Minimally Invasive Penile Prosthesis Implantation via Catheter

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current penile prosthesis implantation methods are invasive, leading to complications such as surgical site infections, device-related infections, and difficulties in placing the device within the corpora cavernosa, especially in patients with fibrosis or high risk of perforation, which can result in suboptimal device function and patient satisfaction.

Innovation Solution

A minimally invasive method using image guidance and a catheter deployment system, specifically the Seldinger technique, for implanting penile prostheses with a 'no touch' approach, allowing for accurate placement and reduced trauma, thereby minimizing complications and improving cosmetic outcomes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional open surgery methods are used for penile prosthesis implantation, then the device can be implanted, but surgical site infections and device-related infections occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinfection riskVSAvoidsurgical procedure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a catheter as an intermediary device that allows the prosthesis to be delivered through a minimally invasive percutaneous approach rather than open surgery. The catheter serves as a conduit that guides the prosthesis into the corpora cavernosa through a small incision, eliminating the need for large surgical incisions and reducing infection risk while maintaining implantation effectiveness

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the traditional mechanical open surgical approach with a catheter-based delivery system that uses controlled expansion balloons and wire-guided techniques. This substitution of the delivery mechanism reduces tissue trauma and infection risk while achieving the same implantation goal

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Manufacturing precision

If traditional surgical methods are used, then the prosthesis can be implanted, but difficulties arise in placing the device within the corpora cavernosa in patients with fibrosis

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice placement precisionVSAvoidimplantation difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs imaging guidance (ultrasound or fluoroscopy) that provides real-time feedback during the implantation procedure. This allows the surgeon to visualize the catheter and prosthesis position relative to the corpora cavernosa, ensuring accurate placement even in patients with fibrosis where anatomical landmarks may be obscured

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses a stepwise approach with preliminary actions including: (1) inserting a guide wire through the catheter to establish the path, (2) expanding a balloon to create space and confirm positioning, and (3) then deploying the prosthesis. This preliminary preparation ensures accurate placement before the actual device implantation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If traditional surgical methods are used, then the prosthesis can be implanted, but device perforation of the corpora cavernosa occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveperforation riskVSAvoidplacement accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The imaging guidance system provides continuous feedback that allows real-time monitoring of prosthesis position during insertion. This enables the surgeon to detect and correct positioning issues before perforation occurs, ensuring the device remains within the corpora cavernosa boundaries

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses balloon expansion as a preliminary action before prosthesis deployment. The balloon is inflated to confirm correct positioning and create adequate space, serving as a safety check that prevents premature or misplaced prosthesis insertion that could cause perforation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11974923B1Penile prosthesis implantation system
Publication Date: 2024.05.07 CASSUTO JAMES
  • US11974923B1 patent drawing
  • US11974923B1 patent drawing
  • US11974923B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention is directed to a method of penile prosthesis implantation that is minimally invasive, particularly in comparison to traditional methods of penile prosthesis implantation. The implantation method utilizes image guidance and a catheter deployment system for implanting a penile prothesis into the corporal body of a penis of a patient. More specifically, the implantation method may utilize the Seldinger technique and/or a modified Seldinger technique for implanting the prothesis. The method of implantation may result in more accurate placement, better cosmetic results, faster healing, and less likelihood for infections and other complications.