Artificial sphincter with variable viscosity fluid-filled collar

Abstract From the Canadian patent

Systems and methods for supplementing control of an anatomical sphincter. A collar containing variable viscosity fluid surrounds a portion of an anatomical conduit. The flow of bodily fluids through the anatomical conduit occurs according to the viscosity level of the variable viscosity fluid. Electro-rheologic fluid in the collar liquefies in the absence of an electrical potential difference to render the collar pliable permitting the anatomical conduit to expand and fluid to flow through the anatomical conduit. Electro-rheologic fluid in the collar solidifies in the presence of an electrical potential difference to render the collar firm restricting the anatomical conduit from expanding …