Abstract: The present invention provides minimally invasive devices and methods for accessing the sinuses and their surrounding structures for surgery and other treatments. The anterior ethmoid and maxillary sinuses are accessed and treated under minimal anesthesia with little or no postoperative limitation of activity or adverse symptoms. Direct visual verification of the sinuses and their natural ostia is utilized. Other paranasal sinuses may be treated by this method as well. The sinuses, in particular the maxillary and anterior ethmoid, are accessed via a direct anterior to posterior axis and the natural ostia of those sinuses is directly visualized for placement of a guide-free dilator, in the desired location within the natural ostia. That access to the maxillary ostium is accomplished by the anterior transuncinate “keyhole” approach in which a hole is punched in the uncinate process with the described devices according to the described methods.

Abstract: A method of treating a constricted sinus passageway in a frontal sinus of a patient includes forming an artificial passageway into the frontal sinus of the patient with a tool. An elongate member having an inflation member thereon is inserted through the passageway. The inflation member is positioned with the constricted sinus passageway and the inflation member is expanded so as to expand at least a portion of the constricted sinus passageway.

Abstract: A nose protect, which is mounted in each of nostrils to thereby reshape the nose, includes a first nostril abutting portion having a first curved surface, coming in surface contact with the inside region of a nasal tip in a preset range; a second nostril abutting portion having a second curved surface, coming in surface contact with the inside region of an ala nasi opposite to the inside region of the nasal tip in a preset range; and a pair of nostril abutting portion connections configured into a thin plate shape that facilitates elastic deformation, coupling the first nostril abutting portion to the second nostril abutting portion, integrally molded out of synthetic resin in which tourmaline powder is mixed with silicon resin.

Abstract: A method of remodeling the uncinate process associated with a paranasal sinus includes positioning at least one shim member in the infundibulum, the shim member deforming the uncinate process and widening at least a portion of the infundibulum. The infundibulum space may be dilated with a dilating member. Dilation may occur prior to delivery of the at least one shim. The dilation member may be delivered into the sinus cavity via an access passageway formed in the canine fossa.

Abstract: A nose clip includes an outer support member adapted to contact an outside surface of a nose; a bridge connected at a first end to the outer support member; and an inner support member connected to a second end of the bridge and adapted to be inserted into the nostril and to contact an inner surface of the nostril. When inserted, tension generated between the outer support member and the inner support member causes lateral movement of a surface within the nostril and opens a nasal airway. Additionally, the inner support can be curved to create an outward movement of the lateral wall of the nose. This in turn enables improved breathing. The nose clip may be made of a malleable material. The inner support member may include extensions that are malleable. The inner support members may be bent so that they create a convex contour of an interior surface of the nasal cavity.

Abstract: Devices, methods and kits which, when installed or used, access, aspire, dilate, insufflate, drain or deliver fluid medicaments to, or place a patency device within a sinus area, such as a maxillary sinus or a maxillary sinus ostium. The device can include a hollow catheter and probe, and can be configured to permit gradual and incremental probe extension. The device can be constructed to enhance the precision and maneuverability within the nasal and sinus passageways, while also accommodating the natural anatomical geometry of a targeted paranasal treatment site. For example, the present treatment and placement device can accomplish access to the maxillary sinus ostium by utilizing an uncinate process to guide a probe tip into the ostium in a retrograde manner. The probe can be slidably, bi-directionally or co-axially positioned within the catheter. A distal portion of the probe can be biased away from a longitudinal axis of the catheter.

Abstract: A balloon catheter for treating a constricted sinus passageway of a patient includes an elongate flexible shaft defining a lumen therein, the elongate flexible shaft having a proximal end and distal region. The elongate flexible shaft may include a kink-resistant coil in the distal region. A hub is affixed to the proximal end of the elongate flexible shaft, the hub including a port in communication with the lumen. An expandable member is disposed on the distal region of the elongate flexible shaft, wherein an interior portion of the expandable member is in communication with the lumen.

Abstract: The present invention provides minimally invasive devices and methods for accessing the sinuses and their surrounding structures for surgery and other treatments. The anterior ethmoid and maxillary sinuses are accessed and treated under minimal anesthesia with little or no postoperative limitation of activity or adverse symptoms. Direct visual verification of the sinuses and their natural ostia is utilized. Other paranasal sinuses may be treated by this method as well. The sinuses, in particular the maxillary and anterior ethmoid, are accessed via a direct anterior to posterior axis and the natural ostia of those sinuses is directly visualized for placement of a guide-free dilator, in the desired location within the natural ostia. That access to the maxillary ostium is accomplished by the anterior transuncinate “keyhole” approach in which a hole is punched in the uncinate process with the described devices according to the described methods.

Abstract: Methods for providing therapy to an anatomical structure. In specific embodiments, the anatomical structure is a paranasal sinus outflow tract. In particular embodiments, the paranasal outflow tract may be dilated.

Abstract: Devices, methods and kits which, when installed or used, urge or maintain patency of sinus ostia, such as the ostium between a nasal passageway and a maxillary sinus, while maintaining some function of cilia extending within or near the ostium. In various examples, the devices comprise a first portion, a second medial portion including a partially open cross-sectional configuration, and a third portion including one or more flexible and outwardly-biased projections. The partially open cross-sectional configuration can maintain a track of uncovered cilia within and near the ostium. In some examples, the devices can include an asymmetric body configuration. In some examples, the first portion includes a U-shaped configuration and the third portion includes at least two flexible and outwardly-biased projections. In some examples, the first, second or third portion includes a medication for delivery into sinus tissues.

Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods comprising an instrument for expanding a paranasal sinus. The instrument may comprise an articulatable shaft and a positioning member configured to move the articulatable shaft from a first position to a second position.

Abstract: An internal nasal dilator or an external nasal dilator is adapted to provide electrical stimulation. The user applies that nasal dilator to the nose. Within the adhesive portion is an electrode deriving energy from a neuromuscular stimulator. The electrical stimulation enhances air flow to the respiratory system. The nasal dilator may also be an internal variety and may also contain a medication delivery or heating element.

Abstract: Described here are paranasal sinus devices for treating paranasal sinus conditions. The devices include a cavity member, ostial member, and nasal portion. One or more of the cavity member, ostial member, and nasal portion may deliver an active agent for sustained release to treat the paranasal sinus condition. Exemplary paranasal sinus conditions are sinus inflammation due to functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) and rhinosinusitis.

Abstract: Described here are paranasal sinus devices for treating paranasal sinus conditions. The devices include a cavity member, ostial member, and nasal portion. One or more of the cavity member, ostial member, and nasal portion may deliver an active agent for sustained release to treat the paranasal sinus condition. Exemplary paranasal sinus conditions are sinus inflammation due to functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) and rhinosinusitis.

Abstract: The nose device has a conical portion with a distal end intended to be arranged adjacent a nose bone and a proximal end intended to be arranged adjacent a nostril. A screw winding is arranged centrally at the outer surface of the conical portion. A tab portion is arranged at the proximal end of the conical device. The nose device is inserted in the nose of the person until the distal end is positioned adjacent the nose bone of the person. Then, the nose device is rotated so that the distal end is positioned adjacent the nose bone of the person. When the nose device is rotated, the screw windings cooperate with the walls of the nose channel in order to pull them slightly outwards and stretch them, in order to thereby keep the nose channels open. A filter may be arranged for filtering the inhaled air.

Abstract: A system, device and method for dilating an anatomical structure. Systems, devices and methods may comprise a therapeutic component configured to treat a paranasal sinus. Specific embodiments may comprise a shaft with an articulating portion.

Abstract: A method of remodeling the uncinate process associated with a paranasal sinus includes positioning at least one shim member in the infundibulum, the shim member deforming the uncinate process and widening at least a portion of the infundibulum. The infundibulum space may be dilated with a dilating member. Dilation may occur prior to delivery of the at least one shim. The dilation member may be delivered into the sinus cavity via an access passageway formed in the canine fossa.

Abstract: Sinusitis and other disorders of the ear, nose and throat are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches with flexible or rigid instruments. Various methods and devices are used for remodeling or changing the shape, size or configuration of a sinus ostium or duct or other anatomical structure in the ear, nose or throat; implanting a device, cells or tissues; removing matter from the ear, nose or throat; delivering diagnostic or therapeutic substances or performing other diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. Introducing devices (e.g., guide catheters, tubes, guidewires, elongate probes, other elongate members) may be used to facilitate insertion of working devices (e.g. catheters e.g. balloon catheters, guidewires, tissue cutting or remodeling devices, devices for implanting elements like stents, electrosurgical devices, energy emitting devices, devices for delivering diagnostic or therapeutic agents, substance delivery implants, scopes etc.

Abstract: A nasal dilator, having a spring force that can be activated after the dilator is applied to the nose, is described. The nasal dilator has a spring force component and an adhesive component, which together act to dilate nasal tissues to help open or keep open the nasal valve to alleviate snoring and other breathing-related disorders.

Abstract: A kit for packing and supporting the nasal cavities after surgical procedures performed on the nose comprising two inflatable non-elastomeric balloons (6?, 6?) and inflation means (27) arranged so that, in use, each balloon (6?, 6?) can be located in a nasal cavity and inflated.

Abstract: A mechanically deployable upper airway stent is disclosed along with a method of using same. The stent comprises a central tube having an inner chamber and openings on its surface. A linkage rod is housed within the central tube and is provided with branched spokes that pass through the openings. In the un-deployed state the branched spokes are contained within the central tube. Deployed spokes are preferably aligned in groupings along the central tube. The outer ends of the spokes of each grouping connect to a rib. The un-deployed stent is inserted into the nasal passageway and positioned relative to occluding anatomic structures. Upon deployment, the ribs along with web members extending between the ribs move outwardly from the central tube and press upon the tissues of the pharyngeal cavity. Spaces between the extended spokes permit the passage of air along the stent and maintain airway patency.

Abstract: A holder for a nasal air filtration device or dilation device. A holder for a nasal device may be a thin, generally “Z” or “S” shaped device that holds a nasal device in a substantially secure and stable position. Each of a nasal device's nasal bases can be placed or secured on a placement limb of the holder while a connecting member of the nasal device can be secured on the opposite side of the holder from where the nasal bases are positioned along a vertical portion of the holder relative to the placement limbs. There may be securing notches in the holder that help secure a nasal device at generally the point where the bases of the nasal device attach to the connecting member of the nasal device. The notches may allow a nasal device to be securely attached to the holder.

Abstract: Sinusitis, mucocysts, tumors, infections, hearing disorders, choanal atresia, fractures and other disorders of the paranasal sinuses, Eustachian tubes, Lachrymal ducts and other ear, nose, throat and mouth structures are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches and, in many cases, flexible catheters as opposed to instruments having rigid shafts. Various diagnostic procedures and devices are used to perform imaging studies, mucus flow studies, air/gas flow studies, anatomic dimension studies and endoscopic studies.

Abstract: The present invention provides a wearing article for absorbing bodily substance discharge from mouth or nose. The article is formed from a material which is capable of receiving a holding bodily substance device and which is simply retained on the forearm or elbow of the user. The invention also provides a wearing article for delivering medicinal substance to mouth or nose.

Abstract: Sinusitis and other disorders of the ear, nose and throat are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches with flexible or rigid instruments. Various methods and devices are used for remodeling or changing the shape, size or configuration of a sinus ostium or duct or other anatomical structure in the ear, nose or throat; implanting a device, cells or tissues; removing matter from the ear, nose or throat; delivering diagnostic or therapeutic substances or performing other diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. Introducing devices (e.g., guide catheters, tubes, guidewires, elongate probes, other elongate members) may be used to facilitate insertion of working devices (e.g. catheters e.g. balloon catheters, guidewires, tissue cutting or remodeling devices, devices for implanting elements like stents, electrosurgical devices, energy emitting devices, devices for delivering diagnostic or therapeutic agents, substance delivery implants, scopes etc.

Abstract: An adjustable nasal cavity dilation device includes a first deformable body having a shape corresponding to the nasal cavity. Top and bottom frame ends of the body are interconnected by a flexible wall structure that undergoes deformation in response to movement of one frame end relative to the other. A releasable holding member includes a ring that engages the bottom frame end and an upstanding central member that engages the top frame end. The ring and the upstanding central member are coupled by a plurality of radial arms. The flexible wall structure is deformed and effective for urging against nasal cavity walls to increase air flow through the nasal passage when the top and bottom frame ends are maintained in a holding condition by the ring and the upstanding central member. The ring and radial arms define openings that permit passage of air into and out of the nasal cavity through the releasable holding member.

Abstract: A method of improving air flow through a nasal cavity includes providing an adjustable nasal cavity dilation device with a first deformable body having a shape corresponding to the nasal cavity so as to enable insertion of the device within the nasal cavity. The body includes top and bottom frame ends interconnected by a flexible wall structure that undergoes lateral deformation in response to movement of one frame end toward and away from the other, and a releasable holding member with complementary mating components that engage with the top and bottom frame ends and are adapted to adjustably maintain the top and bottom frame ends at a desired distance in a holding condition.

Abstract: A method of treating a patient's maxillary sinus having an obstructed or narrowed maxillary ostium. A balloon of a balloon catheter is inflated in the obstructed or narrowed maxillary ostium to enlarge the ostium. The ostium remains enlarged after the balloon catheter is removed.

Abstract: Sinusitis, enlarged nasal turbinates, tumors, infections, hearing disorders, allergic conditions, facial fractures and other disorders of the ear, nose and throat are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches and, in many cases, flexible catheters as opposed to instruments having rigid shafts. Various diagnostic procedures and devices are used to perform imaging studies, mucus flow studies, air/gas flow studies, anatomic dimension studies, endoscopic studies and transillumination studies. Access and occluder devices may be used to establish fluid tight seals in the anterior or posterior nasal cavities/nasopharynx and to facilitate insertion of working devices (e.g., scopes, guidewires, catheters, tissue cutting or remodeling devices, electrosurgical devices, energy emitting devices, devices for injecting diagnostic or therapeutic agents, devices for implanting devices such as stents, substance eluting devices, substance delivery implants, etc.

Abstract: A device for dilating an ostium of a paranasal sinus of a human or animal subject may include: a handle; an elongate shaft having a proximal end coupled with the handle and extending to a distal end; a guidewire disposed through at least a portion of the shaft lumen; a dilator having a non-expanded configuration and an expanded configuration; and a slide member coupled with at least one of the guidewire or the dilator through the longitudinal opening of the shaft for advancing the guidewire and/or the dilator relative to the shaft.

Abstract: An inflatable nasal packing device, and method of use, for insertion in a patient's nasal cavity to control bleeding or epistaxis. The device includes a flexible insertion tube, a first inflatable bag attached to and surrounding an anterior section of the tube, and a second inflatable bag attached to and surrounding a posterior section of the tube. The tube has three lumens for providing separate fill passageways to the two bags to allow independent filling and pressurization and for providing an air passageway through the device even when the bags are inflated. Both bags have walls of non-elastic, flexible material with fixed surface areas defining interior volumes when inflated that are larger than the anterior nasal cavity and the posterior nasal cavity and nasopharynx.

Abstract: Systems and methods for treating paranasal sinuses in a head of a patient include, for example, forming an opening through a canine fossa into a maxillary paranasal sinus and performing a procedure such as a balloon catheter dilation of the maxillary sinus ostium. In some embodiments, one or more procedures other than a balloon dilation procedure may be performed. In some embodiments, a combination of balloon dilation and one or more other procedures may be performed. Various approaches involve employing medical devices to accomplish alternative treatment modalities as well as taking alternative routes to the interventional site.

Abstract: A nasal dilation device comprises a pair of dilating frames for insertion into respective nasal passages. An external abutment member is joined between the pair of dilating frames to abut an external nasal valve. Each dilating frame comprises a frame member wound in a generally helical pattern about a longitudinal axis of the dilating frame to form a plurality of windings spaced from one another in a direction of the longitudinal axis. By providing a frame formed of a helical member, a resulting open frame design of a dilating frame is provided which is easy to manufacture, of simple structure, with substantially no protruding ends or edges so that the device can be easily and safely inserted into a nasal passage without tearing or causing harm to the soft internal tissues thereof. Outward dilating pressure applied to the internal nasal passage is also distributed over a larger area for comfort.

Abstract: A device for relieving congestion in restricted nasal passages, by the dilation thereof with an internal prosthesis placed within the nasal passages of an individual. This prosthesis comprises an adjustable bow having a pair of appendages extending from each end thereof. A separate tensioning element engages complimentary features on/in the bow to limit flexure thereof, and thereby provide a counterforce to bending of the bow. Accordingly, when the bow is flexed or bent, the extent of flex or bending of the bow is constrained by the tensioning element. The combined effect of the natural recoil of the resilient bow from the distended to flat position, combined with the counter forces imparted to the bow by the tensioning element, causes each appendage on the end of the bow to exert a constant pressure within each nasal passage to maintain such passages in a relatively open position.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an internal nose-dilating device, comprising two conical inserts, which each have four walls and two openings: a small opening, which during use is oriented inwards towards the nasal cavity, and a large opening, which is oriented out from the nose, the inserts being connected by means of a connecting member, which during use is the only part that remains on the outside of the nose. The four walls of the inserts are convex at their central portions and provided with a substantially horizontal recess, the recess being arranged along the four walls of the inserts and extending at least partly along the circumference on the outside thereof to form a bulge in the four walls of the inserts. The inserts have at least four apertures and a reinforced portion, which is provided along a rounded edge of the small opening, thereby allowing the inserts to be turned inside out.

Abstract: A nasal dilator is described. The nasal dilator comprises at least two opposing limbs (1) that are biased apart and that are configured so as to be capable of being inserted simultaneously into a single nostril. In one embodiment, the dilator comprises two limbs and the limbs are configured such that once both limbs are inserted they may perform an outward dilation of the nostril at the soft tissue surrounding the ostium internum.

Abstract: Devices and methods for locating sinus ostia and positioning a guide wire within the sinus ostia. The subject devices comprise a shaft having a distal end, a proximal end, a curved region located between the distal and proximal ends, and an interior channel, an extensible and retractable guide wire movably mounted within the interior channel and a probe tip joined to the guide wire. Certain devices further include expandable portions for engaging and treating body anatomy.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for maintaining patency of a vessel or other body region is provided. The apparatus includes an appliance having a non-circumferential form and being effective in maintaining patency or openness, or causing to become patent or open, a body region in which the appliance is located. The appliance may be formed of a flexible metallic struts structured to be submucossally implanted into a wall of the vessel or other body region.

Abstract: Methods and devices for maintaining nasal passages open after nasal surgery are provided. In some embodiments, the method of the present invention includes initially cleaning at least some of the bodily fluids from the nasal passages of a patient after the nasal surgery; providing a post-operative device having a first tubular member with a first proximal end and a first distal end, and a second tubular member with a second proximal end and a second distal end, where the first proximal end is connected to the second proximal end with a bridging member, and the post-operative device is splintless; inserting the first distal end and the second distal end into the nasal passages of the patient to a location where the first proximal end and the second proximal end each protrude beyond the nostril opening of the patient; and placing a packing material at least partially around each tubular member.

Abstract: Methods and devices for maintaining nasal passages open after nasal surgery are provided. In some embodiments, the method of the present invention includes initially cleaning at least some of the bodily fluids from the nasal passages of a patient after the nasal surgery; providing a post-operative device having a first tubular member with a first proximal end and a first distal end, and a second tubular member with a second proximal end and a second distal end, where the first proximal end is connected to the second proximal end with a bridging member, which may include a flexible member to facilitate positioning, and the post-operative device is splintless; inserting the first distal end and the second distal end into the nasal passages of the patient to a location where the first proximal end and the second proximal end each protrude beyond the nostril opening of the patient; and placing a packing material at least partially around each tubular member.

Abstract: A device for dilating nasal passageways and improving nasal breathing capacity is disclosed. A curved resilient member having divergent first and second ends is provided. After pinching the ends of said resilient member toward one another, the first and second ends can be positioned in respective nostrils of a user's nose. In this position, the ends of said resilient member are outwardly biased against the nasal side walls, with such biasing force being sufficient to dilate the anterior portion of each nasal cavity by an amount sufficient to improve nasal breathing capacity. An adhesive strip is provided to affix the device to outer surface of the septum of a user's nose.

Abstract: A nasal dilator includes a contact pad attachable to a user's facial region below the user's eye and outboard from the user's nose. A tugging device is coupled with the contact pad and urges the contact pad in a direction away from the user's nose. With this structure, effective dilation of the nasal passages can be achieved in a comfortable manner. The dilator may also be incorporated into a CPAP mask and/or form part of an automated control system.

Abstract: An improved, preferably plastic, universal breathing aid device for insertion into the nasal passages having a first pair of septum-engaging and gripping arms, from which are cantilevered a pair of curved, spring-action nostril-expanding arm that keep the nasal passages open. The septum-engaging arms are supported by a base member in the form of an open loop that includes a living hinge to provide flexibility and accommodation to varying sizes of nasal septums. The flexibility of both sets of arms promotes user comfort. The living hinge urges the septum arms together to provide grip yet comfort via the flexibility of the hinge. The nostril-expanding arms act in the opposite direction, opening the airway. The contours of the arm and tip cross sections may be varied for comfort, and device may range from generally planar to three-dimensional. The inventive device is unobtrusive and easily kept sanitary.

Abstract: A nasal dilator consisting of an elongated elastically flexible element of plastic material having a layer of dermocompatible adhesive material applied onto a first surface thereof at each of its ends.

Abstract: Devices for nasal insertion may include an open-ended tubular element which extends along a central tube axis between a first end and a second end, the first end being larger than the second end, and in which the tubular element includes at least one spiral strut extending from the first end to the second end, and/or a nodule having an internal face, a rounded external face, and a stalk extending from the internal face and terminating in an anchor sufficiently larger than a receptacle in the tubular element and sufficiently deformable as to be pressed through the receptacle to affix the nodule to the tubular element.

Abstract: Sinusitis and other disorders of the ear, nose and throat are diagnosed and/or treated using minimally invasive approaches with flexible or rigid instruments. Various methods and devices are used for remodeling or changing the shape, size or configuration of a sinus ostium or duct or other anatomical structure in the ear, nose or throat; implanting a device, cells or tissues; removing matter from the ear, nose or throat; delivering diagnostic or therapeutic substances or performing other diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. Introducing devices (e.g., guide catheters, tubes, guidewires, elongate probes, other elongate members) may be used to facilitate insertion of working devices (e.g. catheters e.g. balloon catheters, guidewires, tissue cutting or remodeling devices, devices for implanting elements like stents, electrosurgical devices, energy emitting devices, devices for delivering diagnostic or therapeutic agents, substance delivery implants, scopes etc.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed for providing implants in the upper jaws of a person. A sleeve is inserted through the alveolar ridge to the maxillary sinus. The sleeve is used to raise the subantral membrane and form a cavity. A filler, such as a bone growth stimulant is injected through the sleeve into the cavity. In the process, the sleeve also can cut and/or condense the bone around itself so that the bone can hold an implant. Optionally, the bone growth stimulant is also introduced into the bone surrounding the sleeve. During the injection, the pressure within the sleeve or the cavity is monitored to detect and prevent the rupture of the subantral membrane.

Abstract: The present invention relates to devices used in the management of bodily airways including tracheostomy tubes, laryngectomy tubes, bronchial stents, bronchial Y-tubes, bronchial TY-tubes, and nasal stents. The devices may comprise a protective coating to prevent the accumulation of mucus, crusting and granulation on or around airway management devices, as well as prevent adhesion to tissues which can cause bleeding upon removal, and prevent build-up of blood, or blood clots, to the stent.

Abstract: A nasally introduced catheter (nasal catheter) has a portion in which a user's breath (breathing air) air travels internally and a portion in which the breath travels externally. The portion in which air flow travels internally preferably includes a mesh or a whisk-like portion that expands and contracts, and the portion in which air flow travels externally preferably comprises a proximal tubular element having a sufficiently small cross-sectional area that at least 50% of the breathing air flows externally to the proximal portion. A sheath can optionally be positioned about the distal portion, and pulled back along the proximal portion to allow the distal portion to expand. In other aspects users can anchor the proximal and distal portions relative to the sheath using a nose clip or by removably coupling an extension arm to proximal portion.

Abstract: The current invention is directed to a nasal device for maintaining an air passageway within the nose while a person sleeps. The nasal device has two spaced apart tubular members joined together by a bridging section and a removable spring biased clip that is locatable to hold it in position. The clip of the nasal device prevents the device from being accidentally dislodged and can also be used by people with different nose and nasal septum size and shape.