Abstract: Semi-rigid stylets configured with a particular curve shaped and handle design to accurately advance either left-sided or right-sided double lumen endotracheal tubes to be positioned in the appropriate place are described. The semi-rigid stylets have a distal bend to counter or compensate for the inherent curvature of double lumen tubes imparted by the memory of spooled tubing stocks. Other embodiments of the semi-rigid stylets are made of materials that establish only those forces sufficient to cause the necessary bending to route a bronchial cuff to a desired lung location without causing substantial tissue injury. The semi-rigid stylets are also fitted with a curved handle configured to engage a user's thumb for easy manipulation and includes a locking component to engage a nearby tracheal tube extension to stabilize endotracheal tube shapes for insertion into the trachea and bronchial regions.

Abstract: An embodiment encompassing reusable video laryngoscopes that are insertable into transparent or non-transparent disposable sheaths having clear optically clear viewing windows that receive contact with camera lens. The reusable video laryngoscopes are configured to be detachably secured by locking tabs located in the transparent or non-transparent disposable sheaths with complementary shaped posts and ledges of the video laryngoscopes. The video laryngoscopes that are secured into the transparent or non-transparent disposable sheaths may be inserted into the patient's mouth to provide clear camera viewing through the optically clear window ports of the transparent or non-transparent disposable sheaths to allow endotracheal procedures to be undertaken. The transparent or non-transparent disposable sheaths are sterilizable and may be used just once for a given patient. The video laryngoscopes in the form of a baton are detachably removeable from the disposable sheath exposed to a patient.

Abstract: A pulmonary secretion clearing airway structure and related airway management system is disclosed that has a double lumen portion which each lumen of the double lumen portion operably secured to an airway management system so that inspiratory fluid (air/oxygen mixtures, with or without added water vapor) is delivered to the distal end of the ventilation catheter through one of the two lumens and expired inspiratory fluid, pulmonary secretions, and pulmonary fluids are removed from the patient through the other lumen. The expiratory fluid pathway preferably includes a secretion collection system for removing the pulmonary secretions and the like from the pathway, thereby improving operation and safety of the system. The airway structure can be a ventilation catheter or a supraglottic airway system such as laryngeal mask and the like.

Abstract: A method and prosthesis design and manufacture is described for repair of Inguinal and other Hernias by a combination of a percutaneous endoscopic imaging system with a proprietary patch. The nitinol or metal reinforced plastic fabric patch is introduced into the hernial defect by use of a cannula and after expansion and deployment is capable of stabilizing the peritoneum by use of a unique radiating skeleton with polydirectional hooks and also provide the necessary structural support. The system may be enhanced by use of a harpoon toggle suture, which is an integral component of the system and provides unprecedented strength of the repair. The patch is constructed of an adhesion resistant layer, a nitinol, plastic or metal frame and also a layer or elements designed to promote adherence. An alternate unitary construction is contemplated made of molded plastic to reproduce all of the structural features important to the function of the system.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for treating edema of a body member by pressure includes the use of a flexible, liquid-tight bag having connectors for securing the bag about the member. A liquid conduit, substantially smaller in section than the bag, is connected to the top thereof and is extended upwardly from the bag in use to increase hydraulic pressure in the bag and thereby pressure on the member when the conduit and the bag are filled with liquid.