Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing rapid and secure fluid tight connections between components of a ventilation circuit. Quick disconnect device is disclosed having a hollow receiving member defining multiple apertures formed therethrough, each aperture receiving a retaining ball in inward and outward movement therein. The receiving member is attached to a component or to one end of the ventilation circuit. The quick disconnect device further includes an elongated conical member having a recessed region formed therealong with the receiving member being adapted to receive the conical member therein. The conical member is attached to another component or to the other end of the ventilation circuit. To establish a secure connection, a collar is passed over the receiving member for urging the retaining balls in an inward direction.

Abstract: An apparatus for delivering a highly concentrated mixture of aerosolized liquid and pressurized gas to a patient including a collapsible membrane defining a chamber, the membrane further defining a first opening and a second opening in communication with the chamber. A mask defining an enclosure having a first passageway in communication with the first opening. A nebulizer having a body defining a reservoir for holding the liquid therein, the body including an inlet orifice and an outlet orifice which communicates with the second opening. A pressurized gas source which contains a pressurized gas with the pressurized gas source being in communication with the inlet orifice for providing the pressurized gas to the nebulizer. When the pressurized gas from the pressurized gas source enters the nebulizer, the pressurized gas mixes to form a mixture with the liquid inside the reservoir of the nebulizer.

Abstract: The present invention relates to closed catheter suction systems used to aspirate secretions from the trachea of a patient and to rinse the catheter after such aspiration. The apparatus comprises a flexible suction catheter encased within a sheath that is fixed to a vacuum source at its proximal end and extendable through an adapter assembly at its distal end, near the patient. The adapter assembly connects the closed catheter suction system to a patient connector, and a suction control valve at the proximal end operates to aspirate secretions and to rinse the catheter. The closed catheter suction system also includes a lavage port and a rinse port, the latter of which is positioned near the distal end and is isolated from the ventilation circuit through the innovative use of a rinse chamber and a one-way valve. Advantageously, the lavage port is positioned near the proximal end, away from the patient, so as to prevent the accidental leakage of lavage into the ventilation circuit.

Abstract: An apparatus for delivering a highly concentrated mixture of aerosolized liquid and pressurized gas to a patient including a collapsible membrane defining a chamber, the membrane further defining a first opening and a second opening in communication with the chamber. A mask defining an enclosure having a first passageway in communication with the first opening. A nebulizer having a body defining a reservoir for holding the liquid therein, the body including an inlet orifice and an outlet orifice which communicates with the second opening. A pressurized gas source which contains a pressurized gas with the pressurized gas source being in communication with the inlet orifice for providing the pressurized gas to the nebulizer. When the pressurized gas from the pressurized gas source enters the nebulizer, the pressurized gas mixes to form a mixture with the liquid inside the reservoir of the nebulizer.