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Method and apparatus for detecting and treating obstructive sleep apnea

  • US 5,540,733 A
  • Filed: 09/21/1994
  • Issued: 07/30/1996
  • Est. Priority Date: 09/21/1994
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
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1. A method for treating obstructive sleep apnea in a patient by electrical stimulation of muscles of the upper airway by the steps of:

  • (a) detecting an apnea by the steps of;

    (1) monitoring a respiratory effort waveform for a parameter characteristic of the patient'"'"'s level of respiratory effort;

    (2) averaging a plurality of values of the parameter taken from successive respiratory cycle, said average providing a baseline average for the parameter;

    (3) generating a limit value from the baseline average;

    (4) comparing a value of the parameter with the limit value; and

    (b) applying electrical stimulation to the muscles of the upper airway upon detection of the apnea at a level which restores patency in the airwaywherein the parameter is a peak amplitude of the waveform.

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