Importance

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Abstract

The present invention relates to a modular prosthetic conduit implantable within a mammal and a method of surgically implanting and replacing such a conduit. Specifically, the present invention is directed toward a conduit comprising a first conduit member composed of a biocompatible alloplast and coated on its exterior surface with a porous biocompatible tissue-bonding material. The present invention is further directed toward a second conduit member composed of a biocompatible alloplast. The second conduit member contains a region or component that can be expanded radially by mechanical, hydraulic, chemical, electrical, temperature sensitive or other physical means. The second component can be easily slid into or out of the first conduit member and at temperatures approaching a mammal's body temperature, it expands to form a watertight 'docking' fit within the first conduit member. The second conduit member may contain remotely actuable valve and pump. Both the first conduit member and the second conduit member may be altered with respect to size, geometry and shape so as to affect conduits, reservoirs, sampling chambers and tissue-prosthesis interfaces. By way of altered size, geometry and shape, the modular prosthetic conduit may serve to drain bodily fluids, give access to intracorporeal organs, deliver drugs or chemicals or energies into the body. Both conduits may be impregnated with antimicrobials to lessen the risk of bacterial colonization.

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First Claim