They create a device to fight against apnea and snoring

Scientists from the University of Malaga (UMA) have created a mathematical method to manufacture the device by means of a 3D printer.

The invention aims to control the habitual position of the jaw while the person sleeps to facilitate the passage of air during the hours of sleep, thus improving the opening of the airways and the avoiding snoring at the same time as the transient breathing suspension, apnea, reports Uma.

The results of the research, which was in charge of the Department of Mechanical Engineering of the UMA in collaboration with the Ortoplus orthodontic company, were published in the journal 'Mechanism and Machine Theory ". The main contribution of this work, according to the university, is that each device is designed in a personalized way.

To do this, a patient's X-ray is taken to obtain morphological data and this is combined with an analysis of the jaw. It provides parameters capable of predicting its movement, especially during the resting phase

"Data such as measures of advanced or recession of the jaw with the mouth closed respectively, or what is the maximum opening of the mouth, are essential to develop an effective device with guarantees, "says Álex Bataller , researcher at the UMA and one of the makers of the work.

The university explained that this device uses two symmetrical parts called cams that are responsible for letting the jaw move normally and, at the same time, prevent it from recoiling if you open your mouth while breathing.

"In this way, directed mobility of the jaw is guaranteed," adds Bataller.

According to the researcher, it is important that the system does not give a feeling of choking or autonomy. Patients

"These are some of the major complaints about the current systems that exist on the market by those who use these conventional devices," said the expert.

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At the present time the tests that have been carried out in patients with sleep problems have been positive and scientists are looking for biocompatible materials to plastic, the main component currently used for this class of devices.

"With the use of the device acquires a yellowish tone and when it is in contact with the mouth on average eight hours the daily causes accelerate wear. Therefore, we test with other synthetic or organic materials of different plastics that has a longer shelf life and are free from hazards when implanted or in contact with living tissue, 39; occurrence the mouth "explains Juan Cabrera, co-author of the book

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