MAGNETICALLY-ACTUATED ARTIFICIAL INTRAURETHRAL SPHINCTER FOR FEMALE PATIENTS

摘要

The invention relates to a magnetically-actuated artificial intraurethral sphincter for female patients, comprising a device which is shaped like a urinary catheter and which is inserted inside the female urethra. The inventive device enables the patient voluntarily to control urination. For said purpose, a magnet (6) external to the body is placed in a suitable position such as to open a magnetic valve which is integrated into the invention. Moreover, when said external magnet (6) is removed, the magnetic valve closes automatically, thereby preventing the release of urine. According to the invention, under the action of the external magnet, the valve performs the axial movement of a soft ferromagnetic plunger, thereby opening the urine discharge orifice, while in the normal position, i.e. without the application of the external magnet, the plunger is attracted by a small internal magnet (5), thereby closing said discharge orifice.