Abstract: A respiratory valve apparatus with a housing having a upper entry port and an opposite endotracheal tube connection port, along with a resuscitation bag connection port and an respirator connection port. The housing has an inner chamber. A reciprocating valve assembly fits within a chamber and slides between two positions whereby the entry, endotracheal, and respirator ports are open in one position, and the entry, endotracheal, and resuscitation ports are open in the second position. The valve assembly is a component of a surgical kit including a resuscitation bag, an endotracheal tube, and a suction catheter. A guide fixture can be attached to the entry port to help steer a catheter through the apparatus. An elongated protective bag can be sealably attached around the catheter to prevent external contact with the catheter surfaces when it is withdrawn.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for separating gas and liquid streams, especially in tracheal catheters of patients, comprising a housing having channels for the delivery and removal of sputum. The aim of the invention is to ensure unrestricted delivery and removal of respiratory air and reliable removal of sputum. To this end, the invention provides for the arrangement of an at least spherical segment-shaped closed housing (1) comprising tubular channels (4, 5) which are located a distance apart in the area of the end surface (2) of the housing (1), each leading to a connection to the tracheal catheter and guiding through respiratory air; and a tubular channel (6) for removing sputum to the exterior, the inner front end of this channel being sealed and a suction tube (7) consisting of highly flexible or resilient elastic material lying adjacent to the inside of the channel.

Abstract: Systems, methods and devices for performing pulmonary procedures, and in particular treating lung disease. A flow control element includes a valve that prevents airflow in the inhalation direction but permits airflow in the exhalation direction. The flow control element is guided to and positioned at the site by a bronchoscope that is introduced into the patient's trachea and used to view the lungs during delivery of the flow control element. The valve may include one, two or more valve elements, and it may be collapsible for easier delivery. A source of vacuum or suction may be used to increase the amount of fluid withdrawn from the lung tissue. A device for measuring hollow structures, such as bronchioles, and a device for removing a previously-placed flow control element are disclosed as well.

Abstract: An airway assembly may be used in a procedure that requires instrumentation to be inserted in an air passage of a patient. The airway assembly may include a reinforced and flexible first conduit, an expandable member, a second conduit and a third conduit. The second and third conduit may couple to an outer surface of the first conduit. Coupling the second and third conduits to an outer surface of the first conduit may allow the first conduit to have an unobstructed lumen that facilitates insertion of instruments into a patient. Fluid may be removed through the second conduit. Ventilation of a patient may be performed through the third conduit. The expandable member may seal against the air passage and inhibit fluid from passing from a first region to a second region and/or inhibit fluid from passing from the second region to the first region.

Abstract: A stoma appliance including a protective cover for attachment to a patient's neck adjacent a stoma; a housing member having a stoma tube for extending into the entrance of the stoma, and a body for positioning externally of the stoma; and a gasket for forming a seal between the protective cover and the housing member.

Abstract: A spontaneous breathing apparatus and method. The apparatus includes: a source of oxygen containing gas (7); a catheter (5) in flow communication with the source of oxygen containing gas (7) and configured to be introduced into a subject's trachea (1) through a tracheostomy for delivering oxygen containing gas therein; a tracheostomy tube (9) disposed adjacent the catheter (5) and having one end configured to be disposed in the subject's trachea (1); and a pressure actuated threshold valve (32) connected to another end of the tracheostomy tube (9), the valve (32) being configured for venting a gas existing within the subject's trachea (1) at the one end of the tracheostomy tube (9) when the gas exceeds a threshold pressure of the valve (32), the valve (32) thereby being effective for reducing pressure within the subject's trachea 1) when the pressure within the subject's trachea (1) exceeds the threshold pressure.

Abstract: Pressure in a cuff on an endotracheal tube is controlled by a fluid circuit that includes a port on the endotracheal tube, a moisture absorbent barrier covering that port, a one-way valve, a pressure manometer as well as a pilot balloon fluidically connected to the cuff. A thumb wheel is included in one form of the invention to control operation of the one-way valve.

Abstract: Apparatus (1) for controlling pressure in a cuff (2) of an endotracheal tube (3) a pole mountable housing (25) within which an inflating medium supply pump (30) is located for supplying inflating medium to the cuff through a communicating tube (18) integral with the endotracheal tube (3) and a delivery tube (37) from the apparatus (1). A pressure transducer (28) connected to the endotracheal tube (3) by a connecting tube (29) monitors the pressure of the ventilating medium in the endotracheal tube (3) for determining transitions from the inspiratory to the expiratory phases of a breathing cycle. A microcontroller (27) controls the supply pump (30) for supplying the inflating medium to the cuff (2) at a first pressure level during the inspiratory phase of each breathing cycle and at a lower second pressure level during the expiratory phase of each breathing cycle.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided for reducing the volume of a lung using a clip including a plurality of tines. The clip is advanced along an interior of a bronchial passage to a predetermined location with the tines in a contracted condition. The tines are expanded outwardly to engage surrounding tissue, and then collapsed towards the contracted condition, thereby drawing the surrounding tissue inwardly to substantially close the bronchial passage from air flow therethrough. Optionally, electrical energy may be applied to the surrounding tissue after collapsing the tines to the contracted condition, thereby fusing the surrounding tissue together. The clip is then released within or removed from the passage.

Abstract: An endotracheal tube can be inserted into a patient's trachea during resuscitation by using a face mask and a curved guide. The guide is inserted through a flexible port in the face mask and has a curved distal portion that extends into the patient's mouth and hypopharynx. The patient is initially resuscitated by supplying a flow of air/oxygen through the mask. For example, a resuscitation bag can be connected to a rotatable ventilation port on the face mask. Alternatively, a resuscitation attachment with an air filter and one-way valve can be removably attached to the ventilation port of the face mask to enable a health care provider to directly resuscitate the patient. An endotracheal tube is inserted over the distal end of a fiber optic probe.

Abstract: A flexible multiple port adaptor has an adaptor body which includes a distal portion defining a distal channel and a proximal portion defining a first proximal channel and a second proximal channel. As least one of the first and second proximal channels is normally disposed out of alignment with the distal channel. However, because the adaptor body is flexible, the adaptor body may be manipulated so that channel(s) which are out of alignment with the distal channel may be placed into alignment with the distal channel so that a medical instrument can be advanced through the channels without bending the medical instrument.

Abstract: According to the invention, methods and devices for increasing cardiopulmonary circulation induced by chest compression and decompression when performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation are provided. According to one method, a pressure responsive inflow valve is coupled to a patient's airway. Chest compressions and chest decompressions are performed. During chest decompression the inflow valve prevents respiratory gases from entering the lungs until a certain negative intrathoracic pressure level is exceeded at which time the one inflow valve opens. In this way, the inflow valve assists in increasing the magnitude and duration of negative intrathoracic pressure during decompression to enhance the amount of blood flow into the heart and lungs. Further, the patient is supplied with a pressurized respiratory gas through the inflow valve when the inflow valve opens to ventilate the patient.

Abstract: A device and method of ventilating a patient reduces the bias flow relative to existing oscillatory ventilators. The device has an oscillator, and an oscillating line having a first end in sealing relationship with the oscillator. A gas supply line is connected to the oscillating line, and a patient line is connected to a second end of the oscillating line. An outlet valve is in pneumatic communication with the patient line. A method of ventilating using such a device is also disclosed.

Abstract: A speaking valve for a tracheostomy tube which is disposed in the first end of the tube protruding from the throat of the patient. The valve has guiding ribs and a retainer to retain a ball within the end of the tube. The flow of air around the ball is unrestricted to reduce the force required to move the ball when the patient inhales and exhales. A spherical chamber is formed in which the ball is disposed. The tracheostomy tube with the valve in the first end presents a low profile.

Abstract: A cartridge for use on a medical apparatus is provided and includes a body having a proximal chamber and a distal chamber. An antimicrobial agent is disposed in one of the distal or proximal chambers. A port is located on the body and communicates with the chamber in which the antimicrobial agent is disposed. In another embodiment, another port is located in the other chamber. Also, a respiratory suction apparatus is provided that is fitted with a cartridge mentioned above.

Abstract: The present invention provides a plug for a respiratory suction catheter and manifold assembly that protects or maintains at least one internal component, such as the flap, of an assembly during nonuse. In a preferred embodiment, the interior plug element functions or contains a spring or similar expanding mechanism. This provides for additional security for the internal components. Further, the plug may contain an exterior plug element as well as an interior plug element.

Abstract: By interposing an adapter between the endotracheal or tracheal tube inserted to a patient and the ventilation and suction systems that are connected to the endotracheal tube, a medication catheter could be inserted via an input port built into the adapter so as to enable a medical personnel to provide medicaments to a patient without having to disconnect either one of the systems connected to the endotracheal tube. The adapter is configured to have a securing mechanism that allows the medical personnel to secure the medication catheter in place. A one way valve fitted to the apertured arm that forms the input port of the adapter prevents any back flow of fluid from the input port.

Abstract: By interposing an adapter between the endotracheal or tracheal tube inserted to a patient and the ventilation and suction systems that are connected to the endotracheal tube, a catheter could be inserted via an input port built into the adapter so as to enable a medical personnel to provide localized treatments in the lungs of a patient without having to disconnect either one of the systems connected to the endotracheal tube. The adapter is configured to have a securing mechanism that allows the medical personnel to secure the medication catheter in place. A one way valve fitted to the apertured arm that forms the input port of the adapter prevents any back flow of fluid from the input port.

Abstract: A mask (10) for use with a system for supplying breathable gas pressurised above atmospheric pressure to a human or animal's airways. The mask (10) includes a mask shell (12) which is, in use, in fluid communication with a gas supply conduit and a gas washout vent assembly (20). The gas washout vent assembly (20) includes at least one gas washout orifice (22) extending from a first side of the vent assembly (20) positioned, in use, adjacent the human or animal's face and a second side positioned, in use, adjacent the atmosphere. The cross-sectional area of the orifice (22) at the first side is larger than the cross-sectional area of the orifice (22) at the second side.

Abstract: A mask (10) for use with a system for supplying breathable gas pressurised above atmospheric pressure to a human or animal's airways. The mask (10) includes a mask shell (12) which is, in use, in fluid communication with a gas supply conduit (30), and a gas washout vent assembly (20). At least the region of the mask shell (12) or conduit (30) surrounding or adjacent the vent assembly is formed from a relatively flexible elastomeric material.

Abstract: An aerosol generator includes a flow passage having an inlet and an outlet, a heater arranged relative to the flow passage for heating the flow passage, a source of material to be volatilized in communication with the inlet of the flow passage, a valve to open and close communication between the source of material and the inlet of the flow passage, and a pressurization arrangement for causing material in the source of material to be introduced into the flow passage when the valve is in an open position. The aerosol generator further includes a source of power for operating the heater and the valve, and a control device for controlling supply of power from the source of power to the heater and the valve.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods and devices for regulating fluid flow to and from a region of a patient's lung, such as to achieve a desired fluid flow dynamic to a lung region during respiration and/or to induce collapse in one or more lung regions. An identified region of the lung is targeted for treatment, such as to modify the flow to the targeted lung region or to achieve volume reduction or collapse of the targeted lung region. The targeted lung region is then bronchially isolated to regulate airflow into and/or out of the targeted lung region through one or more bronchial passageways that feed air to the targeted lung region. The bronchial isolation of the targeted lung region is accomplished by implanting a flow control device into a bronchial passageway that feeds air to a targeted lung region.

Abstract: An implantable flow control element is provided which prevents air from entering an isolated portion of a patient's lung. The element may permit air to escape from the isolated portion so that the element acts like a valve. Systems for implanting pulmonary devices are also provided.

Abstract: An improved respiratory suction apparatus catheter comprising a manifold for attachment to the distal hub of an endotracheal tube to form a ventilation circuit, a catheter tube which is displaceable through the manifold and into the endotracheal tube to suction secretions from the tube and lungs, and at least one wiper seal disposed adjacent the ventilation circuit to minimize the draw of air from the ventilation circuit of a patient while the catheter is being cleaned. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the catheter is cleaned more thoroughly than in the prior art while simultaneously drawing little or no air from the patient's ventilation circuit, thus extending the usable duration of the catheter apparatus. Another preferred embodiment comprises a valve, most preferably a flap valve distal of the wiper seal within the manifold, improves the cleaning of the catheter by selectively restricting or occluding the retracted catheter.

Abstract: A device for facilitating intubation including an elongate tube inserted in a conventional endotracheal tube. An imaging device (e.g., a nasopharyngoscope) is inserted through the device, and the device is then inserted through an endotracheal tube. The device includes a control wire and handgrip to curve the distal end of the device into an L-shaped configuration, which is produced via a series of interlinked, truncated ring-like elements disposed along the distal portion of the tube. The amount of force applied to the handgrip controls the degree of bend in the distal end of the device. The L-shaped configuration facilitates the proper visualization of the vocal cords by the imaging device.

Abstract: A device for removing sputum from a tracheal catheter inserted into the trachea of a patient. The aim of the invention is to supplement existing tracheal catheters in such a way that sputum is automatically kept away from the air filter and is removed without any problems so that excruciating and painful choking attacks in patients can be prevented and the risk of death by asphyxia is eliminated. This is achieved by a housing (4) having a first orifice (1) that can be attached to the end of the tracheal catheter projecting from the trachea; a second orifice (2) for exhaled air-filtered fresh air exchange and a third orifice (3) for sputum outflow.

Abstract: The inhalation atomizer of the invention has a valve box, which is divided into two sub-chambers by a partition wall. The valve box is closed by a valve box cover. A one-piece valve element projects into both sub-chambers and closes the openings provided in the sub-chambers and in the valve box cover in dependence on the breathing of the patient.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are disclosed by which a closed ventilating system accommodates multiple access to the respiratory system of an intubated medical patient without compromising the closed character of the system. Access to the respiratory system through one or more access sites of the closed system apparatus is provided at proximal adapter ports to ventilate the lungs of the patient with gas or gases, to aspirate secretions from the lungs, to oxygenate the lungs to eliminate or reduce residual co2 therefrom, to visually inspect selected parts of the respiratory system, to sample sputum and gases, to sense parameters such as flow rates, pressure, and temperature, to flush with washing solution, and/or to administer medication, gases, and/or lavage. A distal swivel fitting provides multiple sealing sites by which entry of atmosphere is prevented.

Abstract: In the present invention, personal air filtration unit sold as SMARTMOUTH™, a trademark for a personal air filtration unit comprised of an outer activated carbon pre-filter and an inner filter for particulate matter available through Tri-Pact Enterprises has been attached to a column of valve connectors which are connected to a tracheostomy tube. The filter has a downwardly dependent exhaust port which allows expired air to flow out of the filtration unit without passing through the filters, thereby helping to prevent mixing of inhaled and exhaled air, and decreasing resistance to exhalation, as well as one-way valves in the form of a flap, on the one hand to prevent exhaled air from entering a dead space between filters, and on the other hand to prevent entering of inhaled air through the exhaust port.

Abstract: A speaking valve for a tracheostomy tube which is disposed in the first end of the tube protruding from the throat of the patient. The valve has guiding ribs and a retainer to retain a ball within the end of the tube. The flow of air around the ball is unrestricted to reduce the force required to move the ball when the patient inhales and exhales. A spherical chamber is formed in which the ball is disposed. The tracheostomy tube with the valve in the first end presents a low profile.

Abstract: A system and method in vivo sterilization of a respiratory circuit. A breathing tube has a proximal end, a distal end and a lumen extending between the proximal and distal ends; a respirator and a synchronization mechanism. One or more light sources capable of emitting ultraviolet radiation irradiates at least a portion of the respiratory circuit, such as the breathing tube, thereby sterilizing the respiratory circuit. The synchronization mechanism controls the light sources to synchronize the sterilization relative to the patient's breathing cycle. Several mechanisms to irradiate the respiratory circuit and control ultraviolet radiation are included.

Abstract: A respirator comprise a breathing tube, such as an endotracheal tube, having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen extending between the proximal and distal end. The lumen defines at least a portion of the respirator circuit. A ventilator tube is in fluid communication with the proximal end of the breathing tube end and defines a portion of the respirator circuit. One or more light sources capable of emitting ultraviolet radiation irradiates at least a portion of the respirator circuit, thereby sterilizing the respiratory circuit.

Abstract: A tracheal stoma valve with a valve housing (2) has a pivotable valve flap (3), which is pivotable upon inhalation with an air stream of predeterminable strength into a position sealing off the open lumen (4) of the valve housing (2), and upon exhalation with an air stream of predeterminable strength is pivotable into a position at least partially clearing the open lumen (4) again. Moreover, a bypass valve (5) is provided, through which breathing air can be inhaled when the valve flap (3) is located in the closed position. The two mentioned switching points of the valve flap (3), between the sealing position and the position at least partially clearing the open lumen (4) of the valve housing (2), are pre-adjustable.

Abstract: An insufflation system that includes a first tube that inserts into a patient's airway for providing a primary flow of breathing gas to such a patient. At least one insufflation catheter is provided in or within the first tube for delivering a flow of insufflation gas to the patient. In one embodiment, the flow of insufflation gas is delivered in a first direction generally toward the patient's lungs and in a second direction generally opposite the first direction so that the flow in the second direction creates a negative stagnation pressure that substantially cancels out the positive stagnation pressure generated by flow in the first direction. In second embodiment, an exhaust vent is provided in the first tube for exhausting a flow of gas from the first tube at a rate that is equivalent to the rate at which the flow of insufflation gas is being delivered to the patient's airway, thereby preventing over-inflation of the patient's respiratory system.

Abstract: The present invention provides an intra-bronchial device and method that controls biological interaction of the device with the patient. The intra-bronchial device is adapted to be placed in an air passageway of a patient to collapse a lung portion associated with the air passageway. The device includes an obstructing member that prevents air from being inhaled into the lung portion to collapse the lung portion, and a medicant carried by the obstructing member. The medicant may overlie at least a portion of the obstructing member, or the medicant may be absorbed in at least a portion of the obstructing member. The obstructing member may further include an absorptive member, and the medicant is absorbed by the absorptive member.

Abstract: A fluid mixing apparatus and method in a fluid supply system that mixes a secondary fluid flow with a primary fluid flow in such a manner so as to minimize disruption of the fluid flow profile for the primary fluid flow downstream of the mixing point as the secondary fluid flow is introduced to the primary fluid flow. This is accomplished by providing a second conduit carrying the secondary fluid flow that is coupled to a first side of a first conduit carrying the primary fluid flow such that the secondary fluid flow travels around at least a portion of the first conduit. An inlet port arrangement is defined in the first conduit and is arranged such that a size of the inlet port arrangement that introduces the secondary gas flow from the second conduit into the first conduit increases as a distance around the first conduit from the first side increases.

Abstract: A vocal valve for connection to a tracheostoma comprises a filter (16) for moisture and heat exchange at breathing through the vocal valve, and a housing (15) receiving the filter and having a first opening at one side of the filter to be connected to the tracheostoma, and at least one second opening at the opposite side of the filter, which communicates with the surroundings. A manually operated valve element (15′) for blocking the air passage through the filter is constructed to close said first opening at manual operation thereof.

Abstract: A cartridge for use on a medical apparatus is provided and includes a body having a proximal chamber and a distal chamber. An antimicrobial agent is disposed in one of the distal or proximal chambers. A port is located on the body and communicates with the chamber in which the antimicrobial agent is disposed. In another embodiment, another port is located in the other chamber. Also, a respiratory suction apparatus is provided that is fitted with a cartridge mentioned above.

Abstract: An endotracheal tube can be inserted into a patient's trachea during resuscitation by using a face mask and a curved guide. The guide is inserted through a flexible port in the face mask and has a curved distal portion that extends into the patient's mouth and hypopharynx. The patient is initially resuscitated by supplying a flow of air/oxygen through the mask. For example, a resuscitation bag can be connected to a rotatable ventilation port on the face mask. An endotracheal tube is inserted over the distal end of a fiber optic probe. Resuscitation, oxygenation, or artificial ventilation continue without interruption while the fiber optic probe and endotracheal tube are inserted through a flexible port at the proximal end of the curve guide and then advanced along the guide into the patient's airway. The direction of the distal tip of the fiber optic probe can be controlled by the physician.

Abstract: An endotracheal tube flow control device includes a hollow tubular member, a selectively adjustable surface, and an endotracheal tube. The proximal end of the tubular member is connected to the endotracheal tube. The selectively adjustable surface is connected to the distal end of the tubular member. By selecting the position of the adjustable surface, the area of the air flow opening of the tubular member can be increased or decreased. The endotracheal tube flow control device allows a patient to control breathing by selectively adjusting the breathing area of the endotracheal tube.

Abstract: An in-line phonation valve system including a valve body having first and second ends through which gas passes into and out of the valve body. The first end is connectable to a breathing tube connected to a patient's airway, for passage of gas between the breathing tube and the valve body. The second end of the valve body is connectable to a gas line. A diaphragm-valve assembly is provided which includes a one-way valve having a phonation position permitting gas to pass through said valve body toward said patient when said patient inhales. The one-way valve in the phonation position substantially prevents gas from passing through the valve body when the patient exhales. The diaphragm-valve assembly is movable out of the phonation position, so as to permit substantially free flow of gas through the valve body both toward and away from the patient when the patient respectively inhales and exhales.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, a phonation valve which is cooperatively connectable to a breathing tube connected to a patient's airway, includes a valve body having first and second ends through which gas passes into and out of the valve. The first end is connectable to the breathing tube for passage of gas between the breathing tube and the valve. A valve seat is located within the valve body between the first and second ends. A thin, flexible diaphragm is provided, which is seated against the valve seat when the patient exhales. The diaphragm has a comfort-improving structural feature which can be 1) a shape which is at least partly concave on a side of the diaphragm facing the seat, and/or 2) a web of substantially uniform thickness with a plurality of discrete areas of different thicknesses dispersed around the web, which are capable of damping resonance vibration of the diaphragm during breathing by the patient.

Abstract: Methods, apparatus, and kits for enhancing breathing in patients suffering from chronic pulmonary obstructive disease are described. The methods and apparatus rely on increasing flow resistance to expiration in a manner which mimics “pursed lip” breathing which has been found to benefit patients suffering from this disease. In a first example, a device is implanted in a trachea or bronchial passage to increase flow resistance, preferably selectively increase resistance to expiration relative to inspiration. In a second embodiment, a mouthpiece is provided, again to increase resistance to expiration, preferably with a lesser increase in flow resistance to inspiration. In a third embodiment, the patient's trachea or bronchial passage is modified by the application of energy in order to partially close the lumen therethrough.

Abstract: An apparatus for evacuating air from the body cavity of the patient during a collapsed lung condition which includes, an air delivery tube portion which is inserted through the skin and into the wall of the body cavity, the air delivery tube portion of the apparatus include a body portion, a first upper threaded end, and a bore extending through the body portion to accommodate air flow through the air delivery tube; there is also provided a trocar member, including a body portion insertable through the bore of the air delivery tube, with a pointed end partially protruding out of the second lower end of the tube for piercing the body cavity wall during insertion of a portion of the air delivery tube into the body cavity; an extender portion engageable to the first upper end of the air conveying tube after the tube has been inserted into the body cavity and the trocar member has been removed from the air delivery tube, for providing a point of delivering air flow through the air delivery tube from the body cavi

Abstract: This invention is a secretion, a suction device, and kit for intubated or tracheostomized patients including a suction valve (1) having a body (2) with a chamber (3) where a selective obstruction device (4) is assembled. The device further includes a spherical valve (45) which selectively opens or closes a passage for a probe (25) through a patient/ventilator connection (56). The kit allows for the correct positioning of the suction device, including a plastic sheathing (65), and a tube for disposal of the suction device.

Abstract: Tracheal gas insufflation (TGI) therapy is performed by a bypass valve and a controller which control a flow of TGI gas to a TGI catheter inserted into an endotracheal tube in the tracheal of a patient. The bypass valve is activated into a pass-through state to admit the TGI gas into the catheter and into a bypass state to divert the TGI gas from the TGI catheter. Potentially dangerous over-pressure may be sensed and the TGI gas flow terminated, but then quickly resumed after the over-pressure condition passes. Selectively applying and diverting the TGI gas allows phasic TGI therapy to be performed using heated and humidified gas and also allows the heat and humidity levels of the TGI gas to be maintained during continuous TGI therapy.

Abstract: A gas insufflation and suction apparatus is provided for communication with a patient's trachea. The apparatus includes a gas catheter and a suction catheter. When supplying a suitable gas having a desired oxygen concentration to the patient, an output end of the gas catheter is moved past a Y-connector through a T-member into the patient's trachea. After removal of the gas catheter from the patient 's trachea, mucus or other substances can be removed from the patient using the suction catheter. With the gas catheter in its standby position, the suction catheter is moved past the Y-connector through the T-member and located in a desired position in the patient's trachea.

Abstract: An improved respiratory suction apparatus catheter includes a manifold for attachment to the distal hub of an endotracheal tube to form a ventilation circuit, a catheter tube which is displaceable through the manifold and into the endotracheal tube to suction secretions from the tube and lungs, and a valve mechanism disposed adjacent the ventilation circuit to minimize the draw of air from the ventilation circuit of a patient while the catheter is being cleaned. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the catheter is cleaned more thoroughly than in the prior art while simultaneously drawing little or no air from the patient's ventilation circuit.

Abstract: A tracheostoma valve includes a tubular housing with an inner aperture at an inner end, and a smaller outer aperture at an outer end. The inner end of the valve is for being attached to a stoma of a patient. A shaft is positioned axially within the housing, and a rigid piston is slidable along the shaft. The piston has a smaller diameter than the interior diameter of the tubular housing, so that air can flow around it. The piston is movable between an open position intermediate of the inner and outer apertures, and a closed position against the outer aperture. The piston is biased by a spring to the open position when the air pressure is relatively low, such as during relaxed respiration, so that air may flow through the valve in either direction. At a high enough expiratory air pressure, such as that used for producing speech, the spring is collapsed and the piston is moved against the outer aperture.

Abstract: An in-line phonation valve system including a valve body having first and second ends through which gas passes into and out of the valve body. The first end is connectable to a breathing tube connected to a patient's airway, for passage of gas between the breathing tube and the valve body. The second end of the valve body is connectable to a gas line. A diaphragm-valve assembly is provided which includes a one-way valve having a phonation position permitting gas to pass through said valve body toward said patient when said patient inhales. The one-way valve in the phonation position substantially prevents gas from passing through the valve body when the patient exhales. The diaphragm-valve assembly is movable out of the phonation position, so as to permit substantially free flow of gas through the valve body both toward and away from the patient when the patient respectively inhales and exhales.