Abstract: A system and method of eliciting a swallowing reflex in a human subject. Stimulation signals are generated for eliciting a full swallowing reflex when applied to skin overlying a region of thyroid cartilage in the neck. The stimulation signals delivered via surface electrodes to the skin overlying at least the region of thyroid cartilage in the neck to elicit the full swallowing reflex in the human subject.

Abstract: A system and method of eliciting a swallowing reflex in a human subject. Stimulation signals are generated for eliciting a full swallowing reflex when applied to skin overlying a region of thyroid cartilage in the neck. The stimulation signals delivered via surface electrodes to the skin overlying at least the region of thyroid cartilage in the neck to elicit the full swallowing reflex in the human subject.

Abstract: A method is described for securing an implanted device within a patient. The overlying skin is lifted away from underlying bone at a selected device fixation location within the patient. Multiple suture anchor locations are then selected around or within the device fixation location. A suture anchor is installed at each of the suture anchor locations, the implanted device is placed at the device fixation location, and suture is connected to the suture anchors so as to securely fix the implanted device at the device fixation location.

Abstract: A method of placing a stapedius activity sensor in a stapedius muscle of a patient is described. The stapedius muscle has a tendon end connecting to the stapes bone, and an opposing muscle belly end where the facial nerve innervates the stapedius muscle. A mastoidectomy is performed to create an opening through mastoid bone of the patient. A lead groove is drilled in temporal bone of the patient following a route along the facial nerve to the muscle belly end of the stapedius muscle. The stapedius activity sensor is then introduced along the lead groove to insert a distal end of the stapedius activity sensor into the muscle belly end of the stapedius muscle.