Abstract: A tracheal/endotracheal device that has an integrated system for removing mucins and similar infectious secretions. The tracheal/endotracheal device has several channels. One channel delivers air to a patient's lungs. At least two other channels cooperate to deliver a mist of antiseptic ingredients to an area in the trachea and to suction away the mist and any mucins and secretions. The mist and bodily fluids captured by the suctioning channel are delivered to a collection vessel outside of the trachea.

Abstract: The invention provides a save and non-invasive alternative to the traditional modified Evans blue dye test for dysphagia in intubated patients. The method employs direct application of dye to the tongue, in combination with a tracheal tube that provides suction in the subglottal region above the cuff. By keeping the cuff inflated, the aspiration of food and liquid, as used in the traditional test, is avoided entirely.

Abstract: A computer-controlled vacuum suctioning device for subglottic aspiration, in which the timing of the pump operation is regulated so as to be synchronized with the operation of a mechanical respirator.

Abstract: The invention provides a save and non-invasive alternative to the traditional modified Evans blue dye test for dysphagia in intubated patients. The method employs direct application of dye to the tongue, in combination with a tracheal tube that provides suction in the subglottal region above the cuff. By keeping the cuff inflated, the aspiration of food and liquid, as used in the traditional test, is avoided entirely.

Abstract: A tracheal/endotracheal device that has an integrated system for removing mucins and similar infectious secretions. The tracheal/endotracheal device has several channels. One channel delivers air to a patient's lungs. At least two other channels cooperate to deliver a mist of antiseptic ingredients to an area in the trachea and to suction away the mist and any mucins and secretions. The mist and bodily fluids captured by the suctioning channel are delivered to a collection vessel outside of the trachea.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for treating a wound can include a flexible sheet for sealingly engaging a patient's skin around a wound bed, a drain to be located in the wound bed, a vacuum source connected to the drain, and a flow restriction device to control the flow of fluid through an aperture of the flexible sheet.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for treating a wound can include a flexible sheet for sealingly engaging a patient's skin around a wound bed, a drain to be located in the wound bed, a vacuum source connected to the drain, and a flow restriction device to control the flow of fluid through an aperture of the flexible sheet.

Abstract: An intervertebral implant includes an implant body having superior and inferior sides, medial and lateral sides, and anterior and posterior ends. The superior and inferior sides each include a central section and convex side sections extending from opposite sides of the central section to the medial and lateral sides. The convex side sections are composed of a plurality of convex surface segments of different radii of curvature. The medial and lateral sides each have a concave inward portion and superior and inferior outward portions defining a cavity. An implant inserter includes a pair of holding members for being removably received in the cavities of the implant with an intermediate convex section of each holding member extending between the superior and inferior sides of the implant. The intermediate convex section of each holding member is composed of a plurality of convex surface segments of different radii of curvature.