Patent Application 20060201519 - System for adjustable tissue anchors > Summary
US Patent Application
Patent Application No. US 20060201519
Published on Sep 14, 2006
Application No. 11/349040
Field on Feb 7, 2006
Inventor/Applicants
Frazier, Andrew - Sunnyvale, CA US
Hirotsuka, Mark - San Jose, CA US
Roue, Chad C. - San Jose, CA US
Jackson, Jasper - Newark, CA US
Burg, Erik van der - Los Gatos, CA US
Dineen, Michael - Portola Valley, CA US
Abstract
Methods and devices are disclosed for manipulating the tongue. An implant is positioned within at least a portion of the tongue and may be secured to other surrounding structures such as the mandible and/or hyoid bone. In general, the implant is manipulated to displace at least a portion of the posterior tongue in an anterior or lateral direction, or to alter the tissue tension or compliance of the tongue. Methods and devices are also disclosed for manipulating other soft tissue structures, including the soft palate and pharyngeal airway.
Classification
A61F 5/56
128/848.