Implantable circulating lubrication system for joints

摘要

A lubrication device for lubricating a joint of a human or mammal patient, which is entirely implantable in a patient's body, comprises a reservoir for storing a lubricating fluid and a fluid connection for introducing the lubricating fluid into the joint when the device is implanted in the patient's body. Further, the fluid connection comprises a fluid connection device connecting the reservoir with the joint such that a lubricating fluid flow is established from the reservoir into the joint. The fluid connection comprises either an infusion needle adapted to be intermittently placed into the joint for injecting the lubricating fluid, or a tube adapted to be permanently placed into the joint for continuously injecting the lubricating fluid.

主权项

1. An implantable lubrication device for lubricating a joint of a human or mammal patient by adding and circulating lubricating fluid, the lubrication device comprising:
a refillable reservoir comprising a chamber with an adjustable volume adapted to store a lubricating fluid, and an implantable refill injection port connected to said refillable reservoir for refilling said refillable reservoir with said lubricating fluid, a fluid connection device comprising:
a first fluid connection, wherein said first fluid connection is:
a. connected to said reservoir,b. adapted to extend through tissue of the patient, andc. in connection with the joint when implanted, for introducing said lubricating fluid into said joint when the lubrication device is implanted in the patient's body, anda second fluid connection, wherein said second fluid connection is:
a. connected to said reservoir,b. adapted to extend through tissue of the patient, andc. in connection with the joint when implanted, for returning said lubricating fluid from said joint to said refillable reservoir when the lubrication device is implanted in the patient's body, and an implantable energized lubrication fluid pump placed along said first fluid connection for pumping fluid from the refillable reservoir to the joint and thereby establishing a circulating lubricating fluid flow via said joint.