Means Placed In Body Opening To Facilitate Insertion Of Breathing Tube Patents (Class 128/200.26)
  • Medical device tube having a flange with opposing support ears for improved alignment and retention of an inner cannula in an outer cannula
    Patent number: 8146598
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Nellcor Puritan Bennett LLC
    Inventors: George Matlock, Donald L. Moore
  • Capnometry system for use with a medical effector system
    Patent number: 8146591
    Abstract: Disclosed is a capnometry apparatus for receiving respiratory gas from a respiratory cannula positioned on a patient. An integrated host controller alerts a user if the capnometry apparatus is connected or not connected to the respiratory cannula based in part on a signal output from a capnometer located in the capnometry apparatus. The host controller also includes the functionality to shut off the capnometer pump with or without a time delay when the capnometer signal output indicates the capnometer pump is not connected to the cannula. An ambient-air pressure sensor located in the capnometry apparatus alerts the host controller if the capnometry apparatus has been moved to a new location with a substantially different altitude than the first location, in which case the host controller will issue an alert to a user prompting a calibration of the capnometry apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul J. Niklewski, Mark A. Burdorff, William T. Donofrio, Curt R. Eyster, James F. Martin, Anil K. Nalagatla, William P. Adair, Nicholas E. Cobb
  • Endotracheal intubation device
    Publication number: 20120078050
    Abstract: A stylet assembly for performing a nasal endotracheal intubation of a patient is disclosed. The stylet assembly includes an elongated tube as a stylet for the intubation defining a longitudinal axis, a proximal end, and a distal end for entering the trachea of the patient. The elongated tube includes (i) a rigid section adjacent the proximal end, (ii) an articulation section adjacent the distal end and adapted to curve into the patient's trachea upon actuation, and (iii) a flexible section between the rigid section and the articulation section, the flexible section being adapted to curve to an internal shape of at least one of the patient's nose, nasal cavity, pharynx, and larynx during nasal intubation. The stylet assembly can further include an actuator housing, a control wire for actuating the articulating section, and a hand grip for maneuvering the stylet assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2010
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Applicant: AI Medical Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: John Schwartz, Richard Schwartz, Harsha Setty
  • Intubation Stylet & Endotracheal Tube
    Publication number: 20120073572
    Abstract: An intubation stylet apparatus for use in medical intubation of a patient where the stylet includes an elongated tube having a distal end section, a proximal end section and an intermediate section located between the distal end section and the proximal end section. A grip which is attached to the proximal end section is coupled to a control lever which is attached to the ends of at least two control wires and the other ends of the control wires are attached to the distal end of the elongated tube. In operation, the distal end of the elongated tube is urged to bend to a modified “S” shaped curve which resembles the body, neck and head of a rattle sneak when in its raised position when the control lever is pulled to apply a tension force to the wires, and to return to a straight tube when the tension force on the wires is released.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2010
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Inventor: Michael Y. Li
  • Method and device for non-invasive ventilation with nasal interface
    Patent number: 8136527
    Abstract: A nasal ventilation interface including a pair of tubes configured to deliver a ventilation gas. The tubes are attachable at a first end to a ventilation gas supply hose and engageable at a second end with a person's nostril. A coupler is configured to align the pair of tubes with the person's nostrils, wherein each tube has an absence of pneumatic interconnection with the other tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: Breathe Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Anthony Wondka
  • INTUBATION STYLET
    Publication number: 20120055470
    Abstract: Adapter for mounting a handheld portable consumer device having a built-in digital camera and a built-in display screen on a handheld portable endoscope for rendering a handheld portable medical viewing assembly for displaying medical images during a medical procedure, for recording same for subsequent processing, and the like. An intubation stylet preferably entirely made from shape memory metal and fashioned into a J-shaped elongated member having a pre-bent arcuate leading portion with a rectangular cross section designed to facilitate a successful first attempt intubation procedure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2011
    Publication date: March 8, 2012
    Applicant: Truphatek International Ltd.
    Inventors: Eugeny PECHERER, Shiri Soffer
  • CRICOID MANIPULATING APPARATUS FOR ANESTHESIA ASSISTANCE AND TRACHEAL INTUBATION
    Publication number: 20120031400
    Abstract: A medical assistance apparatus, includes a support adjacent to a patient, a flexible shaft with a first end and a second end, with the first end being connected to the support, a housing connected to the second end of the flexible shaft, a shaft movably disposed with respect to the housing, an adjustment device associated with the housing, permitting adjustment of the shaft with respect to the housing, and a cricoid manipulating head connected to the shaft. The cricoid manipulating head is adjusted with respect to the housing along when the shaft is adjusted with respect to the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2010
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Inventor: Peter SHIMM
  • Intubating attachment and method
    Publication number: 20120031399
    Abstract: An intubating attachment apparatus for use with endotracheal intubation devices comprising an elongated, generally cylindrical support module configured to accommodate a fiber optic intubation scope and at least one of an endotracheal tube or an endotracheal tube exchanger. The invention obviates the need for an attending medical professional to utilize more than one hand when advancing an endotracheal tube and/or endotracheal tube exchanger along with the fiber optic bundle of a bronchoscope into a patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2010
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Inventor: Hideo Koike
  • LARYNGEAL MASK AIRWAY PLACEMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD
    Publication number: 20120024285
    Abstract: A laryngeal mask airway having a laryngeal mask and a flexible airway tube is provided with an external brace that is easily detached or reattached onto the airway tube. The brace, when attached, enhances the stiffness of the combination to facilitate placement of the mask at the laryngeal inlet of a patient. After the mask is in proper, sealed position at the laryngeal inlet the brace may be removed to permit the external portion of the flexible airway tube to be located in an out-of-the-way position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2010
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Inventor: Roman W. Dashawetz
  • Laryngeal mask airway and clip device
    Patent number: 8104468
    Abstract: The clip device is used for clipping a laryngeal mask airway. The laryngeal mask airway includes a gas filled portion and a tube portion. The clip device includes a first clip unit and a second clip unit. The second clip unit is connected to the first clip unit. The gas filled portion can be clipped between the first clip unit and the second clip unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventors: Tien-Sheng Chen, Hui-Bih Yuan
  • Rapid orotracheal intubation guide
    Patent number: 8104467
    Abstract: A rapid orotracheal intubation guide device is disclosed that facilitates orotracheal intubation or direct orotracheal visualization without resting the device on the subject's tongue and that, during a bronchoscopic intubation, automatically ejects the endotracheal tube from the device as the endotracheal tube is advanced coaxially over a bronchoscope previous placed through the guide, thereby providing a mid-line entry of the bronchoscope and endotracheal tube, higher intubation success rate by lower skilled operators, and easy removal of the device from the patient's oral cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Hanu Surgical Devices LLC
    Inventor: Bradford Lee NaPier
  • Medico-surgical tube assemblies
    Patent number: 8104476
    Abstract: An adjustable flange for a tracheostomy tube has a locking assembly (25) with two C shape clamp arms (26) and (27) hinged together at one end (28). A lever (50) with a threaded stem (51) extends through the opposite end of one arm (27) and into a threaded aperture (32) in the other arm (26). When the handle (55) of the lever (50) is inclined out of the plane of the locking assembly (25) it can be slid freely along the tracheostomy tube (1) for positioning. The locking assembly (25) is locked in position by rotating the handle (55) down to lie in the plane of the locking assembly. The flange (20) has two wings (22) and (23) connected with a central plate (20) by webs (42) and (43) of reduced width so that the webs flex to allow the wings to be lifted readily.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Smiths Group plc
    Inventor: Simon Neame
  • Collateral ventilation bypass system with retention features
    Patent number: 8104474
    Abstract: A collateral ventilation bypass trap system directly linked with a patient's lung or lungs may be utilized to increase the expiratory flow from the diseased lung or lungs, thereby treating one aspect of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The system includes a trap, a filter/one-way valve and an air carrying conduit. The system also includes a retention device for securing system elements in position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Portaero, Inc.
    Inventor: Don Tanaka
  • Apparatus and methods for treating sleep apnea
    Patent number: 8104478
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for treating sleep apnea and/or snoring is provided. The apparatus includes an appliance sized and structured to be placed in the pharyngeal region of a human or animal and being effective in treating sleep apnea and/or snoring, for example in maintaining openness of an oropharyngeal region of a human or animal during natural sleep, advantageously while not interfering with normal functioning of the epiglottis. The appliance may be made of a super elastic material, for example, Nitinol, and may be submucossally implanted in the pharyngeal walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Quiescence Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: D. Russell Pflueger, Christopher Paul Thompson
  • Medical tube including an inflatable cuff having a notched collar
    Patent number: 8096299
    Abstract: A medical device may include a tubular body configured to communicate gas and an inflatable cuff coupled to the tubular body at least by a collar. The tubular body may include an opening. The collar may include a notch positioned relative to the opening in the tubular body such that a passageway extends through at least a portion of the notch and at least a portion of the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Nellcor Puritan Bennett LLC
    Inventor: Jessica Clayton
  • Tracheostomy tube holder
    Patent number: 8074650
    Abstract: A tube holder is provided for securing a medical tube to a patient. In one illustrative embodiment, the tube holder includes a band to secure a medical tube to a patient, and first and second tabs attached at first and second ends of the band to secure the medical tube. Each of the first and second tabs include a hook surface and a loop surface, the hook surface and loop surface to mate with one another to secure the medical tube. The first and second tabs include moisture resistant material located on a surface contacting the patient's skin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Dale Medical Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Sharon Steeves, Allison Frazer, Ronald D. Russo
  • Method and apparatus for protection of trachea during ventilation
    Publication number: 20110290246
    Abstract: Disclosed are methods for intubating a patient, comprising deploying a tracheal tube, a sleeve and a cuff into a human trachea such that after deployment, the tracheal tube passes through the sleeve within the trachea, the cuff contacts the outer surface of the tracheal tube and the inner surface of the sleeve and spaces the sleeve from the tube, and the outer surface of the sleeve contacts the trachea, so as to provide a seal, in the interstitial area between the wall of the trachea and the tube, between a proximal portion of the human trachea above the cuff and a distal portion of the human trachea below the cuff. Other embodiments are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2011
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventor: Oron ZACHAR
  • Internally Braced Radial Balloon Dilator
    Publication number: 20110290245
    Abstract: There is provided a device for performing a balloon dilation tracheostomy. The balloon has internal braces or “stays” extending from the center to the inside surface of the balloon, though other arrangements are possible. The braces control the ultimate expansion and final shape of the balloon when it is fully inflated, inhibiting the ability of parts of the balloon to herniate. The balloon should also expand more uniformly, allowing the practitioner to more confidently expand the tracheal stoma site and ensuring a successful dilation and tube placement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2010
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventors: Brian J. Cuevas, Michael Sleva, Joseph A. Cesa
  • Endo-tracheal intubation device with adjustably bendable stylet
    Publication number: 20110265789
    Abstract: An inexpensive, endo-tracheal intubation device suitable for single patient use by emergency health care workers, which comprises a stylet having a tube which is scored in such a way that it can be bent using a wire encased in the tube. The wire is attached to both the stylet's end distal from a stylet-holder and to the short arm of a bell crank pivotally mounted in the holder. Grasping the stylet holder in one hand, the operator can move the bell crank's trigger arm with his finger(s), thereby causing the stylet to bend in a controlled manner. In use, a conventional airway tube is mounted on the stylet holder so as to encase the portion of the stylet which protrudes outwardly therefrom. A light on the stylet's tip allows visualization of the patient's vocal cords. After the user gently pushes the airway tube/stylet combination between them, the stylet is then removed for ventilation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2011
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Inventor: Sabry Gabriel
  • INTUBATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS BASED ON AIRWAY PATTERN IDENTIFICATION
    Publication number: 20110263935
    Abstract: An intubation system of the present disclosure intubates based on an airway pattern indicating a trachea opening. The airway pattern is determined from analysis of airway data detected by a trachea identifying device disposed on a moveable guide stylet of the intubation system. A navigation element is generated based on the airway pattern. In one embodiment, the airway pattern is a gas exchange pattern indicating a trachea opening. In another embodiment, the trachea opening transition pattern is a topographic pattern indicating a trachea opening. The guide stylet is capable of moving in a plurality of degrees of freedom in the airway following the guidance from the navigation element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2010
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Inventor: Chunyuan Qiu
  • Endo-tracheal tube securement system
    Patent number: 8025060
    Abstract: A system for securing an endo-tracheal or other tube in position upon a patient includes a head pad and securing members which can be adjustably attached to the head pad. The head pad is configured to support the head of a patient in a supine position. The head pad includes a number of slits formed in each lateral side of the head pad, such that a securing member can be threaded through any one of the slits. The securing member is configured to be releasably and adjustably attachable to the lateral sides of the head pad by being secured to itself via hook and loop fastener portions disposed upon the member. The opposite end of the securement member can include an adhesive layer or other mechanism for attachment of the end of the member to the endo-tracheal tube or other medical article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Assignee: Venetec International, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven F. Bierman
  • APPARATUS FOR MAINTAINING A SURGICAL AIRWAY AND METHOD OF THE SAME
    Publication number: 20110226239
    Abstract: An apparatus for maintaining a surgical airway and method for the same includes an elongated body insertable orally into a patient. The elongated body defines leading and trailing ends. An opening is defined through the leading and trailing ends, such that surgical equipment may be insertable through the opening of the elongated body. A securing member is connected to the trailing end. The securing member holds the elongated body in a position such that an airway remains open to treat the patient, while supporting oxygen flow to the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2011
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Inventor: Russ HAUGE
  • System for providing flow-targeted ventilation synchronized to a patient's breathing cycle
    Patent number: 8020558
    Abstract: An open system provides breath-synchronized, flow-targeted ventilation to augment respiration by a self-breathing patient. A sensor detects a physical property of a patient's respiratory cycle. A processor monitors the sensor and controls a gas source to deliver oxygen-containing gas through a tube extending into the patient's airway with the flow rate varying over each respiratory cycle in a predetermined non-constant waveform synchronized with the respiratory cycle to augment the patient's spontaneous respiration. Gas is delivered at a flow rate sufficient to significantly mitigate the airway pressure the patient must generate during spontaneous breathing and thereby reduce the patient's work of breathing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: CS Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Kent L. Christopher, Stephanie S. Diehl
  • System for providing flow-targeted ventilation synchronized to a patient's breathing cycle
    Patent number: 8015974
    Abstract: An open system provides breath-synchronized, flow-targeted ventilation to augment respiration by a self-breathing patient. A sensor detects a physical property of a patient's respiratory cycle. A processor monitors the sensor and controls a gas source to deliver oxygen-containing gas through a tube extending into the patient's airway with the flow rate varying over each respiratory cycle in a predetermined non-constant waveform synchronized with the respiratory cycle to augment the patient's spontaneous respiration. Gas is delivered at a flow rate sufficient to significantly mitigate the airway pressure the patient must generate during spontaneous breathing and thereby reduce the patient's work of breathing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: CS Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Kent L. Christopher, Stephanie S. Diehl
  • Bite block
    Publication number: 20110214670
    Abstract: A bite block that includes first and second members interconnected by screw threads on the respective members. The first member is a relatively rigid body having an open ended hole with internal screw threads on at least a portion of the length thereof. The second member is an elongate open ended sleeve having screw threads on the outer surface thereof that thread into the hole in the body member. A slit in the wall of the sleeve accommodates a reduction in the internal diameter of the sleeve. A selected one of the internal and external threads progressively decreases in diameter in a direction so as to cause the sleeve internal diameter to decrease as the sleeve is threaded into the body member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2010
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Inventor: Louis G. Kost
  • Tissue retraction device
    Patent number: 8007435
    Abstract: A self-retaining retractor is described. The retractor can be sized for small patients, such as young children or infants or some animals. The retractor has two blades that are capable of holding tissue separated during a procedure, such as a tracheotomy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Massachusetts Eye & Ear Infirmary
    Inventors: Christopher J. Hartnick, Michael Cunningham
  • Bite block assembly for endotrachial tube
    Patent number: 8001964
    Abstract: A bite block for an endotrachial tube includes a hollow body extending between open ends to receive an endotrachial tube such that opposing ends of the tube protrude through the open ends of the bite block. The bite block includes a tether to retain the bite block to the tube to prevent unwanted separation or movement of the tube within the bite block. The tether consists of a flexible arm which protrudes rearwardly from the bite block towards the inlet end of the tube and terminates in a ring configured to encircle the endotrachial tube, thereby effectively tethering the bite block to the tube. The arm and ring are configured such that the arm flexes in an arc when tethering the tube, thereby permitting the ring to engage the tube when fitted to thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Southmedic Incorporated
    Inventors: Lee McDonald, Julius Hajgato, Kenneth Noseworthy
  • System and method for airway manipulation
    Patent number: 7997266
    Abstract: Methods and devices are disclosed for manipulating the airway, such as to treat obstructive sleep apnea. An implant is positioned within the body with respect to the airway. The spatial orientation of the airway is manipulated, directly or indirectly, to affect the configuration of the airway. In general, the implant is manipulated to displace the trachea in an inferior direction, resist superior displacement of the trachea and/or to alter the tracheal wall tension. The implant restrains the trachea in the manipulated configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventors: Andrew Frazier, Chad C. Roue, Michael T. Dineen, Erik J. van der Burg
  • Shape-conforming intubation device
    Publication number: 20110196204
    Abstract: The disclosure generally relates to an endotracheal intubation device 100 including a channel element 120 that defines a first channel 122 and additional retaining structure that defines a second channel 140. The device 100 is reversibly movable between a first relaxed position A (e.g., a generally extended or straight position) and a second curved position B (e.g., an articulated, generally non-linear position) with an articulating means 160. An endotracheal tube 200 can be inserted into the second channel 140, and the intubation device 100 then can be used to intubate a patient P according to a disclosed intubation method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2011
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Applicant: Al Medical Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Harsha Setty, Richard Schwartz, John Schwartz
  • Laryngeal mask airway installation kit, laryngeal mask airway with a stylet, and stylet
    Patent number: 7992562
    Abstract: A laryngeal mask airway installation kit includes a laryngeal mask airway having a gastric access tube and includes a stylet capable of being inserted into the gastric access tube from the inlet end. When bent, the stylet changes the original shape of the laryngeal mask airway, thus facilitating the installation of the laryngeal mask airway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Inventor: Tien-Sheng Chen
  • Apparatus and methods for treating sleep apnea
    Patent number: 7992566
    Abstract: An apparatus and methods for treating sleep apnea and/or snoring are provided. The apparatus includes an appliance sized and structured to be placed in the pharyngeal region of a human or animal. The appliance, when so placed is effective in treating sleep apnea and/or snoring, for example in maintaining openness of an oropharyngeal region of a human or animal during natural sleep. Preferably, the appliance is non-circumferential in form and includes rounded, spaced apart end portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: Quiescence Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: D. Russell Pflueger, Christopher Paul Thompson
  • Nasal interface prong device
    Patent number: 7987850
    Abstract: An infant nasal interface prong device for use with an nCPAP system. The device includes first and second nasal prongs and a base. Each prong includes a bellows segment, a tip, and a lumen. The tip extends from the bellows segment to a tip end and is adapted for insertion with an infant's naris. The lumen extends through the tip and the bellows segment. In an undeflected state, a central axis of the lumen along the bellows segment is transversely offset from the lumen axis at the tip end. The base is connected to each of the nasal prongs and is adapted for coupling to a CPAP generator. The bellows segment renders the corresponding prong highly flexible relative to the base. The offset positioning of the tip end promotes desired positioning of the base/CPAP generator, relative to the patient and more closely conforms to the expected nasal anatomy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: CareFusion 2200, Inc.
    Inventors: Chris Zollinger, Brian Pierro
  • ENDOTRACHEAL TUBE PROTECTOR
    Publication number: 20110180065
    Abstract: An endotracheal tube protector for use with an endotracheal tube comprises an elongated tubular member having a first end configured to extend out of a patient's mouth when in use and a second end configured to enter the throat of the patient. The tubular member has openings in the first and second ends and defines a substantially cylindrical cavity to hold an endotracheal tube. The tubular member has a longitudinal slit to allow the walls to separate for radial expansion of the cavity. The wall thickness is non-constant, with a thin-walled region which flexes to permit the walls to separate, and a thick-walled region which resists crushing forces acting on the protector. A pair of opposed bosses may extend longitudinally adjacent to the slit, to transmit a clamping force onto the endotracheal tube when contacted by the patient's jaw.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2011
    Publication date: July 28, 2011
    Applicant: SOUTHMEDIC INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Julius Hajgato, Kenneth Noseworthy
  • SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR INTUBATION
    Publication number: 20110178369
    Abstract: An intubation device is provided. An intubation device comprises a movable guide configured to guide an insertion of an endotracheal tube into a trachea of a patient, the guide having a guide extension and a guide tip; an external trachea identifier source external to the trachea and disposed on the patient during an intubation, wherein the trachea identifier source generates and transmits a signal; at least one trachea condition sensor disposed on the guide tip to detect the signal generated by the trachea identifier source; and a guide control device operatively coupled to the guide, the guide control device configured to move the guide into the trachea in response to the detected signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2011
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Inventor: Chunyuan Qiu
  • Nasal devices
    Patent number: 7975690
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a nasal delivery device for and a method of delivering a substance, in particular one of a liquid, as a suspension or solution, or a powder containing a medicament, especially systemic or topical pharmaceuticals, or a vaccine to the nasal airway of a subject.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: OptiNose AS
    Inventor: Per Gisle Djupesland
  • Apparatus for maintaining a surgical airway and method of the same
    Patent number: 7975689
    Abstract: An apparatus for maintaining a surgical airway and method for the same includes an elongated body insertable orally into a patient. The elongated body defines leading and trailing ends. An opening is defined through the leading and trailing ends, such that surgical equipment may be insertable through the opening of the elongated body. A securing member is connected to the trailing end. The securing member holds the elongated body in a position such that an airway remains open to treat the patient, while supporting oxygen flow to the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Inventor: Russ Hauge
  • Voice prosthesis dilator/sizer
    Patent number: 7975696
    Abstract: A voice prosthesis dilator and sizer device is provided including an elongated member having a first end with a tip and a flange and a second end with a stop portion. The elongated member includes an intermediate portion with a measuring area disposed adjacent to the flange and including measuring indicia thereon and having a dilation area adjacent to the second end. The elongated member also includes a recessed region adjacent to the flange to receive the flange in a folded position upon insertion into the non-dilated fistula. The dilation area has a larger diameter than the measuring area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: Helix Medical, LLC
    Inventor: Eric D. Blom
  • ENDOTRACHEAL TUBE
    Publication number: 20110162643
    Abstract: The invention relates to an endotracheal tube (1), usable in dilating percutaneous tracheostomy operations and comprising a tubular body (10) whose distal end, to be inserted in trachea, is provided with means (3) suitable to emit a light radiation for determining a transcutaneous illumination and with variable volume means (2), integral to said tube (1) and suitable to vary the total diameter of the tube, that is its encumbrance in the lumen of the trachea; tube (1) characterized in that said variable volume means (2) are shaped and/or positioned so that their expansion maintains said means (3) suitable to emit a radiation light substantially near the tracheal wall (P), that is in a position in which the means (3) are disposed substantially in contact with a wall (P) of the same trachea.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2008
    Publication date: July 7, 2011
    Applicant: MEDICAL SERVICE S.R.L.
    Inventor: Giuseppe Aita
  • Oral airway
    Patent number: 7954488
    Abstract: An oral airway for providing an air passage to a patient's trachea. The oral airway includes a curved section and a straight section with the curved section having spaced-apart curved upper and lower members and the straight section having spaced-apart planar upper and lower members with the same width. The curved upper member has the same width as the planar upper member with the curved lower member having a greater width than the width of the lower planar member. The width of the curved lower member is greater than the width of the planar lower member and the distance between the curved upper and lower members is greater than the distance between the planar upper and lower members. The curved lower member has a generally inverted V-shaped cross-section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Inventor: Myron L. Munn
  • ILLUMINATED ENDOTRACHEAL STYLET
    Publication number: 20110120459
    Abstract: A stylet for use with an endotracheal tube includes a lighting element and a malleable rod completely enclosed and sealed within an elongated flexible sheath. The elongated flexible sheath has a proximal end and a distal end; the lighting element is positioned at or near the distal end and the malleable rod is positioned from proximate to the lighting element to the proximal end of the elongated flexible sheath. The chemiluminescent lighting element includes an activator and an oxalate and may be fully enclosed in a capsule or the flexible sheath may serve as an outer wall of the lighting element. An absorbent pad, made from cotton or non-woven fiber, is at the distal end of the elongated sheath between the lighting element and a terminal seal of the elongated flexible sheath. The stylet includes one or more tactile elements and a removable protective cap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2009
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Applicant: OMNIGLOW LLC
    Inventor: Patricia Ramos
  • Endotracheal intubation device
    Publication number: 20110120458
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2009
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Inventors: John Schwartz, Richard Schwartz, Christopher L. Hogg
  • Oral airway
    Patent number: 7946289
    Abstract: An oral airway for providing an air passage to a patient's trachea including two embodiments. In both embodiments, the oral airway includes a curved section and a straight section with the curved section having spaced-apart curved upper and lower members and the straight section having spaced-apart planar upper and lower members with the same width. In the first embodiment, the curved upper member has the same width as the planar upper member with the curved lower member having a greater width than the width of the lower planar member. In the second embodiment, the width of the curved lower member is greater than the width of the planar lower member and the distance between the curved upper and lower members is greater than the distance between the planar upper and lower members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Inventor: Myron L. Munn
  • Laryngeal mask airway with a belt, operating piece for controlling the same, and gas supply kit comprising the same
    Patent number: 7938119
    Abstract: A laryngeal mask airway includes a flexible tubular portion, an inflatable sealing cuff, an inflation tube, and a belt. The flexible tubular portion has a first opening part and a second opening part. The inflatable sealing cuff is disposed surrounding the first opening part. The inflation tube has one end connected to the inflatable sealing cuff and the other end for directing gas into the inflatable sealing cuff. The belt is secured on the first opening part. Moreover, an operating piece controls the laryngeal mask airway, and a gas supply kit includes the laryngeal mask airway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Inventors: Tien-Sheng Chen, Hui-Bih Yuan
  • Combination laryngeal mask airway with dual blocking and fluid removal features and method
    Patent number: 7938118
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to the field of laryngeal mask airway devices. The invention provides for dual passageways in a laryngeal mask which permits a physician to effectively isolate the trachea from the esophagus. In one embodiment, the physician separately inserts an instrumentality (e.g., an endotracheal tube) into a patient's esophagus in order to isolate the stomach from the lungs, respectively. In another embodiment, the physician inserts an instrumentality (e.g., an endotracheal tube) into the trachea and inserts another instrumentality (e.g., a drainage tube) in the second passageway within the laryngeal mask in order to remove particles or fluids contained in the laryngeal mask that may cause problems if allowed to flow through the patient's trachea to the lungs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Inventor: Joel D. Kessler
  • Endoscopic bite block
    Patent number: 7934505
    Abstract: A bite block intended primarily for use with upper gastrointestinal endoscopy comprises a unitary body that fits into the mouth between the teeth or dental ridges. The bite block includes a central passageway large enough to accommodate a gastroscope. The bite block also has a surface which lies exterior to the oral cavity and extends around the outer surface of the lips. A suction wand is releasably connected to the body and extends into the intra-oral portion thereof where it forms an angle and allows suction drainage of pooled oral fluids from the cheek cavity. The interior tip of the suction wand has a terminal opening as well as multiple circumferentially arranged secondary openings adjacent the terminal opening all of which allow suction drainage of oral fluids with diminished occlusion by the oral tissues.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Inventors: Mary L. Garren, Lloyd R. Garren, Silas Lum
  • Self-pressurizing supraglottic airway
    Patent number: 7934502
    Abstract: A supraglottic airway of the type used to facilitate lung ventilation and the insertion of endo-tracheal tubes or related medical instruments through a patient's laryngeal opening where the shield is designed to have an internal increase in pressure during assisted inhalation such as positive-pressure ventilation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: Cookgas, LLC
    Inventor: Daniel J Cook
  • Device and method for placing within a patient an enteral tube after endotracheal intubation
    Patent number: 7921847
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a novel device and method for providing a disposable endotracheal intubation device for use with an auxiliary passageway serving as a guide for the placement of an orogastic or other enterally directed device in a patient. The present invention pertains to a combination intubation device comprising an endotracheal tube and a catheter proximate the endotracheal tube to guide the path of an enteral tube. In a preferred embodiment, the endotracheal tube is capable of defining an arcuate path in a first geometric plane between its proximal end and its distal end to facilitate introduction of the tube into the trachea of a patient. In a preferred embodiment, the catheter employs a fenestration to facilitate removal of the intubation device from the patient without removal of any enteral device previously directed therethrough into the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Intubix, LLC
    Inventor: Kenneth A. Totz
  • Oral airway
    Patent number: 7913687
    Abstract: An oral airway for providing an air passage to a patient's trachea. The oral airway includes a curved section and a straight section with the curved section having spaced-apart curved upper and lower members and the straight section having spaced-apart planar upper and lower members with the same width. The curved upper member has the same width as the planar upper member with the curved lower member having a greater width than the width of the lower planar member. The width of the curved lower member is greater than the width of the planar lower member and the distance between the curved upper and lower members is greater than the distance between the planar upper and lower members. The curved lower member has a generally inverted V-shaped cross-section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: Myron L. Munn
  • Intubating laryngeal mask airway device with fiber optic assembly
    Patent number: 7896007
    Abstract: The disclosed laryngeal mask airway device includes a rigid airway tube, a mask portion, and a viewing system. The mask portion is inflatable and can be inserted, when deflated, through a patient's mouth to a location near the patient's glottic opening. The mask portion also includes an epiglottis elevator bar and a distal end of the bar defines an aperture. The viewing system has a proximal end located outside the patient. The viewing system also has a distal end positioned so that light rays can pass from a portion of the patient's anatomy, through the aperture in the elevator bar, and into the distal end of the viewing system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Indian Ocean Medical Inc.
    Inventor: Archibald I. J. Brain
  • Bronchoscopy oxygenation system
    Patent number: RE42488
    Abstract: A bronchoscopy oxygenation system having a channel for inserting alternately an instrument or fluids and for delivering oxygen to a patient. The system being provided with pressure relief vent and a pressure relief valve for the relief of excessive oxygen pressure. The bronchoscopy oxygenation system may be used during bronchoscopy and with patient suctioning, bronchoalveolar lavage or biopsy. The bronchoscopy oxygenation system is intended to be used with a conventional bronchoscope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Inventor: Kenneth L. Willeford