Abstract: A magnetically guided device for insertion through a patient's nasal passageway of a tube for feeding or lavage of a target organ. The device includes a flexible tube having an insertion end sized for insertion through the patient's nasal cavity, pharynx and esophagus. The tube insertion end includes a magnetic member rotatably coupled to the insertion end and a porous tube segment spaced-apart proximal of the magnetic member. The magnetic member is rotatable within the insertion end and is responsive to an externally positioned magnetic field that is moved relative to the patient for guiding the insertion end through internal passageways and into the target organ within the patient. A method for insertion and positioning of a magnetically guided tube for feeding or for lavage of a target organ within a patient is also disclosed.

Abstract: A magnetic guide system for intubation of a tube into a patient's passageway. The system includes an intubation tube having a distal end sized for insertion into the patient. The tube includes a proximal end maintained external of the patient, and a flexible mid-portion allow lateral bending. A magnet member is enclosed on the distal end by a means for containment to allow rotation of the magnet member therein. The means for containment is composed of a material for passage of gases and liquids therethrough, while the magnet member is rotatable therein. The distal end and enclosed magnet member is insertable into a patient's passageway. Movement of the intubation tube distal end and rotating magnet member is influenced by movement of an external magnetic field from at least one magnet positioned external of the patient. A method for intubation of the intubation tube into a patient's passageway leading to a target organ is also disclosed.

Abstract: A magnetically guided device for insertion through a patient's nasal passageway of a tube for feeding or lavage of a target organ. The device includes a flexible tube having an insertion end sized for insertion through the patient's nasal cavity, pharynx and esophagus. The tube insertion end includes a magnetic member rotatably coupled to the insertion end and a porous tube segment spaced-apart proximal of the magnetic member. The magnetic member is rotatable within the insertion end and is responsive to an externally positioned magnetic field that is moved relative to the patient for guiding the insertion end through internal passageways and into the target organ within the patient. A method for insertion and positioning of a magnetically guided tube for feeding or for lavage of a target organ within a patient is also disclosed.

Abstract: A magnetic intubation apparatus insertable into an opening in a patient for guiding a tube into a preferred passageway within the patient. The magnetic intubation apparatus includes a flexible elongated body having an insertion end sized to be inserted through the patient's internal passageways. A magnetic member is coupled to the insertion end in a pivotable relationship. During insertion into the patient, the insertion end having the magnetic member thereon is guided into a preferred passageway such as the trachea or the esophagus by manipulating an external magnetic field disposed proximal to the patient. A method for insertion is also disclosed, providing for positioning within a patient of an elongated body having a magnetic member coupled to an insertion end that is guided by an external magnetic field into the preferred passageway within the patient for intubation of a tube into the preferred passageway.