Abstract: A nebulizer component, interconnected in the inspiratory flow path, includes an interior chamber with a lower region for storing liquid medicine at system pressures and an upper region containing a nebulizer (jet atomizer and baffle) for periodically nebulizing the liquid medicine for producing a fog of nebulized particles suspended in gas which mix with the breathable gas which flows through the chamber to the patient.

Abstract: A pressurized ventilation system to supplement patient respiration which enables introduction and atomization of prescribed liquids and removal of condensation while maintaining pressurization and functions of the ventilation system and minimizing hazards due to contamination. An atomizer outlet is positioned to enable entrainment of atomized particles of the prescribed liquid into the breathable gas flowing to the patient. A novel arrangement of a valve and conduit provides for contamination-free attachment of a syringe or unit dose vial for the introduction of the prescribed liquid. An enclosure means for trapping condensate and control means for safe removal of condensate from the system are provided. The ventilation system, with the improved arrangement, provides novel functions and can be operated and maintained more conveniently and expeditiously than prior art ventilator system while reducing the risk of infection for both the patient and the attendant.

Abstract: A novel ventilating system (10) for human patients including nebulizing means (15A) for nebulizing a liquid medication into a supply (28A, 29A) of humidified breathable gas under pressure. The nebulizing means (15A) comprises a nebulizing module having a cap portion (25) to which is attached a vial-like nebulizing chamber (54A). In order to maintain the hermetic integrity of the system (10) a two-position, flow control valve assembly (64) is operatively connected to and in selective flow communication with, a lower region of the vial-like, liquid-retention nebulizing chamber (54A). The valve assembly (64) is configured so that it can be manually actuated between a first position precluding access to chamber (54A) or a second position for drainage of liquid (59A) from within the nebulizer chamber (54A) or addition of liquid to such chamber while maintaining system sealing and pressure. A liquid handling means such as a syringe (68) is used to control withdrawal or addition of liquid.