Body implant with fluid system

Abstract

According to one aspect, an implant includes an inflatable member, a pump assembly, a tubular member, and a coupling member, the pump assembly configured to facilitate transfer of fluid to and from the inflatable member, and the coupling member configured to facilitate coupling of the tubular member to the pump assembly.

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 / 450,556, entitled "BODILY IMPLANTS WITH FLUID SYSTEMS," filed August 16, 2023, which in turn claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 371,810, entitled "BODILY IMPLANTS WITH FLUID SYSTEMS," filed August 18, 2022, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

[0002] This application also claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 371,810, filed August 18, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates generally to body implants, and more particularly to body implants that include a fluid system and an inflatable member. [Background technology]

[0004] A body implant with a fluid system and an inflatable member may be placed within a patient's body for a variety of reasons. For example, one treatment for male erectile dysfunction is the implantation of a penile prosthesis, which mechanically erects the penis. Additionally, some phalloplasty patients may receive a penile prosthesis. In another example, one treatment for urinary incontinence is the implantation of an artificial urinary sphincter. Such penile prostheses and artificial urinary sphincters may include one or more inflatable members and a fluid system. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 371,810 [Patent Document 2] U.S. Nonprovisional Patent Application No. 18 / 450,556 Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to one aspect, an implant includes an inflatable member, a pump assembly, a tubular member, and a coupling member, the pump assembly configured to facilitate transfer of fluid to and from the inflatable member, and the coupling member configured to facilitate coupling of the tubular member to the pump assembly.

[0007] In some embodiments, the coupling member includes a first portion disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member and a second portion disposed within the housing of the pump assembly. In some embodiments, the coupling member includes a first portion disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member, the first portion of the coupling member having a protruding member. In some embodiments, the coupling member includes a first portion disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member, the first portion of the coupling member having a barb member.

[0008] In some embodiments, the pump assembly includes a housing member having a protrusion, the protrusion of the housing member being disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member, and the coupling member comprising a spring-biased clip and positioned such that a portion of the tubular member is disposed between the spring-biased clip and a portion of the protrusion. In some embodiments, the pump assembly includes a housing member having a protrusion, the protrusion of the housing member being disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member, and the coupling member comprising overlapping wire members. In some embodiments, the pump assembly includes a housing member having a protrusion, the protrusion of the housing member being disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member, and the coupling member comprising overlapping wire members, the overlapping wire members comprising threaded members.

[0009] In some embodiments, the coupling member includes a first portion disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member and a second portion disposed within the housing of the pump assembly, the coupling member defining a lumen and having a filter (or flow conditioner) disposed within the lumen defined by the coupling member. In some embodiments, the coupling member includes a first portion disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member and a second portion disposed within the housing of the pump assembly, the coupling member defining a lumen and having a filter (or flow conditioner) disposed within the lumen defined by the coupling member, the filter being a gyroid filter (or having a different shape).

[0010] In some embodiments, the coupling member includes a first portion disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member and a second portion disposed within a housing of the pump assembly, the coupling member defining the lumen and having a filter disposed within the lumen defined by the coupling member, and the first portion of the coupling member being laser welded to the housing of the pump assembly.

[0011] In some embodiments, the coupling member includes a first portion disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member, and the implant further comprises a forming member disposed within the housing of the pump assembly such that a portion of the tubular member is disposed between the forming member and a portion of the coupling member. In some embodiments, the coupling member includes a first portion disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member, and the implant further comprises a forming member disposed within the housing of the pump assembly such that a portion of the tubular member is disposed between the forming member and a portion of the coupling member.

[0012] In some embodiments, the tubular member is a first tubular member, and the implant further comprises a second tubular member and a forming member defining a first lumen and a second lumen, the first tubular member extending through the first lumen of the forming member and the second tubular member extending through the second lumen of the forming member.

[0013] In some embodiments, the tubular member is a first tubular member, and the implant further comprises a second tubular member and a forming member defining a first lumen and a second lumen, the first tubular member extending through the first lumen of the forming member and the second tubular member extending through the second lumen of the forming member, the forming member being disposed within a housing of the pump assembly.

[0014] In some embodiments, the tubular member is a first tubular member, and the implant further comprises a second tubular member and a forming member defining a first lumen and a second lumen, the forming member being arranged such that the first tubular member extends through the first lumen of the forming member and the second tubular member extends through the second lumen of the forming member, and a portion of the first tubular member is disposed between the connecting member and the forming member.

[0015] In some embodiments, the implant is configured to be placed inside a patient's body. For example, in some embodiments, the implant or device is configured to be placed within a pelvic region of a patient. For example, in some embodiments, an inflatable member can be placed within the pelvic region of a patient. In some embodiments, the implant is a penile implant.

[0016] According to another aspect, an implant includes an inflatable member, a reservoir configured to contain a fluid, a pump assembly configured to facilitate transfer of fluid to and from the inflatable member, a first tubular member extending between the inflatable member and the pump assembly, a first coupling member configured to facilitate coupling of the first tubular member to the pump assembly, a second tubular member extending between the reservoir and the pump assembly, and a second coupling member configured to facilitate coupling of the second tubular member to the pump assembly.

[0017] In some embodiments, the first coupling member includes a first portion disposed within a lumen defined by the first tubular member and a second portion disposed within a housing of the pump assembly. In some embodiments, the first coupling member includes a first portion disposed within a lumen defined by the first tubular member, the first portion of the coupling member having a protruding member. In some embodiments, the first coupling member includes a first portion disposed within a lumen defined by the first tubular member, the first portion of the coupling member having a barb member.

[0018] In some embodiments, the pump assembly includes a housing member having a protrusion, the protrusion of the housing member being disposed within a lumen defined by the first tubular member, and the first coupling member including a spring-biased clip and positioned such that a portion of the first tubular member is disposed between the spring-biased clip and a portion of the protrusion. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1]FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an implant according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 illustrates an implant according to one embodiment. [Figure 3] 1 illustrates an implant according to one embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a pump assembly according to one embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a side view of a pump assembly according to one embodiment. [Figure 6] 1 illustrates a coupling member according to one of several embodiments. [Figure 7] 1 illustrates a coupling member according to one of several embodiments. [Figure 8] 1 illustrates a coupling member according to one of several embodiments. [Figure 9] 1 illustrates a coupling member according to one of several embodiments. [Figure 10] 1 illustrates a coupling member according to one of several embodiments. [Figure 11] 10A-10C illustrate a coupling member according to one embodiment. [Figure 12] 10A-10C illustrate a coupling member according to one embodiment. [Figure 13] 10A-10C illustrate a coupling member according to one embodiment. [Figure 14] 10A-10C illustrate a coupling member according to one embodiment. [Figure 15] 1A and 1B illustrate a filter member according to one embodiment. [Figure 16] 1 illustrates a pump assembly and coupling member according to one embodiment. [Figure 17] 1 illustrates a pump assembly and coupling member according to one embodiment. [Figure 18] 1 illustrates a pump assembly and coupling member according to one embodiment. [Figure 19] 1 illustrates a pump assembly and coupling member according to one embodiment. [Figure 20]1A and 1B illustrate a filter member according to one embodiment. [Figure 21] 1A and 1B illustrate a filter member according to one embodiment. [Figure 22] 1A and 1B illustrate a filter member according to one embodiment. [Figure 23] 1A and 1B illustrate a filter member according to one embodiment. [Figure 24] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating a filter member according to an embodiment. [Figure 25] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating a filter member according to an embodiment. [Figure 26] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating a filter member according to an embodiment. [Figure 27] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating a filter member according to an embodiment. [Figure 28] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating a filter member according to an embodiment. [Figure 29] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating a filter member according to an embodiment. [Figure 30] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating a filter member according to an embodiment. [Figure 31] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating a filter member according to an embodiment. [Figure 32] 10A-10C illustrate a coupling member according to one embodiment. [Figure 33] FIG. 1 illustrates a pump assembly according to one embodiment. [Figure 34] FIG. 1 illustrates a pump assembly according to one embodiment. [Figure 35] FIG. 1 illustrates a pump assembly according to one embodiment. [Figure 36] FIG. 1 illustrates a pump assembly according to one embodiment. [Figure 37] FIG. 1 illustrates a pump assembly according to one embodiment. [Figure 38] 1 illustrates a pump assembly and coupling member according to one embodiment. [Figure 39] 1 illustrates a pump assembly and coupling member according to one embodiment. [Figure 40]1 illustrates a pump assembly and coupling member according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] Detailed embodiments are disclosed herein. However, it should be understood that the embodiments 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 claims and as representative reliance for teaching those skilled in the art how to employ these embodiments in virtually any suitable detailed configuration. Furthermore, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting, but rather to present an understandable description of the present disclosure.

[0021] As used herein, a referent without a quantifier is defined as one or more than one referent. As used herein, the term "another" is defined as at least a second or more. As used herein, the terms "including" and / or "having" are defined as comprising (i.e., open-ended transitional phrases). As used herein, the terms "coupled" or "movably coupled" are defined as connected, but not necessarily directly and mechanically.

[0022] Generally, the present embodiments relate to medical devices such as penile prostheses, artificial sphincters, or other body implants. Hereinafter, the terms patient or user may be used to refer to a person who may benefit from the medical devices or methods disclosed in the present disclosure. For example, a patient may be a person whose body is implanted with a medical device or method for operating the same disclosed by the present disclosure. For example, in some embodiments, the patient may be a human male, a human female, or any other mammal.

[0023] Embodiments described herein may improve the performance of a body implant, for example, the body implant may have improved reliability or improved implantation technique.

[0024] 1 schematically illustrates a body implant 100 according to one embodiment. In some embodiments, body implant 100 can be a penile implant. In other embodiments, body implant 100 can be an artificial urinary sphincter. In still other embodiments, body implant 100 is a different type of body implant.

[0025] The illustrated embodiment includes a pump assembly 110, an inflatable member 190, and a reservoir 195. The pump assembly 110 is operably and fluidly coupled to the pump assembly 110 via a tubular member 170. The pump assembly 110 is operably and fluidly coupled to the reservoir 195 via a tubular member 180.

[0026] The reservoir 195 is configured to contain or store a fluid. The pump assembly 110 is configured to move the fluid from the reservoir 195 to the inflatable member 190 and from the inflatable member 190 to the reservoir 195. The pump assembly 110 may include electronic or manual pump components. The inflatable member 190 is configured to be placed in an inflated state or configuration and a deflated state or configuration. In some embodiments, the inflatable member 190 is configured to exert pressure against a portion of the body when in the inflated state or configuration.

[0027] In the illustrated embodiment, tubular member 170 is coupled to pump assembly 110 and inflatable member 190. Tubular member 170 is configured to transport fluid between pump assembly 110 and inflatable member 190. Body implant 100 includes coupling member 120. Coupling member 120 is configured to facilitate coupling of tubular member 170 to pump assembly 110. In some embodiments, coupling member 120 includes a spring-biased member or a clip. In other embodiments, coupling member 120 includes overlapping wires. In still other embodiments, coupling member 120 includes different types of members or components configured to aid in or facilitate coupling of tubular member 170 to pump assembly 110.

[0028] In the illustrated embodiment, the body implant 100 includes a filter or filter member 140. The filter or filter member 140 is disposed between the inflatable member 190 and the pump assembly 110. In some embodiments, the filter or filter member 140 is disposed adjacent to or within a portion of the coupling member 120. The filter or filter member 140 is configured to filter out particles or other foreign matter that may be contained in the fluid. In some embodiments, the filter or filter member 140 is configured to help prevent particles or other foreign matter from entering the pump assembly 110 or to modify the flow within the pump assembly 110.

[0029] In the illustrated embodiment, tubular member 180 is coupled to pump assembly 110 and reservoir 195. Tubular member 180 is configured to transport fluid between pump assembly 110 and reservoir 195. Body implant 100 includes coupling member 150. Coupling member 150 is configured to facilitate coupling of tubular member 170 to pump assembly 110. In some embodiments, coupling member 150 includes a spring-biased member or a clip. In other embodiments, coupling member 150 includes overlapping wires. In still other embodiments, coupling member 150 includes different types of members or components configured to aid in or facilitate coupling of tubular member 180 to pump assembly 110.

[0030] In the illustrated embodiment, the body implant 100 includes a filter or filter member 160. The filter or filter member 160 is disposed between the reservoir 195 and the pump assembly 110. In some embodiments, the filter or filter member 160 is disposed adjacent to or within a portion of the coupling member 150. The filter or filter member 160 is configured to filter out particles or other foreign matter that may be contained in the fluid. In some embodiments, the filter or filter member 160 is configured to help prevent particles or other foreign matter from entering the pump assembly 110.

[0031] In use, the body implant 100 can be placed inside a patient's body. In some embodiments, the expandable member 190 can be positioned such that it can exert pressure against a portion of the patient's body when in the inflated or expanded configuration.

[0032] 2 illustrates a body implant 200 according to one embodiment. Implant 200 is an artificial urinary sphincter. Implant 200 includes a pump assembly 210, an inflatable member 290, and a reservoir 295. Pump assembly 210 is operably and fluidly coupled to reservoir 295 via tubular member 270. Pump assembly 210 is operably and fluidly coupled to reservoir 295 via tubular member 280.

[0033] The reservoir 295 is configured to contain or store a fluid. The pump assembly 210 is configured to move the fluid from the reservoir 295 to the inflatable member 290 and from the inflatable member 290 to the reservoir 295. The pump assembly 210 may include electronic or manual pump components. The inflatable member 290 is configured to be placed in an inflated state or configuration and a deflated state or configuration. In some embodiments, the inflatable member 290 is configured to exert pressure against a portion of the body when in the inflated state or configuration.

[0034] In the illustrated embodiment, tubular member 270 is coupled to pump assembly 210 and inflatable member 290. Tubular member 270 is configured to transport fluid between pump assembly 210 and inflatable member 290. Body implant 200 includes a coupling member. The coupling member is configured to facilitate coupling of tubular member 270 to pump assembly 210. In some embodiments, the coupling member includes a spring-biased member or a clip. In other embodiments, the coupling member includes overlapping wires. In still other embodiments, the coupling member includes a different type of member or component configured to aid in or facilitate coupling of tubular member 270 to pump assembly 210.

[0035] In some embodiments, the body implant 200 includes a filter or filter member. The filter or filter member is disposed between the inflatable member 290 and the pump assembly 210. In some embodiments, the filter or filter member is disposed adjacent to or within a portion of the coupling member. The filter or filter member is configured to filter out particles or other foreign matter that may be contained in the fluid. In some embodiments, the filter or filter member is configured to help prevent particles or other foreign matter from entering the pump assembly 210.

[0036] In the illustrated embodiment, tubular member 280 is coupled to pump assembly 210 and reservoir 295. Tubular member 280 is configured to transport fluid between pump assembly 210 and reservoir 295. Body implant 200 includes a coupling member. The coupling member is configured to facilitate coupling of tubular member 270 to pump assembly 210. In some embodiments, the coupling member includes a spring-biased member or a clip. In other embodiments, the coupling member includes overlapping wires. In still other embodiments, the coupling member includes a different type of member or component configured to aid in or facilitate coupling of tubular member 280 to pump assembly 210.

[0037] In some embodiments, the body implant 200 includes a filter or filter member. The filter or filter member is disposed between the reservoir 295 and the pump assembly 210. In some embodiments, the filter or filter member is disposed adjacent to or within a portion of the coupling member. The filter or filter member is configured to filter out particles or other foreign matter that may be contained in the fluid. In some embodiments, the filter or filter member is configured to help prevent particles or other foreign matter from entering the pump assembly 210.

[0038] 3 illustrates a body implant 300 according to one embodiment. Implant 300 is a penile implant. Implant 300 includes a pump assembly 310, an inflatable member 390, and a reservoir 395. The implant further includes a second inflatable member 390A. Pump assembly 310 is operably and fluidly coupled to pump assembly 310 via tubular member 370. Pump assembly 310 is operably and fluidly coupled to reservoir 395 via tubular member 380.

[0039] Reservoir 395 is configured to contain or store fluid. Pump assembly 310 is configured to move fluid from reservoir 395 to inflatable member 390 and from inflatable member 390 to reservoir 395. Pump assembly 310 may include electronic or manual pump components. Inflatable member 390 is configured to be placed in an inflated state or configuration and a deflated state or configuration. In some embodiments, inflatable member 390 is configured to exert pressure against a portion of the body when in the inflated state or configuration.

[0040] In the illustrated embodiment, tubular member 370 is coupled to pump assembly 310 and inflatable member 390. Tubular member 370 is configured to transport fluid between pump assembly 310 and inflatable member 390. Body implant 300 includes a coupling member. The coupling member is configured to facilitate coupling of tubular member 370 to pump assembly 310. In some embodiments, the coupling member includes a spring-biased member or a clip. In other embodiments, the coupling member includes overlapping wires. In still other embodiments, the coupling member includes a different type of member or component configured to aid in or facilitate coupling of tubular member 370 to pump assembly 310.

[0041] In some embodiments, the body implant 300 includes a filter or filter member. The filter or filter member is disposed between the inflatable member 390 and the pump assembly 310. In some embodiments, the filter or filter member is disposed adjacent to or within a portion of the coupling member. The filter or filter member is configured to filter out particles or other foreign matter that may be contained in the fluid. In some embodiments, the filter or filter member is configured to help prevent particles or other foreign matter from entering the pump assembly 310.

[0042] In the illustrated embodiment, tubular member 380 is coupled to pump assembly 310 and reservoir 395. Tubular member 380 is configured to transport fluid between pump assembly 310 and reservoir 395. Body implant 300 includes a coupling member. The coupling member is configured to facilitate coupling of tubular member 370 to pump assembly 310. In some embodiments, the coupling member includes a spring-biased member or a clip. In other embodiments, the coupling member includes overlapping wires. In still other embodiments, the coupling member includes a different type of member or component configured to aid in or facilitate coupling of tubular member 380 to pump assembly 310.

[0043] In some embodiments, the body implant 300 includes a filter or filter member. The filter or filter member is disposed between the reservoir 395 and the pump assembly 310. In some embodiments, the filter or filter member is disposed adjacent to or within a portion of the coupling member. The filter or filter member is configured to filter out particles or other foreign matter that may be contained in the fluid. In some embodiments, the filter or filter member is configured to help prevent particles or other foreign matter from entering the pump assembly 310.

[0044] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a pump assembly 410 according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 is a side view of the pump assembly 410 coupled to a tubular member 470. In the illustrated embodiment, a coupling member 420 couples or serves to couple the tubular member 470 to the pump assembly 410. The pump assembly 410 includes a protrusion 412. In some embodiments, the protrusion 412 defines a lumen. For example, in some embodiments, the protrusion 412 is a tube or tubular member. The tubular member 470 defines a lumen 472 and fits over the protrusion 412 such that at least a portion of the protrusion 412 is disposed within the lumen 472 of the tubular member 470. The coupling member 420 is positioned such that a portion of the tubular member 470 is disposed between the coupling member 420 and at least a portion of the protrusion 412. In some embodiments, coupling member 420 is configured to apply pressure to tubular member 470 to couple, eg, frictionally couple, tubular member 470 to pump assembly 410 .

[0045] 6-10 illustrate various embodiments of coupling members. As illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, in some embodiments, coupling member 520 and 620 include a wire that is superimposed on itself. As illustrated most clearly in FIG. 6, coupling member 520 can include a threaded member 522 configured to be turned to tighten it (e.g., reduce the diameter of coupling member 520). As illustrated most clearly in FIG. 7, in some embodiments, a portion 622 of coupling member 620 can be pulled to tighten coupling member 620.

[0046] 8-10 illustrate biased coupling members 720, 820, and 920. The biased coupling members can be configured to be placed over the tubular member and apply pressure to the tubular member to couple the tubular member to the pump assembly. In other embodiments, the biased coupling members can be configured to be placed inside the tubular member.

[0047] 11-15 illustrate a coupling member 1020 according to one embodiment. The coupling member 1020 defines a lumen 1022 and includes a first portion 1024 and a second portion 1026. The first portion 1024 is configured to be coupled to a tubular member. The first portion 1024 includes ridges, protrusions, or barbs 1028. The ridges, protrusions, or barbs 1028 are configured to engage the tubular member to aid in coupling the first portion 1024 to the tubular member. In some embodiments, a secondary clip or secondary coupling member can be used to secure the coupling member 1020 to the tubular member.

[0048] The second portion 1026 is configured to be coupled to the pump assembly. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 16-19 , the second portion 1026 of the coupling member 1020 can be at least partially disposed within the housing 1012 of the pump assembly 1010. In some embodiments, the second portion 1026 is press-fit or friction-coupled to the housing 1012. In other embodiments, the second portion 1026 is welded to the housing 1012. In still other embodiments, another coupling mechanism, such as an adhesive, can be used to aid in coupling the second portion 1026 to the housing 1012.

[0049] In the illustrated embodiment, the filter (or flow conditioner) 1040 is disposed within the coupling member 1020. The filter 1040 is configured to help prevent particles or foreign matter contained in the fluid from entering the pump components. In the illustrated embodiment, the filter 1040 is disposed within the lumen 1022 of the coupling member 1020. In some embodiments, the filter 1040 is friction-coupled within the lumen 1022. In other embodiments, the filter 1040 is laser-welded within the lumen 1022. In still other embodiments, another coupling mechanism is used to couple the filter 1040 within the lumen 1022. In some embodiments, the filter can be formed of several parts or sections that are coupled together. For example, the several parts or sections can be coupled together by a joining process, such as a laser welding process, or can be joined by an adhesive. In some embodiments, the filter and the pump body can be formed or fabricated from a single piece of material. In other words, the filter and the pump body can be unitarily or integrally formed.

[0050] 20-23 illustrate a filter 1140 according to one embodiment. Filter 1140 is a gyroid filter. As illustrated most clearly in FIG. 21, filter 1140 includes or defines a lumen 1142. Lumen 1142 extends through filter 1140 and is non-linear. Lumen 1142 follows a tortuous path as it extends through filter 1140. FIG. 22 is a front view of filter 1140. FIG. 23 is a side view of filter 1140.

[0051] FIGS. 24-31 illustrate filters according to various embodiments. As illustrated in FIGS. 24-25, filter 1240 can have openings of various shapes. As illustrated in FIG. 26, filter 1240 defines a lumen 1242 that is straight. As illustrated in FIG. 27, filter 1340 defines a lumen 1342 that is conical or tapered. As illustrated in FIG. 28, filter 1440 defines a lumen 1442 that is Y-shaped. In some embodiments, the filter or flow conditioner is configured to block flow, induce turbulence, or otherwise modify or restrict flow. FIGS. 29-31 illustrate filters 1440A, 1440B, and 1440C that include openings or lumens of various shapes. In some embodiments, the filter can promote flow, for example, by inducing laminar flow or otherwise. As described below with respect to FIGS. 35-37, flow can be varied through the lumen.

[0052] 32 illustrates a connector 1520. The connector 1520 can be used to couple tubular members together. In some embodiments, the connector 1520 can be a quick connect and can be configured to receive a portion of a first tubular member TM1 and a portion of a second tubular member TM2 to couple the first tubular member to the second tubular member.

[0053] Figures 33 and 34 illustrate an electric pump 1630 according to one embodiment. Figures 35-37 illustrate fluid flow through the electric pump. Specifically, Figure 35 illustrates the inflow FI and outflow FO of the pump. Figure 36 illustrates flow through the inlet. Figure 37 illustrates flow through the outlet.

[0054] 33, the electric pump is a piezoelectric pump. The pump includes a piezoelectric body 1632, a diaphragm 1634, an inlet check valve foil 1636, an outlet check valve foil 1638, and a base plate 1639. In the illustrated embodiment, the diaphragm 1634, the inlet check valve foil 1636, the outlet check valve foil 1638, and the base plate 1639 are formed of titanium. In other embodiments, such components are formed of different materials.

[0055] 38-40 illustrate pump assembly 1710 and tubular members 1770 and 1780. Pump assembly 1710 includes a housing 1712 having a top portion 1714 and a bottom portion 1716. Housing 1712 defines a cavity 1718.

[0056] In the illustrated embodiment, coupler 1720 couples or serves to couple tubular member 1770 to housing 1712. Coupler 1750 couples or serves to couple tubular member 1780 to housing 1712. In the illustrated embodiment, a portion of coupler 1720 is disposed within the lumen of tubular member 1770. Similarly, a portion of coupler 1750 is disposed within the lumen of tubular member 1780.

[0057] 40 , a forming member 1798 is coupled to tubular members 1770 and 1780. Forming member 1798 is disposed within cavity 1718 of housing 1712. Forming member 1798 is configured to engage an interior portion of housing 1712 to provide support to tubular members 1770 and 1780. In some embodiments, forming member 1798 is formed from silicone. In other embodiments, forming member 1798 is formed from a different material.

[0058] While certain features of the implementations of the present description 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 that fall within the scope of these embodiments. [Explanation of symbols]

[0059] 410 Pump Assembly 412 Protrusion 420 Connecting member 470 Tubular Member 472 Lumen

Claims

1. an inflatable member; a pump assembly configured to facilitate the transfer of fluid to and from the inflatable member; a tubular member; a coupling member configured to facilitate coupling of the tubular member to the pump assembly; An implant comprising:

2. The implant of claim 1 , wherein the coupling member includes a first portion disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member and a second portion disposed within a housing of the pump assembly.

3. The implant of claim 1 , wherein the coupling member includes a first portion disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member, the first portion of the coupling member having a protruding member.

4. The implant of claim 1 , wherein the coupling member includes a first portion disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member, the first portion of the coupling member having a barb member.

5. the pump assembly includes a housing member having a protrusion, the protrusion of the housing member being disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member; The implant of claim 1 , wherein the coupling member includes a spring-biased clip and is positioned such that a portion of the tubular member is disposed between the spring-biased clip and a portion of the projection.

6. 2. The implant of claim 1, wherein the pump assembly includes a housing member having a protrusion, the protrusion of the housing member being disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member, and the connecting member includes overlapping wire members.

7. 2. The implant of claim 1, wherein the pump assembly includes a housing member having a protrusion, the protrusion of the housing member being disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member, and the connecting member includes overlapping wire members, the overlapping wire members including threaded members.

8. 2. The implant of claim 1, wherein the connecting member includes a first portion disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member and a second portion disposed within a housing of the pump assembly, the connecting member defining a lumen and having a filter disposed within the lumen defined by the connecting member.

9. 2. The implant of claim 1, wherein the coupling member includes a first portion disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member and a second portion disposed within a housing of the pump assembly, the coupling member defining a lumen and having a filter disposed within the lumen defined by the coupling member, the filter being a gyroid filter.

10. 2. The implant of claim 1, wherein the coupling member includes a first portion disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member and a second portion disposed within a housing of the pump assembly, the coupling member defining a lumen and having a filter disposed within the lumen defined by the coupling member, and the first portion of the coupling member is laser welded to the housing of the pump assembly.

11. The coupling member includes a first portion disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member, and the implant includes: The implant of claim 1 , further comprising a forming member positioned such that a portion of the tubular member is disposed between the forming member and a portion of the connecting member.

12. The coupling member includes a first portion disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member, and the implant includes:

10. The implant of claim 1, further comprising a forming member arranged such that a portion of the tubular member is disposed between the forming member and a portion of the connecting member, the forming member being disposed within a housing of the pump assembly.

13. The tubular member is a first tubular member, and the implant comprises: a second tubular member; and a forming member defining a first lumen and a second lumen, the first tubular member extending through the first lumen of the forming member and the second tubular member extending through the second lumen of the forming member; The implant of claim 1 further comprising:

14. The tubular member is a first tubular member, and the implant comprises: a second tubular member; and a form member defining a first lumen and a second lumen, the first tubular member extending through the first lumen of the form member and the second tubular member extending through the second lumen of the form member, the form member being disposed within a housing of the pump assembly; The implant of claim 1 further comprising:

15. The implant of any preceding claim, wherein the inflatable member is configured to be placed within a pelvic region of a patient.

16. an inflatable member; a pump assembly configured to facilitate the transfer of fluid to and from the inflatable member; a tubular member extending between the inflatable member and the pump assembly; a coupling member configured to facilitate coupling of the tubular member to the pump assembly; An implant comprising:

17. 17. The implant of claim 16, wherein the coupling member includes a first portion disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member and a second portion disposed within a housing of the pump assembly.

18. 17. The implant of claim 16, wherein the coupling member includes a first portion disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member, the first portion of the coupling member having a protruding member.

19. 17. The implant of claim 16, wherein the coupling member includes a first portion disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member, the first portion of the coupling member having a barb member.

20. the pump assembly includes a housing member having a protrusion, the protrusion of the housing member being disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member; 17. The implant of claim 16, wherein the coupling member includes a spring-biased clip and is positioned such that a portion of the tubular member is disposed between the spring-biased clip and a portion of the projection.

21. 17. The implant of claim 16, wherein the pump assembly includes a housing member having a protrusion, the protrusion of the housing member being disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member, and the connecting member includes overlapping wire members.

22. 17. The implant of claim 16, wherein the pump assembly includes a housing member having a protrusion, the protrusion of the housing member being disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member, and the connecting member includes overlapping wire members, the overlapping wire members including threaded members.

23. 17. The implant of claim 16, wherein the coupling member includes a first portion disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member and a second portion disposed within a housing of the pump assembly, the coupling member defining a lumen and having a filter disposed within the lumen defined by the coupling member, the filter configured to modify fluid flow through the lumen.

24. 17. The implant of claim 16, wherein the coupling member includes a first portion disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member and a second portion disposed within a housing of the pump assembly, the coupling member defining a lumen and having a filter disposed within the lumen defined by the coupling member, the filter being a gyroid filter.

25. 17. The implant of claim 16, wherein the coupling member includes a first portion disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member and a second portion disposed within a housing of the pump assembly, the coupling member defining a lumen and having a filter disposed within the lumen defined by the coupling member, and the first portion of the coupling member is laser welded to the housing of the pump assembly.

26. The coupling member includes a first portion disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member, and the implant includes:

17. The implant of claim 16, further comprising a forming member positioned such that a portion of the tubular member is disposed between the forming member and a portion of the connecting member.

27. The coupling member includes a first portion disposed within a lumen defined by the tubular member, and the implant includes:

17. The implant of claim 16, further comprising a forming member disposed such that a portion of the tubular member is disposed between the forming member and a portion of the connecting member, the forming member being disposed within a housing of the pump assembly.

28. The tubular member is a first tubular member, and the implant comprises: a second tubular member; and a forming member defining a first lumen and a second lumen, the first tubular member extending through the first lumen of the forming member and the second tubular member extending through the second lumen of the forming member; 17. The implant of claim 16, further comprising:

29. The tubular member is a first tubular member, and the implant comprises: a second tubular member; and a form member defining a first lumen and a second lumen, the first tubular member extending through the first lumen of the form member and the second tubular member extending through the second lumen of the form member, the form member being disposed within a housing of the pump assembly; 17. The implant of claim 16, further comprising:

30. The tubular member is a first tubular member, and the implant comprises: a second tubular member; and a forming member defining a first lumen and a second lumen, the first tubular member extending through the first lumen of the forming member and the second tubular member extending through the second lumen of the forming member, the forming member being positioned such that a portion of the first tubular member is disposed between the connecting member and the forming member; 17. The implant of claim 16, further comprising:

31. an inflatable member; a reservoir configured to contain a fluid; a pump assembly configured to facilitate transfer of the fluid to and from the inflatable member; a first tubular member extending between the inflatable member and the pump assembly; a first coupling member configured to facilitate coupling of the first tubular member to the pump assembly; a second tubular member extending between the reservoir and the pump assembly; a second coupling member configured to facilitate coupling of the second tubular member to the pump assembly; and An implant comprising:

32. 32. The implant of claim 31 , wherein the first coupling member includes a first portion disposed within a lumen defined by the first tubular member and a second portion disposed within a housing of the pump assembly.

33. 32. The implant of claim 31, wherein the first coupling member includes a first portion disposed within a lumen defined by the first tubular member, the first portion of the first coupling member having a protruding member.

34. 32. The implant of claim 31, wherein the first coupling member includes a first portion disposed within a lumen defined by the first tubular member, the first portion of the first coupling member having a barb member.

35. the pump assembly includes a housing member having a protrusion, the protrusion of the housing member being disposed within a lumen defined by the first tubular member; 32. The implant of claim 31, wherein the first coupling member includes a spring-biased clip and is positioned such that a portion of the first tubular member is disposed between the spring-biased clip and a portion of the protrusion.

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