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AN electronic device designed to improve women's sexual satisfaction has passed its first major test.
American researcher Stuart Meloy claimed his invention - known as the Orgasmatron - resulted in improved sexual response in 91 per cent of those in clinical trials.
The device, implanted into the buttocks, is said to produce an orgasm at the push of a remote-controlled button.
Dr Meloy said a trial involving 11 patients had shown the Orgasmatron - a name which he has trademarked - did work.
"In 10 of the 11 patients, we were able to give them a sensation that they described as pleasurable," said Dr Meloy, of the Piedmont Anaesthesia and Pain Consultants clinic in North Carolina.
"Even those who could not reach orgasm reported an increase in sexual satisfaction so in that sense it was still successful. The results were promising in my mind.
"I think we have demonstrated that it works."
The device is named after the gadget in the 1968 film Barbarella, which saw Jane Fonda playing a 41st century space adventurer. In one famous scene, she is hooked up to a sexual pleasure machine. A similar machine was featured in Woody Allen's 1973 movie Sleepers.
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Patients have two electrodes implanted which are connected by wires to the appropriate nerves in the spinal cord. With a remote control they can send tiny pulses of electricity through their spinal nerves, which can lead to orgasm.
Dr Meloy originally used the device to ease back pain. He became aware of the positive side effects when a patient suggested he teach her husband how to "do that".
The operation costs £9000 ($22,000). A temporary system can be fitted for up to 10 days for £1600.
http://www.news.com.au/story/0,10117,12140285-13762,00.html