Devices and methods for treating sleep disorders

Abstract

Devices and methods for maintaining an open airway are described. Systems and methods are described for maintaining an opening of an airway by application of force to a patient's tissues in one of inferior, anterior, and lateral directions.

1 . A device for maintaining an open airway comprising:
 a body portion configured for application along a front portion of a patient's neck, the body portion having a perimeter, an outside surface, and an inside surface;   an adhesive provided along the inside surface such that the body portion is configured for adhesive engagement with the front portion of the patient's neck; and   a traction application mechanism configured to apply traction in one or both of inferior and anterior directions to tissues in contact with the adhesive layer.   
   
   
       2 - 40 . (canceled)