Nasal support device and method

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a device and method for facilitating air flow in the nasal passage of a domestic animal. The nasal support device (NSD) disclosed herein is useful for facilitating air flow during rest, physical exertion, respiratory ailment, etc. The NSD secures to the nose of a domestic animal to support the unsupported lateral vestibular walls of the nasal passages by lifting or stenting.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]The present application is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No. 09 / 264,464, filed Mar. 8, 1999; which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Ser. No. 09 / 018,603, filed Feb. 4, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,033,422; which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Ser. No. 08 / 843,741 filed Apr. 21, 1997, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,913,873; the entire disclosure of each of these applications being incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention is directed to facilitating air flow through the nasal passages of a domestic animal. Specifically, the invention provides devices and methods for supporting the soft tissue structures of the nasal passages of a domestic animal.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]Portions of the following discussion of the nasal anatomy of domestic mammals are excerpted from R. Nickel et al., The Viscera of Domestic Animals, (2nd revised ed.), Springer-Verlag, New York, Hiedelberg, Berlin (1979), pp. 211-221. This i...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention provides devices and methods for supporting the nasal tissues of a domestic animal, particularly horses. The devices are designed to reduce air flow impedance and provide structural support to the nasal bones. The device includes a support layer and side pieces that meet at a midline region of the animal's nose. The device can be used on horses of different ages and can be fitted to the nose of dogs, humans, and other animals. The method of using the device involves securing it to the animal's nose and facilitating air flow through the nasal passages. The device and method can be used on horses running freely or wearing saddlery or other equipment attached to the nose."

Problems solved by technology

This is particularly noticeable during labored breathing.

These devices, however, do not address the unique soft tissue structures and mechanical problems associated with providing support for the nasal tissues of non-human mammals, especially large performance mammals such as the horse and camel.

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