Thermal-Activated Penile Prosthesis Using a Shape-Memory Biomaterial

NU 2011-111

Inventors

Brian Le

Alberto Colombo

David Dunand

Kevin McVary

Abstract

Northwestern engineers and doctors have developed a heat-activated penile prosthesis to treat erectile dysfunction. It has one component that is surgically implanted in the corpora cavernosa of the penis. The penis goes from a flaccid state to an erect disposition with the application of heat. It returns to its flaccid state with the application of a cold press. This device takes advantage of the properties of nitinol, notably its hysteresis and reliable shape memory properties. 

Applications

• Surgically implanted Penile Prosthesis

Advantages

• Consists of fewer components than the inflatable penile prosthesis, which is comprised of an abdominal reservoir, a scrotal pump and an implantable cylinder
• Offers simpler surgery and decreased chance of infection
• Emulates a more realistic erection and has the advantage of returning to a flaccid state
• Does not bend in response to expected axial forces for intercourse

IP Status

Issued US Patent No. 9,204,966