US Patent 11576835 Neonatal chest splint for applying negative distending pressure

Devices and methods for assisting breathing in a subject are described. In one embodiment, a device includes a splint that can be used to apply negative distending pressure, i.e., outward pull, to one or both of the chest walls and/or the abdomen of a subject. The splint may include an air bladder that can be attached to the skin of the subject's chest and/or abdomen. When the air bladder is inflated, negative distending pressure is applied to the subject's chest and/or abdomen, thereby assisting or promoting respiration. The inflated air bladder may also apply a compressive force on the chest to facilitate expiration, and the removal of secretions in the airways.