Importance

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Abstract

An inflatable, implantable prosthesis includes a flexible, inflatable, thin wall container of physiologically acceptable material provided with a self-sealing valve assembly which permits fluid to be introduced into or removed from said container to inflate or deflate the prosthesis. The self-sealing valve assembly includes a top having an outer wall and an inner wall which are sealed about their periphery to form an envelope which is filled with a self-sealing gel. The outer wall of the top is secured to the inside of the container and a side wall depends from the top and is connected to a bottom to define a chamber. The chamber has at least one opening in the bottom or side wall so that inflating fluid can pass to and from said chamber into the interior of the container. When inflating or deflating the container, the valve is opened by passing a needle through the envelope and self-sealing gel into the chamber; fluid is removed from or added to the container through the needle or a replacement catheter via the chamber. The chamber shields and protects the thin wall of the container from potentially damaging contact with the needle. The side walls of the chamber are comprised of a flexible material which permits the chamber to collapse to form a more compact uninflated container that may be implanted using a minimum size incision and which expands after implantation.

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First Claim