Embedded type expandable device having filter

Abstract

To provide an embedded type expandable device.SOLUTION: An embedded type expandable device (100) includes a fluid reservoir (110) for defining a cavity, an expandable member (150), a pump assembly (130) configured to transfer the fluid from the fluid reservoir to the expandable member, and a filter member (120). The fluid is configured to pass through the filter member when the pump assembly transfers the fluid from the fluid reservoir to the expandable member.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application is a continuation of and claims priority to U.S. Non-Provisional Patent Application No. 18 / 068,081, entitled "IMPLANTABLE INFLATABLE DEVICE HAVING A FILTER," filed December 19, 2022, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 265,810, entitled "IMPLANTABLE INFLATABLE DEVICE HAVING A FILTER," filed December 21, 2021, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] This application also claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 265,810, filed December 21, 2021, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0003] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE This disclosure relates generally to body implants, and more particularly to body implants that include an expandable member, a fluid reservoir, and a pump. [Background technology]

[0004] Implantable inflatable devices often include one or more pumps that regulate the flow of fluid between different portions of the implantable device to provide inflation and deflation of one or more fluid-fillable implant components of the device. For example, some implantable inflatable devices include an inflatable member, a fluid reservoir, and a pump or pump assembly. In such implantable inflatable devices, it may be desirable to keep particles out of the pump or pump assembly. For example, it may be desirable to keep particles out of the pump or pump assembly to help prevent pump or valve blockage. Thus, a need exists for an implantable inflatable device that includes a system for keeping particles out of or away from the pump or pump assembly. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] According to an aspect, the implantable inflatable device includes a fluid reservoir defining a cavity, an inflatable member, a pump assembly configured to transfer fluid from the fluid reservoir to the inflatable member, and a filter member. Fluid is configured to pass through the filter member when the pump assembly transfers fluid between the fluid reservoir and the inflatable member. For example, in some embodiments, fluid is configured to pass through the filter member when the pump assembly transfers fluid from the fluid reservoir to the inflatable member. In some embodiments, fluid is configured to pass through the filter member when the pump assembly transfers fluid from the inflatable member to the fluid reservoir. In some embodiments, fluid is configured to pass through the filter member when the pump assembly transfers fluid from the inflatable member to the fluid reservoir and when the pump assembly transfers fluid from the fluid reservoir to the inflatable member.

[0006] In some embodiments, the pump assembly includes a pump and the filter is operatively coupled between the pump and the fluid reservoir, hi some embodiments, the pump assembly includes a pump and the filter is operatively coupled between the pump and the inflatable member.

[0007] In some embodiments, the inflatable device includes a connecting member extending between the fluid reservoir and the pump assembly to operatively couple the fluid reservoir to the pump assembly, and the filter is disposed within the connecting member. In some embodiments, the inflatable device includes a connecting member extending between the inflatable member and the pump assembly to operatively couple the inflatable member to the pump assembly, and the filter is disposed within the connecting member.

[0008] In some embodiments, the filter is a self-cleaning filter. In some embodiments, the filter defines a fluid passageway having a tapered shape. In some embodiments, the filter defines a first opening, a second opening, and a lumen extending between the first opening and the second opening, wherein the first opening has a size, the second opening has a size, and the size of the first opening is larger than the size of the second opening. In some embodiments, the filter defines a first opening, a second opening, a third opening, and a fluid passageway fluidly coupling the first opening, the second opening, and the third opening.

[0009] In some embodiments, the filter defines a first opening, a second opening, a third opening, and a fluid passageway fluidly coupling the first opening, the second opening, and the third opening, wherein the first opening has a size, the second opening has a size, and the third opening has a size, and the size of the first opening is different from the size of the second opening and different from the size of the third opening. In some embodiments, the filter has a first side and a second side opposite the first side, and the filter defines the first opening, the second opening, the third opening, and a fluid passageway fluidly coupling the first opening, the second opening, and the third opening, wherein the first opening is disposed on the first side of the filter, the second opening is disposed on the second side of the filter, and the third opening is disposed on the second side of the filter.

[0010] In some embodiments, the filter is a lattice filter. In some embodiments, the filter defines a fluid passageway having a tortuous path.

[0011] In some embodiments, the filter is disposed within the pump assembly. In some embodiments, the pump assembly includes a housing having a stationary member.

[0012] In some embodiments, the implantable inflatable device includes a fluid reservoir defining a cavity, an inflatable member, a pump assembly configured to transfer fluid from the fluid reservoir to the inflatable member, a first connecting member extending between the fluid reservoir and the pump assembly, a second connecting member extending between the inflatable member and the pump assembly, and a filter member.

[0013] In some embodiments, the filter member is disposed within the first connecting member. In some embodiments, the filter member is disposed within the second connecting member. In some embodiments, the filter is a self-cleaning filter. In some embodiments, the filter defines a fluid passageway having a tapered shape. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of an implantable inflatable device according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a perspective view of an implantable inflatable device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] 3 is a schematic diagram of a pump assembly of the implantable inflatable device of FIG. 2. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a pump assembly of the implantable inflatable device of FIG. 3. [Figure 5] FIG. 4 is an exploded side view of a pump assembly of the implantable inflatable device of FIG. 3. [Figure 6] 4 is an exploded perspective view of a pump assembly of the implantable inflatable device of FIG. 3. [Figure 7] 3 is a perspective view of a filter of the implantable expandable device of FIG. 2. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the filter of FIG. 7. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a filter according to another embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a filter according to another embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a filter according to another embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a top view of the filter of FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] Detailed implementations are disclosed herein. However, it is understood that the implementations of the present disclosure are merely examples and can be embodied in various forms. Therefore, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting, but merely as a basis for the scope of the claims, and further, as merely a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art how to vary these implementations in virtually any suitable detailed configuration. Furthermore, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting, but are intended to provide an understandable description of the present disclosure.

[0016] The terms "a" or "an," as used herein, are defined as one or more than one. The term "another" is defined as at least a second or a third or more. The terms "including" and / or "having," as used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e., an open transition). The terms "coupled" or "movably coupled," as used herein, are defined as connected, although not necessarily directly and mechanically.

[0017] Generally, the implementations relate to bodily implants. Hereinafter, the terms patient or user may be used to refer to an individual who may benefit from the medical devices or methods of the present disclosure. For example, a patient may be an individual whose body is implanted with a medical device of the present disclosure or implanted using the disclosed methods to operate a medical device.

[0018] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an implantable inflatable device 100. The device 100 includes a fluid reservoir 110, a pump assembly 130, and an inflatable member 150. The fluid reservoir 110 is operatively or fluidly coupled to the pump assembly 130 through a connecting member 170. The connecting member 170 can be a tubular member such as kink-resistant tubing (KRT). In other implementations, the fluid reservoir 110 is operatively or fluidly coupled to the pump assembly 130 through a different mechanism. Similarly, the inflatable member 150 is operatively or fluidly coupled to the pump assembly 130 through a connecting member 190. The connecting member 190 can be a tubular member such as kink-resistant tubing (KRT). In other embodiments, the inflatable member 150 is operatively or fluidly coupled to the pump assembly 130 through a different mechanism.

[0019] Implantable inflatable device 100 can be configured to be implanted within a patient's or user's body. For example, in some embodiments, implantable inflatable device 100 is a penile implant. In some embodiments, inflatable member 150 can be implanted within the patient's or user's corpus cavernosum, fluid reservoir 110 can be implanted within the user's abdominal or pelvic cavity (e.g., fluid reservoir 110 can be implanted within a lower portion of the user's abdominal cavity or an upper portion of the user's pelvic cavity), and pump assembly 130 can be implanted within a portion of the user's body, such as the user's abdomen. In other embodiments, implantable inflatable device 100 is implanted within a different portion of the patient's body and / or for a different purpose. For example, in some embodiments, implantable inflatable device 100 can be an artificial sphincter, such as an artificial urinary sphincter.

[0020] Pump assembly 130 may include a pump or more than one pump configured to pump fluid into expandable member 150 during an inflation cycle. In some examples, the pump or pumps may be manually controlled by a user or may be mechanically and / or programmatically controlled by a controller.

[0021] The expandable member 150 can have the ability to expand upon injection of a fluid into its cavity. For example, the expandable member 150 can increase in length and / or width as well as stiffness upon injection of a fluid therein. In some examples, the expandable member 150 can include a pair of expandable cylinders or at least two cylinders, e.g., a first cylinder member and a second cylinder member. The volume capacity of the expandable member 150 can be based on the size of the expandable cylinders.

[0022] The fluid reservoir 110 may comprise a container having an interior cavity or chamber configured to hold or contain the fluid used to inflate the expandable member 150. The volumetric capacity of the fluid reservoir 110 may vary. In some examples, the volumetric capacity of the fluid reservoir 110 may be between 3 cubic centimeters and 150 cubic centimeters. In some examples, the fluid reservoir 110 is comprised of the same material as the expandable member 150. In other examples, the fluid reservoir 110 is comprised of a different material than the expandable member 150. In some examples, the fluid reservoir 110 encloses a larger volume of fluid than the expandable member 150.

[0023] In the illustrated embodiment, implantable inflatable device 100 includes filter 120. In some embodiments, filter 120 is configured to allow fluid in device 100 to pass therethrough and to prevent larger particles of material that may be present in the fluid from passing through filter 120. For example, in some embodiments, it may be desirable to prevent larger particles from entering or approaching the pumps or valves of pump assembly 130. Such particles may cause damage to the pumps or valves or prevent them from operating properly.

[0024] Filter 120 can be positioned in various locations within device 100, and some embodiments can include more than one filter 120. In some embodiments, filter 120 is positioned within pump assembly 130. In some embodiments, filter 120 is positioned between pump assembly 130 and fluid reservoir 110. For example, filter 120 can be positioned within connecting member 170. In other embodiments, filter 120 is positioned between pump assembly 130 and inflatable member 150. For example, filter 120 can be positioned within connecting member 190.

[0025] In the illustrated embodiment, pump assembly 130 includes a coupling or anchoring member 160. Coupling or anchoring member 160 may be coupled to and extend from a housing of pump assembly 130. Coupling or anchoring member 160 is configured to facilitate anchoring or coupling of pump assembly 130 within a patient's body.

[0026] FIG. 2 illustrates an inflatable penile prosthesis 200 having a pump assembly 230 according to an embodiment. The pump assembly 230 can include a valve and can comprise a manually operated pump bulb or an electronically controlled pump. The penile prosthesis 200 can include one or more inflatable members or cylinders 250. In the illustrated embodiment, the prosthesis 200 includes a pair of inflatable cylinders 250. The inflatable cylinders 250 are configured to be implanted within the penis. For example, one of the inflatable cylinders 250 can be positioned on one side of the penis, and the other of the inflatable cylinders 250 can be positioned on the other side of the penis. Each inflatable cylinder 250 can include a first end portion, a cavity or inflation chamber, and a second end portion having a rear tip. The first end portion of the inflatable cylinder 250 can be positioned at least partially within the glans portion of the penis. The second end portion can be implanted within the patient's pubic region with the rear tip proximate the pubic bone.

[0027] The pump assembly 230 can be implanted within the patient's body. In some embodiments, the pump assembly 230 can be implanted within the patient's abdomen. A pair of conduit connectors 290 can attach the pump assembly 230 to the inflatable cylinder 250 such that the pump assembly 230 is in fluid communication with the inflatable cylinder 250. Similarly, the pump assembly 230 can be in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir 210 through a connecting member or conduit connector 270. The fluid reservoir 210 can be implanted within the abdomen of the user.

[0028] To implant the inflatable cylinder 250, the surgeon first prepares the patient. In many cases, the surgeon will create an incision in the penoscrotal region, for example, where the base of the penis meets the top of the scrotum. In other cases, the surgeon may create the incision in a different location. The surgeon may expand the patient's corpora cavernosa from the penoscrotal incision to prepare the patient for receiving the inflatable cylinder 250. The corpora cavernosa are two parallel columns of erectile tissue, e.g., two elongated columns that form the back of the penis's body and extend substantially the entire length of the penis. The surgeon will also expand two areas in the pubic region to prepare the patient for receiving the second end portion. The surgeon can measure the length of the corpora cavernosa from the incision and the length of the expanded regions in the pubic region to determine the appropriate size of the inflatable cylinder 250 to be implanted.

[0029] After the patient is prepared, the penile prosthesis 200 is implanted within the patient. The tip of the first end portion of each inflatable cylinder 250 can be connected to a suture. The other end of the suture can be connected to a needle (e.g., a Keith needle). The needle is inserted into the incision and into the expanded corpus cavernosum. The needle is then pushed through the glans penis. The surgeon pulls the suture to retract the inflatable cylinder 250 into the corpus cavernosum. This retraction is performed for each inflatable cylinder 250 in the pair. Once the expansion chamber is in place, the surgeon can remove the suture from the tip. Next, the surgeon inserts the second end portion. The surgeon inserts the rear end of the inflatable cylinder 250 into the incision and pushes the second end portion toward the pubic bone until each inflatable cylinder 250 is in place.

[0030] In some embodiments, the pump assembly 230 includes an electric pump or pump system. An exemplary electric pump system is illustrated in FIG.

[0031] In other embodiments, pump assembly 230 is a manual pump. In such embodiments, a user can squeeze or press a pump bulb of pump assembly 230 to facilitate the transfer of fluid from fluid reservoir 210 to inflatable cylinder 250. For example, in an inflation mode, while a user activates the pump bulb, the pump bulb can receive fluid from fluid reservoir 210 and then deliver it to inflatable cylinder 250. When a user switches to a deflation mode, at least a portion of the fluid can be delivered back to fluid reservoir 210 (due to the pressure differential from inflatable cylinder 250 to fluid reservoir 210). Thereafter, a user can squeeze inflatable cylinder 250 to facilitate further transfer of fluid through pump assembly 230 to fluid reservoir 210.

[0032] 3 illustrates an example of a portion of an electronic pump assembly 306, according to an embodiment. Electronic pump assembly 306 may be an example of electronic pump assembly 130 of FIG. 1 and / or electronic pump assembly 230 of FIG. 2 and may include any of the details discussed with respect to device 100 of FIG. 1 and / or device 200 of FIG. 2.

[0033] The electronic pump assembly 306 is configured to transfer fluid between the fluid reservoir and the inflatable member. The electronic pump assembly 306 can automatically transfer fluid between the fluid reservoir and the inflatable member without a user having to manually actuate the pump (e.g., squeezing and releasing a pump bulb).

[0034] Electronic pump assembly 306 includes pump 320-1 disposed in fluid passage 324 (e.g., a fill passage) and active valve 318 disposed in fluid passage 327 (e.g., a drain passage). Pump 320-1 can be an electromagnetic pump or a piezoelectric pump. Pump 320-1 can include passive check valve 323 and passive check valve 325. Fluid passage 327 can be a separate (and parallel) fluid branch to fluid passage 324. Fluid passage 327 is a passage that transfers fluid from a fluid reservoir to the inflatable member. Fluid passage 324 is a passage that transfers fluid from the inflatable member to the fluid reservoir. Pump 320-1 is disposed in parallel with active valve 318.

[0035] In some examples, electronic pump assembly 306 can include active valve 319 in series with pump 320-1 (e.g., pump 320-1 and active valve 319 are disposed in fluid passage 327). In some examples, electronic pump assembly 306 can include pump 320-2 in series with active valve 318 (e.g., pump 320-2 and active valve 318 are disposed in fluid passage 324). Pump 320-2 can be an electromagnetic pump or a piezoelectric pump. Pump 320-2 can include passive check valve 323 and passive check valve 325. In some examples, electronic pump assembly 306 includes active valve 348 fluidly connected to a fluid reservoir. Active valve 348 can be in series with either active valve 318 (and pump 320-2) or pump 320-1 (and active valve 319). In some examples, electronic pump assembly 306 includes active valve 352 fluidly connected to the inflatable member. Active valve 352 can be in series with either active valve 319 (and pump 320-1) or pump 320-2 (and active valve 318).

[0036] Active valve 348, pump 320-1, active valve 318, active valve 352, active valve 318, and pump 320-2 can be electronically controlled by a controller and / or driver. Pump 320-1 and pump 320-2 can be unidirectional or bidirectional. With respect to fluid path 327, in some examples, pump 320-1 and active valve 319 can be interchanged (e.g., when active valve 319 is in series between active valve 348 and pump 320-1). With respect to fluid path 324, in some examples, active valve 318 and pump 320-2 can be interchanged (e.g., when pump 320-1 is in series between active valve 318 and active valve 348).

[0037] In some examples, one or more additional active valves and / or one or more additional pumps are arranged in series within fluid passage 327. In some examples, one or more additional active valves and / or one or more additional pumps are arranged in series within fluid passage 324. In some examples, electronic pump assembly 306 can include one or more additional (and parallel) fluid passages, where each additional (and parallel) fluid passage can include one or more active valves and one or more pumps.

[0038] In some examples, electronic pump assembly 306 may include pressure sensor 330 and pressure sensor 331. Pressure sensor 330 and pressure sensor 331 are connected to a controller, where the controller receives the measured pressures from pressure sensor 330 and pressure sensor 331.

[0039] Pressure sensor 330 is configured to measure the pressure within the inflatable member. In some embodiments, this pressure sensor is between valve 352 and the inflatable member. A controller can receive the measured pressure from pressure sensor 330 and automatically control the active valve and / or pump to adjust the pressure. In some examples, pressure sensor 331 is configured to measure the pressure within a fluid reservoir. In some embodiments, pressure sensor 331 can detect intra-abdominal pressure (which may increase during activities such as exercise), and the controller can control the active valve and pump to minimize or prevent accidental inflation. In some examples, electronic pump assembly 306 can include one or more pressure sensors elsewhere within it. For example, a pressure sensor can be located between active valve 348 and pump 320-1. In some examples, a pressure sensor can be located between pump 320-1 and active valve 319. In some examples, a pressure sensor can be located between active valve 348 and active valve 318. In some examples, a pressure sensor may be located between the active valve 318 and the pump 320-2.

[0040] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a pump assembly of the implantable inflatable device of Figure 3. Figure 5 is an exploded side view of the pump assembly of the implantable inflatable device of Figure 3. Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of the pump assembly of the implantable inflatable device of Figure 3.

[0041] Pump assembly 306 includes a manifold plate 353, a battery 354, and a housing 356. Housing 356 includes a first portion 358 and a second portion 359. First portion 358 is configured to be coupled to manifold plate 353. Second portion 359 is configured to be coupled to the opposite side of manifold plate 353. Thus, two sealed chambers are formed. Specifically, chamber 372 and chamber 374 are formed and individually sealed. Thus, in the event of a system failure, there is no transfer or diffusion of fluid or material between the two chambers 372 and 374.

[0042] In the illustrated embodiment, the pump assembly 306 includes a connecting member 362. The connecting member 362 is configured to facilitate coupling or securing of the pump assembly 306 within the patient's body. The connecting member 362 forms a loop or opening and extends from the housing 356. As such, the connecting member 362 can be sutured or otherwise coupled to the patient's body tissue.

[0043] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of filter 420. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of filter 420. Filter 420 is configured to be disposed within an inflatable implant such as that of FIG. 1 or 2. Filter 420 is configured to allow system fluid to pass therethrough and to prevent larger particles in the fluid from passing therethrough. Thus, the filter can be positioned to help prevent particles from entering the pump or valves of the pump assembly. In some embodiments, filter 420 helps prevent pressure spikes within the system.

[0044] In the illustrated embodiment, the filter 420 includes a first side 422 and an opposing second side 424. The filter 420 is configured to allow fluid to pass through the filter 420 from one side to the other. In the illustrated embodiment, the filter 420 defines a fluid pathway or passageway 426 from the first side 422 to the second side 424. In the illustrated embodiment, the first side 422 of the filter defines an opening 428. The opening 428 has a size, such as a diameter or an opening area. The second side 424 of the filter 420 defines a second opening 432. The second opening 432 has a size, such as a diameter or an opening area. The size of the second opening 432 is smaller than the size of the first opening 428. The lumen or passageway 426 extends from the first opening 428 to the second opening 432. Thus, the lumen or passageway is tapered.

[0045] In some embodiments, filter 420 is configured to be oriented so that first side 422 is positioned toward the pump or pump assembly. In other words, filter 420 is positioned within the device so that first side 422 is disposed between second side 424 and the pump or pump assembly. In other embodiments, the filter may be oriented so that second side 424 is positioned toward the pump or pump assembly.

[0046] In some embodiments, filter 420 is disposed within the pump assembly. In other embodiments, filter 420 is disposed within a connecting member, such as a tubular member, that connects the pump assembly to other portions of the device. For example, in some embodiments, filter 420 is disposed within a connecting member that extends between a fluid reservoir and the pump assembly. In other embodiments, filter 420 is disposed within a connecting member that extends between the pump assembly and the inflatable member.

[0047] In some embodiments, filter 420 is configured to collect or trap particles at or near second side 424 or at openings 432 defined by second side 424. For example, in some embodiments, filter 420 is configured to trap particles within a smaller portion of the lumen or passageway.

[0048] In some embodiments, filter 420 is self-cleaning. For example, in some embodiments, if a particle becomes trapped or lodged within the lumen at a smaller spot or portion of the lumen, pressure from fluid flowing from a larger portion of the lumen will force the particle out of filter 420. Additionally, in some embodiments, if a particle becomes trapped or lodged in an opening in the filter, the flow of fluid is believed to move or remove the particle that is trapped or lodged near the opening.

[0049] Filter 420 can be manufactured from a variety of materials. For example, in some embodiments, the filter is manufactured from a titanium material, a stainless steel material, a ceramic material, or a polymer material. In some embodiments, the material can provide additional characteristics or functionality to the filter. For example, in some embodiments, the filter, or portions thereof, can be hydrophilic or hydrophobic. In some embodiments, the filter is manufactured using a molding or sintering process. In other embodiments, the filter is formed using a printing or machining method. In other embodiments, the filter is formed using an electrospinning process or method.

[0050] 9 is a cross-sectional view of a filter 520 according to an embodiment. The filter 520 is configured to be disposed within an inflatable implant such as that of FIG. 1 or 2. The filter 520 is configured to allow system fluid to pass therethrough and to prevent larger particles in the fluid from passing therethrough. Thus, the filter can be positioned to help prevent particles from entering the pump or valves of the pump assembly. In some embodiments, the filter 520 helps prevent pressure spikes within the system.

[0051] In the illustrated embodiment, filter 520 includes a first side 522 and an opposing second side 524. Filter 520 is configured to allow fluid to pass through filter 520 from one side to the other. In the illustrated embodiment, filter 520 defines a plurality of fluid pathways or passageways 526 from first side 522 to second side 524. In the illustrated embodiment, first side 522 of filter defines openings 528 and 529. Each of openings 528 and 529 has a size, such as a diameter or an open area. Second side 524 of filter 520 defines opening 532. Opening 532 has a size, such as a diameter or an open area. Opening 532 is larger in size than openings 528 and 529. Lumen or passageway 526 forms a Y-shape (or forms separate branches) and extends from openings 528 and 529 to opening 532. Thus, as shown, in some embodiments, the first side 522 of the filter 520 defines more openings than the second side 524 of the filter 520. In such embodiments, the fluid path narrows from the first side 522 to the second side 524 and widens from the second side 524 to the first side 522. In some embodiments, two openings defined by the first side are fluidly coupled to a single opening defined by the second side. In other embodiments, more than two openings defined by the first side are fluidly coupled to a single opening defined by the second side.

[0052] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a filter 620 according to an embodiment. The filter 620 is configured to be disposed within an inflatable implant, such as that of FIG. 1 or 2. The filter 620 is configured to allow system fluid to pass therethrough and to prevent larger particles in the fluid from passing therethrough. Thus, the filter can be positioned to help prevent particles from entering the pump or valves of the pump assembly. In some embodiments, the filter 620 helps prevent pressure spikes within the system.

[0053] In the illustrated embodiment, filter 620 includes a first side 622 and an opposing second side 624. Filter 620 is configured to allow fluid to pass through filter 620 from one side to the other. In the illustrated embodiment, filter 620 defines a plurality of fluid pathways or passageways 626 from first side 622 to second side 624. In the illustrated embodiment, first side 622 of filter defines openings 628 and 629. Each of openings 628 and 629 has a size, such as a diameter or an open area. Second side 624 of filter 620 defines opening 632. Opening 632 has a size, such as a diameter or an open area. Opening 632 is larger in size than openings 628 and 629. Lumen or passageway 626 forms a Y-shape (or forms separate branches) and extends from openings 628 and 629 to opening 632.

[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, the size of opening 628 is larger than the size of opening 629. In some embodiments, the portion of lumen or pathway 626 leading to opening 628 can be used for laminar flow, and the portion of lumen or pathway 626 leading to opening 629 can be used for turbulent flow.

[0055] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a filter 720 according to an embodiment. FIG. 12 is a top view of the filter 720. The filter 720 is configured to be disposed within an inflatable implant such as that of FIG. 1 or 2. The filter 720 is configured to allow system fluid to pass therethrough and to prevent larger particles in the fluid from passing therethrough. Thus, the filter can be positioned to help prevent particles from entering the pump or valves of the pump assembly. In some embodiments, the filter 720 helps prevent pressure spikes within the system.

[0056] In some embodiments, filter 720 defines a fluid path that is nonlinear, curved, or tortuous. In some embodiments, particles are trapped within the curved path, which entraps or traps them. In some embodiments, filter 720 is a lattice filter. In the illustrated embodiment, filter 720 is a gyroid filter, such as a walled gyroid. In some embodiments, filter 720 is formed using an electrospinning method or process.

[0057] 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 variations as fall within the scope of the embodiments. [Explanation of symbols]

[0058] 100 Implantable inflatable device 110 fluid reservoir 120 filters 130 Pump Assembly 150 Expandable member

Claims

1. a fluid reservoir defining a cavity; an expandable member; a pump assembly configured to transfer fluid from the fluid reservoir to the inflatable member; a filter member configured to allow the fluid to pass through the filter member when the pump assembly transfers the fluid between the fluid reservoir and the expandable member; and Including, An implantable expandable device, wherein the filter member defines a first opening, a second opening, a third opening, and a fluid pathway fluidly coupling the first opening, the second opening, and the third opening.

2. An implantable inflatable device as described in claim 1, wherein the first opening has a size, the second opening has a size, and the third opening has a size, and the size of the first opening is different from the size of the second opening and also different from the size of the third opening.

3. The inflatable device described in claim 1, wherein the filter member has a first side and a second side opposite the first side, the first opening is located on the first side of the filter member, the second opening is located on the second side of the filter member, and the third opening is located on the second side of the filter member.

4. a fluid reservoir defining a cavity; an expandable member; a pump assembly configured to transfer fluid from the fluid reservoir to the inflatable member; a filter member configured to allow the fluid to pass through the filter member when the pump assembly transfers the fluid between the fluid reservoir and the expandable member; and Including, an implantable expandable device, wherein the filter member defines a first opening, a second opening, and a lumen extending between the first opening and the second opening, the first opening having a size and the second opening having a size, the size of the first opening being larger than the size of the second opening.

5. The inflatable device of claim 1 or 4, wherein the pump assembly includes a pump, and the filter member is operatively coupled between the pump and the fluid reservoir.

6. The inflatable device of claim 1 or 4, wherein the pump assembly includes a pump, and the filter member is operatively coupled between the pump and the inflatable member.

7. The inflatable device of claim 1 or 4, further comprising a connecting member extending between the fluid reservoir and the pump assembly to operatively couple the fluid reservoir to the pump assembly, the filter member being disposed within the connecting member.

8. The inflatable device of claim 1 or 4, further comprising a connecting member extending between the inflatable member and the pump assembly to operatively couple the inflatable member to the pump assembly, the filter member being disposed within the connecting member.

9. The inflatable device of claim 1 or 4, wherein the filter member defines a fluid path having a tapered shape.

10. The inflatable device of claim 1 or 4, wherein the filter member is disposed within the pump assembly.

11. The inflatable device of claim 1 or 4, wherein the pump assembly includes a housing having a fixing member.

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