, 552, 622, 652, 722, 752, 822, 852. Ball 922, 952 can each define a chamber 953 (not labeled with respect to ball 922). A poppet 938, 968 can be included in chamber 953 and can include any combination of the features of the above-described poppet 168, 438, 468, 538, 568, 638, 668, 738, 768, 838, 868. Valves 920, 950 can include a base 924, 954 having any combination of the features of the above-described base 154, 524, 554, 624, 654, 724, 754, 824, 854. Valves 920, 950 can include a tail 930, 960 having any combination of the features of the above-described tail 160, 460, 430, 530, 560, 630, 660, 730, 760, 830, 860. Tail 930, 960 can include a guide (not labeled) having any combination of the features of the above-described guides 164A, 164B, 164C, 164D, 464A, 464B, 464C, 464D, 434A, 564A, 564C, 664A, 664C. In some examples, valve 950 can include a biasing member similar to biasing member 940 shown in valve 920. Biasing member 940 can include any combination of the features of the above-described biasing members 170, 440, 540, 640, 740, 840.

[0087] In some examples, poppet 938, 968 can be considered a comet valve. Poppet 938, 968 can include a spherical member and a partial conical member extending from the spherical member. The partial conical member can extend through tail 930, 960.

[0088] Figure 10A A poppet 1068 that can be included in a valve 150 according to an aspect is shown. In this example, poppet 1068 can be considered a simple ball valve. Poppet 1068 can be spherical, spheroid, and / or a ball.

[0089] Figure 10B A valve 1050 including a poppet 1068 according to an aspect is shown. Valve 1050 can include any combination of the features of valve 150 described above. Valve 1050 can be an example of a refill valve 108 or an inflation valve 110. Figure 10A

[0090] ​Valve 1050 can include an inlet tube interface 1058. Inlet tube interface 1058 can be configured to attach to an inlet tube (which can include either of conduit connectors 103, 105). Inlet tube interface 1058 can define an inlet passage 1059 through which fluid flows into valve 1050. Inlet tube interface 1058 can include any combination of the features of inlet tube interfaces 158 described above.

[0091] Valve 1050 can include a base 1054. Base 1054 can be adjacent to inlet tube interface 1058. Base 1054 can be circular about a longitudinal base axis (not shown in Figure 10B Longitudinal base axis can be parallel to a direction in which inlet tube interface 1058 extends from base 1054. Base 1054 can define a base passage (not shown in Figure 10B Base 1054 can include any combination of the features of bases 154, 524, 554, 624, 654, 724, 754, 824, 854, 924, 954 described above.

[0092] Valve 1050 can include a bulb 1052. Bulb 1052 can be adjacent to base 1054. Bulb 1052 can be wider than base 1054. Bulb 1052 can define a cavity (not shown in Figure 10B Bulb 1052 can include any combination of the features of bulbs 152, 422, 522, 552, 622, 652, 722, 752, 822, 852, 922, 952 described above.

[0093] A lift head 1068 can be disposed within the cavity defined by bulb 1052. Lift head 1068 can be biased to rest against base 1054. When lift head 1068 rests against base 1054, valve 1050 can be sealed, thereby preventing fluid flow through valve 1050. Although not shown in Figure 10B Valve 1050 can include a biasing member, such as a spring, that biases lift head 1068 to rest against base 1054. Biasing member can include any combination of the features of biasing members 170, 440, 540, 640, 740, 840, 940 described above.

[0094] Valve 1050 can include a tail 1060. Tail 1060 can be adjacent to bulb 1052. Tail 1060 can be narrower than bulb 1052. Tail 1060 can define a tail passage (not shown in Figure 10B Tail 1060 can include and / or define a plurality of guides (not shown in Figure 10B Plurality of guides can extend toward a longitudinal outlet axis (not shown in Figure 10BThe longitudinal outlet axis can extend through the center of the tail 1060 parallel to the direction in which the outlet tube interface 1066 extends from the tail 1060. The plurality of guides can be symmetric about the longitudinal outlet axis. The tail 1060 can include any combination of the features of the tails 160, 460, 430, 530, 560, 630, 660, 730, 760, 830, 860 described above.

[0095] The valve 1050 can include an outlet tube interface 1066. The outlet tube interface 1066 can be adjacent to the tail 1060. The outlet tube interface 1066 can be configured to attach to an outlet tube (which can include either of the conduit connectors 103, 105). The outlet tube interface 1066 can define an outlet passage 1067 through which fluid flows out of the valve 1050. The outlet tube interface 1066 can include any combination of the features of the outlet tube interfaces 166, 466 described above.

[0096] During high flow conditions into the inlet tube interface 1058, pressure on the poppet 1068 can overcome the biasing force on the poppet 1068 and / or cause the poppet 1068 to rest against the guides in the open position. Friction created by the poppet 1068 contacting the guides can prevent the poppet 1068 from rotating and / or oscillating within the chamber defined by the ball tube 1052, thereby preventing noise and / or quieting the valve during high flow conditions.

[0097] Figure 11A A poppet 1168 that can be included in a valve according to an aspect is shown. In this example, the poppet 1168 can be considered a comet valve. The poppet 1168 can include a spherical member 1180, a semi-spherical member and / or a semi-spherical nose, and a partially conical member 1190 extending from the spherical member 1180 and / or the semi-spherical nose.

[0098] Figure 11B A valve 1150 including a poppet 1168 according to an aspect is shown. The valve 1150 can include any combination of the features of the valves 150, 1050 described above. The valve 1150 can be an example of the refill valve 108 or the inflation valve 110. Figure 11A

[0099] The valve 1150 can include an inlet tube interface 1158. The inlet tube interface 1158 can be configured to attach to an inlet tube (which can include either of the conduit connectors 103, 105). The inlet tube interface 1158 can define an inlet passage 1159 through which fluid flows into the valve 1150. The inlet tube interface 1158 can include any combination of the features of the inlet tube interfaces 158, 1058 described above.

[0100] ​Valve 1150 can include a base 1154. Base 1154 can be adjacent to inlet tube interface 1158. Base 1154 can be circular about a longitudinal base axis (not shown in Figure 11B Base 1154 can define a base channel (not shown in Figure 11B Base 1154 can include any combination of the features of bases 154, 524, 554, 624, 654, 724, 754, 824, 854, 924, 954, 1054 described above.

[0101] Valve 1150 can include a bulb 1152. Bulb 1152 can be adjacent to base 1154. Bulb 1152 can be wider than base 1154. Bulb 1152 can define a cavity (not shown in Figure 11B Bulb 1152 can include any combination of the features of bulbs 152, 422, 522, 552, 622, 652, 722, 752, 822, 852, 922, 952, 1052 described above.

[0102] Lift head 1168 can be disposed within the cavity defined by bulb 1152. Lift head 1168 can be biased to rest against base 1154. When spherical member 1180 of lift head 1168 rests against base 1154, valve 1150 can be sealed, preventing fluid flow through valve 1150. Although not shown in Figure 11B Valve 1150 can include a biasing member, such as a spring, that biases lift head 1168 to rest against base 1154. Biasing member can include any combination of the features of biasing members 170, 440, 540, 640, 740, 840, 940 described above.

[0103] Valve 1150 can include a tail 1160. Tail 1160 can be adjacent to bulb 1152. Tail 1160 can be narrower than bulb 1152. Tail 1160 can define a tail channel (not shown in Figure 11B Tail 1160 can include and / or define a plurality of guides (not shown in Figure 11B The plurality of guides can extend toward a longitudinal outlet axis (not shown in Figure 11B The longitudinal outlet axis can extend through the center of tail 1160 parallel to the direction that outlet tube interface 1166 extends from tail 1160. The plurality of guides can be symmetrical about the longitudinal outlet axis. Tail 1160 can include any combination of the features of tails 160, 460, 430, 530, 560, 630, 660, 730, 760, 830, 860, 1060 described above.

[0104] Valve 1150 can include an outlet tube interface 1166. Outlet tube interface 1166 can be adjacent to tail 1160. Outlet tube interface 1166 can be configured to attach to an outlet tube (which can include either of conduit connectors 103, 105). Outlet tube interface 1166 can define an outlet passageway 1167 through which fluid flows out of valve 1150. Outlet tube interface 1166 can include any combination of the features of outlet tube interfaces 166, 466, 1066 described above.

[0105] During high flow conditions into inlet tube interface 1158, pressure on spherical member 1180 can overcome the biasing force on poppet 1168, and / or cause poppet 1168 to rest against the guide in the open position. During high flow conditions, partial cone member 1190 can extend through a tail passageway defined by tail 1160 and into outlet passageway 1167. Partial cone member 1190 can reduce pressure drop on the side of spherical member 1180 opposite base 1154, thereby reducing turbulence. Partial cone member 1190 can also stabilize poppet 1168, isolate vibrations, and prevent noise.

[0106] Figure 12A A poppet 1268 that can be included in a valve according to an aspect is shown. In this example, poppet 1268 can be considered a mushroom valve. Poppet 1268 can include a cap member. Cap member can include a circular portion 1280 facing base 1254 (as shown) and a flat portion 1285 facing tail 1260 (as shown). Poppet 1268 can include a stem 1290 extending from flat portion 1285 of cap member. The widest portion of stem 1290 can be adjacent to flat portion 1285 of cap member. Stem 1290 can extend through a tail passageway defined by tail and into outlet passageway 1267 (as shown). Figure 12B Figure 12B Figure 12B

[0107] Figure 12B A valve 1250 including a poppet according to an aspect is shown. Valve 1250 can include any combination of the features of valves 150, 1050, 1150 described above. Valve 1250 can be an example of refill valve 108 or inflation valve 110. Figure 12A

[0108] ​​​​Valve 1250 can include an inlet tube interface 1258. Inlet tube interface 1258 can be configured to attach to an inlet tube (which can include either of conduit connectors 103, 105). Inlet tube interface 1258 can define an inlet passage 1259 through which fluid flows into valve 1250. Inlet tube interface 1258 can include any combination of the features of inlet tube interfaces 158, 1058, 1158 described above.

[0109] Valve 1250 can include a base 1254. Base 1254 can be adjacent to inlet tube interface 1258. Base 1254 can be circular about a longitudinal base axis (not shown in Figure 12B Base 1254 can extend from base 1254 in a direction parallel to inlet tube interface 1258. Base 1254 can define a base passage (not shown in Figure 12B Base 1254 can include any combination of the features of bases 154, 524, 554, 624, 654, 724, 754, 824, 854, 924, 954, 1054, 1154 described above.

[0110] Valve 1250 can include a bulb 1252. Bulb 1252 can be adjacent to base 1254. Bulb 1252 can be wider than base 1254. Bulb 1252 can define a cavity (not shown in Figure 12B Bulb 1252 can include any combination of the features of bulbs 152, 422, 522, 552, 622, 652, 722, 752, 822, 852, 922, 952, 1052, 1152 described above.

[0111] Lift head 1268 can be disposed within the cavity defined by bulb 1252. Lift head 1268 can be biased to rest against base 1254. When the circular portion 1280 of the cap member of lift head 1268 rests against base 1254, valve 1250 can be sealed, preventing fluid flow through valve 1250. Although not shown in Figure 12B Valve 1250 can include a biasing member, such as a spring, that biases lift head 1268 to rest against base 1254. The biasing member can include any combination of the features of biasing members 170, 440, 540, 640, 740, 840, 940 described above.

[0112] Valve 1250 can include a tail 1260. Tail 1260 can be adjacent to bulb 1252. Tail 1260 can be narrower than bulb 1252. Tail 1260 can define a tail passage (not shown in Figure 12B Tail 1260 can include and / or define a plurality of guides (not shown in Figure 12B The plurality of guides can extend toward the longitudinal outlet axis (Figure 12B (Not shown in the image). The longitudinal outlet axis may extend parallel to the outlet pipe interface 1266 from the tail 1260 and through the center of the tail 1260. Multiple guides may be symmetrical about the longitudinal outlet axis. The tail 1260 may include any combination of the features of the tails 160, 460, 430, 530, 560, 630, 660, 730, 760, 830, 860, 1060, and 1160 described above.

[0113] Valve 1250 may include an outlet port 1266. The outlet port 1266 may be adjacent to the tail portion 1260. The outlet port 1266 may be configured to attach to an outlet pipe (which may include any of the conduit connectors 103 and 105). The outlet port 1266 may define an outlet passage 1267 through which fluid flows out of valve 1250. The outlet port 1266 may include any combination of the features of the aforementioned outlet ports 166, 466, 1066, and 1166.

[0114] During high flow conditions at the inlet pipe interface 1258, the pressure on the cap member can overcome the bias pressure on the lifter head 1268, and / or cause the flat portion 1285 of the lifter head 1268 to rest against the guide in the open position. During high flow conditions, the rod 1290 can extend through the tail passage defined by the tail portion 1260 and into the outlet passage 1267. The rod 1290 can reduce the pressure drop on the cap member, reducing turbulence. The generally cylindrical shape of the rod 1290 also stabilizes the lifter head 1268 and aligns it with the guide, thereby isolating vibration and preventing noise.

[0115] Figure 13A A lift head 1368, which may be included in a valve according to one aspect, is shown. In this example, the lift head 1368 can be considered as a guide comet valve. In this example, the lift head 1368 includes a hemispherical member 1380 having a flat portion 1385, a cylindrical member 1387 extending from the flat portion 1385 of the hemispherical member 1380, and a partially tapered member 1390 extending from the cylindrical member 1387. The partially tapered member 1390 may extend through a tail passage (e.g., a tail portion 1360) defined by a tail portion 1360. Figure 13B (as shown) and extends to exit channel 1367 (as shown) Figure 13B As shown in the figure.

[0116] Figure 13B It shows that according to one aspect, including Figure 13A The lifting head 1368 has a valve 1350. The valve 1350 may include any combination of the features of the valves 150, 1050, 1150, and 1250 described above. The valve 1350 may be an example of a refill valve 108 or an expansion valve 110.

[0117] Valve 1350 can include an inlet tube interface 1358. Inlet tube interface 1358 can be configured to attach to an inlet tube (which can include either of conduit connectors 103, 105). Inlet tube interface 1358 can define an inlet passage 1359 through which fluid flows into valve 1350. Inlet tube interface 1358 can include any combination of the features of inlet tube interfaces 158, 1058, 1158, 1258 described above.

[0118] Valve 1350 can include a base 1354. Base 1354 can be adjacent to inlet tube interface 1358. Base 1354 can be circular about a longitudinal base axis (not shown in Figure 13B which can be parallel to a direction in which inlet tube interface 1358 extends from base 1354. Base 1354 can define a base passage (not shown in Figure 13B which can be parallel to a direction in which inlet tube interface 1358 extends from base 1354. Base 1354 can define a base passage (not shown in

[0119] Valve 1350 can include a bulb 1352. Bulb 1352 can be adjacent to base 1354. Bulb 1352 can be wider than base 1354. Bulb 1352 can define a cavity (not shown in Figure 13B which can be parallel to a direction in which inlet tube interface 1358 extends from base 1354. Base 1354 can define a base passage (not shown in

[0120] Lift head 1368 can be disposed within the cavity defined by bulb 1352. Hemispherical member 1380 of lift head 1368 can be biased to rest against base 1354. When hemispherical member 1380 of lift head 1368 rests against base 1354, valve 1350 can be sealed, preventing fluid flow through valve 1350. Although not shown in Figure 13B Valve 1350 can include a biasing member, such as a spring, that biases hemispherical member 1380 of lift head 1368 to rest against base 1354. Biasing member can include any combination of the features of biasing members 170, 440, 540, 640, 740, 840, 940 described above.

[0121] Valve 1350 can include a tail 1360. Tail 1360 can be adjacent to bulb 1352. Tail 1360 can be narrower than bulb 1352. Tail 1360 can define a tail passage (not shown in Figure 13BThe tail 1360 can include and / or define a plurality of guides (not shown). The plurality of guides can extend toward a longitudinal outlet axis (not shown). The longitudinal outlet axis can extend through a center of the tail 1360 parallel to a direction in which the outlet tube interface 1366 extends from the tail 1360. The plurality of guides can be symmetrical about the longitudinal outlet axis. The tail 1360 can include any combination of the features of the tails 160, 460, 430, 530, 560, 630, 660, 730, 760, 830, 860, 1060, 1160, 1260 described above. Figure 13B The plurality of guides can extend toward a longitudinal outlet axis (not shown). The longitudinal outlet axis can extend through a center of the tail 1360 parallel to a direction in which the outlet tube interface 1366 extends from the tail 1360. The plurality of guides can be symmetrical about the longitudinal outlet axis. The tail 1360 can include any combination of the features of the tails 160, 460, 430, 530, 560, 630, 660, 730, 760, 830, 860, 1060, 1160, 1260 described above. Figure 13B The plurality of guides can extend toward a longitudinal outlet axis (not shown). The longitudinal outlet axis can extend through a center of the tail 1360 parallel to a direction in which the outlet tube interface 1366 extends from the tail 1360. The plurality of guides can be symmetrical about the longitudinal outlet axis. The tail 1360 can include any combination of the features of the tails 160, 460, 430, 530, 560, 630, 660, 730, 760, 830, 860, 1060, 1160, 1260 described above.

[0122] The valve 1350 can include an outlet tube interface 1366. The outlet tube interface 1366 can be adjacent to the tail 1360. The outlet tube interface 1366 can be configured to attach to an outlet tube (which can include either of the conduit connectors 103, 105). The outlet tube interface 1366 can define an outlet passage 1367 through which fluid flows out of the valve 1350. The outlet tube interface 1366 can include any combination of the features of the outlet tube interfaces 166, 466, 1066, 1166, 1266 described above.

[0123] During high flow conditions into the inlet tube interface 1358, pressure on the hemispherical member 1380 can overcome the biasing force on the poppet 1368, and / or cause the flat portion 1385 of the poppet 1368 to rest against the guides in the open position. During high flow conditions, the partial conical member 1390 can extend through a tail passage defined by the tail 1360 and into the outlet passage 1367. The partial conical member 1390 can reduce pressure drop across the hemispherical member 1380, reduce turbulence. The partial conical member 1390 can also stabilize the poppet 1368 and align it with the guides, isolate vibrations, and prevent noise.

[0124] Figure 14A A poppet 1468 that can be included in a valve according to an aspect is shown. The poppet 1468 can be considered a vortex valve. The poppet 1468 can include a cap member 1480 and a stem 1490. The cap member 1480 can include a circular portion (as shown) facing the base 1454. The cap member 1480 can include a plurality (such as four) of grooves 1475A, 1475B, 1475C. The grooves 1475A, 1475B, 1475C can be spaced apart from each other at equal intervals. The grooves 1475A, 1475B, 1475C can extend in a direction that is between thirty degrees (30°) and sixty degrees (60°) from a direction in which the stem 1490 extends from the cap member 1480. The stem 1490 can extend from a portion of the cap member 1480 opposite the circular portion, through a tail passage defined by the tail 1460 (as shown). Figure 14B The cap member 1480 can include a plurality (such as four) of grooves 1475A, 1475B, 1475C. The grooves 1475A, 1475B, 1475C can be spaced apart from each other at equal intervals. The grooves 1475A, 1475B, 1475C can extend in a direction that is between thirty degrees (30°) and sixty degrees (60°) from a direction in which the stem 1490 extends from the cap member 1480. The stem 1490 can extend from a portion of the cap member 1480 opposite the circular portion, through a tail passage defined by the tail 1460 (as shown).Figure 14B into the outlet passage 1467 (as shown). Figure 14B

[0125] Figure 14B A valve 1450 including a lift head 1468 according to an aspect is shown. The valve 1450 can include any combination of the features of the valves 150, 1050, 1150, 1250, 1350 described above. The valve 1450 can be an example of the refill valve 108 or the inflation valve 110. Figure 14A

[0126] The valve 1450 can include an inlet tube interface 1458. The inlet tube interface 1458 can be configured to attach to an inlet tube (which can include any of the conduit connectors 103, 105). The inlet tube interface 1458 can define an inlet passage 1459 through which fluid flows into the valve 1450. The inlet tube interface 1458 can include any combination of the features of the inlet tube interfaces 158, 1058, 1158, 1258, 1358 described above.

[0127] The valve 1450 can include a base 1454. The base 1454 can be adjacent to the inlet tube interface 1458. The base 1454 can be circular, about a longitudinal base axis (not shown in Figure 14B The longitudinal base axis can be parallel to a direction in which the inlet tube interface 1458 extends from the base 1454. The base 1454 can define a base passage (not labeled in Figure 14B The base 1454 can include any combination of the features of the bases 154, 524, 554, 624, 654, 724, 754, 824, 854, 924, 954, 1054, 1154, 1254, 1354 described above.

[0128] The valve 1450 can include a bulb 1452. The bulb 1452 can be adjacent to the base 1454. The bulb 1452 can be wider than the base 1454. The bulb 1452 can define a chamber (not labeled in Figure 14B The bulb 1452 can include any combination of the features of the bulbs 152, 422, 522, 552, 622, 652, 722, 752, 822, 852, 922, 952, 1052, 1152, 1252, 1352 described above.

[0129] The lift head 1468 can be disposed within the chamber defined by the bulb 1452. The circular portion of the cap member 1480 of the lift head 1468 can be biased to rest against the base 1454. When the circular portion of the cap member 1480 of the lift head 1468 rests against the base 1454, the valve 1450 can be sealed, preventing fluid flow through the valve 1450. While in Figure 14B ​​The valve 1450 can include a tail portion 1460. The tail portion 1460 can be adjacent to the bulb portion 1452. The tail portion 1460 can be narrower than the bulb portion 1452. The tail portion 1460 can define a tail portion channel (not shown in the middle) through the tail portion 1460. The tail portion 1460 can include and / or define a plurality of guides (not shown in the middle). The plurality of guides can extend toward a longitudinal outlet axis (not shown in the middle). The longitudinal outlet axis can extend through the center of the tail portion 1460 in a direction parallel to the direction in which the outlet tube interface 1466 extends from the tail portion 1460. The plurality of guides can be symmetrical about the longitudinal outlet axis. The tail portion 1460 can include any combination of features of the tail portions 160, 460, 430, 530, 560, 630, 660, 730, 760, 830, 860, 1060, 1160, 1260, 1360 described above.

[0130] The valve 1450 can include an outlet tube interface 1466. The outlet tube interface 1466 can be adjacent to the tail portion 1460. The outlet tube interface 1466 can be configured to attach to an outlet tube (which can include any of the catheter connectors 103, 105). The outlet tube interface 1466 can define an outlet channel 1467 through which fluid flows out of the valve 1450. The outlet tube interface 1466 can include any combination of features of the outlet tube interfaces 166, 466, 1066, 1166, 1266, 1366 described above. Figure 14B The valve 1450 can include an outlet tube interface 1466. The outlet tube interface 1466 can be adjacent to the tail portion 1460. The outlet tube interface 1466 can be configured to attach to an outlet tube (which can include any of the catheter connectors 103, 105). The outlet tube interface 1466 can define an outlet channel 1467 through which fluid flows out of the valve 1450. The outlet tube interface 1466 can include any combination of features of the outlet tube interfaces 166, 466, 1066, 1166, 1266, 1366 described above. Figure 14B The valve 1450 can include an outlet tube interface 1466. The outlet tube interface 1466 can be adjacent to the tail portion 1460. The outlet tube interface 1466 can be configured to attach to an outlet tube (which can include any of the catheter connectors 103, 105). The outlet tube interface 1466 can define an outlet channel 1467 through which fluid flows out of the valve 1450. The outlet tube interface 1466 can include any combination of features of the outlet tube interfaces 166, 466, 1066, 1166, 1266, 1366 described above. Figure 14B The valve 1450 can include an outlet tube interface 1466. The outlet tube interface 1466 can be adjacent to the tail portion 1460. The outlet tube interface 1466 can be configured to attach to an outlet tube (which can include any of the catheter connectors 103, 105). The outlet tube interface 1466 can define an outlet channel 1467 through which fluid flows out of the valve 1450. The outlet tube interface 1466 can include any combination of features of the outlet tube interfaces 166, 466, 1066, 1166, 1266, 1366 described above. The valve 1450 can include an outlet tube interface 1466. The outlet tube interface 1466 can be adjacent to the tail portion 1460. The outlet tube interface 1466 can be configured to attach to an outlet tube (which can include any of the catheter connectors 103, 105). The outlet tube interface 1466 can define an outlet channel 1467 through which fluid flows out of the valve 1450. The outlet tube interface 1466 can include any combination of features of the outlet tube interfaces 166, 466, 1066, 1166, 1266, 1366 described above.

[0131] The valve 1450 can include an outlet tube interface 1466. The outlet tube interface 1466 can be adjacent to the tail portion 1460. The outlet tube interface 1466 can be configured to attach to an outlet tube (which can include any of the catheter connectors 103, 105). The outlet tube interface 1466 can define an outlet channel 1467 through which fluid flows out of the valve 1450. The outlet tube interface 1466 can include any combination of features of the outlet tube interfaces 166, 466, 1066, 1166, 1266, 1366 described above. The valve 1450 can include an outlet tube interface 1466. The outlet tube interface 1466 can be adjacent to the tail portion 1460. The outlet tube interface 1466 can be configured to attach to an outlet tube (which can include any of the catheter connectors 103, 105). The outlet tube interface 1466 can define an outlet channel 1467 through which fluid flows out of the valve 1450. The outlet tube interface 1466 can include any combination of features of the outlet tube interfaces 166, 466, 1066, 1166, 1266, 1366 described above.

[0132] The valve 1450 can include an outlet tube interface 1466. The outlet tube interface 1466 can be adjacent to the tail portion 1460. The outlet tube interface 1466 can be configured to attach to an outlet tube (which can include any of the catheter connectors 103, 105). The outlet tube interface 1466 can define an outlet channel 1467 through which fluid flows out of the valve 1450. The outlet tube interface 1466 can include any combination of features of the outlet tube interfaces 166, 466, 1066, 1166, 1266, 1366 described above. The valve 1450 can include an outlet tube interface 1466. The outlet tube interface 1466 can be adjacent to the tail portion 1460. The outlet tube interface 1466 can be configured to attach to an outlet tube (which can include any of the catheter connectors 103, 105). The outlet tube interface 1466 can define an outlet channel 1467 through which fluid flows out of the valve 1450. The outlet tube interface 1466 can include any combination of features of the outlet tube interfaces 166, 466, 1066, 1166, 1266, 1366 described above.

[0133] Figure 15AA lift head 1568, which may be included in a valve according to one aspect, is shown. The lift head 1568 can be considered a guided vortex valve. The lift head 1568 may include a cap member 1580, a base rod 1590A, and an outlet rod 1590B. The base rod 1590A may be partially conical. The outlet rod 1590B may be cylindrical.

[0134] The cap component 1580 may include a circular portion facing the base 1554 (e.g. Figure 15B (As shown). The cap member 1580 may include a plurality of (e.g., four) recesses 1575A, 1575B. Recesses 1575A, 1575B may be spaced apart from each other at equal intervals. Recesses 1575A, 1575B may extend in a direction deviating from the direction of the base rod 1590A and / or the outlet rod 1590B extending from the cap member 1580 by a direction between thirty degrees (30°) and sixty degrees (60°). The base rod 1590A may extend from the circular portion of the cap member 1580, through the base 1554, and into the inlet channel 1559 (e.g., as shown). Figure 15B (As shown). The rod 1590B can extend from the portion of the cap member 1580 opposite to the circular portion, through the tail passage defined by the tail 1560 (as shown). Figure 15B (as shown), and enter exit channel 1567 (as shown) Figure 14B (As shown). The lifting head 1568 may define a groove at the intersection of the cap member and the outlet rod 1590B. This groove may engage with a biasing member, for example, by placing a spring.

[0135] Figure 15B It shows that according to one aspect, including Figure 15A The lifting head 1568 has a valve 1550. The valve 1550 may include any combination of the features of the valves 150, 1050, 1150, 1250, 1350, and 1450 described above. The valve 1550 may be an example of a refill valve 108 or an expansion valve 110.

[0136] Valve 1550 may include an inlet port 1558. The inlet port 1558 may be configured to attach to an inlet pipe (which may include any of conduit connectors 103 and 105). The inlet port 1558 may define an inlet passage 1559 through which fluid flows into valve 1550. The inlet port 1558 may include any combination of the features of the aforementioned inlet ports 158, 1058, 1158, 1258, 1358, and 1458.

[0137] Valve 1550 may include a base 1554. The base 1554 may be adjacent to the inlet pipe interface 1558. The base 1554 may be circular, surrounding a longitudinal base axis. Figure 15B(Not shown in the image). The longitudinal base axis may be parallel to the direction in which the inlet pipe interface 1558 extends from the base 1554. The base 1554 may define a base channel ( Figure 15B (Not shown in the text). The base 1554 may include any combination of the features of the bases 154, 524, 554, 624, 654, 724, 754, 824, 854, 924, 954, 1054, 1154, 1254, 1354, and 1454 described above.

[0138] Valve 1550 may include a ball tube 1552. The ball tube 1552 may be adjacent to the base 1554. The ball tube 1552 may be wider than the base 1554. The ball tube 1552 may define a chamber. Figure 15B (Not shown in the text). The X-ray tube 1552 may include any combination of the features of the X-ray tubes 152, 422, 522, 552, 622, 652, 722, 752, 822, 852, 922, 952, 1052, 1152, 1252, 1352, and 1452 described above.

[0139] The lifting head 1568 can be disposed within the chamber defined by the ball tube 1552. The circular portion of the cap member 1580 of the lifting head 1568 can be biased to rest against the base 1554. When the circular portion of the cap member 1580 of the lifting head 1568 rests against the base 1554, the valve 1550 can be sealed to prevent fluid flow through the valve 1550. Although in Figure 15B Not shown, but valve 1550 may include a biasing member, such as a spring, that biases the hemispherical cap member 1580 of the lifting head 1568 against the base 1554. The biasing member may include any combination of the features of the biasing members 170, 440, 540, 640, 740, 840, and 940 described above.

[0140] Valve 1550 may include a tail portion 1560. Tail portion 1560 may be adjacent to ball tube 1552. Tail portion 1560 may be narrower than ball tube 1552. Tail portion 1560 may define a tail passage ( Figure 15B (Not shown in the diagram). The tail section 1560 may include and / or define a plurality of guides ( Figure 15B (Not shown in the diagram). Multiple guide elements can extend toward the longitudinal exit axis ( Figure 15B (Not shown in the image). The longitudinal outlet axis may extend parallel to the outlet pipe interface 1566 from the tail 1560 and through the center of the tail 1560. Multiple guides may be symmetrical about the longitudinal outlet axis. The tail 1560 may include any combination of the features of the tails 160, 460, 430, 530, 560, 630, 660, 730, 760, 830, 860, 1060, 1160, 1260, 1360, and 1460 described above.

[0141] Valve 1550 can include an outlet tube interface 1566. Outlet tube interface 1566 can be adjacent to tail 1560. Outlet tube interface 1566 can be configured to attach to an outlet tube (which can include any of conduit connectors 103, 105). Outlet tube interface 1566 can define an outlet passageway 1567 through which fluid flows out of valve 1550. Outlet tube interface 1566 can include any combination of the features of outlet tube interfaces 166, 466, 1066, 1166, 1266, 1366, 1466 described above.

[0142] During high flow conditions into inlet tube interface 1558, pressure against cap member 1580 can overcome the biasing force on poppet 1568, and / or cause the portion of poppet 1568 opposite the circular portion (which rests against base 1554) to rest against the guide in the open position. During high flow conditions, outlet stem 1590B can extend through a tail passageway defined by tail 1560 and into outlet passageway 1567. Outlet stem 1590B can reduce pressure drop across cap member 1580, reducing turbulence. Outlet stem 1590B can also stabilize poppet 1568 and align it with the guide, isolate vibration and prevent noise. Grooves 1575A, 1575B can form a spiral, forcing poppet 1568 to rotate, which improves axial alignment of outlet stem 1590B and stabilizes poppet 1568, reducing noise. Base stem 1590A further reduces pressure differential across valve 1550 and maintains axial alignment between poppet 1568 and valve 1550.

[0143] 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 true spirit of the implementations of the present application.

Claims

1. An inflatable penile prosthesis, comprising: a reservoir configured to contain fluid; an inflatable member; and a pump assembly configured to deliver fluid from the reservoir to the inflatable member, the pump assembly including a pump bulb, at least one valve, an inlet tube configured to provide fluid to the at least one valve, and an outlet tube configured to exhaust fluid from the at least one valve, the pump bulb configured to deliver fluid from the reservoir through the at least one valve and to the inflatable member in response to the pump bulb being compressed, the at least one valve including: an inlet tube interface configured to attach to the inlet tube and defining an inlet passage; an inlet portion adjacent the inlet tube interface, the inlet portion being circular about a longitudinal inlet portion axis and defining an inlet portion passage, the longitudinal inlet portion axis extending parallel to a direction the inlet tube interface extends from the inlet portion; a middle portion adjacent the inlet portion, the middle portion being wider than the inlet portion and defining a chamber; an outlet portion adjacent the middle portion, the outlet portion being narrower than the middle portion, the outlet portion defining an outlet portion passage and including a plurality of guides extending toward a longitudinal outlet axis extending through a center of the outlet portion parallel to a direction the outlet tube interface extends from the outlet portion, the plurality of guides being separable at intervals of 360° divided by a number of guides, and the plurality of guides being symmetrical about the longitudinal outlet axis; an outlet tube interface adjacent the outlet portion, the outlet tube interface being configured to attach to the outlet tube, the outlet tube interface being narrower than the middle portion, the outlet tube interface defining an outlet passage; and a poppet disposed within the chamber, the poppet being biased to rest against the inlet portion, the guides being extendable into the chamber and to the outlet portion.

2. The inflatable penile prosthesis of claim 1, wherein: the at least one valve includes an inflation valve configured to deliver fluid from the pump assembly to the inflatable member; the inlet tube is attached to the inlet tube interface of the inflation valve and the pump bulb; and the outlet tube is attached to the outlet tube interface of the inflation valve and the inflatable member.

3. The inflatable penile prosthesis of claim 1, wherein: the at least one valve includes a refill valve configured to deliver fluid from the reservoir to the pump bulb; the inlet tube is attached to the inlet tube interface of the refill valve and the reservoir; and the outlet tube is attached to the outlet tube interface of the refill valve and the pump bulb. the outlet portion includes three guides spaced one hundred twenty degrees (120°) apart from each other.

4. The inflatable penile prosthesis of any one of claims 1-3, wherein, the outlet portion includes four guides spaced ninety degrees (90°) apart from each other.

5. The inflatable penile prosthesis of any one of claims 1-3, wherein, the at least one valve further includes a biasing member biasing the poppet to rest against the inlet portion.

6. The inflatable penile prosthesis of any one of claims 1-3, wherein, ​ 7. The inflatable penile prosthesis of any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The at least one valve further includes a spring that biases the poppet to rest against the inlet portion.

8. The inflatable penile prosthesis of any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The poppet is spherical.

9. The inflatable penile prosthesis of any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The poppet includes: a hemispherical member; and a partial conical member extending from the hemispherical member, The partial conical member extends through the outlet portion passage and into the outlet passage.

10. The inflatable penile prosthesis of any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The poppet includes: a cap member including a rounded portion facing the inlet portion and a flat portion facing the outlet portion; and a stem extending from the flat portion of the cap member, The stem extends through the outlet portion passage and into the outlet passage.

11. The inflatable penile prosthesis of claim 10, wherein, A widest portion of the stem is adjacent the cap member.

12. The inflatable penile prosthesis of any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The poppet includes: a hemispherical member; a cylindrical member extending from the hemispherical member; and a partial conical member extending from the cylindrical member, The partial conical member extends through the outlet portion passage and into the outlet passage.

13. The inflatable penile prosthesis of any one of claims 1-3, wherein, The poppet includes: a cap member including a rounded portion facing the inlet portion; and a stem extending from a portion of the cap member opposite the rounded portion through the outlet portion passage and into the outlet passage, The cap member defines a plurality of grooves equally spaced from one another, the plurality of grooves extending in a direction between thirty degrees (30°) and sixty degrees (60°) from a direction in which the stem extends from the cap member.

14. The inflatable penile prosthesis of claim 13, wherein, The stem is cylindrical in shape.

15. The inflatable penile prosthesis of claim 13, wherein: The stem includes an outlet stem; and The poppet further includes an inlet portion stem extending from the rounded portion through the inlet portion and into the inlet passage.

Images