CA2500855A1 - System and method for preventing closure of passageways - Google Patents

System and method for preventing closure of passageways Download PDF

Info

Publication number
CA2500855A1
CA2500855A1 CA002500855A CA2500855A CA2500855A1 CA 2500855 A1 CA2500855 A1 CA 2500855A1 CA 002500855 A CA002500855 A CA 002500855A CA 2500855 A CA2500855 A CA 2500855A CA 2500855 A1 CA2500855 A1 CA 2500855A1
Authority
CA
Canada
Prior art keywords
magnet
magnetically susceptible
pharyngeal wall
susceptible material
attached
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
CA002500855A
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Stephen N. Brooks
Jed E. Black
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Pavad Medical Inc
Original Assignee
Individual
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Priority to CA002635955A priority Critical patent/CA2635955A1/en
Publication of CA2500855A1 publication Critical patent/CA2500855A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61NELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N2/00Magnetotherapy
    • A61N2/004Magnetotherapy specially adapted for a specific therapy
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61FFILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F5/00Orthopaedic methods or devices for non-surgical treatment of bones or joints; Nursing devices; Anti-rape devices
    • A61F5/56Devices for preventing snoring
    • A61F5/566Intra-oral devices
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61FFILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F2210/00Particular material properties of prostheses classified in groups A61F2/00 - A61F2/26 or A61F2/82 or A61F9/00 or A61F11/00 or subgroups thereof
    • A61F2210/009Particular material properties of prostheses classified in groups A61F2/00 - A61F2/26 or A61F2/82 or A61F9/00 or A61F11/00 or subgroups thereof magnetic
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61NELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N2/00Magnetotherapy
    • A61N2/06Magnetotherapy using magnetic fields produced by permanent magnets
    • YGENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10STECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10S602/00Surgery: splint, brace, or bandage
    • Y10S602/902Antisnoring or mouth closing devices

Abstract

A system for treating sleep-related breathing disorders. In one embodiment, the system includes a first magnetically susceptible material (125) attached to a left lateral pharyngeal wall (120) and a second magnetically susceptibl e material (135) attached to a right lateral pharyngeal wall (130). The second magnetically susceptible material (135) is positioned opposite the first magnetically susceptible material (125) across an upper airway (100). The system further includes a first magnet (160) disposed outside the body and lateral to the first magnetically susceptible material (125), and a second magnet (170) disposed outside the body and lateral to the second magneticall y susceptible material.

Description

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PREVENTING
CLOSURE OF PASSAGEWAYS
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
~ooo~~ This application claims benefit of United States provisional patent application serial number 60/415,995, filed October 4, 2002, which is herein incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention X0002) Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to prevention of abnormal breathing sounds (e.g., snoring), adverse consequences, illness or death in persons due to partial or complete blockage of the upper airway.
Description of the Related Art ~0003~ A common and potentially serious disorder in humans involves involuntary closure of the airway during sleep. This disorder is known as "sleep-disordered breathing" or "obstructive sleep apnea" (OSA). In persons with OSA, there is involuntary closure or reduction in caliber of a portion of the airway that connects the atmosphere to the lungs. The upper portion of the airway (the "upper airway") consists of two passageways, the nasal airway and the oral airway. These two passageways merge to become a single passageway. Portions of the upper airway just behind the tongue are known as the soft palate, the pharynx, the hypopharynx, etc.
~oooa~ In persons affected by OSA, closure, reduction in patency or increased airflow resistance of the upper airway occurs during sleep, due to a combination of physiological changes associated with sleep (including relaxation of muscles) and the anatomy of the upper airway (which is generally smaller or more crowded than in normal individuals). In persons prone to sleep apnea, a portion or portions of the muscular walls of the upper airway may become narrow or collapse, leading to reduction in airflow ("hypopnea"), cessation of airflow ("apnea"), increase in airflow turbulence or increased resistance to airflow within the airway. In the instance of collapse, the upper airway is blocked, breathing stops, air movement to the lungs ceases, and the oxygen level in the blood tends to decrease. As a response to this process (or to less severe manifestations, such as hypopneas or increased airway resistance), a brief arousal usually occurs in the brain. As a consequence of the brief arousal, the muscle tone in the walls of the upper airway returns to waking levels, and the airway abnormality is corrected - i.e. airway resistance and patency return to normal levels.
~ooos~ Generally, following each event, the patient returns to sleep, until another partial or complete upper airway collapse occurs and the process repeats itself.
Depending on the severity in an individual case, the number of events may range from a few per hour of sleep to more than 100 events per hour of sleep. This process disrupts normal sleep. As a consequence, patients typically suffer from the effects of sleep deprivation. Such effects may include daytime drowsiness, tiredness or fatigue, difficulties with mental concentration or memory, mood changes, reductions in performance or increases in mistakes, and increased risk of accidents. Additionally, OSA is known to increase the risk of development of other medical problems Snoring is a mild form of sleep-disordered breathing in which increased airflow turbulence occurs. The snoring sounds result from tissue vibration within the nasal or oral airway. While snoring has been traditionally regarded as a social or cosmetic problem, recent studies suggest that snoring may be linked to the development of health problems, including high blood pressure.
Airway closure during sleep generally occurs at one or both of two levels in the upper airway: the soft palate and the hypopharynx (base of the tongue).
At either level, the anterior tissue can collapse against the posterior pharyngeal wall, which makes up the rear wall of the throat. Additionally, the side (lateral) walls of the upper airway can collapse inward partially, or completely against each other.
The lateral walls of the airway are susceptible to collapse in many patients with obstructive sleep apnea and other forms of sleep-related breathing disorders.
In these cases, prevention of collapse of the airway only in the anterior-posterior dimension is insufficient to maintain normal airway patency. Even after extensive airway surgery for sleep apnea (which primarily addresses the anterior-posterior dimension of the airway), the patient may continue to have problems with breathing during sleep, due to lateral wall collapse or dysfunction.
looos~ Several types of treatment are available for obstructive sleep apnea and other sleep-related breathing disorders. The most common treatment consists of an air pressure delivery system that applies greater than atmospheric pressure to all walls of the upper airway to reduce the potential for full or partial collapse. Many people have difficulty using this device or prefer not to use it for various reasons.
Also, surgical reconstruction of the airway or dental devices may be used.
These treatments, however, often fail to treat the problem adequately.
Accordingly, a need exists in the art for an improved method and system for treating sleep apnea and other sleep-related breathing disorders.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
~oo~o~ Embodiments of the present invention are generally directed to a system for treating sleep-related breathing disorders. In one embodiment, the system includes a first magnet attached to a left lateral pharyngeal wall, and a second magnet attached to a right lateral pharyngeal wall. The second magnet is positioned opposite the first magnet across an upper airway.
(oo~~~ In another embodiment, the system includes a first magnetically susceptible material attached to a left lateral pharyngeal wall and a second magnetically susceptible material attached to a right lateral pharyngeal wall.
The second magnetically susceptible material is positioned opposite the first magnetically susceptible material across an upper airway. The system further includes a first magnet disposed outside the body and lateral to the first magnetically susceptible material, and a second magnet disposed outside the body and lateral to the second magnetically susceptible material.
100~2~ In yet another embodiment, the system includes a first magnet attached to a left lateral pharyngeal wall and a second magnet attached to a right lateral pharyngeal wall. The second magnet is positioned opposite the first magnet across an upper airway. The system further includes a third magnet disposed inside the upper airway directly across from the first magnet and a fourth magnet disposed inside the upper airway directly across from the second magnet.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
~00~3~ The following detailed description makes reference to the accompanying drawings, which are now briefly described.
Figure 1A, 1B and 3-5 illustrate a series of coronal views of an upper airway, each having a system for treating sleep-related breathing disorders in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.
~00~5~ Figure 2 illustrates a sagittal view of the upper airway having a system for treating sleep-related breathing disorders in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.
While the invention is described herein by way of example for several embodiments and illustrative drawings, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention is not limited to the embodiments or drawings described. It should be understood, that the drawings and detailed description thereto are not intended to limit the invention to the particular form disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims. The headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description or the claims. As used throughout this application, the word "may" is used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense (i.e., meaning must). Similarly, the words "include", "including", and "includes" mean including, but not limited to.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Figure 1A illustrates a coronal view of an upper airway 100 having a system for treating sleep apnea (and other sleep-related breathing disorders, e.g., snoring) in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. The upper airway 100 is generally defined by the anterior pharyngeal wall 110, two lateral pharyngeal walls 120, 130 and the posterior pharyngeal wall 140. The lateral pharyngeal walls 120, 130 generally include lateral pharyngeal tissue extending superiorly to the velopharynx and inferiorly to the epiglottis. The posterior pharyngeal wall generally includes posterior pharyngeal tissue extending superiorly to the velopharynx and inferiorly to the epiglottis. The anterior pharyngeal wall 110 generally includes a base portion of the tongue 150, the soft palate 210 and the uvula 220 (shown in Figure 2). Magnetically susceptible material 115 is attached to the anterior pharyngeal wall 110, magnetically susceptible material 125 is attached to the lateral pharyngeal wall 120, and magnetically susceptible material 135 is attached to the lateral pharyngeal wall 130. In one embodiment, magnetically susceptible materials 115, 125, 135 are attached to the respective pharyngeal walls by surgical sutures or bonding material, such as surgical glue. Other means for attaching the magnetically susceptible materials to the pharyngeal walls are also contemplated by embodiments of the invention described herein. In another embodiment, the magnetically susceptible materials 115, 125, 135 may be implanted inside, or embedded beneath the surface of, the respective pharyngeal walls, as shown in Figure 1 B. In yet another embodiment, the magnetically susceptible materials 115, 125, 135 may be coated on the surfaces of the respective pharyngeal walls.
~oo~s~ The magnetically susceptible materials 115, 125, 135 may be materials, which are not magnets, but are susceptible to magnetic fields, such as ferromagnetic materials. As such, magnetically susceptible materials 115, 125, would not interact with each other in the absence of a magnetic field, such as, during daytime, as opposed to permanent magnets that would potentially interact with each other at all times, which may be inappropriate or even deleterious (e.g., during speaking or swallowing) to a person's health. Magnetically susceptible materials 115, 125, 135 may be in the form of plates, discs, spheres, bars, multiple small pieces, mesh and the like. In an alternate embodiment, the magnetically susceptible materials 115, 125, 135 may be replaced with magnets, such as permanent magnets with magnetic fields of fixed strength or variable magnets (e.g., electro-magnets) with magnetic fields of variable strength (including zero if not activated).
~oo~s~ Magnet 160 is positioned outside the body and lateral to magnetically susceptible material 125, while magnet 170 is positioned outside the body and lateral to magnetically susceptible material 135, and magnet 180 is positioned outside the body and anterior to magnetically susceptible material 115.
Magnets 160, 170, 180 may be attached or placed adjacent to the outer skin 151 of a patient with means, such as a neckband or a chin strap. In one embodiment, magnets 160, 170, 180 may be implanted beneath the outer skin surface, such as, beneath the front skin 211 of the cheek 266 for magnet 160, as shown in Figure 2.
~0020~ Magnet 160 is configured to attract magnetically susceptible material toward magnet 160 so that movement of the lateral pharyngeal wall 120 toward closure of the upper airway 100 may be opposed. Magnet 170 is configured to attract magnetically susceptible material 135 toward magnet 170 so that movement of the lateral pharyngeal wall 130 toward closure of the upper airway 100 may be opposed. Magnet 180 is configured to attract magnetically susceptible material toward magnet 180 so that movement of the anterior pharyngeal wall 110 toward closure of the upper airway 100 may be opposed. In this manner, the cross sectional dimensions (e.g., the length or width) of the upper airway 100 may be increased or prevented from decreasing, thereby allowing patency of the upper airway 100 to be maintained.
~002~~ Force fields between magnet 160 and magnetically susceptible material 125 and between magnet 170 and magnetically susceptible material 135 act to keep the soft tissue of the lateral pharyngeal walls 120, 130 from collapsing.
Force fields between magnet 180 and magnetically susceptible material 115 act to keep the soft tissue of the anterior pharyngeal wall 110 from collapsing toward the posterior pharyngeal wall 140.
~0022~ Figure 3 illustrates a coronal view of an upper airway 300 having a system 350 for treating sleep apnea (and other sleep-related breathing disorders, e.g., snoring) in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. The system includes magnet 315 attached to an anterior pharyngeal wall 310, magnet 325 attached to lateral pharyngeal wall 320, magnet 335 attached to lateral pharyngeal wall 330, and magnet 345 attached to posterior pharyngeal wall 340. In one embodiment, magnets 315, 325, 335, 345 are attached to the respective pharyngeal walls by surgical sutures or bonding material, such as surgical glue. Other means for attaching the magnets to the pharyngeal walls are also contemplated by embodiments of the invention described herein. In another embodiment, magnets 315, 325, 335, 345 may be implanted inside (e.g., embedded beneath the surface of) the respective pharyngeal walls. In yet another embodiment, magnets 315, 325, 335, 345 may be coated on surfaces of the respective pharyngeal walls.
[oo2s~ Magnets 315, 325, 335, 345 may be permanent magnets with magnetic fields of fixed strength or variable magnets, such as electro-magnets, with magnetic fields of variable strength (including zero if not activated).
[0024 Magnets 315, 325, 335, 345 are oriented such that the same magnetic poles of the magnets 315, 325, 335, 345 face each other, e.g., north poles facing other north poles. In operation, magnets 315, 325, 335, 345 are configured to repel each other, thereby opposing closure of the upper airway 300 without the use of external magnets.
[0025 Figure 4 illustrates a coronal view of an upper airway 400 having a system 450 for treating sleep apnea (and other sleep-related breathing disorders, e.g., snoring) in accordance with yet another embodiment of the invention. The system 450 includes magnet 425 attached to lateral pharyngeal wall 420 and magnet 435 attached to lateral pharyngeal wall 430. In one embodiment, magnets 425, 435 are attached to the respective lateral pharyngeal walls by surgical sutures or bonding material, such as surgical glue. Other means for attaching the magnets to the lateral pharyngeal walls are also contemplated by embodiments of the invention described herein. In another embodiment, magnets 425, 435 may be implanted inside (e.g., embedded beneath the surface of) the respective lateral pharyngeal walls. In yet another embodiment, magnets 425, 435 may be coated on surfaces of the respective lateral pharyngeal walls.
[oo2s~ Magnets 425, 435 may be permanent magnets with magnetic fields of fixed strength or variable magnets, such as electro-magnets, with magnetic fields of variable strength (including zero if not activated). Magnets 425, 435 are oriented such that the same magnetic poles of the magnets 425, 435 face each other, e.g., north pole facing other north pole. In operation, magnets 425, 435 are configured to repel each other, thereby opposing closure of the upper airway 400 without the use of external magnets.
~002~~ Figure 5 illustrates a system 550 for treating sleep apnea (and other sleep-related breathing disorders, e.g., snoring) disposed inside an upper airway 500 in accordance with still another embodiment of the invention. The system includes magnet 525 attached to lateral pharyngeal wall 520 and magnet 535 attached to lateral pharyngeal wall 530. In one embodiment, magnets 525, 535 may be attached to the lateral pharyngeal walls 530, 535 by surgical sutures or bonding material, such as surgical glue. Other means for attaching the magnets to the pharyngeal walls are also contemplated by embodiments of the invention described herein. In another embodiment, magnets 525, 535 may be implanted inside the lateral pharyngeal walls 530, 535. In yet another embodiment, magnets 525, 535 may be coated on surfaces of the lateral pharyngeal walls 530, 535. Magnets 525, 535 may be permanent magnets with magnetic fields of fixed strength or variable magnets, such as electro-magnets, with magnetic fields of variable strength (including zero if not activated).
~oo2s) The system 550 further includes magnets 560 and 570 disposed inside the upper airway 500. Magnet 560 is disposed across from magnet 525, while magnet 570 is disposed across from magnet 535. The magnetic poles of magnets 560, 570 are oriented such that magnets 560, 570 repel magnets 525, 535, respectively, thereby opposing closure of the upper airway 500 without the use of external magnets. Magnets 560, 570 may be attached to or held in place by a removable apparatus 580, such as a mouthpiece.
~oo2s~ Each magnet or magnetically susceptible material described herein may comprise more than one magnet or magnetically susceptible material. Although embodiments of the invention have been described with reference to two or four magnetically susceptible materials or magnets, embodiments of the invention also contemplate other combinations or numbers of magnets and magnetically susceptible materials. Although embodiments of the invention have been described with reference to treating sleep-related breathing disorders, such as sleep apnea or snoring, embodiments of the invention also contemplate other applications where passageway or airway patency is required. For example, the magnets or magnetically susceptible materials may be inserted or attached through a body aperture, such as the vagina, the rectum, the urinary passage and the like.
While the foregoing is directed to embodiments of the present invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof, and the scope thereof is determined by the claims that follow.

Claims (40)

What Is Claimed Is:
1. A system for treating sleep-related breathing disorders, comprising:
a first magnet attached to a left lateral pharyngeal wall; and a second magnet attached to a right lateral pharyngeal wall, wherein the second magnet is positioned opposite the first magnet across an upper airway.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the first and second magnets are implanted inside the lateral pharyngeal walls.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein the magnetic field of the second magnet interacts with the magnetic field of the first magnet such that one of the first magnet repels the second magnet and the second magnet repels the first magnet, thereby maintaining a distance between the lateral pharyngeal walls adequate to treat sleep-related breathing disorders.
4. The system of claim 1, wherein the first magnet and the second magnet are attached to the left and right lateral pharyngeal walls by one of surgical sutures, a bonding material and coating.
5. The system of claim 1, further comprising:
a third magnet attached to an anterior pharyngeal wall; and a fourth magnet attached to a posterior pharyngeal wall, wherein the third magnet is positioned opposite the fourth magnet across the upper airway.
6. The system of claim 5, wherein the third magnet is attached to one of a soft palate, uvula and tongue.
7. The system of claim 5, wherein the magnetic field of the third magnet interacts with the magnetic field of the fourth magnet such that the third magnet repels the fourth magnet, thereby maintaining a distance between the anterior and posterior pharyngeal walls adequate to treat sleep-related breathing disorders.
8. The system of claim 5, wherein the first magnet is attached to the left lateral pharyngeal wall, the second magnet is attached to the right lateral pharyngeal wall, the third magnet is attached to the anterior pharyngeal wall and the fourth magnet is attached to the posterior pharyngeal wall by one of surgical sutures, a bonding material and coating.
9. The system of claim 1, further comprising:
a third magnet disposed outside the body and lateral to the first magnet; and a fourth magnet disposed outside the body and lateral to the second magnet.
10. The system of claim 9, wherein the magnetic field of the third magnet interacts with the magnetic field of the first magnet such that the first magnet is attracted toward the third magnet.
11. The system of claim 9, wherein the magnetic field of the fourth magnet interacts with the magnetic field of the second magnet such that the second magnet is attracted toward the fourth magnet.
12. The system of claim 9, wherein the magnetic field of the third magnet interacts with the magnetic field of the first magnet such that the first magnet is attracted toward the third magnet; and wherein the magnetic field of the fourth magnet interacts with the magnetic field of the second magnet such that the second magnet is attracted toward the fourth magnet.
13. The system of claim 1, further comprising:
a third magnet implanted under the skin lateral to the first magnet; and a fourth magnet implanted under the skin lateral to the second magnet.
14. The system of claim 1, wherein the first and second magnets are one of permanent and variable magnets.
15. A system for treating sleep-related breathing disorders, comprising:
a first magnetically susceptible material attached to a left lateral pharyngeal wall;
a second magnetically susceptible material attached to a right lateral pharyngeal wall, wherein the second magnetically susceptible material is positioned opposite the first magnetically susceptible material across an upper airway;

a first magnet disposed outside the body and lateral to the first magnetically susceptible material; and a second magnet disposed outside the body and lateral to the second magnetically susceptible material.
16. The system of claim 15, wherein the magnetic field of the first magnet attracts the first magnetically susceptible material toward the first magnet, and wherein the magnetic field of the second magnet attracts the second magnetically susceptible material toward the second magnet.
17. The system of claim 15, further comprising:
a third magnetically susceptible material attached to an anterior pharyngeal wall; and a third magnet disposed outside the body and anterior to the third magnetically susceptible material.
18. The system of claim 17, wherein the magnetic field of the third magnet attracts the third magnetically susceptible material toward the third magnet.
19. The system of claim 17, wherein the first magnetically susceptible material is attached to the left lateral pharyngeal wall, the second magnetically susceptible material is attached to the right lateral pharyngeal wall, and the third magnetically susceptible material is attached to the anterior pharyngeal wall by one of surgical sutures, a bonding material and coating.
20. The system of claim 17, wherein the third magnetically susceptible material is attached to one of a soft palate, uvula and tongue.
21. The system of claim 17, wherein the first magnet, the second magnet and the third magnet are each placed on a skin surface.
22. The system of claim 17, wherein the first magnet, the second magnet and the third magnet are each implanted under a skin surface.
23. The system of claim 17, wherein the third magnet is disposed within a nasal cavity.
24. The system of claim 15, wherein the first magnetically susceptible material is implanted in the left lateral pharyngeal wall and the second magnetically susceptible material is implanted in the right lateral pharyngeal wall.
25. The system of claim 15, wherein the first and second magnets are one of permanent and variable magnets.
26. A system for preventing sleep apnea and other sleep-related breathing disorders, comprising:
a first magnet attached to a left lateral pharyngeal wall;
a second magnet attached to a right lateral pharyngeal wall, wherein the second magnet is positioned opposite the first magnet across an upper airway;
a third magnet disposed inside the upper airway directly across from the first magnet; and a fourth magnet disposed inside the upper airway directly across from the second magnet.
27. The system of claim 26, wherein the third magnet generates a magnetic field that repels the first magnet away from the third magnet, and wherein the fourth magnet generates a magnetic field that repels the second magnet away from the fourth magnet.
28. The system of claim 26, wherein the third and fourth magnets are attached to a removable apparatus to hold the third and fourth magnets inside the upper airway.
29. A method for treating sleep-related breathing disorders, comprising:
attaching a first magnet to a left lateral pharyngeal wall; and attaching a second magnet to a right lateral pharyngeal wall opposite the first magnet across an upper airway.
30. The method of claim 29, further comprising repelling the first magnet from the second magnet by virtue of the magnetic forces generated by the first and second magnets.
31. The method of claim 29, further comprising:
attaching a third magnet to an anterior pharyngeal wall; and attaching a fourth magnet to a posterior pharyngeal wall opposite the third magnet across the upper airway.
32. The method of claim 31, further comprising moving the third magnet and the fourth magnet away from each other by virtue of magnetic forces generated by the third magnet and the fourth magnet.
33. The method of claim 29, further comprising:
disposing a third magnet outside the body and lateral to the first magnet; and disposing a fourth magnet outside the body and lateral to the second magnet.
34. The method of claim 29, further comprising:
attracting the first magnet toward the third magnet; and attracting the second magnet toward the fourth magnet.
35. A method for treating sleep-related breathing disorders, comprising:
attaching a first magnetically susceptible material to a left lateral pharyngeal wall;
attaching a second magnetically susceptible material to a right lateral pharyngeal wall opposite the first magnetically susceptible material across an upper airway;
disposing a first magnet outside the body and lateral to the first magnetically susceptible material; and disposing a second magnet outside the body and lateral to the second magnetically susceptible material.
36. The method of claim 35, further comprising:
attracting the first magnetically susceptible material toward the first magnet;
and attracting the second magnetically susceptible material toward the second magnet.
37. The method of claim 35, further comprising:
attaching a third magnetically susceptible material to an anterior pharyngeal wall; and disposing a third magnet outside the body and lateral to the third magnetically susceptible material.
38. The method of claim 37, further comprising attracting the third magnetically susceptible material toward the third magnet.
39. A method for treating sleep-related breathing disorders, comprising:
attaching a first magnet to a left lateral pharyngeal wall;
attaching a second magnet to a right lateral pharyngeal wall opposite the first magnet across an upper airway;
disposing a third magnet inside the upper airway directly across from the first magnet; and disposing a fourth magnet inside the upper airway directly across from the second magnet.
40. The method of claim 39, further comprising:
repelling the first magnet away from the third magnet; and repelling the second magnet away from the fourth magnet.
CA002500855A 2002-10-04 2003-10-06 System and method for preventing closure of passageways Abandoned CA2500855A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CA002635955A CA2635955A1 (en) 2002-10-04 2003-10-06 System and method for preventing closure of passageways

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US41599502P 2002-10-04 2002-10-04
US60/415,995 2002-10-04
PCT/US2003/031605 WO2004032798A1 (en) 2002-10-04 2003-10-06 System and method for preventing closure of passageways

Related Child Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
CA002635955A Division CA2635955A1 (en) 2002-10-04 2003-10-06 System and method for preventing closure of passageways

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
CA2500855A1 true CA2500855A1 (en) 2004-04-22

Family

ID=32093795

Family Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
CA002635955A Abandoned CA2635955A1 (en) 2002-10-04 2003-10-06 System and method for preventing closure of passageways
CA002500855A Abandoned CA2500855A1 (en) 2002-10-04 2003-10-06 System and method for preventing closure of passageways

Family Applications Before (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
CA002635955A Abandoned CA2635955A1 (en) 2002-10-04 2003-10-06 System and method for preventing closure of passageways

Country Status (5)

Country Link
US (2) US7107992B2 (en)
EP (1) EP1545387A1 (en)
AU (1) AU2003282695A1 (en)
CA (2) CA2635955A1 (en)
WO (1) WO2004032798A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (50)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6962904B1 (en) * 1998-03-13 2005-11-08 Connective Tissue Imagineering Elastin peptide analogs and uses thereof
US8807137B2 (en) * 2002-09-06 2014-08-19 Koninklijke Philips N.V. Self-anchoring magnetic force implant devices, systems, and methods
US8001971B2 (en) * 2002-09-06 2011-08-23 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Devices, systems, and methods for stabilization or fixation of magnetic force devices used in or on a body
US8528564B2 (en) * 2002-09-06 2013-09-10 Koninklijke Philips N.V. Devices, systems and methods using magnetic force systems affecting both the tongue and the soft palate/uvula in the upper airway
US7360542B2 (en) * 2002-09-06 2008-04-22 Apneon, Inc. Devices, systems, and methods to fixate tissue within the regions of body, such as the pharyngeal conduit
US7188627B2 (en) * 2002-09-06 2007-03-13 Apneon, Inc. Magnetic force devices, systems, and methods for resisting tissue collapse within the pharyngeal conduit
US8511315B2 (en) 2002-09-06 2013-08-20 Koninklijke Philips N.V. Devices, systems and methods using magnetic force systems in the upper airway
US8505539B2 (en) * 2002-09-06 2013-08-13 Koninklijke Philips N.V. Devices, systems and methods using titrated magnetic force systems
US20060289014A1 (en) * 2002-09-06 2006-12-28 Apneon, Inc. Devices, systems, and methods using magnetic force systems in or on tissue in an airway
US7441559B2 (en) * 2002-09-06 2008-10-28 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Devices, systems, and methods to fixate tissue within the regions of body, such as the pharyngeal conduit
US8522790B2 (en) 2002-09-06 2013-09-03 Koninklijke Philips N.V. Stabilized magnetic force devices, systems and methods
US8020560B2 (en) * 2002-09-06 2011-09-20 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Devices, systems and methods using magnetic force systems affecting the tongue or hyoid muscles in the upper airway
US9463112B2 (en) * 2002-09-06 2016-10-11 Koninklijke Philips N.V. Device, systems and methods having mobile ferromagnetic structures
US8047206B2 (en) 2002-09-06 2011-11-01 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Magnetic devices, systems, and methods placed in or on a tongue
US20070256693A1 (en) * 2002-09-06 2007-11-08 Apneon, Inc. Devices, systems, and methods using magnetic force systems in or on soft palate tissue
US7721740B2 (en) * 2002-09-06 2010-05-25 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Devices, systems, and methods using magnetic force systems in or on tissue
US7481224B2 (en) * 2003-01-22 2009-01-27 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Magnetic force device, systems, and methods for resisting tissue collapse within the pharyngeal conduit
CA2544304A1 (en) * 2003-11-05 2005-05-26 Pavad Medical, Inc. Electrically activated alteration of body tissue stiffness for breathing disorders
JP2007512090A (en) * 2003-11-20 2007-05-17 アプネオン,インコーポレイテッド Device, system and method for anchoring tissue in a body region such as a pharyngeal conduit
US20050274387A1 (en) * 2004-06-10 2005-12-15 John Macken Method and apparatus for treatment of snoring and sleep apnea
US7882842B2 (en) 2004-09-21 2011-02-08 Pavad Medical, Inc. Airway implant sensors and methods of making and using the same
US7836888B2 (en) 2004-09-21 2010-11-23 Pavad Medical, Incorporated Airway implant and methods of making and using
US8578937B2 (en) 2004-09-21 2013-11-12 Medtronic Xomed, Inc. Smart mandibular repositioning system
US7997266B2 (en) * 2004-10-04 2011-08-16 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. System and method for airway manipulation
DE102005000702B4 (en) * 2005-01-04 2007-08-23 Klinikum Der Universität Regensburg Device for central implantation in a tongue body
US7992567B2 (en) 2005-02-08 2011-08-09 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. System and method for percutaneous glossoplasty
US8096303B2 (en) 2005-02-08 2012-01-17 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V Airway implants and methods and devices for insertion and retrieval
US8371307B2 (en) 2005-02-08 2013-02-12 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Methods and devices for the treatment of airway obstruction, sleep apnea and snoring
US20070144534A1 (en) * 2005-11-30 2007-06-28 Carlos Mery System to prevent airway obstruction
WO2007079055A2 (en) * 2005-12-29 2007-07-12 Apneon, Inc. Self-anchoring magnetic force implant devices, systems, and methods
US8657172B2 (en) 2006-11-06 2014-02-25 Avery Dennison Corporation Device for dispensing plastic fasteners
DE102007029507A1 (en) * 2007-06-25 2009-01-02 Averbeck, Elisabeth Snoring and breathing interruption treating device, has magnet inducing implant, where implant is implantation body e.g. injectionable metal pin, made of metal or metal alloy and magnet is connectable and disconnectable in adjustable manner
US8167787B2 (en) * 2008-01-03 2012-05-01 Revent Medical, Inc. Partially erodable systems for treatment of obstructive sleep apnea
US7954494B1 (en) 2008-03-26 2011-06-07 Connor Robert A Device with actively-moving members that hold or move the tongue
US8733363B2 (en) 2010-03-19 2014-05-27 Revent Medical, Inc. Systems and methods for treatment of sleep apnea
US9439801B2 (en) 2012-06-29 2016-09-13 Revent Medical, Inc. Systems and methods for treatment of sleep apnea
WO2009140197A1 (en) 2008-05-12 2009-11-19 Revent Medical, Inc. Partially erodable systems for treatment of obstructive sleep apnea
WO2011116382A2 (en) * 2010-03-19 2011-09-22 Revent Medical Inc. Systems and methods for treatment of sleep apnea
AU2011255195A1 (en) 2010-05-21 2012-11-29 Revent Medical, Inc. Systems and methods for treatment of sleep apnea
JP2013538075A (en) 2010-07-26 2013-10-10 レベント メディカル インコーポレイテッド System and method for treating sleep apnea
US8844537B1 (en) 2010-10-13 2014-09-30 Michael T. Abramson System and method for alleviating sleep apnea
US8808158B2 (en) 2011-01-18 2014-08-19 The Regents Of The University Of California Device and method for correcting obstructive sleep apnea
US9144512B2 (en) 2011-05-19 2015-09-29 W. R. Wagner Family Limited Partnership Oral devices, kits, and methods for reducing sleep apnea, snoring, and/or nasal drainage
US9408743B1 (en) 2011-05-19 2016-08-09 W.R. Wagner Family Limited Partnership Oral devices
US9445938B1 (en) 2012-04-26 2016-09-20 W.R. Wagner Family Limited Partnership Oral devices
IL235257A (en) * 2014-10-21 2016-02-29 Firas Marie System for preventing snoring and sleep apnea
US11813192B1 (en) 2019-07-01 2023-11-14 Slow Wave, Inc. Oral devices
CN111228030B (en) * 2020-03-09 2021-02-09 西安交通大学医学院第一附属医院 Intelligent magnetic traction device for treating OSAS
WO2023026092A1 (en) * 2021-08-25 2023-03-02 Belkhode Vikram Improved apparatus for treating sleep disorders
US11806274B1 (en) 2022-10-16 2023-11-07 Slow Wave, Inc. Oral appliances with palate extension

Family Cites Families (80)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB8627600D0 (en) * 1986-11-19 1986-12-17 Petruson B Nasal device
US5522382A (en) * 1987-06-26 1996-06-04 Rescare Limited Device and method for treating obstructed breathing having a delay/ramp feature
WO1988010108A1 (en) 1987-06-26 1988-12-29 Travenol Centre For Medical Research Device for monitoring breathing during sleep and control of cpap treatment
US5199424A (en) * 1987-06-26 1993-04-06 Sullivan Colin E Device for monitoring breathing during sleep and control of CPAP treatment that is patient controlled
KR950012642B1 (en) 1987-10-13 1995-10-19 헤이스 앤드 미드 아이엔씨. Dental orthosis for alleviation of snoring
US4978323A (en) * 1989-08-10 1990-12-18 George Freedman System and method for preventing closure of passageways
US5176618A (en) * 1989-08-10 1993-01-05 George Freedman System for preventing closure of passageways
US5239995A (en) * 1989-09-22 1993-08-31 Respironics, Inc. Sleep apnea treatment apparatus
US5015538A (en) * 1989-09-22 1991-05-14 Minnesota Mining And Manufacturing Company Process for pulse electroplating electroactive polymers and articles derived therefrom
US5117816A (en) * 1991-01-03 1992-06-02 Shapiro Norman A Anti-snore device
JPH074075B2 (en) * 1991-02-28 1995-01-18 工業技術院長 Actuator element
US6629527B1 (en) * 1991-10-17 2003-10-07 Respironics, Inc. Sleep apnea treatment apparatus
US7013892B2 (en) * 1991-11-01 2006-03-21 Ric Investments, Llc Sleep apnea treatment apparatus
US5284161A (en) * 1992-11-12 1994-02-08 Karell Manuel L Snopper-the snoring stopper anti-snoring mouth device
DE4412190A1 (en) 1994-04-08 1995-10-12 Schreiber Hans Prevention of snoring
US5509888A (en) * 1994-07-26 1996-04-23 Conceptek Corporation Controller valve device and method
AU3622395A (en) 1994-10-12 1996-05-06 Malcolm John Kennard Snorguard anti snoring device
US5591216A (en) 1995-05-19 1997-01-07 Medtronic, Inc. Method for treatment of sleep apnea by electrical stimulation
JP2000504951A (en) 1996-01-18 2000-04-25 ユニバーシティー オブ ニュー メキシコ Soft actuator and artificial muscle
US6475639B2 (en) * 1996-01-18 2002-11-05 Mohsen Shahinpoor Ionic polymer sensors and actuators
US5873363A (en) * 1996-06-06 1999-02-23 Esmailzadeh; Karim Method and apparatus for breathing
US6545384B1 (en) * 1997-02-07 2003-04-08 Sri International Electroactive polymer devices
US6812624B1 (en) * 1999-07-20 2004-11-02 Sri International Electroactive polymers
US6376971B1 (en) * 1997-02-07 2002-04-23 Sri International Electroactive polymer electrodes
US6781284B1 (en) * 1997-02-07 2004-08-24 Sri International Electroactive polymer transducers and actuators
US6586859B2 (en) * 2000-04-05 2003-07-01 Sri International Electroactive polymer animated devices
US5988171A (en) * 1997-06-26 1999-11-23 Influence Medical Technologies, Ltd. Methods and devices for the treatment of airway obstruction, sleep apnea and snoring
US5980998A (en) * 1997-09-16 1999-11-09 Sri International Deposition of substances on a surface
SE9800520D0 (en) 1998-02-23 1998-02-23 Pacesetter Ab Electrode for tissue stimulation
US6257234B1 (en) * 1998-08-21 2001-07-10 Respironics, Inc. Apparatus and method for determining respiratory mechanics of a patient and for controlling a ventilator based thereon
AU6043099A (en) * 1998-09-14 2000-04-03 Rutgers, The State University Of New Jersey Prosthetic, orthotic, and other rehabilitative robotic assistive devices actuated by smart materials
US6190893B1 (en) * 1998-09-18 2001-02-20 Massachusetts Institute Of Technology Electroactive materials for stimulation of biological activity of bone marrow stromal cells
US6569654B2 (en) * 1998-09-18 2003-05-27 Massachusetts Institute Of Technology Electroactive materials for stimulation of biological activity of stem cells
US6212435B1 (en) * 1998-11-13 2001-04-03 Respironics, Inc. Intraoral electromuscular stimulation device and method
US6098629A (en) * 1999-04-07 2000-08-08 Endonetics, Inc. Submucosal esophageal bulking device
US6664718B2 (en) * 2000-02-09 2003-12-16 Sri International Monolithic electroactive polymers
US6513531B2 (en) * 1999-09-17 2003-02-04 Pi Medical, Inc. Proximal placement of snoring treatment implant
US6453905B1 (en) * 1999-09-17 2002-09-24 Pi Medical, Inc. Multi-component snoring treatment
US6523541B2 (en) * 1999-09-17 2003-02-25 Pi Medical, Inc. Delivery system for snoring treatment implant and method
US6601584B2 (en) * 1999-09-17 2003-08-05 Pi Medical, Inc. Contracting snoring treatment implant
US6390096B1 (en) * 1999-09-17 2002-05-21 Pi Medical, Inc. Needle with pre-loaded implant for snoring treatment
US6415796B1 (en) * 1999-09-17 2002-07-09 Pi Medical, Inc. Placement tool for snoring treatment
US6513530B2 (en) * 1999-09-17 2003-02-04 Pi Medical, Inc. Braided palatal implant for snoring treatment
US6250307B1 (en) * 1999-09-17 2001-06-26 Pi Medical, Inc. Snoring treatment
US6450169B1 (en) * 1999-09-17 2002-09-17 Pi Medical, Inc. Braided implant for snoring treatment
US6502574B2 (en) * 1999-09-17 2003-01-07 Pi Medical, Inc. Lateral stiffening snoring treatment
US6516806B2 (en) * 1999-09-17 2003-02-11 Pi Medical, Inc. Compliant snoring treatment implant
US6431174B1 (en) * 2000-08-10 2002-08-13 Pi Medical, Inc. Method and apparatus to treat conditions of the naso-pharyngeal area
US6523542B2 (en) * 1999-09-17 2003-02-25 Pi Medical, Inc. Snoring treatment implant and method
US6636767B1 (en) * 1999-09-29 2003-10-21 Restore Medical, Inc. Implanatable stimulation device for snoring treatment
US6408851B1 (en) * 1999-10-01 2002-06-25 Manuel L. Karell Method and device for holding a tongue in a forward position
US6092523A (en) * 1999-10-26 2000-07-25 Belfer; William A. Anti-snoring device
AU2001238675A1 (en) * 2000-02-23 2001-09-03 Sri International Electroactive polymer thermal electric generators
US6768246B2 (en) * 2000-02-23 2004-07-27 Sri International Biologically powered electroactive polymer generators
US6454803B1 (en) * 2000-05-23 2002-09-24 Romo, Iii Thomas External nasal valve batten implant device and method
US6439238B1 (en) * 2000-06-30 2002-08-27 Pi Medical, Inc. Snoring diagnostic and treatment
US6514237B1 (en) * 2000-11-06 2003-02-04 Cordis Corporation Controllable intralumen medical device
WO2002053808A1 (en) * 2001-01-03 2002-07-11 Wen Lu Stable conjugated polymer electrochromic devices incorporating ionic liquids
WO2002056876A2 (en) 2001-01-18 2002-07-25 Medpointe Healthcare Inc. Treatment for snoring
US7427292B2 (en) * 2001-05-16 2008-09-23 Michael Sachs Maximal nasal internal support system
US20030015198A1 (en) * 2001-06-18 2003-01-23 Heeke David W. Method and device for addressing sleep apnea and related breathing disorders
US6467485B1 (en) * 2001-10-01 2002-10-22 Bruno Schmidt Anti-snoring device and method
US20030062050A1 (en) * 2001-10-01 2003-04-03 Bruno Schmidt Anti-snoring devices and methods
US6835173B2 (en) * 2001-10-05 2004-12-28 Scimed Life Systems, Inc. Robotic endoscope
US6770027B2 (en) * 2001-10-05 2004-08-03 Scimed Life Systems, Inc. Robotic endoscope with wireless interface
US6707236B2 (en) * 2002-01-29 2004-03-16 Sri International Non-contact electroactive polymer electrodes
US7017582B2 (en) * 2002-02-04 2006-03-28 Restore Medical Inc. Stiffening pharyngeal wall treatment
US7146981B2 (en) * 2002-02-04 2006-12-12 Restore Medical, Inc. Pharyngeal wall treatment
US6749556B2 (en) * 2002-05-10 2004-06-15 Scimed Life Systems, Inc. Electroactive polymer based artificial sphincters and artificial muscle patches
US6679836B2 (en) * 2002-06-21 2004-01-20 Scimed Life Systems, Inc. Universal programmable guide catheter
US7188627B2 (en) * 2002-09-06 2007-03-13 Apneon, Inc. Magnetic force devices, systems, and methods for resisting tissue collapse within the pharyngeal conduit
US8020560B2 (en) * 2002-09-06 2011-09-20 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Devices, systems and methods using magnetic force systems affecting the tongue or hyoid muscles in the upper airway
US7073505B2 (en) * 2002-09-06 2006-07-11 Apneon, Inc. Systems and methods for moving and/or restraining tissue in the oral cavity
US7360542B2 (en) * 2002-09-06 2008-04-22 Apneon, Inc. Devices, systems, and methods to fixate tissue within the regions of body, such as the pharyngeal conduit
US7216648B2 (en) * 2002-09-06 2007-05-15 Apneon, Inc. Systems and methods for moving and/or restraining tissue in the upper respiratory system
US7441559B2 (en) * 2002-09-06 2008-10-28 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Devices, systems, and methods to fixate tissue within the regions of body, such as the pharyngeal conduit
US6955172B2 (en) * 2002-09-06 2005-10-18 Apneon, Inc. Systems and methods for moving and/or restraining the tongue in the oral cavity
US6619290B1 (en) * 2002-11-07 2003-09-16 Christopher B. Zacco Mouthpiece for reducing snoring
US7992566B2 (en) * 2002-12-30 2011-08-09 Quiescence Medical, Inc. Apparatus and methods for treating sleep apnea
CA2544304A1 (en) * 2003-11-05 2005-05-26 Pavad Medical, Inc. Electrically activated alteration of body tissue stiffness for breathing disorders

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US7107992B2 (en) 2006-09-19
US20040112390A1 (en) 2004-06-17
WO2004032798A1 (en) 2004-04-22
US20060260623A1 (en) 2006-11-23
CA2635955A1 (en) 2004-04-22
AU2003282695A1 (en) 2004-05-04
EP1545387A1 (en) 2005-06-29

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US7107992B2 (en) System and method for preventing closure of passageways
US8807137B2 (en) Self-anchoring magnetic force implant devices, systems, and methods
US8047206B2 (en) Magnetic devices, systems, and methods placed in or on a tongue
US20050115572A1 (en) Electrically activated alteration of body tissue stiffness for breathing disorders
US7721740B2 (en) Devices, systems, and methods using magnetic force systems in or on tissue
CA2778785C (en) Flexible implants having internal volume shifting capabilities for treating obstructive sleep apnea
US5176618A (en) System for preventing closure of passageways
US4978323A (en) System and method for preventing closure of passageways
US20060289014A1 (en) Devices, systems, and methods using magnetic force systems in or on tissue in an airway
US20070256693A1 (en) Devices, systems, and methods using magnetic force systems in or on soft palate tissue
Pierce et al. Upper airway function and dysfunction in respiration
US8590537B2 (en) Devices, systems and methods using magnetic force systems in the tongue
US20160317345A1 (en) A system for preventing snoring and sleep apnea
WO2007079055A2 (en) Self-anchoring magnetic force implant devices, systems, and methods
Kulkarni et al. Role of Oral Appliances in Obstructive Sleep Apnea as a Treatment Modality.
Johnson Jr Examination of a Method for Increasing Adjustment to and Compliance with Nasal Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) in Persons with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
EEER Examination request
FZDE Discontinued