| abstract |
The present invention provides an apparatus and process which can stimulate a state of complete continence of the neosphincter in the preparation of continent neostomies. More specifically, the present invention provides an apparatus and process for the stimulation of a state of complete continence of the neosphincter in the preparation of continent neostomies, comprising an electrocatheter with an electrode inserted above the neostomy near, and in electrical contact with, transplanted muscle tissue (i.e., a strip of antral gastric musculature) which has been transplanted to the distal segment of the intestine or other organ where an ostomy has been created. The apparatus and process can restore the organic continence in a subject who has undergone therapeutic alteration of an indispensable segment of the visceral anatomy (i.e., the anus or the urinary bladder), thereby significantly improving quality of life. |