Respiratory Gas Supply Means Enters Nasal Passage Patents (Class 128/207.18)
  • Patent number: 9656037
    Abstract: A surgical mask for use in dental procedures, and oral or facial surgery, formed of a continuous sheet of flexible material comprising a nose-conforming shell incorporating adhesive material for sealing and for maintaining position on the patient during the dental or surgical procedure. The mask forms an encasement for input/output manifolds, and terminates in flexible flange at the columella-labial junction; the mask includes a manifold for receiving and directing N2O/O2 into the nasal vault of the patient, and for the removal of exhalant and the scavenging of gases from the work area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2017
    Inventor: Robert F. Guyette
  • Patent number: 9649463
    Abstract: A patient interface device includes a support member, a sealing assembly attached to the support member, and a pair of contacting members. The contacting members are coupled to the support member on each side of the sealing assembly. The contacting members are each configured and arranged to contact the user over a limited contacting region, which corresponds to a junction of the orbicularis oris facial muscle, the zygomaticus facial muscle, and the risorius facial muscle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2017
    Assignee: RIC INVESTMENTS, LLC
    Inventors: Peter Chi Fai Ho, Jerome Matula, Jr., Derrick Blake Andrews, Richard Andrew Sofranko, Dana Marie Horn
  • Patent number: 9604024
    Abstract: A divided cannula comprising a cannula body which is divided by a partitioning wall into first and second flow chambers. The first flow chamber has first and second spaced apart nare passages while the second flow chamber has first and second spaced apart nare passages. The cannula body supports spaced apart first and second nares and each of the first and the second nares defines a common nare passage. The first nare passage of the first internal flow chamber and the first nare passage of the second internal flow chamber both communicate with the common nare passage of the first nare and the second nare passage of the first internal flow chamber and the second nare passage of the second internal flow chamber both communicate with the common nare passage of the second nare. A pressure sensing line and a gas supply line interconnected to the divided cannula with a gas supply system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Salter Labs
    Inventor: James N. Curti
  • Patent number: 9597474
    Abstract: A patient interface device (2) includes a frame member (4) and a cushion (6) having a main body, a sealing portion, and first and second posts extending from the main body. The frame member defines a first orifice and a second orifice. The first post of the cushion is rotateably received within the first orifice and the second post is rotateably received within the second orifice in a manner that permits the cushion to rotate relative to the frame member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2017
    Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
    Inventor: Gregory John Jablonski
  • Patent number: 9506900
    Abstract: Provided are gas treatment devices and medical equipment thereof. The gas treatment device can include at least a first gas monitoring module and a second gas monitoring module, a master control module and an integrated gas circuit board. A gas outlet, at least one gas inlet and a monitoring interface can be arranged on a surface of the integrated gas circuit board, while a first and a second gas circuits may be arranged inside the integrated gas circuit board. The gas inlet can include a first gas inlet and a second gas inlet. The gas outlet and the first gas inlet can communicate with first and second ends of the first gas circuit, and the second gas inlet can communicate with one end of the second gas circuit. The first and the second gas circuits can communicate with the first and the second gas monitoring modules through corresponding monitoring interfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2016
    Assignee: SHENZHEN MINDRAY BIO-MEDICAL ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Xuegang Zhang, Zhonghua Liu, Meng Zhu, Weidong Zhou, Jian Cen, Shuangtao Xiong, Guangqi Huang, Joakim Carl Gabrielsson, Johan Nils Ernst Werner
  • Patent number: 9486598
    Abstract: An oxygen mask can include an oxygen supply unit and an attachment unit which is to be attached to a periphery of a nose or a nose and a mouth of a patient. The attachment unit includes an opening which communicates with external air and which is formed at a position to which, when the oxygen mask is attached to the patient, at least one of the nose and the mouth of the patient is opposed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2016
    Assignee: NIHON KOHDEN CORPORATION
    Inventors: Fumihiko Takatori, Shinji Yamamori, Masayuki Inoue
  • Patent number: 9440039
    Abstract: A gas delivery device (1 or 101 or 201) having a substantially U-shaped nasal cavity component (3 or 103 or 203) that fits inside the patient's nostril is in fluid communication with a tubular guidance-stabilization system (8 or 108) that extends from the nasal cavity component (3 or 103 or 203), across the patient's cheek, and over the patient's ear. The tubular guidance-stabilization system (8 or 108) has a flexible wire or flexible strap that is embedded (or otherwise inserted) within the wall (33 or 120 or 220) of the tubular guidance-stabilization system (8 or 108) for the purpose of supporting the integrity of the gas delivery device (1 or 101 or 201) in order to maintain the tubular nasal cavity component (3 or 103 or 203) in the patient's nostril. A stabilization patch (17 or 18 or 118) further secures the tubular guidance-stabilization system (8 or 108) to the cheek and/or behind the ear of the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: UPODS, LLC
    Inventors: Hugh W. Payton, Campbell C. Cauthen, John Stephens
  • Patent number: 9427547
    Abstract: A high flow therapy system for delivering pressurized, heated and humidified respiratory gas to an airway of a patient includes a respiratory gas flow pathway for delivering the pressurized respiratory gas to the airway of the patient by way of a non-sealing respiratory interface; wherein flow rate of the pressurized respiratory gas is controlled by a microprocessor, a mixing area for mixing oxygen and air in the respiratory gas flow pathway, a humidification area for humidifying respiratory gas in the respiratory gas flow pathway, a heated delivery conduit for minimizing condensation of humidified respiratory gas, a pressure pathway for monitoring pressure of the airway of the patient and communicating the monitored pressure to the microprocessor and a sensor disposed in communication with the pressure pathway, the sensor further disposed in communication with the microprocessor and configured to measure pressure in the airway of the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2016
    Assignee: Mergenet Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert M. Landis, Charles A. Lewis, Louis Javier Collazo
  • Patent number: 9416905
    Abstract: A protective cover for a drainage tube cable tie protects a surgical patient from injury and/or infection. The protective cover includes a first fastener member having VELCRO® hooks on one side and pressure sensitive adhesive on the other side, a second fastener member having VELCRO® loops on one side and pressure sensitive adhesive on the other side, and an insert made of a flexible, relatively elastic material. An opening is formed through the first fastener member. The insert is placed over the opening and the pressure sensitive adhesive sides of the fastener members are pressed together in back-to-back relationship. The cable tie is positioned on the first fastener member over the opening and the insert, and the protective cover is wrapped around the cable tie and secured by engagement of the hooks with the loops to cover the cable tie and protect the patient's skin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2016
    Inventor: Jeffrey A. Weeden
  • Patent number: 9393375
    Abstract: A ventilation interface may include the following elements: a cushion, shell, forehead support, supply tubes, an adapter or Y-connector and a nasal cannula, which may also include nasal inserts, and connectors. Each of the elements of the ventilation interface may also include ribs of wire, stiffener or other bendable material having a greater rigidity than the material composing the main body of each element. These bendable portions may be capable of retaining multiple desired bent shapes in multiple desired directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2016
    Assignee: Mergenet Solutions
    Inventors: Shara Hernandez, Louis Javier Collazo
  • Patent number: 9393376
    Abstract: An airway adaptor includes: an airway case including a gas passage, the airway case adapted to be attachable to a part of a carbon dioxide sensor configured to detect a concentration of carbon dioxide contained in exhalation, flowing into the gas passage, of the subject, the exhalation; a nasal cannula having a pair of insertion portions inserted into nostrils of the subject to guide exhalation from the nostrils to the gas passage; a mouth guide placed in front of a mouth of the subject to guide exhalation from the mouth to the gas passage; a light-emitting element supported by one of the insertion portions; and a light-receiving element supported by the other of the insertion portions. When the insertion portions are inserted into the nostrils, the light-emitting element and the light-receiving element are opposed to each other across a nasal septum of the subject.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2016
    Assignee: NIHON KOHDEN CORPORATION
    Inventors: Masayuki Inoue, Yoshinobu Ono
  • Patent number: 9339624
    Abstract: Headgear for use with a respiratory mask is described. The headgear comprises a continuous and substantially curved elongate member extending in use below a user's nose and at least two headgear straps capable of attachment to the ends of the elongate member. A mask attachment on the elongate member is disposed to sit below or on one of said user's nose, mouth, upper lip and an inlet to the mask. The attachment is capable of receiving the mask.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited
    Inventors: Alastair Edwin McAuley, Oliver Gleeson, Evan Stuart Erstich, Simon Eric Freeman, Neil Glen Davies, Stephen John Schoenberg, Kamman Law, Craig Robert Prentice
  • Patent number: 9333327
    Abstract: Described herein are methods and devices for delivering a drug to the frontal sinus system. An inflatable implant is positioned within the frontal sinus system using an anchoring means secured within the frontal sinus cavity. A drug-containing fluid is released directly into the frontal sinus drainage system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2016
    Assignee: ENTELLUS MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: Reuben C. Setliff, III, Peter T. Keith
  • Patent number: 9326885
    Abstract: A valved nasal cannula (10) insertable in a nose of an intended user (14) and usable to selectively restrict a flow of air flowing through the valved nasal cannula (10), the nose having a nostril (12) defining a nostril inlet (15) and a nostril vestibule (16) extending inwardly into the nose from the nostril inlet 15), the valved nasal cannula (10) comprising: —a cannula body (18), the cannula body (18) defining a cannula passageway (20) extending therethrough, the cannula passageway (20) defining a passageway longitudinal axis (22), the cannula body (18) also defining a cannula proximal end (28) and a substantially longitudinally opposed cannula distal end (30), the cannula body (18) being, at least in part, insertable in the nostril with the cannula proximal end (28) positioned inside the nostril vestibule (16) substantially spaced apart from the nostril inlet (15) and the cannula distal end (30) positioned substantially adjacent the nostril inlet; —a valve operatively coupled to the cannula body (18) for s
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2016
    Inventor: Jean-Pierre Robitaille
  • Patent number: 9308114
    Abstract: The product improves nasal passage air flow. The product may be a strip that comprises a flexible resilient material, with at least a portion of the bottom surface comprising an adhesive surface on each end. The strip may serve to dilate a user's nasal passage when the first end of the strip is secured using the first adhesive bottom surface to be proximate to an alar facial groove of the user's nose, with the second end of the strip being puled up at a slight angle and laterally to achieve desired nasal passage expansion and thereafter being secured to the user's face. The size of the strip may be larger for additional benefits and have anti-glare and/or anti-reflective features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2016
    Inventor: Andrew Lehman
  • Patent number: 9265922
    Abstract: A system for improving outcome following cerebral ischemia is provided. The system includes a source of nitric oxide and an elongate tubular member for insertion into a nose including at least one orifice thereon. The elongate tubular member is coupled to the source of nitric oxide and configured for delivering the nitric oxide into a nasal cavity through the at least one orifice for absorption into a cerebral vasculature through a nasal vasculature. A device for controlling flow of the gas, a concentration of the nitric oxide in the gas, or both, is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2016
    Assignee: ASTUCE, INC.
    Inventors: Denise Barbut, Allan Rozenberg, Axel Heinemann
  • Patent number: 9205216
    Abstract: An apparatus and a system for stably positioning a nasal cannula in a manner effective for oral or nasal delivery of oxygen or gas mixtures to an individual are described. A generally rectangular cannula support member having at least one retention device secures a nasal cannula to the support member. A pad may be disposed between the support member and the face of the person to assist in positioning the support member without the requirement of tape, and for reducing skin irritation. Depending on the size of the cannula support member, the support member may be constructed from flexible materials to conform to the facial features of the wearer. The apparatus and the system may further include a flexible strip having shape memory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2015
    Assignee: 0200L, LLC
    Inventor: John P. O'Leary
  • Patent number: 9180269
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to a breathing mask for alleviating conditions causing sleep apnea and avoiding onset claustrophobia in a patient often caused by a breathing mask. In one embodiment of the present invention, a breathing mask comprises an overhead gear assembly comprising an overhead receptor and a hose attachment connected to the overhead receptor, and a patient interface coupled to a connector tubing and/or valve of the overhead gear assembly, wherein the hose attachment is positioned outside of a line of sight of a user, when the breathing mask is utilized by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2015
    Inventor: Paul Erby Dureus
  • Patent number: 9149594
    Abstract: A patient interface system for delivering a flow of breathable gas to a patient includes a patient interface structure configured to sealingly engage the patient's nares; a pair of strips configured to be connected to opposite sides of the patient interface structure; and adhesive configured to secure the patient interface structure in sealing engagement with the patient's nares. The adhesive may be provided on the strips, and the strips are configured to be adhered to sides of the patient's nose by the adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2015
    Assignee: ResMed Limited
    Inventors: Michiel Kooij, Scott Alexander Howard, Justin John Formica, Gerard Michael Rummery, Renee Frances Flower, Adam Francis Barlow, Joel Edward Gibson, Damien Julian Mazzone, Aaron Samuel Davidson, Bernd Christoph Lang, Achim Biener, Michael John Reid, Dieter Heidmann
  • Patent number: 9138554
    Abstract: A patient interface device (2) includes a coupling (4) structured to receive and distribute a flow of breathing gas (100), and a nasal component (6) extending outwardly from the coupling. The nasal component includes a single sealing element (8) structured to engage and seal only one of the two nostrils (306, 308) of a nose (304) of a patient (300). A method of fitting the patient interface device includes receiving the aforementioned patient interface device, and engaging and sealing a single nostril of the patient's nose with the single sealing element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2015
    Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
    Inventor: Michael Edward Colbaugh
  • Patent number: 9101728
    Abstract: An endotracheal tube includes an elongated, flexible shaft having a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end including a tip having a first section and a second section, the shaft having a lumen extending therethrough, at least one light strip positioned in association with and extending along the elongated, flexible shaft to illuminate at least a portion of the shaft including the distal end of the shaft to illuminate at least a portion of a pathway into the trachea, and a connector positioned in communicating relation with the proximal end of the shaft adapted to receive a fluid medium to flow through the lumen, the connector being in communication with the at least one light strip. The endotracheal tube can also be adapted to include a balloon in communication with the distal end of the shaft within the trachea to occlude a portion of the trachea.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2015
    Inventors: Lila H. A. J. Al-Wazzan, Ali Wazzan
  • Patent number: 9078989
    Abstract: The invention relates to an applicator for a nasal cannula, comprising a body (11) enclosing a hollow space (22). The applicator further comprises tube connections (20, 21) for supplying a respirable gas into the hollow space (22). The applicator further comprises prongs (18, 19) for administering the respirable gas into the nostrils of a person. A valve (15, 16, 17, 38, 42) is located in a wall of the body (11) so that respirable gas can flow from the outside through the valve into the hollow space (22), but not in the reverse direction. The invention further relates to an applicator having a top of sealing cones (23, 24), wherein the sealing cones (23, 24) may be provided with rim-shaped sealing lips on their side facing away from the body (11), which produce a tight seal with the inner wall of the respective nostril.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2015
    Assignee: TNI MEDICAL AG
    Inventors: Harald Genger, Heide Walther
  • Patent number: 9072855
    Abstract: Breathing assistance apparatus for treating sleep apnoea are described. More specifically, nasal interface for the supply of respiratory gases, but most particularly positive pressure gases are described. The nasal interfaces may include various forms of nasal pillows or nasal plugs. Associated elements such as manifolds or housings to hold or secure the pillows or plugs, or headgear are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2015
    Assignee: FISHER & PAYKEL HEALTHCARE LIMITED
    Inventors: Alastair Edwin McAuley, Craig Robert Prentice, Rory Alexander Monro, Isaac Tristram Tane Mason, Nadjean Maurice Gabriel Geslain
  • Patent number: 9061300
    Abstract: An apparatus for generating aerosol having a capillary tube, which includes at least one bend, fluid inlets, regions of reduced wall thickness located between the fluid inlets and the at least one bend, and an outlet along the at least one bend. The capillary tube is heated to a temperature sufficient to volatilize fluid in the capillary tube, such that the volatilized fluid discharges from the outlet to form an aerosol.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2015
    Assignee: Philip Morris USA Inc.
    Inventors: Marc D. Belcastro, Jeffrey A. Swepston
  • Patent number: 9050430
    Abstract: The present invention provides a kit comprising a unibody auscultation interface for use with mechanical ventilation or intubation, formed from a single contiguous nonmetallic piece, the piece being shaped into a cylindrical member having opposing ends respectively adapted to frictionally connect to the external end of an endotracheal tube and either the stem of a Y piece or the patient end of a common conduit, the cylindrical member having an opening in its wall, the perimeter of which seamlessly elaborates a flared turret whose roof is adapted for non-adherent contact with the chest piece of a stethoscope; and, packaging means for enclosing the auscultation interface aseptically. The present invention additionally provides an endotracheal tube, Y piece, breathing circuit and mechanical ventilation system incorporating the auscultation interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2015
    Inventor: John Mathews
  • Patent number: 9038634
    Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a mask for achieving positive pressure mechanical ventilation (inclusive of CPAP, ventilator support, critical care ventilation, emergency applications), and a method for a operating a ventilation system including such mask. The mask of the present invention includes a piloted exhalation valve that is used to achieve the target pressures/flows to the patient. The pilot for the valve may be pneumatic and driven from the gas supply tubing from the ventilator. The pilot may also be a preset pressure derived in the mask, a separate pneumatic line from the ventilator, or an electro-mechanical control. The mask of the present invention may further include a heat and moisture exchanger (HME) which is integrated therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: Breathe Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Enrico Brambilla, Joey Aguirre
  • Patent number: 9038635
    Abstract: The disclosure is directed to various tubing arrangements and an associated Y-connector which may be used to facilitate the operative interface of the mask to a ventilator within a ventilation system. The tubing arrangement may comprise a pair of bi-lumen tubes. One end of each of the bi-lumen tubes is fluidly connected to the mask, with the opposite end being fluidly connected to the Y-connector. The Y-connector is in turn fluidly connected to one end of either a tri-lumen tube or a quad-lumen tube also included in the tubing arrangement, the opposite end of such tri-lumen tube or quad-lumen tube being fluidly connected to the ventilator. The Y-connector is uniquely configured to fluidly connect certain lumens of the tri-lumen tube or the quad-lumen tube to dedicated, corresponding ones of the lumens included in respective ones of the bi-lumen tubes, and to further allow for the selective detachment of the tri-lumen tube or the quad-lumen tube from the bi-lumen tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: Breathe Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Enrico Brambilla
  • Patent number: 9032959
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to, amongst other things, systems, devices, materials, and methods that can improve the accuracy and/or precision of nitric oxide therapy by, for example, reducing the dilution of inhaled nitric oxide (NO). As described herein, NO dilution can occur because of various factors. To reduce the dilution of an intended NO dose, various exemplary nasal cannulas, pneumatic configurations, methods of manufacturing, and methods of use, etc. are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignee: INO Therapeutics LLC
    Inventors: Craig Flanagan, Simon Freed, John Klaus, Thomas Kohlmann, Martin D. Meglasson, Manesh Naidu, Parag Shah
  • Patent number: 9027560
    Abstract: A breathing gas delivery system and method provides a flow of breathing gas to a patient. The gas flow is purposely interrupted for the patient's exhale phase in order to minimize irritation and injury to nasal tissues due to constant, uninterrupted flows. Embodiments include an oscillating ball valve that interrupts oxygen supply during the patient's exhale phase, cannula tips that are shaped to minimize trauma, and a sleep apnea treatment system that interrupts breathing gas supply during the patient's exhale phase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignees: Loma Linda University, Faculty Physicians and Surgeons of LLUSM
    Inventors: Albert W. Farnsworth, Wolff M. Kirsch, Yong Hua Zhu
  • Patent number: 9027562
    Abstract: A connector for connecting an oxygen input flow duct with two narrowed oxygen output flow ducts, is provided thereby to meter oxygen flow to nasal cannula, and includes a hollow body having a relatively large flow input chamber sized for telescopic interfit with the input flow duct, the body having two relatively smaller flow output chambers sized for telescopic interfit with the respective two output flow ducts. The two output chambers have direct and like-sized communication with the input chamber whereby input flow is equally divided into two output flow streams.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Neotech Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Arnold M. Heyman, Craig R. McCrary, Thomas R. Thornbury
  • Patent number: 9027561
    Abstract: A tracheostomy tube assembly has a flange arrangement (2) movable along the shaft (1) of the assembly and lockable at different positions. The flange arrangement has a gel-filled member (22) with a flexible conformable surface (26) providing substantially the entire surface contacting the skin. The flange has aperture (28) through which a tape can be extended for use in securing the assembly with the patient's neck. The gel-filled member (122) may be provided separately for use on existing tube assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Smiths Group PLC
    Inventors: Caroline Therese Solly, Neil Adam Tookman
  • Patent number: 9010325
    Abstract: A nasal delivery device for and method of delivering particulate substance to the nasal airway of a subject, the delivery device comprising: a body assembly (3) including a mouthpiece unit (9) which includes a mouthpiece through which the subject in use exhales, and a substance-supply unit which is fluidly connected to the mouthpiece unit and actuatable to provide particulate substance for delivery to the nasal airway of the subject; wherein the body assembly is configured to receive a replaceable nosepiece unit (5) which includes a nosepiece and contains a container containing particulate substance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: OptiNose AS
    Inventors: Per Gisle Djupesland, Colin David Sheldrake, Simon Smith, Rachel Striebig, Andy Pidgeon, Tom St. Quintin
  • Patent number: 9004072
    Abstract: A cannula support assembly capable of supporting a nasal cannula that delivers oxygen or other gas or gas mixtures to a user is disclosed. The assembly has a plurality of retention clips into which cannula tubes are inserted and retained in a manner so as not to interfere or cause discomfort to a user. The front support assembly housing has a left and a right depression that lowers housing elements well below the line-of-sight of the user so that his or her vision is not impaired when using the assembly. The depressions also allow for the user to wear eyeglasses in conjunction with using the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Inventor: Norman D. Barker
  • Patent number: 9004071
    Abstract: One embodiment provides a nasal guide. The nasal guide includes a pair of supports adapted to be positioned adjacent nostrils of a nose of a patient. The nasal guide includes a bridge connecting the pair of supports. The bridge is usable to adjust positioning of the pair of supports. Each of the pair of supports forms one or more lumens configured to receive one or more medical instruments. The one or more lumens are shaped for insertion into a nasal cavity of the nose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Inventors: Ian Joseph Alexander, Brian Dean Owens
  • Patent number: 8997747
    Abstract: A nasal cannula arrangement for use as part of systems for delivery respiratory gases to a patient is disclosed. The nasal cannula arrangement includes a manifold part adapted to receive gases from a delivery conduit. The manifold includes one but preferably a pair of prongs extending upward and curving towards the rear of the manifold. The prongs are inserted into the nostrils of the patient and deliver gases to a patient. The prongs have a cut out on the rear side of the prongs. The cut out forms a gases outlet in the prongs and are shaped such that the area of the cut out area is greater than the cross sectional area of the prongs at the entry point to the prongs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited
    Inventors: Nicholas Alexander Hobson, Steven Charles Korner, Craig Karl White, Jason Van Beurden
  • Patent number: 8985117
    Abstract: A nasal assembly for delivering breathable gas to a patient includes a frame having an integrally formed first connector portion. A nozzle assembly includes a gusset or base portion and a pair of nozzles. At least one inlet conduit is structured to deliver breathable gas into the frame and nozzle assembly for breathing by the patient. A pair of second connector portions are removably and rotatably connected to respective first connector portions of the frame and are in communication with respective inlet conduits, e.g., directly or via angle connectors. A headgear assembly is removably connected to the pair of second connector portions and/or the angle connectors so as to maintain the frame and the nozzle assembly in a desired adjusted position on the patient's face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: ResMed Limited
    Inventors: Michael K. Gunaratnam, Philip R. Kwok, Robin G. Hitchcock, Lee J. Veliss, Memduh Guney, Richard Sokolov, Perry D. Lithgow, Donald Darkin, Susan R. Lynch
  • Patent number: 8985116
    Abstract: Described herein are nasal devices. In particular, layered nasal respiratory devices are described. Layered nasal device may include a layered airflow resistor that is configured to resist airflow in a first direction more than airflow in a second direction and that includes a flap valve adjacent to a flap valve limiting layer and an adhesive holdfast layer that is configured to secure the layered airflow resistor in communication with the subject's nasal cavity. Methods of using and methods of assembling layered nasal device are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Theravent, Inc.
    Inventors: Rajiv Doshi, Bryan Loomas, Ryan Kendall Pierce, Arthur Ferdinand, Arthur G. Sandoval, Jeffrey W. Servaites, Matthew Durack, Daniel Francis Kennedy
  • Publication number: 20150068530
    Abstract: A nasal cannula device for delivering therapeutic gas to a patient while reducing rubbing, scraping or other damage or discomfort is disclosed. In an aspect, a nasal cannula device is configured to removably attach to a patient via a single ear and comprises gas tubing and an anchor. The gas tubing comprises a gas source connector, a gas tubing body, and a nasal member. The anchor attaches to the gas tubing body and is removably positionable over a patient ear. In an aspect, the nasal member further comprises at least one nasal insert device configured to retain the nasal member in a patient nostril and reduce impacts and discomfort via a compressible member. The compressible member may form an airtight barrier, thereby protecting a patient nasal airway from environmental contaminants.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2013
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventor: Arnaldo Apolito
  • Patent number: 8973581
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for delivering a supply of gases to a patient. The device includes a patient interface and connecting member. The connecting member is preferably a L-shaped swiveled connector that is capable of being fixed into one of two positions, a first position where the connector is freely rotatable within the patient interface, and a second position where an interference between the interface and connector prevents the free rotation of the connector within the patient interface, The present invention further relates to a connector that has outlet means, which includes at least one outlet vent and a funnel, which in use directs and passes a substantial portion gases expired from the patient through the outlet vent or vents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited
    Inventors: Nicholas Charles Alan Smith, Alastair Edwin McAuley, Chris Earl Nightingale, Ivan Milivojevic, Lewis George Gradon
  • Patent number: 8974486
    Abstract: Methods and devices for maintaining nasal passages open after nasal surgery are provided. The post-operative device includes a first tubular member with a first proximal end and a first distal end, and a second tubular member with a second proximal end and a second distal end, where the first proximal end is connected to the second proximal end with a bridging member. The method includes inserting the post-operative device into the nasal passages and before, during or after inserting the device into the nasal passages, adjusting the medical device to accommodate the nasal passages by manipulating a flexible member of the medical device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Inventor: Robert Kotler
  • Publication number: 20150059764
    Abstract: A fluid delivery system provides fluid, such as supplementary oxygen, to a patient in response to inhalation. The fluid delivery system includes a valve assembly that is triggered by sensing nasal flow. The system includes a sensor configured to detect flow either directly through the nose and to detect any “flow leakage” through a patient's nasal cavity while mouth breathing. A method for conserved delivery of fluid to a patient that includes sensing such nasal flow is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2014
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Inventor: Joel B. Metelits
  • Patent number: 8967143
    Abstract: Acoustic pressure inducers and methods for treating obstructive sleep apnea are disclosed. In one embodiment, an acoustic pressure inducer includes an actuator housing having an orifice, a tube having a first end and a second end, and a nasal cannula fluidly coupled to the second end of the tube. The first end of the tube is fluidly coupled to the orifice of the actuator housing such that a gap is present between the first end of the tube and the orifice. The nasal cannula is configured to be positioned proximate to nostrils of a user. The acoustic pressure inducer further includes a vibrating element within the actuator housing and a signal generator. The signal generator component is electrically coupled to the vibrating element and configured to provide an electronic signal to the vibrating element to cause the vibrating element to oscillate within the actuator housing and produce an acoustic jet of air that exits the orifice and enters a nasal passageway of the user through the nasal cannula.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: University of Cincinnati
    Inventors: Ephraim Gutmark, Siddarth Khosia, Liran Oren
  • Publication number: 20150034090
    Abstract: A cannula cover fitted to a nasal cannula, such that the cover may be slid up and down the nasal cannula. In one aspect, when the cannula is in use, the cover may be slid to a position that contacts the user's chin, thus comfortably securing the cannula to the user. In another aspect, when the cannula is not in use, the cover may be slid up towards the nasal prongs covering them like a protective pocket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2013
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventors: Jacqueline Berger, Jeffrey John Julian
  • Patent number: 8939152
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for humidifying ventilation gas. Systems and methods may include a nasal interface apparatus for receiving ventilation gas from gas delivery tubing and for humidifying ventilation gas. The nasal interface apparatus may have one or more channels within the nasal interface to deliver gas from a gas delivery circuit to a patient's nose; one or more structures in fluid communication with the one or more channels to direct ventilation gas to the patient's nose; and a hygroscopic material within the nasal interface in the flow path of the ventilation gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Breathe Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony D. Wondka, Joseph Cipollone, George A. Kassanis, Todd W. Allum, Enrico Brambilla
  • Publication number: 20150020811
    Abstract: An oxygen delivery device (1) having a substantially U-shaped nasal cannula (3) with a formable tip (31) that fits inside the patient's nostril and extends around to an outer surface of the patient's nostril then toward the patient's eye or ear. The substantially U-shaped cannula has a first section of formable tubing (8) then extends from the U-shaped cannula across the patient's cheek around the side of the face and over the patient's ear. A second section of formable tubing (10) extends over the ear and a coiled section of tubing then extends downward to the patient's shoulder where a clip (15) located near the coiled section of flexible tubing may be used to attach the coiled section of flexible tubing to the patient's clothing. A stabilization patch (17 or 18) further secures the tubing to the cheek and/or behind the ear of the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2013
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Applicant: UPODS, LLC
    Inventor: HUGH W. PAYTON
  • Publication number: 20150013685
    Abstract: A nasal cushion (102) for a patient interface device is provided that includes a main body portion (106) and a nasal prong (108A, 108B) extending from a top side of the main body portion. The nasal prong includes a base portion (112A, 112B) coupled to the main body portion and a top portion (114A, 114B) coupled to the base portion. A distal end of the top portion defines an expandable orifice structured (118A, 118B) to be switchable between an unexpanded state having a first diameter (dl) to an expanded state having a second diameter (d2) greater than the first diameter so as to reduce the jetting effect experienced by the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.
    Inventor: Richard Thomas Haibach
  • Patent number: 8925550
    Abstract: A retainer for a single-sided modular cannula portable gas delivery system to secure a mouthpiece or nosepiece, a gas delivery pack and a single-sided modular medical cannula tubing assembly. An over-the ear secured modular mounting sleeve having an elongated central semi-circular cavity for securing a nasal cannula. A pair of engaged discs allow the cavity to rotate. The pair of discs have a plurality of elevated ridges that lock the semi-circular cavity in angular relationship to the ear piece. The ear piece has a malleable metal insert that is located at least partially within the ear piece that allows the ear piece to be bent for comfort.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Inventor: Sydney A Warren
  • Publication number: 20150000673
    Abstract: The invention concerns a nasal cannula assembly (10) adapted to deliver gases to a patient comprising a first compartment (1) and a second compartment (2) separated by a separation wall (6); a pair of nasal prongs (5) in fluid communication with the first compartment (1); the first compartment (1) comprising a first inlet (11) for introducing a first gas into said first compartment (1); the second compartment (2) comprising a second inlet (2) for introducing a second gas into said second compartment (2); and the separation wall (6) comprising at least one valve element (3) for controlling the passage of gas from the second compartment (2) to the first compartment (1). The invention concerns also a breathing assistance apparatus comprising a source of NO gas, and said nasal cannula assembly (10) in fluid communication with said source of NO gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2013
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Inventor: Andrew MARTIN
  • Patent number: 8910629
    Abstract: A delivery device for providing therapeutic gas to the nasal airway of a subject, the delivery device comprising: a nosepiece (21) for fitting to one nostril of the subject; a mouthpiece (23) through which the subject in use exhales and which is fluidly connected to the nosepiece (21); and a scrubber (27) which is operative at least to reduce the concentration of at least one gas from an exhaled breath of the subject as delivered through the mouthpiece (23) and provide a gas flow to the nosepiece (21) which has an increased concentration of at least one other,” therapeutic gas which provides a therapeutic effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignee: OptiNose AS
    Inventors: Per Gisle Djupesland, Roderick Peter Hafner
  • Publication number: 20140360499
    Abstract: An intranasal device having a first cannula for insertion into a first nostril of a user and a second cannula for insertion into a second nostril of a user. Each cannula has an interior surface defining a generally cylindrical lumen. On the exterior surface of each cannula is an anatomically conforming protrusion for engaging an anteromedial concavity of a nostril of the user and another anatomically conforming protrusion for engaging a posterolateral concavity of the nostril of the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2014
    Publication date: December 11, 2014
    Inventor: Ronal Peets