DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS USING MAGNETIC FORCE SYSTEMS AFFECTING THE TONGUE OR HYOID MUSCLES IN THE UPPER AIRWAY

摘要

Systems (10a, 10b, 10c) and methods are provided for resisting posterior movement of the tongue during sleep, Thereby keeping an airway open. The systems and methods employ a first structure (12), that can be place either in or on a tongue within an oral cavity and/or in a region of hyoid muscle. The first structure (12), includes a ferromagnetic material. The systems and methods employ a second structure (14), that can be placed either in or on external tissue outside the oral cavity in a desired relationship with the first structure (12). The second structure (14), includes a magnetic material that magnetically interacts with the ferromagnetic material by attracting the ferromagnetic material, thereby resisting posterior movement of the tongue.