Importance

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Abstract

A variable-sized, self-inflating and self-deflating intragastric balloon device, includes a hiocompatible polymer membrane formed into a balloon having inner and outer surfaces preferably coated with a wax, the balloon defining an interior lumen having an internal capsule freely floating within the lumen, the internal capsule having first and second chambers with a communicating one way valve therebetween. The first chamber is formed from a biocompatible polymer preferably coated with wax forming a gas and liquid tight housing to store a liquid solution therein, and the second chamber is composed of material capable of self dissolving or degrading in the presence of the liquid solution. Application of external pressure will transfer liquid from the first chamber through the valve into the second chamber where it will degrade the chamber and react with a solid reagent disposed within the lumen external to the capsule, forming a gas which inflates the balloon. A manufactured weakness within the membrane wall reacts chemically and/or physically causing a deflation of the balloon.

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First Claim