Patent ID: 9173758
Filing Date: 2015-11-03
Classification: A61F,A61M

Abstract:
1. A method for inflating an intragastric balloon, the method comprising: providing an intragastric balloon in an outer container, the intragastric balloon comprising a polymeric wall, wherein the polymeric wall comprises one or more layers, and a balloon valve system comprising a self-sealing septum in a retaining structure, wherein the retaining structure comprises a concentric valve system with a smaller inner cylinder housing the septum and a larger outer cylinder housing a material configured to provide compressive forces against a bell-shaped needle sleeve of an inflation catheter, wherein the material providing compressive forces is a higher durometer material than the septum, and wherein the smaller inner cylinder comprises a lip configured for an interference fit with the bell-shaped needle sleeve; providing an inflation catheter comprising a needle assembly, the needle assembly comprising a hollow needle and a bell-shaped needle sleeve; piercing the septum by the needle of an inflation catheter, whereby an interference fit is created between the bell-shaped needle sleeve and the lip of the smaller inner cylinder; causing the intragastric balloon in an outer container attached by the interference fit to the inflation catheter to be swallowed by a patient in need thereof; degrading the outer container so as to permit inflation of the intragastric balloon; inflating the intragastric balloon in the patient's stomach via the inflation catheter, wherein the inflation catheter is connected to an inflation fluid source container; and detaching the intragastric balloon from the inflation catheter, wherein a detachment liquid comprising a physiological compatible liquid is forced through the inflation catheter to apply hydraulic pressure to the needle assembly such that the interference fit between the lip and the bell-shaped needle sleeve is broken, the needle assembly is ejected from the balloon valve and the self-sealing septum reseals.