Penile Implant With Internal Insertion Tool

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current penile implantation procedures require multiple tools and components, including the Furlow device and Keith needle, which can be cumbersome and expose surgeons to unnecessary handling and risks, particularly with the Keith needle falling out during procedures.

Innovation Solution

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

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional external insertion tools (Furlow device, Keith needle) are used for implantation, then the penile implant can be inserted into the corpora cavernosum, but the procedure becomes cumbersome and exposes surgeons to unnecessary handling risks

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesafety of implantation procedureVSAvoidnumber of tools required

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The insertion tool is merged with the inflatable bladder by placing it inside the bladder during assembly. The insertion tool and bladder become a single integrated unit that is implanted together, eliminating the need for separate external insertion tools and reducing procedural complexity and safety risks.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The insertion tool is nested inside the inflatable bladder, with the insertion tool occupying the internal space of the bladder. This nested configuration allows the insertion tool to be contained within the final implant structure, simplifying the implantation procedure by eliminating external tools.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Strength

If the penile implant is made rigid for insertion, then it can be pushed into the corporotomy and distal direction, but it may feel unnatural when flaccid

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecolumn strength for insertionVSAvoidnatural feel when flaccid

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The insertion tool is designed to dynamically change its mechanical properties over time. Initially rigid to provide column strength for insertion, then it softens or dissolves after implantation to allow the bladder to become soft and natural-feeling when flaccid. This dynamic transition resolves the contradiction between insertion rigidity and natural flaccid feel.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The physical parameters of the insertion tool (rigidity, strength) are changed after implantation through softening or dissolution. This parameter change allows the tool to transition from a rigid insertion aid to a soft or absent component, enabling the bladder to achieve its natural flaccid state while maintaining insertion capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Strength

If the insertion tool remains rigid after implantation, then it provides continuous structural support, but it prevents the bladder from achieving a natural soft flaccid state

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural supportVSAvoidnatural flaccid configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The insertion tool undergoes parameter changes (softening or dissolution) after implantation, transitioning from a rigid structural support element to a soft or absent component. This allows the bladder to achieve its natural soft flaccid configuration while the insertion tool provides temporary structural support during the critical insertion phase.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The insertion tool is designed as a temporary, short-lived component that serves its purpose during insertion and then softens or dissolves. This disposable approach allows the tool to provide necessary structural support during implantation without preventing the bladder from achieving its natural flaccid state long-term.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

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

This design simplifies the implantation process by eliminating the need for secondary tools, reduces exposure to needles, and ensures a natural-feeling, soft distal tip, while maintaining sufficient rigidity for insertion and function.

Implementation Method 1

In the presence of liquid, for example when the surgeon inflates the inflatable bladder to confirm the function of the device, or within 8-24 hours after insertion, the insertion tool softens to become a pliable space occupier inside of the inflatable bladder

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSoftening:

Implementation Method 2

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectDissolution: Solvation

Data Source

PatentEP3141220B1A penile prosthetic with an insertion tool contained inside an inflatable bladder

Publication Date: 2020.11.11 COLOPLAST AS

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Figure 3A~4

AI summary

A penile prosthetic (20) includes an insertion tool (40) contained inside of an inflatable bladder (28) of a penile implant (26). The penile implant is sized for insertion into a dilated corpora cavernosum of a penis. The penile implant has a proximal tip (30) 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.