Abstract: A tongue positioning apparatus comprising a shield attached to a tongue receptacle for moving the user's tongue forward to provide access to the user's oropharynx during a medical procedure and a tube configured to receive an elongated device secured to the receptacle. The invention also comprises a method of performing a medical procedure including placing the tongue positioning apparatus on a patient's tongue, introducing a device through the tube and performing a medical procedure. Preferably, the procedure may comprise administering a gaseous anesthetic, intubating the patient or performing an endoscopic operation.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for positioning a user's tongue to bring the tongue forward, to decrease obstructions in the user's airway and reduce snoring. The apparatus comprises a tongue sleeve which is configured to retain the forward extent of the user's tongue. In preferred embodiments, the tongue sleeve has narrowed inner dimensions at a point along the length of the sleeve. This narrowing acts strength the suction when the user's tongue is positioned within the sleeve. Preferably, the narrowing portions comprise an annular constricted portion. The tongue sleeve has one or more airways which may either comprise complete tubes or air channels formed in the tongue sleeve. A number of airways may be provided. In one embodiment, the airway comprises a tube configured to connect with a positive airway pressure supply means to maintain the patency of the user's upper respiratory tract.