The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Dec. 19, 1989
Filed:
Jul. 15, 1987
Richard A DeVore, Richfield, OH (US);
Sam E Kinney, Moreland Hills, OH (US);
The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH (US);
Abstract
A proshesis apparatus method for implanting the apparatus, and method for controlling eustachian tube function includes an inflatable member dimensioned for at least partial receipt in a patient's eustachian tube. The inflatable member is operatively connected to means for selectively and volitionally inflating and deflating the member to close and open the eustachian tube. The inflating and deflating means preferably has a manually actuated pump disposed in subcutaneous tissue behind the ear and on the skull that communicates with the inflatable member. A reservoir means is placed in a surgically created mastoid cavity used for implanting the prosthesis. Alternatively, the reservoir means is formed as a portion of the pump. The eustachian tube function is controlled through selective inflation and deflation of the inflatable member to close and open the eustachian tube in a manner that simulates a normal, healthy eustachian tube. Further, the prosthesis apparatus allows volitional aeration of the middle ear space via control of eustachian tube opening and closing by a valve-like mechanism.