Airway implant
US7237554B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 31, 2003 |
| Grant date | Jul 3, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 8, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F5/566
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method and apparatus are disclosed for treating a condition of a patient's airway. The condition is attributed at least in part to a spacing of tissue from opposing surfaces in the airway. In one embodiment, the method and apparatus include placing a tissue contractor within the tissue. The contractor includes a static end and a tissue in-growth engaging end. The static end is secured to a bony structure adjacent to tissue to be contracted. The tissue in-growth engaging end is secured to the tissue and spaced from the bony structure. A spacing between the tissue engaging end and a bony end is contracted in order to place the tissue under tension.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.