Implanted Stimulation System for Airway Patency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current treatments for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and upper airway restrictive/resistance syndrome (UARS) often require external devices to assist airflow, which can be cumbersome and non-automatic.
Innovation Solution
An implanted stimulation system that uses electrical stimulation through leads with electrodes to activate lingual muscles, maintaining an open airway by contracting and stiffening the tongue, potentially eliminating the need for external devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If external devices are used to assist airflow for OSA and UARS treatment, then airflow support is provided, but the treatment becomes cumbersome and non-automatic
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses self-service by implanting the stimulation device within the subject's body and utilizing automatic sensing of respiratory events to trigger stimulation without external intervention. The device autonomously monitors and responds to apnea episodes, eliminating the need for external worn devices and manual operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical airflow support systems (external devices) with electrical stimulation of respiratory muscles. Instead of mechanically assisting airflow, the system electrically stimulates the diaphragm and intercostal muscles to restore normal breathing mechanics, thereby eliminating external device requirements.
2Reliability
If electrical stimulation is applied to activate lingual muscles, then airway remains open, but muscle fatigue may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies periodic electrical stimulation pulses to the lingual muscles rather than continuous stimulation. By delivering stimulation in timed intervals synchronized with the respiratory cycle and apnea events, the system maintains airway patency while allowing muscle recovery periods, thereby preventing fatigue.
Solution Approach 2:
The stimulation parameters (amplitude, frequency, duration) are dynamically adjusted based on real-time sensing of respiratory events, muscle response, and apnea severity. This dynamic adaptation optimizes airway protection while minimizing muscle fatigue by reducing stimulation intensity when less support is needed.
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 system provides automatic and less obtrusive treatment for OSA and UARS by maintaining an open airway, reducing muscle fatigue through varying stimulation patterns and configurations determined by sensors and feedback.
Implementation Method 1
The stimulation may be provided by an implanted device... The stimulation may include the electrical stimulation to cause a selected muscle to activate and stiffen or contract
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a system for stimulation of a subject. The stimulation may be to provide therapy to treat the subject. Stimulation may be of selected muscle groups and/or portions.