Abstract

A first part of the inventive instrument comprises an insertion and removal device in the form of a maneuverable catheter which may be inserted through the mouth or nostril, pharynx, and esophagus into the stomach. In one form, the catheter includes an outer sheath which protects the human body while a tool extending coaxially through an inner sheath is being manipulated. The tool includes a remotely operated pair of tweezers for holding or releasing a loop on insertion or seizing and holding the loop on removal of the second part of the inventive instrument. An alternate device for capturing and holding the second part of the inventive instrument uses an electromagnet. The second part of the inventive instrument comprises a self-compressing, open-ended, balloon-like tube for implantation in and lining of the digestive tract, especially in the intestine, to prevent food from being absorbed into the villi. The balloon-like tube expands outwardly when filled with food chemicals, enabling peristalsis to squeeze the food chyme through the tube. An alternate embodiment intermittently lines only desired areas of the alimentary canal. The tube may also be used to treat obesity or alcoholism, or to cover an ulcer and give it an opportunity to heal with minimum exposure to digesting food and gastric juices.

Other References

• Carlson, Anton J. et al.; The Machinery of the Body; 5th Ed. .COPYRGT.1961, p. 330
• Wallechinsky, David et al.; The People's Almanac; p. 1058