Patent ID: 6736793
Filing Date: 2004-05-18
Classification: A61B,A61M

Abstract:
A detachable balloon system for in vivo placement and inflation comprising a balloon having:an elastomeric membrane having a proximal opening and an inner surface, a self-sealing valve comprising a valve body for receiving an inflation instrument to inflate the balloon, the valve body including: a base portion bonded to the inner surface of the elastomeric membrane so as to seal the proximal opening of the balloon, an interior sealing portion extending distally from the base into the balloon, the sealing portion being compressibly sealable in response to a pressure within the balloon following inflation of the balloon and removal of the inflation instrument; further comprising a balloon dispenser for housing the balloon prior to receipt of the inflation instrument, the balloon dispenser comprising: a balloon seating element sized to allow the balloon to rest in the seating element, a guideway channel for guiding an inflation instrument into the dispenser and into mating alignment with the balloon, and an element responsive to external pressure for holding the balloon steady against longitudinal movement with respect to the inflation instrument.