| abstract |
An implantable esophageal sphincter apparatus with an adjustable band to be placed at the lower part of the esophagus. The inflation of the band, or sphincter body, can be increased or decreased to adjust the tightness of the device. The inflatable sphincter body may be wrapped around the esophagus and may be connected to an inflation device with a fluid reservoir. The inflation device may have a pump mechanism that will respond to external control to increase or decrease the inflation of the sphincter body. The sphincter apparatus will be held in place at the area of implantation by sutures and by fenestration mechanisms, which will allow ingrowths of tissue or fibrous elements of the body around the sphincter apparatus or into porous materials on the sphincter apparatus. The apparatus may also include a circumferential shield on a distal side of the sphincter apparatus. The shield is adapted to fit against the distal or lower side of the patient's diaphragm and inhibits the development of a hiatus hernia, that is, a protrusion of the stomach past the diaphragm through the passage for the esophagus. |