Intraoral electromuscular stimulation device and method
US7711438B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 18, 2003 |
| Grant date | May 4, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 9, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61N1/3601
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An intraoral electromuscular stimulation device and method to treat a breathing disorder. The stimulation device includes a first electrode, a first support member that maintains the first electrode in a sublingual location posterior to a frenulum and proximate to one of a first molar, a second molar and a third molar of a patient. A second electrode is maintained in a sublingual position posterior relative to the first electrode by a second support member. A further embodiment of the stimulation device includes a sensor that detects a respiratory parameter of a patient and outputs a signal indicative thereof. A control unit receives the signal from the sensor, distinguishes between inspiration and expiration, and initiates an electrical stimulation at a stimulation time prior to onset of inspiration and continues stimulation through a portion of inspiration at a level sufficient to induce muscle contraction without pain.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.