Abstract: Disclosed are a medical mask apparatus for use in medical procedures and methods of endoscopy. In one aspect, a medical mask apparatus includes a mask material conforming to a patients face along a sealing surface. The medical mask further includes a nose cone with a conically shaped first end and a cylindrically shaped second end, a cap that engages the second end of the nose cone through the mask material, wherein a portion of the mask material is captured at an interface between the nose cone and the cap. There is a valve in the cap, wherein the valve is flexible to expand and allow a medical instrument to pass through the valve. The medical mask also includes one or more attachment straps to hold the medical mask apparatus on the patients face.

Abstract: Disclosed is an endoscopic stapler that can be operated through the small working channel of a laryngoscope, other rigid endoscope, or a natural orifice to safely and effectively connect tissues permanently or semi-permanently. The endoscopic stapler apparatus includes a handle including a trigger, an outer shaft coupled to the handle, and an inner shaft with prongs positioned at a distal end of the inner shaft. The endoscopic stapler further includes a hook, wherein the hook and prongs are positioned to capture a staple at a tip of the prongs, wherein a proximal end of the inner shaft is coupled to the trigger, and wherein activation of the trigger causes the prongs to translate away from the handle causing the prongs to bend and close the staple.

Abstract: Described are devices, systems and methods for thermographic imaging of conditions of the ear, nose, and throat (ENT). An example device for thermographic ENT imaging includes an endoscope and a thermal imaging camera that can be either integrated or added as an attachment to the endoscope. The device may also include a mirror configured to direct thermal radiation emitted by a target area to the thermal imaging camera.

Abstract: Disclosed are materials, articles, devices, and methods for manufacture thereof that pertain to a tracheostomy support system. The tracheostomy support system can eliminate torque on the tracheostomy tube and offload pressure caused by the tracheostomy tube on the neck skin of a patient. Additionally, the tracheostomy support system can indicate when pressure or moisture on the skin is at an unsafe level that may predispose the patient to neck skin ulceration, breakdown, or infection. The tracheostomy support system can be automatically adjusted through a closed-loop feedback system or can be manually adjusted.