Method of removing an inflated implant from a bladder

Abstract

An inflated implant, such as an attenuation device, previously implanted in a urinary bladder can later be removed according to a number of different methods. Preferably, removal is accomplished transurethrally. In one embodiment, removal is accomplished by reducing the inflated implant from an enlarged profile to a reduced profile so that it may be withdrawn transurethrally by a removal system. The removal system can be configured differently depending upon whether reduction from the enlarged profile to the reduced profile is accomplished by deflation, compression, and/or other ways.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A device for treating symptoms of a urinary tract dysfunction, comprising a compressible attenuation device having an expanded volume within the range of from about 1 cc to about 400 cc, and a valve for permitting filling of the attenuation device through a filling device; wherein the valve has a first pair of complementary surfaces for resisting deflation of the attenuation device, and a second pair of complementary surfaces for resisting additional filling of the attenuation device when the attenuation device is exposed to an external pressure which is greater than an internal pressure within the attenuation device.