Abstract: An apparatus for use with a tracheal T-tube having transversely extending first and second passages that communicate with each other. The apparatus has a body with a generally tubular shape and a channel extending between distal and proximal ends. The body has cylindrical inner and outer walls that define a wall thickness. The body can be inserted into the first passage so that the distal end lies in the second passage. The apparatus has an inflatable device operatively secured to its distal end, and means for selectively inflating and deflating the inflatable device. The body also has a tube which defines a lumen extending between the ends and fluidly connecting the inflatable device with the means for selectively inflating and deflating the inflatable device.

Abstract: A laryngoscope blade for detachably connecting to a handle has a rigid skeleton to resist deformation or breakage. The blade includes a first end and a second opposite end. The first end is connectable to the handle. The second end is insertable through a patient's mouth and down the throat and/or hypopharynx to expose the voice box. A light conductor extends through the blade and transmits light from the handle to the second end. The blade has first and second surfaces extending between the first and second ends. The first surface faces and effectively diverts a patient's tongue when the second end is inserted into the patient's mouth and throat. A resilient cushion extends from the second surface. The cushion is supple and deformable to absorb pressure exerted on the cushion by inadvertent contact with the teeth while being inserted in the patient's mouth and throat. The cushion includes an outer skin with a relatively low coefficient of friction.

Abstract: A nasal splint is described to separate the mucoperiosteum within a nasal cavity. The splint includes an elongate base sized and shaped to separate the inferior conchae. A flexible wing extends away from the base to separate the walls of the middle conchae when the splint is in place within the nasal cavity. A hollow tube is also provided on the base for defining an air passage.

Abstract: A stoma stent system for treating patients after tracheostomy and maintenance of a tracheastomy tract includes a tubular stent for insertion in the trachea and several plug components which may be inserted into the open, free end of the stent for several functions. For example, a plug may have several inserts for progressively constricting air flow through the stent to wean the patient off the stent. The same, or another plug may include a vapor source for transferring moisture from exhaled air to inhaled air. A third plug may include a check valve which blocks exhaled air and redirects the air toward the vocal cords to permit the patient to speak and cough.

Abstract: A surgical device for insertion into a living being to support the larynx comprised of an elongated tubular member having a closed, crowed upper end. The device is comprised of a resilient biocompatible polymer material and includes an elongated, narrow aperture through the crowned upper end forming a normally closed valve-like arrangement.

Abstract: A cuffed endotracheal tube having an upper, unidirectional inflatable-deflatable cuff located above the larynx on the posterior side of the tube operative when inflated to engage the posterior portion of the pharynx to effect alignment of the tube relative to the opening in the larynx.