Smart muscles for incontinence treatment (SmartSphincter)

The aim of the proposal is to realize prototype devices acting as artificial muscle, termed anal sphincter, to finally treat patients with severe FI. The device should replace the destroyed natural muscle function using low-voltage electrically activated polymers (EAPs) controlled by implemented pressure sensors and the patient. The unique artificial fecal EAP-based sphincter system is driven by an integrated microprocessor, powered by an energy harvesting device and an implantable battery, rechargeable by transcutaneous energy transfer (TCT) controlling the fluid flow intentionally by the patient and automatically with pressure gauges. The remote control will allow the physician to perform patient-specific adjustments.