System and method for temporary tongue suspension

US7934506B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS NV · NL

Inventors

• Beverly Tucker Woodson · Fergus Falls, US
• Chad C. Roue · Livermore, US
• Erik van der Burg · Sunnyvale, US
• Michael Dineen · Portola Valley, US
• Mark Hirotsuka · San Jose, US
• Jasper Jackson · Fort Bragg, US
• Andrew Frazier · Sunnyvale, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jun 19, 2007
• Grant date: May 3, 2011
• Expiry date: Mar 3, 2028

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61B2017/248
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

Methods and devices are disclosed for manipulating the tongue, and more particularly for temporarily suspending the tongue. One embodiment of the device comprises an elongate member with a retractable distal tissue-engaging tip that is movable within the lumen of tubular member configured for insertion into the tongue, preferably from an inferior surface of the jaw. The device may be used diagnostically assess the effect of performing tongue suspension in a patient prior to permanent implantation of a glossopexy device. The retractable distal tissue-engaging tip may be removed after diagnostic assessment, or left in place and attached to a temporary external securing device.