Patent ID: 8197552

Claim:
A method for inserting a device into a Eustachian tube of an animal, comprising: (a) loading a device onto an insertion apparatus, the device comprising an insertable member that is sized for insertion within the Eustachian tube that defines a cross sectional area, the member having a preinsertion form that includes opposing exterior surfaces connected by a peripheral surface, wherein at least one opposing exterior surface defines a member length and member width, and the opposing exterior surfaces define a member thickness such that the member length is greater than the member thickness, means for immobilizing the device within the Eustachian tube upon insertion therein, and means for providing fluid communication between the opposing surfaces of the member to effect pressure equilibration therebetween; (b) using the insertion apparatus to insert the device through a nostril or mouth of the animal into the Eustachian tube; and (c) releasing the device from the apparatus in a manner effective to allow the device to immobilize itself within the Eustachian tube while maintaining its preinsertion form, thereby rendering patent the Eustachian tube for a predetermined time period.