摘要 |
A shape memory shutter device for controlling the rectum of a disabled person, comprising a section of conduit to be connected to the rectum of the disabled person, shutter means which control the passage through the conduit section and shape memory actuator means for actuating said shutter means. The shutter means comprise a plurality of petals positioned circumferentially around said conduit section and able to move between a closed and an open position. The actuator means preferably comprise shape memory wires, for example associated directly to the petals and means for supplying an electrical current through said wires to cause its opening. Preferably, sensors of the presence of material to be evacuated within the device are provided, to generate an alarm signal that can be detected by the patient. The patient can thus positively command the opening of the shutter device. In the case of a completely disabled patient, the opening of the shutter device can be obtained automatically as a result of the detection of material to be evacuated, in which case to the device is associated a disposable pouch for the collection of the evacuated material.
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