Importance

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Abstract

An inflatable prosthesis is disclosed which comprises a structural member having a bore dimensioned to receive a needle formed in its back end. An elastomeric balloon has a back end in sealing engagement with the structural member and has a front end extending beyond the front end of the structural member such that a portion of the structural member is contained within the balloon. A port is defined in the structural member for placing the bore in fluid communication with a port location exterior of the structural member which is contained within the balloon, whereby fluid infused into the bore passes through the port and into a space between the balloon and the exterior surface of the structural member to inflate the balloon. An elastomeric member has one portion attached to the structural member and another portion attached to the front end of the balloon so as to partially constrain axial expansion of the prosthesis as the balloon is inflated.

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First Claim