The patented device provides a cuff of and artificial urethral sphincter, which allows for the safe and reliable occlusion of the urethral duct. Specific accessory devices entail the inflation and deflation of the cuff with saline, leading to occlusion or disocclusion of the urethra. In this way the device makes it possible to control micturition in the case of subjects that are affected by urinary incontinence.
Nowadays, urinary incontinence is one of the principal healthcare problems worldwide and the associated socio-economic costs are enormous. The artificial urinary sphincter represents the gold standard treatment, with particular regard to male subjects. The commercially available devices are still affected by different limitations and major concerns: more than 50% of implanted devices fail. During urethra occlusion, current devices implicate non- uniform mechanical solicitation of biological tissues, leading to regions where excessive stress and strain ape applied.
Vasoconstriction phenomena and subsequent tissue inflammation occur, leading to stricture formation. Sometimes, the device determines urethra erosion.