| Methods and Devices for Intramuscular Stimulation of Upper Airway and Swallowing Muscle Groups |
| |
|
Institute : National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
|
| |
| Description of Invention : |
|
The invention is a method and device that induces intramuscular stimulation of the extrinsic and intrinsic laryngeal musculature to improve swallowing and voice and upper esophageal sphincter opening in humans. The device may be used to augment airway protection in persons with swallowing problems (dysphagia) who are at risk of aspiration. This invention will assist those persons who have chronic long-standing dysphagia and have not been benefited from early rehabilitative efforts, putting them at chronic risk of developing life-threatening pneumonia because of repeated aspiration. Limiting the entry of food or liquids into the lungs while swallowing, which is the objective of this invention, can prevent aspiration. Patients at risk of aspiration pneumonia currently require enteric (tube) feeding, a costly method for sustaining nutrition and one that greatly reduces quality of life. The invention comprises three unique components for preventing aspiration during swallowing for some persons now requiring enteric feeding: 1) intramuscular implantation to produce two synergistic actions; 2) independent long term control of stimulation during swallowing by patients; and, 3) a unique system of combining indwelling intramuscular electrodes and controllers.
|
|
| |
| Inventors : |
|
| |
| Patent Status : |
|
| |
| NIH Reference Number: |
|
| |
| Portfolios : |
| Devices/Instrumentation-Therapeutics-Devices |
|
| |
| For Additional Information Please Contact: |
| |
| |
| For Additional Information Regarding Collaboration
with the Investigator Please Contact: |
| |
| |
| |
| Last Updated: 8/18/2006 |
