Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of using a specialized tracheal tubes for introduction of gasses or vapors along the trachea, such as by an anesthesiologist during the administration of anesthesia to a patient undergoing surgery. In particular, the present invention relates to a method of providing anesthesia utilizing a tracheal tube having a flexible portion that allows for movement of the proximal end relative to the distal end of the tracheal tube without creating stress at the proximal or distal ends. The tracheal tube according to the present invention allows 360.degree. access to the head and neck area of a patient, and allows for movement of the proximal end of the tracheal tube during a surgical procedure without requiring re-intubation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a specialized tracheal tube and a method of using such for introduction of gasses or vapors along the trachea, such as by an anesthesiologist during the administration of anesthesia to a patient undergoing surgery. In particular, the present invention relates to a tracheal tube having a filament reinforced flexible portion that allows for movement of the proximal end relative to the distal end of the tracheal tube without creating stress at the proximal or distal ends. The tracheal tube according to the present invention allows 360.degree. access to the head and neck area of a patient, and allows for movement of the proximal end of the tracheal tube during a surgical procedure without requiring re-intubation.

Abstract: A capping device for covering the access port of a conduit connector includes a first cap having a downwardly extending skirt and an access opening through which a bronchoscope, catheter or other small diameter medical device may be inserted. The skirt includes an inwardly extending rim around its internal surface which detachably snaps over a lip around the access port. The access opening is selectively sealable by a second cap that is tethered to the first cap by a flexible tether strap. The second cap also incudes a downwardly extending skirt including an inwardly extending rim around its internal surface which detachably snaps over a lip around the first cap. The capping device further includes a flexible anchor strap extending from the first cap which snaps onto a knob on the connector, thereby retaining the capping device on the connector when not in use.

Abstract: The present invention relates to tracheal tubes which are used to introduce gasses or vapors along the trachea, such as by an anesthesiologist during the administration of anesthesia to a patient undergoing surgery. In particular, the present invention relates to a tracheal tube which includes a flexible portion that allows for movement of the proximal end relative to the distal end of the tracheal tube without creating stress at the proximal or distal ends. The tracheal tube according to the present invention allows 360.degree. access to the head and neck area of a patient, and allows for movement of the proximal end of the tracheal tube during a surgical procedure without requiring re-intubation.