Devices to improve lung function in a patient having restricted ventilation. The device may include an entry or access port for an implantable airway bypass device that relieves trapped air. The device of the present invention comprises an expandable structure (164) to be implanted in lung tissue and defining an air capture chamber, a first conduit (174) having a first end from which extends the expandable structure, and a second end to be coupled to a first end of a second conduit (161), the second end of the second conduit being joined to an external anchor (175) to rest against an outer skin surface of the chest of the patient.

An oropharyngeal device is disclosed for insertion into the oral cavity and the oropharynx of an individual. The oropharyngeal device comprises a tubular member extending between a proximal end and a distal end. The tubular member includes a channel extending between the primary aperture and the secondary aperture. A flange is coupled to the proximal end of the tubular member. The tubular member defines a gradual narrowing of the tubular member between the proximal end and the distal end for avoiding gagging reflex of the individual upon insertion of the distal end of the tubular member through the oral cavity and positioned adjacent to the epiglottis. The tubular member defines an arcuate shape for depressing the tongue and maintaining airway patency between the oral cavity and the epiglottis.

A method and device to improve lung function in a patient having restricted ventilation. The device may include an implantable airway bypass device that relieves trapped air. The method may include a treatment procedure that minimizes irritation of tissue to control healing processes.

An improved method and device are provided for forming and/or maintaining a percutaneous access pathway. The device generally comprises an access pathway and attachment device. The provided assembly substantially reduces the possibility of iatrogenic infection while accessing and/or re-accessing a body space.