Implantable Elastic Device for Adjustable Tongue Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current treatments for sleep-related obstructive respiratory disorders, such as sleep apnea, are either uncomfortable, invasive, or ineffective, with existing devices like the 'Repose' system facing issues with non-adjustable thread tension, tissue compression, and anatomical risks.
Innovation Solution
An implantable device featuring an elastic element and optional abutment for non-pneumatic adjustable positioning of body parts, allowing for adjustable force application and easy adaptation to changing anatomical conditions, designed to treat disorders like sleep apnea without restricting tongue mobility or causing significant side effects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a non-resorbable thread is used to position the tongue body (Repose system), then the tongue can be repositioned, but the thread tension cannot be adjusted or corrected after operation and compresses tissue and blood vessels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing the static, non-adjustable thread tension system with a dynamic, adjustable elastic element system. The elastic element (spring) allows continuous adjustment of tension force after implantation, enabling the system to adapt to changing anatomical conditions and patient needs without requiring additional surgical interventions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by transitioning from a fixed thread length parameter to an adjustable elastic element parameter system. The elastic element's force constant and pre-tension can be modified independently, allowing precise control over the repositioning force applied to the tongue base while minimizing tissue compression.
2Strength
If radio frequency ablation is used to create scars for tissue stiffening, then soft palate stabilization is achieved, but thermal lesions are produced in the tongue and soft palate tissue
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies mechanics substitution by replacing the thermal/chemical ablation method with a purely mechanical support system. Instead of using heat to create scars for tissue stiffening, the invention uses an elastic element to provide continuous mechanical support and repositioning force, avoiding thermal damage to the tongue and soft palate tissues while achieving the desired stabilization effect.
3Reliability
If pneumatic splinting by compressed air (nCPAP) is used, then airways are kept open, but the device must be worn every night causing discomfort and mucosal problems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by creating a passive, implantable system that automatically maintains airway patency without requiring external power sources, patient activation, or nightly wear. The elastic element provides continuous, autonomous support to the tongue base, eliminating the need for patient compliance with external device usage and associated discomfort.
4Reliability
If operative methods like hyoid fixation or bimaxillary advancement are used, then airway stabilization is achieved, but the surgical effort is huge and carries significant risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the complex operative procedures into a simple, modular implantable system. Instead of performing extensive surgeries like hyoid fixation or bimaxillary advancement, the invention uses a segmented approach with separate components (elastic element, anchoring structures) that can be implanted through minimal access, dramatically reducing surgical complexity and risk while maintaining airway stabilization.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device effectively treats sleep-related breathing disorders with minimal side effects, allowing for easy adjustment and long-term efficacy, improving quality of life by reducing daytime tiredness and sleep disturbances.
Implementation Method 1
das mindestens eine elastische Element und optional b) ein Auflage- oder Gegenlager (9)
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an implantable device for the non-pneumatic adjustable positioning of a human or animal body part, comprising a) at least one elastic element and, optionally, b) an abutment, as well as the use of this device in a method for the treatment of disorders that are caused by the deficient or inadequate positioning of a human or animal body part. In particular, the invention relates to the use of the device for treating sleep-related breathing disorders.