Devices, systems and methods using magnetic force systems affecting both the tongue and the soft palate/uvula in the upper airway

US8528564B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• KONINIKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V. · NL

Inventors

• Joseph Paraschac · Campbell, US
• Ryan Boucher · San Francisco, US
• Edward M. Gillis · Livermore, US
• Andrew W. Kramer · Los Gatos, US
• Scott A. McGill · San Ramon, US
• Lionel Nelson · Los Altos Hills, US
• Andres D. Tomas · Union City, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Nov 3, 2006
• Grant date: Sep 10, 2013
• Expiry date: Mar 8, 2030

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61F5/56
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

Systems and methods resist posterior movement of both the tongue and the soft palate/uvula during sleep, thereby keeping an airway open. The systems and methods employ first, second, and third structures. The first structure is sized and configured for placement in or on a tongue. The second structure is sized and configured for placement in or on a region of a soft palate or uvula. The third structure is sized and configured for placement in or on tissue in a desired relationship. anterior of the first and second structures. The first and second structures each includes a ferromagnetic material. The third structure includes a magnetic material that magnetically interacts with both the first and second ferromagnetic materials by attracting both the first and second ferromagnetic materials, thereby resisting posterior movement of both the tongue and the soft palate/uvula.