With Means To Transmit View From Distal End Patents (Class 600/188)
  • Publication number: 20130253274
    Abstract: The claimed subject matter provides systems and/or methods that facilitate improving visualization associated with intubation. A dynamical articulating laryngoscope can include a handle assembly and a blade assembly. The blade assembly can further include a main blade assembly, a proximal blade assembly, and a distal blade assembly. A medium control articulation point can couple the main blade assembly and the proximal blade assembly, and a fine control articulation point can couple the distal blade assembly and the proximal blade assembly. Further, the proximal blade assembly can pivot relative to the main blade assembly around the medium control articulation point and/or the distal blade assembly can pivot relative to the proximal blade assembly around the fine control articulation point. Pivoting about the medium control articulation point and/or the fine control articulation point can be effectuated by one or more blade control components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicants: Turocy & Watson, LLP, University Hospitals of Cleveland
    Inventors: Howard S. Nearman, Donald M. Voltz, Alon S. Aharon
  • Publication number: 20130237763
    Abstract: Various methods and systems for delivery of an ETT for intubation are provided. In one example, an ETT delivery system includes a rail system for guiding insertion of an ETT and at least partially defining the motion of the ETT. The ETT delivery system further may include a video laryngoscope blade coupled to the rail system and a delivery mechanism. In some examples, the ETT delivery system further includes a positioner configured to adjust the motion of the ETT. As a further example, the ETT delivery system may include a swing arm and a guide rail to at least partially define the motion of the swing arm. Further, a drive-down mechanism may effect motion of the swing arm. As another embodiment, a rail system, a disposable blade and a positioner may be provided. Further, a delivery mechanism may be operatively linked with the integrated rail system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2012
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Inventor: Chunyuan Qiu
  • Publication number: 20130237764
    Abstract: An otoscanner including a conical laser-reflective optical element and a laser light source and the conical laser-reflecting optical element are configured so that the conical laser-reflecting optical element, when illuminated by the laser light source, projects a broken ring of laser light upon an interior surface of the ear when the ear probe is positioned in the ear and a diffractive laser optic lens and the laser light source and the diffractive laser optic lens are configured so that the diffractive laser optic lens, when illuminated by the laser light source, projects upon an interior surface of the ear a fan of laser light at a predetermined angle with respect to a front surface of the diffractive laser optic lens when the ear probe is positioned in the ear.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2012
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Applicant: 3DM SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Nathanael Berglund, Harris Bergman, Scott Cahall, Jerry Foster, Eohan George, Samuel W. Harris, Giorgos Hatzilias, Karol Hatzilias, Ruizhi Hong, Wess E. Sharpe, David G. Stites, Harry S. Strothers, IV
  • Patent number: 8529442
    Abstract: Video-based laryngoscopes having an external centrally located channel coursing from the handle to a curved blade configured to deliver an ETT to a trachea as visualized by a non-removable, or alternatively, a removable video camera and lighting unit located beneath the external channel. The channel laryngoscope may be made for single use in a patient and discarded, or be processed for re-use. Alternatively, the channel laryngoscope may have a removable video camera and lighting member located within an internal chamber that runs parallel with the external channel. In another embodiment a laryngoscope adapter may be detachably affixable to the channel laryngoscope equipped with the non-removable camera to provide a decontaminated or sterile surface to permit re-use of the channel laryngoscope without having to undergo washing or decontamination procedures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Verathon Medical (Canada) ULC
    Inventors: John Allen Pacey, Mitchell Visser, Reza Ahmadian Yazdi, Yongkook Kim
  • Publication number: 20130217971
    Abstract: Apparatuses for guiding an endotracheal tube during intubation and associated methods of their use; the apparatuses formed to contain a plastic element able to hold deformations so as to conform the apparatus to the shape of a patient's endotracheal airway. The plastic element has sufficient give so as to minimize traumatic engagement with the inner surface of the airway lumen. Methods for using the apparatuses exploit indirect visualization where the person performing the intubation can shape the apparatuses so as to place the distal end into the field of view of the indirect visualization instrument even with minimal alignment of the patient's airway.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2012
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Inventor: Benje Boedeker
  • Patent number: 8512233
    Abstract: A curved laryngoscope and an operation instrument assembly applying the same are provided, wherein the curved laryngoscope is provided with a guiding structure and a locating device. The guiding structure and the locating device can be individually or both adopted in the curved laryngoscope to assist various operation instruments in moving and being located reliably, and therefore improve the reliability, accuracy and facility in operation using the curved laryngoscope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignees: Industrial Technology Research Institute, National Taiwan University Hospital
    Inventors: Yu-Jin Kao, Hong-Wen Chang, Chih-Wen Yang, Shaw-Hwa Parng, Tzu-Yu Hsiao
  • Publication number: 20130211263
    Abstract: Apparatuses for guiding an endotracheal tube during intubation and associated methods of their use; the apparatuses formed to contain a plastic element able to hold deformations so as to conform the apparatus to the shape of a patient's endotracheal airway. The plastic element has sufficient give so as to minimize traumatic engagement with the inner surface of the airway lumen. Methods for using the apparatuses exploit indirect visualization where the person performing the intubation can shape the apparatuses so as to place the distal end into the field of view of the indirect visualization instrument even with minimal alignment of the patient's airway.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Inventor: THE BOARD OF REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA
  • Publication number: 20130197312
    Abstract: A laryngoscope has a first and second handle portion defining an internal cavity and forming a handle assembly. The laryngoscope includes a first and second blade portion defining an internal cavity and forming a blade assembly. A light and camera source within the internal cavity of the blade assembly illuminates at least a portion of the blade assembly and obtains images of the operation of the laryngoscope. A microprocessor coupled to the camera is mounted within one internal cavity and can record images from the camera. The microprocessor provides on-board recording capable of capturing video and audio and event data, such as from a simulator. A keypad is configured to provide for on-Board event flagging of the recorded data recorded by the microprocessor. The microprocessor may wirelessly transmit data from the laryngoscope.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: KB PORT LLC
    Inventor: KB PORT LLC
  • Patent number: 8479739
    Abstract: A system and method for endotracheal intubation of airways are disclosed. A malleable stylet having a distal end and a proximal end, a charged coupled device (CCD) at the distal end and a transmitter, at or near the proximal end or connected to the proximal end of the stylet with connectors, transmits video to a visualization device comprising a receiver means, a display means, and a display support adapted to be worn on an operator in a position so that the operator can view the display with one eye while simultaneously viewing the airway directly. The display support is typically worn on the head of a physician. A second display can be worn by a student or observer. In some instances, the transmitter means and receiver means are wireless.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: The Cooper Health System
    Inventor: Robert Hirsh
  • Patent number: 8460184
    Abstract: The claimed subject matter provides systems and/or methods that facilitate improving visualization associated with intubation. A dynamically articulating laryngoscope blade can be controlled to configure to normal anatomic variants and pathologic abnormalities to facilitate placing of an endotracheal tube into a patient's trachea. Further, cameras can be integrated into and/or mounted upon the dynamically articulating laryngoscope blade. The cameras can enable stereoscopic visualization of the laryngeal aperture allowing for depth perception. Moreover, the cameras can be moved independently of the blade allowing for optimal viewing of the laryngeal opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignees: University Hospitals of Cleveland, Turocy & Watson, LLP
    Inventors: Howard S. Nearman, Donald M. Voltz, Alon S. Aharon
  • Patent number: 8419634
    Abstract: The claimed subject matter provides systems and/or methods that facilitate improving visualization associated with intubation. A dynamical articulating laryngoscope can include a handle assembly and a blade assembly. The blade assembly can further include a main blade assembly, a proximal blade assembly, and a distal blade assembly. A medium control articulation point can couple the main blade assembly and the proximal blade assembly, and a fine control articulation point can couple the distal blade assembly and the proximal blade assembly. Further, the proximal blade assembly can pivot relative to the main blade assembly around the medium control articulation point and/or the distal blade assembly can pivot relative to the proximal blade assembly around the fine control articulation point. Pivoting about the medium control articulation point and/or the fine control articulation point can be effectuated by one or more blade control components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignees: University Hospitals of Cleveland, Turocy & Watson, LLP
    Inventors: Howard S. Nearman, Donald M. Voltz, Alon S. Aharon
  • Publication number: 20130072757
    Abstract: A battery pack (10) for an electrical device (60) has a cover portion which forms part of the assembled electrical device (60) and a seal (78) for forming a waterproof seal between the battery pack (10) and the electrical device (10). Thus, every new battery pack can form a fresh seal with the electrical device (60), allowing effective waterproofing. A battery pack (10) for an electrical device (60) includes a memory storing a value indicative the remaining available rated capacity of the battery pack (10). The stored value is changed in use to reflect reducing capacity. The initial stored value is chosen so that there is a very high (e.g. >99.9%) confidence that the battery pack will provide at least the capacity indicated by the initial stored value. This reduces the chance of failure during emergency procedures. An override facility is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2011
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Applicant: AIRCRAFT MEDICAL LIMITED
    Inventors: Matthew John Ross Mcgrath, Peter Douglas Colin Inglis, Brian Alan Laffoley
  • Patent number: 8398545
    Abstract: A laryngoscope a handgrip, a blade, and an image-capturing unit for capturing an image. The blade is connected to the handgrip, and the image-capturing unit is movably secured on the blade. In use, users may adjust the view of the laryngoscope by moving the image-capturing unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Inventors: Tien-Sheng Chen, Hui-Bih Yuan
  • Publication number: 20130066153
    Abstract: An electrical device includes a memory storing a value indicative the remaining available rated capacity of one or more batteries. The stored value is changed in use to reflect reducing capacity. The initial stored value is chosen so that there is a very high (e.g. >99.9%) confidence that the one or more batteries will provide at least the capacity indicated by the initial stored value. This reduces the chance of failure during emergency procedures. The one or more batteries may be integral to the electrical device. An override facility is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2011
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: AIRCRAFT MEDICAL LIMITED
    Inventors: Matthew John Ross McGrath, Peter Douglas Colin Inglis, Brian Alan Laffoley
  • Publication number: 20130066152
    Abstract: A tracheal intubation device includes a handle portion, a display unit, a bar-shaped camera, and a guiding portion. The display unit is electrically connected to the bar-shaped camera. The bar-shaped camera is used for capturing images and includes a camera rear end and a camera front end. The camera rear end is electrically connected to the display unit for displaying images captured by the bar-shaped camera. The camera front end has a bended portion. The guiding portion includes a front end and a rear end, wherein the front end is detachably connected to the handle portion. The guiding portion is used for accommodating the bar-shaped camera and the endotracheal tube to allow the bar-shaped camera and the endotracheal tube to move within the guiding portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventor: Tien-Sheng Chen
  • Publication number: 20130066151
    Abstract: A tracheal intubation device for placing an endotracheal tube in the trachea of a patient is disclosed. The tracheal intubation device includes a bar-shaped camera, a handle portion, a guiding portion, and a display device. The bar-shaped camera for capturing images is placed inside the endotracheal tube. The display device is electrically connected to the bar-shaped camera for displaying images captured by the bar-shaped camera. The guiding portion connected to the handle portion has a front end and a rear end, wherein the rear end is connected to the handle portion, and the bar-shaped camera and the endotracheal tube are movably situated in the guiding portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventor: Tien-Sheng Chen
  • Publication number: 20130060089
    Abstract: Disclosed is a laryngoscope insertion section having a curved superior surface and a curved inferior surface, and a channel extending from the proximal end the channel having an inferior internal surface with a greater curvature than the curvature of the inferior surface. The insertion section is compatible with laryngoscope hardware optimised for indirect viewing, yet enables direct viewing. Additionally, the distance between the inferior and superior surfaces is at a maximum within the intermediate portion, and enables the dimensions of the proximal and distal portions to be minimized. Thus, the intermediate portion, which is located in the patient's oral cavity in use, is provided with greatest depth and therefore strength where the greatest forces are received, whereas the distal and proximal portions are of reduced dimensions to as to minimize trauma to the patient's airway and mouth areas, respectively, in use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2011
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Applicant: AIRCRAFT MEDICAL LIMITED
    Inventors: Matthew John Ross McGrath, Peter Douglas Colin Inglis
  • Publication number: 20130060090
    Abstract: A video laryngoscope has an arm comprising a video camera, at least one electrical conductor extending to the video camera, an elongate electrical conductor retaining member retaining the electrical conductor and an overmoulding extending around the elongate cable retaining member and having a smooth outer surface. Providing a laryngoscope arm overmoulded to provide a smooth outer surface has the benefit of allowing the laryngoscope arm to be readily cleaned or sterilised, and minimises the number of features, such as seams or joints, where dirt or infectious bodies may be retained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2011
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Applicant: AIRCRAFT MEDICAL LIMITED
    Inventors: Matthew John Ross McGrath, Peter Douglas Colin Inglis
  • Patent number: 8388524
    Abstract: An improved medical instrument having a rigid blade, a handle, a power source, and an easily removable video imaging device such as a video monitor is provided. The distal end comprises a series of channels extending along the blade in which one houses a fiber optic illuminating bundle for transmitting light into an area beyond said distal end of the blade, another channel carries an image bundle for transmitting visual images from said area to a position adjacent said proximal end of said blade and a third channel houses an intubation tube installation device or other instrument. The images are carried through the channel and the handle to the video imaging device. A quick release adaptor is connected through a hollow tube containing the image bundle to the laryngoscope handle at the end opposite the blade. The video imaging device is attached to the adaptor and may be easily release or detached therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Inventor: J. Roger Bullard
  • Patent number: 8382657
    Abstract: The invention relates to test equipment for rigid endoscopes, but also for flexible endoscopes and video endoscopes. The equipment includes an enclosure having a cover hingedly coupled to a base, an optical test target coupled to the cover, an endoscope support stand pivotably coupled to the enclosure and a bed contained within the base including a plurality of indentations shaped for receiving individual pieces of endoscope testing equipment. The testing equipment can include magnification loupes, light post adapters, battery powered light sources, cleansing tissues and a ruler. A support bracket is coupled between the cover and the endoscope support stand wherein the endoscope support stand is pivotably coupled to the support bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Integrated Medical Systems International, Inc
    Inventors: Zoltan A. Bodor, Matthew T. Goodale, Oscar Jerome Williams, Marius Todor, Shusheng Ye, Jurgen Zobel
  • Patent number: 8366612
    Abstract: A method of using a laryngoscope guide including a guiding conduit for advancing an introducer. The method can be used to intubate a subject by positioning the laryngoscope guide in an airway; advancing the introducer in the conduit until an end of the introducer enters the glottis, while viewing images of the introducer end; removing the laryngoscope guide with the guide conduit from the introducer and from the airway; guiding a tube with the introducer until an end of the tube enters the glottis; and removing the introducer from the tube with the end of the tube remaining in the glottis, and in particular, in the trachea, to establish an airway. The guide and method can enable a healthcare professional to intubate a subject where neck mobility is an issue, where an airway is difficult, and/or where a subject is obese.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Spectrum Health Innovations, LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey A. Rosenthal
  • Publication number: 20130018227
    Abstract: A laryngoscopic device includes a laryngoscope video blade and a handle module arranged to support the video blade or auxiliary direct laryngoscopy blades interchangeably thereon. The video blade includes a camera and contacts for receiving electrical power from the handle module while outputting video to the handle module from the camera. The handle module can also provide electrical power to a light source on the video blade or include its own light source to be conveyed to a light guide of a blade coupled to the handle module. The laryngoscopic device also includes a display monitor which can be removably coupled to an output of the handle module to display video generated by the video blade camera. The handle module can be used alone with non-video blades or readily converted to a video laryngoscopic device by replacing the non-video blade with a video blade and connecting the display monitor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2012
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Inventor: Ian Schoonbaert
  • Publication number: 20120330103
    Abstract: A laryngoscope device for use in the performance of direct laryngoscopy, the device including a laryngoscope blade portion connectable to a laryngoscope handle through a connector, the laryngoscope blade comprising an ultraviolet light, a white light and an imaging or viewing device at the same distance relative to the distal end of the laryngoscope blade.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2011
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Applicant: Intubrite, LLC
    Inventors: James P. Tenger, Leslie A. Tenger, John R. Hicks
  • Publication number: 20120316398
    Abstract: A laryngoscope includes a laryngoscope blade; a laryngoscope handle coupled to the laryngoscope blade; an electronic display; and an adjustable display mechanism that adjustably couples the electronic display to the laryngoscope handle. The adjustable display mechanism provides relative rotation of the electronic display relative to the laryngoscope handle about a first axis and a separate second axis different than the first axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2012
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Applicant: INTUBRITE, LLC
    Inventors: Danny Ashcraft, Eric Allen, James P. Tenger, John R. Hooks
  • Publication number: 20120259176
    Abstract: A laryngoscope assembly with enhanced viewing capability including a laryngoscope handle having a permanently mounted laryngoscope optical system. The laryngoscope optical system has a view tube with a leading aperture lens for affording a field of view along a deflected line of sight viewing in an operative intubation position. The laryngoscope handle includes a laryngoscope optical system securing arrangement for mechanically securing the laryngoscope optical system in the operative intubation position. The laryngoscope assembly also includes an interchangeable laryngoscope blade including a trailing view tube sleeve for slidably mounting on the view tube and a leading spatula wherein the view tube sleeve has a leading transparent window for covering the aperture lens. The laryngoscope assembly further includes a blade securing arrangement for mechanically securing the laryngoscope blade on the laryngoscope handle in the operative intubation position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2012
    Publication date: October 11, 2012
    Inventors: David Grey, Eugeny Pecherer
  • Publication number: 20120218514
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device comprising a shaft having at least a first portion and a second portion that can adopt a closed position in which the first and second portions are positioned adjacent each other and an open position in which the first and second portions are positioned distant from each other, one or both of the first and second portions housing or forming part of one or more of an ophthalmoscope, an otoscope, a tendon hammer, a tuning fork and a red hat pin. Also provided are improved otoscope heads and means to protect the functional heads of medical tools when not in use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2010
    Publication date: August 30, 2012
    Applicant: MEDIVENTION LTD
    Inventor: Tsong Yun Kwong
  • Patent number: 8251898
    Abstract: Laryngoscope apparatus including a curved laryngoscope blade and an optical system for affording a field of view along a deflected line of sight for reducing patient manipulation and/or the degree of force required to achieve a good glottic view.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Truphatek International Ltd
    Inventor: Eugeny Pecherer
  • Publication number: 20120215069
    Abstract: An improved medical instrument having a rigid blade, a handle, a power source, and an easily removable video imaging device such as a video monitor is provided. The distal end comprises a series of channels extending along the blade in which one houses a fiber optic illuminating bundle for transmitting light into an area beyond said distal end of the blade, another channel carries an image bundle for transmitting visual images from said area to a position adjacent said proximal end of said blade and a third channel houses an intubation tube installation device or other instrument. The images are carried through the channel and the handle to the video imaging device. A quick release adaptor is connected through a hollow tube containing the image bundle to the laryngoscope handle at the end opposite the blade. The video imaging device is attached to the adaptor and may be easily release or detached therefrom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2011
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Inventor: J. Roger Bullard
  • Publication number: 20120197086
    Abstract: According to various embodiments, an airway visualization device may facilitate the selection and insertion of airway devices. The device may allow clinicians to more effectively determine the appropriate diameter tracheal tube for a particular patient, which in turn may decrease work of breathing and/or discomfort for the patient. In particular embodiments, the airway visualization device provides a displayed image of the patient's airway upon which a representative tracheal tube or other airway device may be superimposed. The clinician may evaluate the superimposed image to determine if the representative tracheal tube is appropriately sized for the airway.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2011
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Applicant: Nellcor Puritan Bennett LLC
    Inventors: Sean Morris, Roger Mecca
  • Publication number: 20120190929
    Abstract: A laryngoscope comprising a handle, a blade holding element, a detachable blade, means for viewing the laryngeal inlet of a patient and means for adjusting the viewing field. The means for adjusting the viewing field may comprise a light refracting means. Alternatively, in embodiments in which the viewing means comprises at least two fixed cameras elements directed to at least two different viewing fields, the means for adjusting the viewing field may comprise means for switching from one camera to the other or, in embodiments in which the viewing means comprises a movable camera element, the means for adjusting the viewing field may comprise mechanical or electronic means for controlling the movement of the camera. A method for viewing the laryngeal inlet of a patient using a laryngoscope comprising the step of adjusting the viewing field is also covered.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2010
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Applicant: INDIAN OCEAN MEDICAL INC.
    Inventors: Anil Patel, Peter Young, Marko Plevnik
  • Publication number: 20120178997
    Abstract: In accordance with the present design there is provided a method utilizing a novel laryngoscope design that inserts a bougie along a canal on one side of a sheath; the sheath being further comprised of a canal capable of being threaded with a bougie, providing a method of access for guiding a Bougie into the trachea, while facilitating a method for the removal of oral/pharyngeal secretions, by placing a suction catheter in a canal through which a method for creating suction is provided; and further the bougie canal provides a method of facilitating placement of a topical anesthetic by providing a channel through which a local anesthetic can be sprayed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2011
    Publication date: July 12, 2012
    Inventors: Jay (Jason) Tydlaska, Amy Sheppard
  • Publication number: 20120178999
    Abstract: A laryngoscope is provided with which an operator can directly observe the trachea inlet portion of a patient easily by safely and surely lifting the epiglottis of the patient with a proximal end portion of a laryngoscope blade which is inserted in the mouth of the patient. The blade is connected to a distal end portion of a grippable handle, a first electrode is mounted on a distal end portion of the blade, and a second electrode is configured to adhere to a skin surface of the patient in the vicinity of the epiglottis, and a low frequency current is supplied to flow between the first electrode and the second electrode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2010
    Publication date: July 12, 2012
    Applicant: National University Corporation Okayama University
    Inventors: Yoshimasa Takeda, Kiyoshi Morita, Takeharu Kobayashi
  • Publication number: 20120101340
    Abstract: A laryngoscope may be a device to view the vocal chords of a patient and may include a channel wall to define a channel, an input port to the channel being connected to the channel wall to allow a user to view the vocal chords of the patient, and output port to the channel being connected on an opposing side of the channel wall to allow the user to view the vocal chords of the patient. The input port may include a first light reflecting device, and the output port may include a second light reflecting device. The input port may include a first inclined end, and the outlet port may include a second inclined end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2010
    Publication date: April 26, 2012
    Inventor: Albert Mburu
  • Publication number: 20120095294
    Abstract: A laryngoscope insertion section for a laryngoscope, which is typically a video laryngoscope, includes a lateral tube guide configured to retain an endotracheal tube in a plane. A viewing port for a camera or other image collector is laterally displaced from the plane of the endotracheal tube. The said plane of the endotracheal tube is aligned substantially in the same plane as a patients median plane and the tube can be advanced into the larynx using a natural curving motion similar to the motion used to introduce an endotracheal tube using a convention laryngoscope. In a preferred embodiment, the distal tip of the insertion section and a retained endotracheal tube will be located in the patients median plane during intubation. As the tube guide retains endotracheal tubes substantially in a plane, lateral curvature is avoided, reducing resistance to advancement of the tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2010
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Inventors: Matthew J.R. Mcgrath, Morgan James Walker
  • Publication number: 20120078055
    Abstract: A video intubation system that provides for multiple image streams to be simultaneously presented to a user, the first image stream generated by a video laryngoscope and the second image stream generated by a video stylet. The video stylet is provided with a deflection section for ease of introducing an ETT into the trachea of a patient, the video stylet having a pistol-type grip and a control interface in the form of a trigger-type lever to facilitate comfortable griping and manipulation by the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2010
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Inventors: George Berci, James P. Barry
  • Publication number: 20120071725
    Abstract: A laryngoscope comprising a handle, a blade holding element, a releasable blade and releasable attachment means to attach the blade to the blade holding element, and handle and a blade for such a laryngoscope.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2010
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Applicant: INDIAN OCEAN MEDICAL INC.
    Inventors: Marko Plevnik, Brian Gough
  • Publication number: 20120035502
    Abstract: Articulating laryngoscope to aid in the intubation of patients by providing illumination of the oral cavity and trachea during the process having, for example, ‘fingers’ with fiber optic lights at the ends and at joints of the fingers, fingers spread open or ‘flower’ when the device is deployed, gently retracting and compressing soft tissues in the oral cavity and providing medical professionals with much better illumination of the passageway they are addressing, constructed from a malleable material, including rubber, plastics/polymers, and carbon fiber, instead of hard metal. The fingers may have multiple light sources to ensure a flooding of the patient's oropharynx with light. Some versions might have fiber-optic cameras connected to one or more fingers for use in teaching and research, and one might have suction capability to facilitate removal of solids and fluids, one embodiment can have at least one finger with a scalpel at its distal end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2010
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Applicant: UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH - OF THE COMMONWEALTH SYSTEM OF HIGHER EDUCATION
    Inventor: James John Menegazzi
  • Patent number: 8079951
    Abstract: An intubation assistance apparatus includes a main body having a proximal end portion; an intubation assistance instrument having an elongated insertion section for insertion into a target site or its vicinity of a patient from a mouth cavity of the patient, the inserting section being formed with a tube guide for leading the intubation tube toward the observation site; and an imaging device for taking an image of an observation site at a distal end portion of the insertion section as an electronic image. The main body includes a display having a screen for displaying the electronic image taken by the imaging device, and the screen of the display is adapted to indicate a target mark for adjusting or setting an advancing direction of the intubation tube to the observation site displayed on the screen in the electronic image displayed on the screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: Hoya Corporation
    Inventor: Hidetaka Yokota
  • Publication number: 20110306839
    Abstract: A guiding device for use with a laryngoscope for assisting in the insertion of an endotracheal tube into a patient, the device comprising a guiding means for guiding an endotracheal tube through the patient's upper airways, and an attachment means to attach the guiding means to the blade of the laryngoscope. A laryngoscope comprising the guiding device is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2009
    Publication date: December 15, 2011
    Applicant: INDIAN OCEAN MEDICAL INC.
    Inventors: Peter Young, Anil Patel
  • Publication number: 20110270038
    Abstract: A video laryngoscope has a handle and a groove on one side of the handle. The groove is used for guiding a guide wire when the larynogoscope is placed in a patient's mouth. A video camera located near the end of the handle is used to view the area around the glottis. When the guide wire is properly positioned near the glottis, the upper part of the guide wire is disengaged from the groove so as to allow an endotracheal tube to be slipped over the guide wire and to be inserted into part of the trachea through the glottis. When the tube is properly inserted for intubation, the guide wire is removed from the tube. An illuminating light source such as an LED lamp can be installed at the end of the handle to provide illumination for the video camera.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2009
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Inventors: Wenqiang Jiang, Li Ding
  • Patent number: 8029440
    Abstract: A laryngoscope including a control circuit and a camera having a housing enclosing the camera that is detachably connectable to a handle, where the camera functions and is compatible with a wide variety of displays. The laryngoscope may optionally be used in either the video mode where the user views a display presenting image data of the area ahead of the blade, or the user may use the laryngoscope in the direct visualization where the user uses the laryngoscope in a traditional manner directly viewing the area ahead of the blade during the intubation procedure. When used in the video mode, an LED is positioned adjacent to a window enclosing the digital image sensor to defog the window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Karl Storz Endovision, Inc.
    Inventors: Dashiell Birnkrant, James P. Barry
  • Publication number: 20110237896
    Abstract: An improved endotracheal tube providing a built in suction channel for the removal of excessive secretions from the lumen of said tube and the tracheobronchial system is disclosed. Control valves for regulating the suction feature are also disclosed. In at least one embodiment, the endotracheal tube includes an additional suction channel, an above-the-cuff suction channel adapted to remove secretions above the cuff outside the endotracheal tube and within the trachea. Additionally, in at least one embodiment, the endotracheal tube is configured for use with an endoscope for videolaryngoscopy, and the like. Furthermore, in at least one embodiment, an improved technology for the administration of medications within the tracheobronchial system is disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2011
    Publication date: September 29, 2011
    Inventors: Paul William Black, Lelia Meadows Martin
  • Publication number: 20110201890
    Abstract: A method of using a laryngoscope guide including a guiding conduit for advancing an introducer. The method can be used to intubate a subject by positioning the laryngoscope guide in an airway; advancing the introducer in the conduit until an end of the introducer enters the glottis, while viewing images of the introducer end; removing the laryngoscope guide with the guide conduit from the introducer and from the airway; guiding a tube with the introducer until an end of the tube enters the glottis; and removing the introducer from the tube with the end of the tube remaining in the glottis, and in particular, in the trachea, to establish an airway. The guide and method can enable a healthcare professional to intubate a subject where neck mobility is an issue, where an airway is difficult, and/or where a subject is obese.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2010
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Applicant: SPECTRUM HEALTH INNOVATIONS, LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey A. Rosenthal
  • Patent number: 7988622
    Abstract: The invention relates to a luminous optical laryngoscope having a heating device built into the end that is inserted into the patient or the distal end thereof in order to prevent the formation of condensation and to facilitate viewing inside the patient through the laryngoscope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignees: Page 65, S.L., S.C.B., S.A.
    Inventor: Pedro Achas Gandarias
  • Publication number: 20110178372
    Abstract: Video-based laryngoscopes having an external centrally located channel coursing from the handle to a curved blade configured to deliver an ETT to a trachea as visualized by a non-removable, or alternatively, a removable video camera and lighting unit located beneath the external channel. The channel laryngoscope may be made for single use in a patient and discarded, or be processed for re-use. Alternatively, the channel laryngoscope may have a removable video camera and lighting member located within an internal chamber that runs parallel with the external channel. In another embodiment a laryngoscope adapter may be detachably affixable to the channel laryngoscope equipped with the non-removable camera to provide a decontaminated or sterile surface to permit re-use of the channel laryngoscope without having to undergo washing or decontamination procedures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2010
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Applicant: VERATHON INC.
    Inventors: John Allen Pacey, Mitchell Visser, Reza Ahmadian Yazdi, Yongkook Kim
  • Publication number: 20110144436
    Abstract: The claimed subject matter provides systems and/or methods that facilitate improving visualization associated with intubation. A dynamically articulating laryngoscope blade can be controlled to configure to normal anatomic variants and pathologic abnormalities to facilitate placing of an endotracheal tube into a patient's trachea. Further, cameras can be integrated into and/or mounted upon the dynamically articulating laryngoscope blade. The cameras can enable stereoscopic visualization of the laryngeal aperture allowing for depth perception. Moreover, the cameras can be moved independently of the blade allowing for optimal viewing of the laryngeal opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2009
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Applicants: UNIVERSITY HOSPITALS OF CLEVELAND, TUROCY & WATSON, LLP
    Inventors: Howard S. Nearman, Donald M. Voltz, Alon S. Aharon
  • Publication number: 20110137127
    Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for using a laryngoscope blade with a camera and an endotracheal intubation device with a camera to enable simultaneous viewing of images from the two cameras on a display means such as an LCD display screen. The system enables accurate insertion and placement of an endotracheal tube in a patient with less risk to the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2010
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Applicant: AI Medical Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: John Schwartz, Richard Schwartz, Harsha Setty
  • Publication number: 20110130632
    Abstract: A visualization instrument comprising a display support component removably coupled to a component insertable into a target space. The insertable component includes a camera providing images of the target space. The images are presented in a display device supported by the display support component. The insertable component may be discarded after a permitted number of uses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2010
    Publication date: June 2, 2011
    Applicant: KING SYSTEMS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Thomas W. McGrail, Michael S. Pargett, David J. Miller, Yun Siung Tony Yeh, Randal B. Chinnock, George Grubner, Elizabeth Powell Goodrich, Richard L. Miller, Gary Vincent Palladino, Brian Hack
  • Patent number: 7946981
    Abstract: A two-piece video laryngoscope includes a disposable handle/blade unit having a handgrip portion with a cavity at the proximal end, a curved distal end portion extending from the handgrip portion terminating in a terminal face containing a LED and a lens and digital image sensor connected with a first connector in the cavity, and a tube receptacle channel extending distally along the dorsal surface of and a vacuum/oxygen passageway extending through the curved distal end portion; and a power/video module releasably engaged in the cavity having a flat panel display pivotally mounted at the proximal end thereof and containing a rechargeable battery and electrical and video circuitry connected with a second connector. An endotracheal tube is received and releasably retained in the tube receptacle channel in a preloaded condition. When assembled, the connectors are engaged to complete the electrical and video circuits and allow viewing of insertion and intubation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Inventor: Anthony Cubb
  • Publication number: 20110092773
    Abstract: A video laryngoscope is provided that includes a body having a handle portion and a blade portion. The blade portion terminates in a tip and defines at least one aperture formed proximal to the tip. The blade portion is dimensioned for oral insertion into a subject buccal cavity. A fiber optic light source terminates within the blade portion and upon light source activation illuminates an area including the tip. A video system is coupled to the body and relays imagery of the tip and surrounding area to a video monitor. A channel extending through the body provides fluid communication to the aperture and an external source of suction. As a result, an operator is capable of visualizing debris and/or obstructions in a subject airway and is able to observe and guide the scope for suction removal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2010
    Publication date: April 21, 2011
    Inventor: Rachel A. Goldstein