Abstract: A loading dilator for positioning a medical apparatus across an opening formed through a body wall of a patient includes a tubular body having a relatively rigid proximal portion and a distal portion. The distal portion includes a first relatively flexible segment and a second relatively rigid segment. The first segment is axially extendable from a first length that has a greater diameter than the second segment, to a second length having a diameter that does not substantially exceed the diameter of the second segment. A stylet is movable in a passageway of the tubular body between a first position wherein the first segment has the first length, and a second position wherein the stylet distal end exerts an axially displacing force on the second segment such that the first segment is movable from the first length to the second length.

Abstract: Methods, systems and devices are described for new modes of ventilation in which specific lung areas are ventilated with an indwelling trans-tracheobronchial catheter for the purpose of improving ventilation and reducing hyperinflation in that specific lung area, and for redirecting inspired air to other healthier lung areas. Trans-tracheobronchial Segmental Ventilation (TTSV) is performed on either a naturally breathing or a mechanical ventilated, patient by placing a uniquely configured indwelling catheter into a bronchus of a poorly ventilated specific lung area and providing direct ventilation to that area. Typically the catheter's distal tip is anchored without occluding the bronchus. TTSV is optionally performed by insufflation only of the area, or by the application of vacuum to the area, can include elevating or reducing the pressure in the targeted area to facilitate stagnant gas removal, or can include blocking the area to divert inspired gas to better functioning areas.

Abstract: An intubation apparatus comprising an elongate support member, a blade element, a guiding stylet, and a tubular sheath is provided. The elongate support member comprises a proximal section, and a distal section curvedly extending from the proximal section. The blade element is configured on the curvedly extended distal section of the elongate support member for maneuvering the intubation apparatus into a patient's oral cavity. A guiding stylet is detachably attached to the elongate support member and substantially follows curvature of the elongate support member and the blade element. The tubular sheath, slidably and coaxially enclosing the guiding stylet, extends along a length of the guiding stylet and advances an extended distance into the trachea by sliding over the length of the guiding stylet and then over an adjustable distal tip of the guiding stylet. An endotracheal tube is slidably and coaxially guided over the advanced tubular sheath into the trachea.

Abstract: A tracheal dilator system and method of manufacture are provided, suitable for dilating a passageway into a patient airway. In one embodiment, a tracheal tube is provided. The tracheal tube includes a dilator retrieval tip disposed on a distal end of a tracheal tube cannula. The dilator retrieval tip is configured to retrieve a tracheal dilator configured to enter through the distal end of the tracheal tube and exit through a proximal end of the tracheal tube.

Abstract: Lung conditions are diagnosed and optionally treated using a functional assessment catheter or a functional lung assessment and treatment catheter. A flow restrictive component is initially placed in a bronchus or lung passageway upstream from a diseased lung region. The isolated lung region is then functionally assessed through the catheter, while the flow restrictive component remains in place. If the patient is a good candidate for treatment by occlusive or restrictive treatment techniques, the flow resistive component may be left in place. If the patient is not suitable for such treatment, the flow resistive component may be removed.

Abstract: In an embodiment, a respiratory device is disclosed. The respiratory device may include a nasal device. The respiratory device may also include a conveyor device coupled with the nasal device. The respiratory device may further include an oral device, wherein the oral device may include an adjustment nut sized to couple with the conveyor device.

Abstract: An endotracheal intubation device 10 is disclosed. The endotracheal intubation device 10 includes a stylet 100, an elongate rod 300 mounted within the stylet 100 and adapted to deform/curve the stylet 100 as well as an endotracheal tube 400 mounted thereto by contacting an inner wall of the endotracheal tube 400 via a slot 130 through which the rod 300 bows outwardly, and a handle 200 mounted to the stylet 100 and adapted to actuate the elongate rod 300 to deform/curve the stylet 100. The endotracheal intubation device 10 can be used on a patient by a medical professional to access the patient's trachea by inserting the endotracheal tube 400 into the patient. Upon insertion, the handle 200 is actuated to deform the stylet 100.

Abstract: A high flow therapy system including a microprocessor, a heating element a non-sealing respiratory interface and a sensor is disclosed. The heating element is disposed in electrical communication with the microprocessor and is capable of heating a liquid to create a gas. The non-sealing respiratory interface is configured to deliver the gas to a patient. The sensor is disposed in electrical communication with the microprocessor and is configured to measure pressure in an upper airway of the patient.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a device, system and method for providing high flow therapy interfaces for use in the treatment of respiratory conditions and in assisted respirations. In an embodiment of the invention, a nasal cannula for delivery of respiratory gases can include at least one nasal insert and at least one flange coupled to the at least one nasal insert where the at least one flange is configured to partially impede the egress of respiratory gasses delivered to an upper airway of a patient is provided. In another embodiment, a flange has a shape selected from the group consisting of a slotted, vented or slitted design and configured to partially impede the egress of respiratory gasses.

Abstract: A reverse dilator system and method are provided, suitable for dilating a passageway into a patient airway. In one embodiment, a tracheal intubation system is provided. The tracheal intubation system includes a reverse dilator. The reverse dilator includes a shaft and a resizable portion disposed on a distal portion of the shaft. The reverse dilator is configured to dilate a tracheal passageway leading into an airway from inside the airway.

Abstract: Various embodiments of an intubation system include a tracheal tube and an illumination assembly that is removably couplable to a tubular body of the tracheal tube. The tracheal tube may be a double lumen tracheal tube having a first cuff that is adapted to be inflated to seal against the walls of a patient's trachea and a second cuff that is adapted to be inflated to seal against the walls of the patient's bronchial stem. The illumination assembly may have one or more illumination devices that are adapted to produce light within the patient's trachea, the patient's bronchial stem, or both when the illumination assembly is coupled to the tubular body.

Abstract: An introducer for a surgical airway catheter has a proximal handle; a curved, rod-shaped main section; an opening-enlarging region; and a rod-shaped distal tip, sized to receive the catheter tube. After making an initial opening in a patient's trachea, the operator inserts the distal tip into the initial opening up to the cutting region. The operator uses the opening-enlarging region to sufficiently widen the opening by moving the introducer from side to side or simply by inserting the introducer into the opening to enable the widened opening to receive the tube and cuff of the catheter. The operator rotates the introducer and catheter into the trachea through the widened opening and then removes the introducer leaving the catheter in place. The introducer and catheter can be pre-configured in a surgical kit having a retractable scalpel configurable onto the introducer's handle and used to excise the initial tracheal opening.

Abstract: Endotracheal intubation systems, methods, and kits are provided. The system may include an endotracheal tube assembly which includes an endotracheal tube having a proximal end and a distal end; a wire having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the wire is configured to be removably inserted into the endotracheal tube through the proximal end of the endotracheal tube; an internal magnetic member fixed at the distal end of the wire; and an end cap attached to the proximal end of the wire and removably securable to the proximal end of the endotracheal tube, wherein at least a portion of the internal magnetic member is disposed within the distal end of the endotracheal tube at a fixed position when the end cap is secured to the proximal end of the endotracheal tube; and an external magnetic member positionable on the exterior of a patient.

Abstract: A nasal assembly for delivering breathable gas to a patient includes a frame having an integrally formed first connector portion. A nozzle assembly includes a gusset or base portion and a pair of nozzles. At least one inlet conduit is structured to deliver breathable gas into the frame and nozzle assembly for breathing by the patient. A pair of second connector portions are removably and rotatably connected to respective first connector portions of the frame and are in communication with respective inlet conduits, e.g., directly or via angle connectors. A headgear assembly is removably connected to the pair of second connector portions and/or the angle connectors so as to maintain the frame and the nozzle assembly in a desired adjusted position on the patient's face.

Abstract: There is provided a method for performing a tracheotomy. In this method a tracheostomy dilator has a body and a tip which are detachably attached. The tip has a proximal inner portion which is within the body while the tip is attached to the body. The dilator is inserted into the trachea and used to dilate an opening. After the trachea has been dilated, the body may be detached and removed from the tip, the tip remaining partially in the trachea. A dilator loading catheter installed within a tracheostomy tube may be mated with the tip and the tip, loading catheter and tracheostomy tube moved into the trachea. After the tracheostomy tube is installed, the tip and loading catheter may be withdrawn through the tracheostomy tube and the tracheostomy tube placed in service.

Abstract: A multi-layer inflatable balloon cuff may be adapted to seal a patient's trachea when associated with an endotracheal tube. The outer layer and the inner layer of the balloon cuff may have different material properties that may enhance a cuff's mechanical pressure seal by reducing wrinkles or folds that may form against a patient's tracheal walls.

Abstract: This device is designed to be an alternative to the traditional conscious intubation with a cooperative patient. It harnesses the negative pressure created during inhalation and utilizes it to advance a guidewire into the trachea, which then allows for endotracheal intubation. The negative pressure created during a deep inhalation will force air through a hollow delivery tube and carry a Sail-tipped wire through the vocal cords and into the trachea. Once the wire has been deployed, a syringe is attached and air is inflated into the expandible polymer sail. This will expand the sail into a balloon shape, create traction against the walls of the trachea and secure the guide-wire. An endotracheal tube may then be advanced blindly, using the wire as a guide to correct tracheal position and the NPI device removed.

Abstract: A medical tube securing device for a patient is disclosed, comprising at least one bite block and a support frame integral with said bite block, said support frame comprising a protruding extension with at least one inwardly recessed portion so as to avoid contact with the patient's mouth, said protruding extension operable to receive an adjustable medical tube retaining device without contacting the face of the patient.

Abstract: Some embodiments include adjustable oral airway devices. The devices may contain a bite block, a tongue deflector extending through the bite block, and at least one locking mechanism configured for releasably retaining the tongue deflector in one of two or more predetermined positions within the bite block. Some embodiments include adjustable oral airway kits. Such kits may contain a bite block, a tongue deflector configured to extend within an opening in the bite block, and at least one locking mechanism configured for releasably retaining the tongue deflector in one of two or more predetermined positions within the bite block.

Abstract: An auxiliary device for an aerosol therapy unit includes a main body and a delivery tube. The main body includes a nose mask portion having a tube connector with an inlet hole, and a nipple-connecting portion connected integrally to and disposed below the nose mask portion. The delivery tube has one end connected to the inlet hole, and the other end adapted to be connected to a source of medication or gas.

Abstract: A personal protection system for providing a sterile barrier around medical/surgical personnel. The system includes a helmet over which a hood or a toga suspended. Integral with the helmet is a ventilation fan. The helmet also includes a light assembly for illuminating the surgical field. The helmet includes a front nozzle from which air from the ventilation fan is discharged. The light assembly is mounted to the helmet and is located below the front nozzle. Air discharged from the front nozzle blows heat generated by the light assembly away from the light assembly. In some versions of the invention, the light assembly includes a control arm connected to the light assembly for pivoting the light assembly.

Abstract: A cricothyrotomy syringe has a hollow body, a needle connector at an end of the body, an aperture at an opposite end of the body, a plunger in the aperture, the plunger having a seal that forms a liquid tight seal with an inner surface of the body and the plunger moveable within the body between an extended position and a compressed position and a ventilator adaptor extending from a side of the body, where an interior of the ventilator adaptor is in fluid communication with an interior of the body when the plunger is in the extended position.

Abstract: According to various embodiments, a tracheal tube may employ optical sensing techniques for determining a distance between the inserted tube and an anatomical structure, such as a carina. The distance information may provide an indication as to whether or not the tracheal tube is properly placed within the trachea. The optical techniques may include backscattered intensity measurements.

Abstract: A device for treating sleep apnea, the device comprising a tongue attachment member and a maxilla attachment subassembly. The tongue attachment member is fabricated having a sheath interlock member extending upward from a dorsal side of a sheath. The sheath is shaped to conform to a surface of an individual's tongue. A tongue receiving cavity is formed within the sheath, the cavity comprising an opening provided at a proximal end for receiving the individual's tongue. The sheath is referenced having a dorsal side and a ventral side. A sheath interlock member extends outward from the dorsal side. The maxilla tray is shaped to conform to and removably engage with an individual's upper dental arch. A tray interlock member extends from an interlock side of the maxilla tray and is positioned to interlock with the sheath interlock member, whereby the system extends an individual's tongue forward to treat sleep apnea.

Abstract: An endotracheal tube holder is provided. The endotracheal tube holder includes an adjustable securing clamp, an adjusting unit, a bite block, and a securing strap. The adjustable securing clamp includes a first clamping unit having a first clamping portion, and a second clamping unit having a second clamping portion. The first clamping portion and the second clamping portion are oppositely and correspondingly aligned for holding an endotracheal tube. The adjusting unit includes an elastic member, coupled between the first clamping unit and the second clamping unit. The bite block is configured at one side of the first clamping portion and includes an endotracheal tube accommodation portion. The endotracheal tube accommodation portion covers over the endotracheal tube for providing a protection to the endotracheal tube. The securing strap includes two ends respectively coupled to two lateral sides of the first clamping unit.

Abstract: An airway tube securing device (ATSD) having a tubular constrictor attached to an oral piece and a fastener for fastening the ATSD to the face of a patient provides for the correct placing and fixation of an airway tube within the patient's airways. A rotatable clamp provides for constricting the airway tube thereby securing it to the oral piece. An optional mouthpiece attached to the proximal face of the oral piece provides for the protection of the tube from the jaws of a patient. One or two apertures in the oral piece provide for further insertion of tubing, auxiliary intubation tools and or probes.

Abstract: Disclosed is a flow control device for a bronchial passageway. The device can includes a valve member that regulates fluid flow through the flow control device, a frame coupled to the valve member, and a membrane attached to the frame. At least a portion of the flow control device forms a seal with the interior wall of the bronchial passageway when the flow control device is implanted in the bronchial passageway. The membrane forms a fluid pathway from the seal into the valve member to direct fluid flowing through the bronchial passageway into the valve member.

Abstract: A device is provided for automatically inserting a catheter or other medical implement into a patient. An imaging module (100) identifies a selected point of insertion on the patient. A manipulator module (200) positions a catheter or medical implement at the desired position with respect to the selected point of insertion on the patient. A catheter insertion module (300) or implement insertion module (350) inserts the medical instrument into the patient to complete the desired tasks.

Abstract: An introducer for a surgical airway catheter has a proximal handle; a curved, rod-shaped main section; a cutting region; and a rod-shaped distal tip, all (except the handle) sized to receive the catheter tube. After making an initial opening in a patient's trachea, the operator inserts the distal tip of the introducer into the initial opening up to the cutting region. The operator uses the cutting region to sufficiently widen the opening by moving the introducer from side to side to enable the widened opening to receive the tube and cuff of the catheter. The operator rotates the introducer and catheter into the trachea through the widened opening and then removes the introducer leaving the catheter in place. The introducer and catheter can be pre-configured in a surgical kit that includes a retractable scalpel that can be configured onto the introducer's handle and used to excise the initial tracheal opening.

Abstract: A system for performing minimally invasive gastrointestinal procedures includes an excision device 100 and a suturing device 200. The excision device 100 has a proximally tapered suction cavity 131 with extendable wires 160 to prevent capture of unwanted tissue. The suturing device 200 uses a squeeze trigger 202 to drive an array of circular needles 232.

Abstract: The system of the present invention includes an instrument including a tube and one or more devices configured to improve patient comfort during intubation and to achieve proper tube placement in a patient's body. Embodiments of the present invention include a device configured to enter a patient's body in a collapsed state. In such embodiments, the device may achieve an erected state to facilitate positioning a tube into a patient's body.

Abstract: According to various embodiments, a tracheal tube may employ sensing techniques for determining a distance between the inserted tube and an anatomical structure such as a carina. The distance information may provide an indication as to whether or not the tracheal tube is properly placed within the trachea. Because a tracheal tube may rotate within the trachea, the sensing information may be gathered from multiple locations on the tracheal tube for a rotation-independent measurement technique.

Abstract: A medical device tube having extended retention tabs with notches therein for improved coupling of an inner cannula connector to an outer cannula connector. The medical device tube comprises an outer cannula connector having retention tabs on an outer cannula connector flange attached to the proximal end of an outer cannula. The retention tabs maintain the snap ears of the inner cannula connector when the inner cannula connector is rotated whereby the notches substantially hold the snap ears. The snap ears may further be positioned in notches in the outer cannula flange when the snap ears lock onto the outer cannula connector flange.

Abstract: An over-tube of the present invention is an over-tube which guides a device having an insertion section to be inserted into a body of a patient, when inserting the insertion section into or retracting the insertion section from the body of the patient, wherein: a gas-supplying passage is defined between an inner face of the over-tube and the device to be inserted into the over-tube; the gas-supplying passage communicates with a gas-supplying port which is provided on a proximal end side of the over-tube, and a communicating port which is formed on an over-tube insertion section and supplies a gas into a trachea of the patient; and a first sealing member which secures an air passage for communicating the gas-supplying passage and the trachea of the patient via the communicating rod by sealing between a body wall of the patient and the communicating port, is provided on a periphery of an over-tube insertion section.

Abstract: A device for dilating an opening through the tracheal wall of a patient includes a loading dilator. A balloon catheter is received in the lumen of the dilator such that the balloon extends distal to the loading dilator distal end. The balloon is configured to radially dilate a portion of the tracheal wall upon inflation. The balloon includes retention structure along its outer surface such that upon inflation, the retention structure inhibits dislodgement of the balloon when the balloon is positioned across the tracheal wall. The retention structure may comprise a pair of spaced elements radially projecting from the outer surface of the balloon, and spaced along the outer surface such that each of the elements is disposed at an opposite side of the tracheal wall when the balloon is positioned along the tracheal wall opening.

Abstract: A localized pleurodesis evacuation device may be utilized to prevent a pneumothorax by evacuating the air that leaks into the pleural space. The device may also be utilized to create a localized pleurodesis around an access port so that the lung may be safely accessed.

Abstract: An airway device (10) comprising an airway tube (14) and a laryngeal mask (12). The mask has an inflatable cuff (36) which has a tip (38) for insertion, in use, into a patient's oesophagus. The mask further includes a guide member (42) projecting from the tip of the cuff. The guide member carries an inflatable balloon (60) for blocking the patient's oesophagus during use. The guide member helps to position the mask correctly and reduces the risk of pulmonary aspiration of gastric contents during use.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a device, system and method for providing artificial airway interfaces for use in the treatment of respiratory conditions and in assisted respirations. In an embodiment of the invention, an artificial airway interface for a non-sealing respiratory gas delivery system that directs a jet of gas into the artificial airway is provided. In another embodiment, an artificial airway interface for a non-sealing respiratory gas delivery system that allows for conductance of pressurized respiratory gasses and at least one of a sensor and port for collecting at least one of data and respiratory gas samples is provided. The artificial airway interface can further include an outflow variable restrictor.

Abstract: An oral airway for insertion into the mouth and pharynx of a patient is disclosed and adapted to connect to an anesthesia breathing connector, a suction tube, or a nasal cannula, interchangeably as needed, without necessitating the removal of the oral airway from the patient. A tubular member has a connector at a proximal end and includes a first portion that is adapted for fixing with the anesthesia breathing connector. A second portion of the connector is adapted for receiving the suction tube. At least one protuberance between the first and second portions receives and retains a portion of the nasal cannula, or alternately, at least one aperture is included in the second portion for receiving a portion of the nasal cannula. A mouth guard extends outwardly from the connector. Alternately, a suction tube guide within the tubular member may be slidably positionable between a retracted and extended position.

Abstract: Multi layer endotracheal tube apparatus (800) comprising an outer flexible elongated tube layer (802) having a proximal end (816) and a distal end (818), defining an inner surface (820) therebetween, at least one flexible elongated inner tube layer (804) having a proximal end (822) and a distal end (824), defining an inner surface (828), the distal end (824) of the inner tube layer (804) defining a distal port section (830), the inner tube layer (804) extending along inner length of the outer tube layer (802), the distal end (824) of the inner tube layer (804) detachably coupled along a closed circumference of the inner surface (820) of the outer tube layer (802), and at least one closure mechanism (806) operative to close the distal port section (830), and detach the distal end (824) of the inner tube layer (804) from the inner surface (820) of the outer tube layer.

Abstract: An airway device for human or animal use comprising an airway tube having a distal end and a proximal end, the distal end of which is surrounded by a laryngeal cuff, adapted to fit anatomically over the laryngeal structure of a patient, wherein the device optionally further comprises a buccal cavity stabiliser located on or around the airway tube between the laryngeal cuff and the proximal end of the tube, said buccal cavity stabiliser being adapted to nest with the anterior aspect of the patient's tongue, the size, shape and configuration of the buccal stabiliser being adapted to prevent rotational or side-to-side movement of the airway device in use.

Abstract: A continuous positive airway pressure system features a housing forming an airway chamber, and an air pressure inlet and an air pressure outlet. The housing further defines internally a pair of tapered air jets, and a pair of tapered air receivers. The air receivers are located downstream of the air supply jets and disposed coaxially with respective ones of the air supply jets. Each receiver has a taper in an opposite direction to the direction of the taper of the air supply jets. A pair of nasal prongs is located downstream of the air receiving jets.

Abstract: A medical device tube having opposing support ears for improved coupling of an inner cannula to an outer cannula. The medical device tube comprises an outer cannula having opposing support ears on an outer cannula connector flange attached to a proximal end of the outer cannula. The opposing support ears maintain locking ears of the inner cannula in substantially one position. The opposing support ears substantially prevent the locking ears in contact with the outer cannula connector flange from slipping therefrom by, e.g., rotation, axial displacement, torsional shear, etc.

Abstract: The invention relates to a tracheostoma spacer with a tubular support framework. The support framework can be expand from an initial state to a supporting state of increased diameter and has a fixing element at the ends. The tracheostoma spacer is intended for use as a spacer in a tracheostoma (an opening in the trachea). The invention further relates to a device for inserting a tracheostoma spacer into a tracheostoma with a cutting instrument in the form of a trocar, the tracheostoma spacer being able to be positioned on the shaft of said trocar. A cover sleeve is also provided which can be moved on the shaft over a tracheostoma spacer positioned there.

Abstract: The invention relates to apparatus (19) for use in establishing an artificial airway in a patient, the apparatus comprising a tube (19a) for introduction into the patient's trachea for passage of gases to and from the patient's lungs, an inflatable seal (20) disposed upon the tube (19a) to provide, on inflation, a seal between the tube and the trachea of the patient, the seal (20) thereby defining a lung-side portion (19c) of the apparatus and a mouth-side portion (19d) of the apparatus, the apparatus further having the ability to facilitate removal of fluid from at or adjacent the said mouth-side portion (19d) of the apparatus (19).

Abstract: The present invention concerns a valve unit for a rebreather apparatus that recycles gas exhaled by a user. The valve unit includes a housing 5 with a first port for communication with a respiratory system of the user and a first inlet port 9 for breathable gas in said housing, a first exit port for exhausting gas from said housing into a flow channel, at least one separate second exit port 12 for exhausting gas form said housing 5 into an ambient environment, a second inlet port 13 for breathable gas connected to an open loop inlet valve 6 in said housing 5, and a valve body 4 in said housing 5 forming a valve for switching between two operating modes. The valve body 4 is formed as a barrel or cylinder with valve openings sealing against the housing 5, where the valve body 4 forms an internal cavity 18, alone or in combination with the housing 5, in connection with the port 10 for communication with a user. The valve 6 has an outlet in said cavity 18.

Abstract: An intubation device is provided. The intubation device comprises a movable guide having a guide extension, and a guide tip; at least one trachea condition sensor to detect a trachea condition wherein the at least one trachea condition sensor is disposed on the guide; and a guide control device operatively coupled to the guide, the guide control device to move the guide in response to the trachea condition.

Abstract: A bougie device for guiding insertion of an endotracheal tube into an airway of a person, comprises an elongate body of shape memory and self-lubricating material, for example Teflon™. Accordingly no lubrication is required for insertion into the airway for ease of cleaning and sterilizing for reuse. Also, the amount of curvature of the overall rod as well as an angle of the tip of the rod can be adjusted due to the shape memory characteristics of the body to accommodate a particular patent's airway. The body can also be suitably sized to have vibration transmission characteristics such that a contact with one end of the bougie device with tracheal rings of the patient can be felt by a user.

Abstract: An airway tube securing device (ASTD) having a tubular constrictor attached to an oral piece and a fastener for fastening the ASTD to the face of a patient provides for the correct placing and fixation of an airway tube within the patient's airways. A rotatable clamp provides for constricting the airway tube thereby securing it to the oral piece. An optional mouthpiece attached to the proximal face of the oral piece provides for the protection of the tube from the jaws of a patient. One or two apertures in the oral piece provide for further insertion of tubing, auxiliary intubation tools and or probes.

Abstract: Methods and devices for performing emergency and non-emergency tracheotomies are disclosed. In one embodiment, a device for performing an emergency tracheostomy includes a dilator having a generally curved outer surface which is arranged for insertion into a trachea of a patient. The dilator includes an open linear passageway therein. Situated within the internal passageway is an anchor that includes a distal tip portion protruding outside the dilator. The anchor is normally biased to a retracted position and is arranged to move from the retracted position to an extended position in response to a distal force. A driver is provided for applying the distal force to the anchor to drive the distal tip portion through an opening in the patient's neck and trachea. A method for using the device is also disclosed.