Patent ID: 6625495
Filing Date: 2003-09-23
Classification: A61N

Abstract:
A probe insertable into a body cavity for applying electrical stimulation to tissue therein, characterized in comprising:a hollow member of tubular configuration and of flexible biocompatible material to enable the member to be inserted into the body cavity and to substantially conform to its inner surface, and thereby to contact muscle tissue therein to be stimulated; said hollow member being closed at one end and open at the opposite end to face the outer end of the body cavity to permit a fluid within the hollow member to be expelled and thereby to permit the conformity of the hollow member to the inner surface of the body cavity; at least a portion of the outer surface of said hollow member being electrically-conductive to enable an electrical voltage to be applied thereto for electrically stimulating the muscle tissue within the body cavity contacted by the electrically-conductive surface; said opposite end of the tube including a one-way valve permitting only the exit of fluid from the hollow member to allow the hollow member to conform to the inner surface of the body cavity upon the insertion of the hollow member into the body cavity, said one-way valve being closable to allow measurement of changes in fluid pressure within the hollow member, and thereby changes in pressure resulting from contractions or relaxations of the muscle tissue contacted and electrically stimulated by said probe.