Penile Implant Bladder with Internal Insertion Tool

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current penile implant insertion procedures require external tools like the Furlow device and Keith needle, which can be cumbersome and expose surgeons to multiple components, and the bladder's insufficient column strength necessitates additional tools for insertion into the corpora cavernosum.

Innovation Solution

A penile implant design with an insertion tool enclosed inside the inflatable bladder, providing sufficient column strength for insertion without external tools, which softens or dissolves after implantation to maintain a natural flaccid state.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If external insertion tools like Furlow device or Keith needle are used, then the bladder can be inserted into the corpora cavernosum, but the procedural complexity increases and surgeons are exposed to multiple components

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinsertion procedure simplicityVSAvoidnumber of components

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The insertion tool is merged with the inflatable bladder by positioning it inside the bladder and securing it with sutures. This combination eliminates the need for separate external insertion devices like Furlow devices or Keith needles, reducing the number of components and simplifying the insertion procedure while maintaining the ability to insert the bladder into the corpora cavernosum

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The insertion tool serves multiple functions: it provides column strength for insertion, acts as a guide for proper positioning, and can be used to inflate the bladder initially. This multi-functionality replaces the need for multiple separate tools, reducing procedural complexity and component exposure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of manufacture

If the bladder is made soft and flexible for natural feel, then patient comfort improves, but the bladder lacks sufficient column strength for insertion into the corpora cavernosum

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebladder flexibilityVSAvoidcolumn strength

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The insertion tool is designed to be temporary and removable. It provides the necessary column strength during the insertion process, then can be removed after the bladder is properly positioned and inflated. This dynamic approach allows the bladder to remain soft and flexible for patient comfort while temporarily gaining the strength needed for insertion

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The insertion tool acts as an intermediary element that temporarily provides the column strength needed for insertion. It mediates between the soft bladder material and the mechanical requirements of insertion into the corpora cavernosum, allowing the bladder to maintain its flexible, comfortable properties while achieving proper insertion

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables straightforward insertion of the penile implant into the corpora cavernosum without external tools, reducing procedural complexity and ensuring a natural feel and appearance post-implantation by providing adequate column strength during insertion and flexibility afterward.

Implementation Method 1

The insertion tool provides the inflatable bladder with a column strength that is sufficient for insertion of the inflatable bladder into a corpora cavernosum

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectColumn strength:

Implementation Method 2

the insertion tool softens to become a pliable space occupier inside of the inflatable bladder, or dissolves into solution with the liquid

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectDissolving:

Data Source

PatentUS9855144B2Penile prosthetic with an insertion tool contained inside an inflatable bladder

Publication Date: 2018.01.02 COLOPLAST AS

AI summary

A penile prosthetic includes an insertion tool contained inside of an inflatable bladder of a penile implant. The penile implant is sized for insertion into a dilated corpora cavernosum of a penis. The penile implant has a proximal tip that is insertable into the crus penis, with the inflatable bladder connected to the proximal tip. The inflatable bladder has a first column strength and includes a distal tip that is insertable into the glans penis. The insertion tool provides the inflatable bladder with an effective column strength that is greater than the first column strength.