Patent ID: 6470213
Filing Date: 2002-10-22
Classification: A61B,A61F

Abstract:
A method for communicating information between a bladder disposed within an individual and the exterior of the individual, comprising the steps of:(a) providing an implantable medical device having a pressure sensor for sensing the pressure within the bladder, a fluid valve adapted to prevent a flow of fluid from the bladder of the individual in accordance with the sensor and a communication device for providing communication regarding the pressure between the implantable medical device and the exterior of the individual and an energy source for applying energy to the implantable medical device; (b) inserting at least a portion of the implantable medical device into the bladder of the individual by way of the urinary tract of the individual; (c) determining when the pressure within the bladder reaches a predetermined level and permitting fluid flow from the bladder of the individual in response to the pressure level determination; (d) communicating the pressure level determination to the exterior of the individual by the implantable medical device; (e) applying a control signal from the exterior of the body of the individual to the implantable medical device within the body of the individual in accordance with the communicated pressure level determination; and (f) operating the fluid valve by the implantable medical device in accordance with the control signal from the exterior of the body.