Abstract
Background: The purpose of this study was to collate inventors' improvements of air extraction cupping technology by reviewing patent applications in Korea. The cost of procurement and use of air extraction cupping devices are covered by health insurance. Methods: Patents registered in Korea for air extraction cupping devices from August 1992 to January 2018 (registration, expiration, rejection, abandonment, and disclosure) were analyzed to determine technology trends. The Korean patent search engine used was Kipris (www.kipris.or.kr). Results: Sixty-seven Korean patents for air extraction cupping devices were retrieved. Most patents focused on design of the top valve of the device, the device at the bottom, an internal device, and the disposable cupping glass. In total 17.9% of patents were registered and 64.2% were abolished [either from non-payment of registration fees (93%) or expiration of the patent after 10 years (7%)]. The average registration period was 3.7 years. Conclusion: The patents retrieved for this study focused on the development of the air exhaust valve, disposable cups, and skin adhesion maintenance technology in cupping devices that use air extraction. The average registration period was 3.7 years, meaning the patents that were not commercialized, expired without additional registration renewals. It is important to acquire a New Excellent Technology certificate for a cupping device to promote commercialization.