Abstract: The invention relates to an anaesthesia procedure and associated anaesthetic equipment (3). In said procedure, a first respiratory gas (G1) is supplied to an anaesthetized patient (15) through a ventilator (3) with unidirectional flow or rapidly alternating flow direction. At least one adjustment parameter (F) of the ventilator (3) is controlled or regulated in such a manner that a current position (LA) of at least one body part (36) of the patient (15) is adjusted to a specified desired position (LS).

Abstract: An oral suction device includes a suction catheter having a suction portion at a first end, a sponge surrounding the suction portion, a hydrogel or non-hydrogel polymer coating on the sponge, and a suction tubing connector on a second end opposite the first end. In some aspects the coating is a hydrogel coating that does not have macropores. A method of making an oral suction device may include dip-coating a sponge and forming macropores in the coating during the coating process.

Abstract: A system and/or method to control operation of an implantable medical device in response to sensed posture information.

Abstract: Provided is a filtering facepiece respirator. The respirator includes a mask body having an anterior side portion, a posterior side portion, a middle portion, a first side portion, a second side portion, a top side portion, a bottom side portion and outer edge portions. The respirator further includes a primary port positioned at the anterior middle portion of the mask body and a detachable primary port adapter which is positioned over and engages the primary port. The respirator may further include an oxygen port and oxygen port adapter and a luer port and luer port adapter.

Abstract: A manually articulated stylet assembly for placing an endotracheal tube. The stylet assembly has a steering shaft that carries a flexible distal tip at one end and is attached to a handle at the other end. The distal tip is manipulated via sheathed cables controlled by a remote actuator in the handle. A biasing member inside the remote actuator maintains continuous tension on the cables to improve control. A video camera is carried in a recessed lens pocket in the steering shaft but spaced from the distal tip. The camera FOV captures movement of the distal tip with foreshortened perspective. A collar seat in the handle receives the collar connector of a standard endotracheal tube, providing quick disconnect when removing the stylet assembly upon placement.

Abstract: A reusable container system and method for reducing the use of plastic is disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a reusable container includes: a reusable bottle; a lid attachable to the reusable bottle that enables access removing and inserting single-use replaceable sealed bag or pouch; an inner single-use replaceable sealed bag or pouch that holds a liquid, viscous, or gel material inside the reusable bottle; a sprayer or pump attachable to the reusable bottle; and a dip tube with a leading edge that pierces the inner bag upon assembly of the above listed components. The liquid material is accessed for dispensing through the dip tube without contaminating the reusable bottle.

Abstract: Devices and methods for compressing a chest of a patient includes a platform for placement under a thorax of the patient, a compression belt for extending over an anterior chest wall of the patient, a drive train operably connected to the compression belt, a motor operably connected to the compression belt through the drive train, and a control system configured to control operation of the motor to cause the drive train to tighten and loosen the compression belt in repeated cycles of compression about the thorax of the patient. Each cycle of the repeated cycles includes tightening the compression belt around the chest of the patient after tightening, causing, by the control system, the motor to cease operation of the drive train for a hold period; and at a termination of the hold period, loosening the compression belt around the chest of the patient.

Abstract: A system for carbon dioxide (CO2) removal from a circulatory system of a patient includes a medical device providing extracorporeal lung assist (ECLA) treatment to the patient through extracorporeal removal of CO2 from the patient's blood; at least one control unit controlling the operation of the medical device so as to control a degree of CO2 removal obtained by the ECLA treatment; and a bioelectric sensor detecting a bioelectric signal indicative of the patient's efforts to breathe. The at least one control unit is configured to control the operation of the medical device based on the detected bioelectric signal.

Abstract: A treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (“OSA”) of a user includes affixing a patch externally on a dermis of the user, the patch including a flexible substrate, an adhesive on a first side adapted to adhere to the dermis of the user, a processor directly coupled to the substrate, and electrodes directly coupled to the substrate. The treatment includes detecting an occurrence of OSA and activating the patch in response to the detecting, the activating including generating an electrical stimuli via the electrodes to activate the genioglossus muscle of the user.

Abstract: A bronchoscopy scope guide (30) for a non-invasive ventilation (NIV) patient interface (10) comprises a semi-rigid scope guide tube (32), a bronchoscopy scope seal (48), and a semi-rigid grommet (34). The semi-rigid scope guide tube (32) includes a principal axis (36) and entrance and exit guide portions (38,40). The bronchoscopy scope seal (48) couples to the scope guide tube for sealing around a bronchoscopy scope when inserted through the scope guide tube. The semi-rigid grommet (34) is disposed about an outer circumference of and flexibly coupled to the scope guide tube (32) and is located in a principal plane (52) transverse to the principal axis of the scope guide tube.

Abstract: A patient monitoring system is provided. A sensor is attached to a subject. A processor acquires physiological information of the subject, and detects an occurrence of an event. A communication interface is wirelessly communicable with a remote device through a communication network. When the processor detects an occurrence of the event, a power supplying member supplies a first electric power that is necessary for transmission of physiological information to the remote device, to the communication interface. When an occurrence of the event is not detected, the power supplying member supplies a second electric power that is lower than the first electric power, to the communication interface.

Abstract: Disclosed herein, among other things, are methods and apparatus related to identification of apnea type. One aspect of the present subject matter provides a method for real-time apnea discrimination. The method includes sensing an impedance-based tidal volume signal to monitor a respiratory cycle of a patient, and detecting a reduction in tidal swing using the sensed impendence to detect an apnea event. When the apnea event is detected, a shape of the sensed signal is compared to a stored signal shape to determine whether the apnea event is primarily an obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) event or primarily a central sleep apnea (CSA) event, in various embodiments.

Abstract: A dual tip dialysis catheter has a proximal portion with connected lumens and a distal portion with diverging lumens. The lumens may separate at a split junction and diverge in a scissors like manner to reduce or eliminate a crack or gap adjacent to the split junction, thereby reducing clotting. A dual tip dialysis catheter may have forward openings configured to direct flow in opposite directions.

Abstract: A quick connection device includes a female socket forming an electrical fixture. The female socket includes a cavity receiving a first electrical connector connected to an electrical grid. The quick connection device also includes a male plug including a second electrical connector and having a complementary shape to the female socket cavity. The male plug is able to change from an unlocked position in which the male plug can be inserted into the female socket, to a locked position in which the male plug is fixed to the female socket and the second electrical connector cooperates with the first electrical connector. The quick connection device also includes an electrical conductor extending through the male plug. The second electrical connector includes structure arranged to bear the weight of the electrical device.

Abstract: A drainage catheter includes an elongated tubular member and a locking assembly. The locking assembly includes a first protruding element and a collar. The first protruding element is disposed proximal to a port in the tubular member through which a proximal portion of a tension member may exit. The collar is coaxially disposed about the tubular member and has a second protruding element projecting from an interior surface of the collar. The collar is configured for longitudinal sliding movement relative to the tubular member such that the collar may be moved along the tubular member toward the proximal end of the tubular member thereby interacting with the first protruding element and securing the proximal portion of the tension member between the first protruding element and the collar.

Abstract: Endotracheal tube coupling adapters for facilitating collection and removal of biofilm or any debris from endotracheal tubes for disposal or laboratory testing are disclosed. The endotracheal tube coupling adapters may be adapted for use in closed suction systems. The endotracheal tube coupling adapters may be configured to remain coupled to an endotracheal tube from the time of intubation until the time of removal and to receive visualization, cleaning, and/or biofilm collection devices or members without being removed from the endotracheal tube.

Abstract: A method and system for measuring psychological stress disclosed. In a first aspect, the method comprises determining R-R intervals from an electrocardiogram (ECG) to calculate a standard deviation of the R-R intervals (SDNN) and determining a stress feature (SF) using the SDNN. In response to reaching a threshold, the method includes performing adaptation to update a probability mass function (PMF). The method includes determining a stress level (SL) using the SF and the updated PMF to continuously measure the psychological stress. In a second aspect, the system comprises a wireless sensor device coupled to a user via at least one electrode, wherein the wireless sensor device includes a processor and a memory device coupled to the processor, wherein the memory device stores an application which, when executed by the processor, causes the processor to carry out the steps of the method.

Abstract: A collection tank for use in a vacuum operated earth reduction system, the collection tank comprising a closed first end, an open second end defining a tank sealing flange and a body extending between the closed first end and the open second end. An internal chamber defined by the body, the closed first end and the open second end has a door coupled to the open second end and is configured to releasably seal the open second end. An automated door closer is coupled to a center of the door, wherein the automated door closer provides a closing force at the center of the door so that the closing force is equally distributed about a periphery of the door to seal the door against the tank sealing flange.

Abstract: Tracheal tube systems may include first and second tubes and an inflatable balloon. The first tube may be flexible and hollow and have first and second open ends. The inflatable balloon may be affixed to and circumferentially surround a portion of the first tube. The inflatable balloon may include an indentation sized and positioned to accommodate a portion of a second tube positioned therein, when the inflatable balloon is inflated. The second tube may be hollow and have a multiplicity of holes along a sidewall not in contact with the balloon. The second tube may be configured to be coupled to a suction device that creates a negative pressure in the second tube. When the tracheal tube system is inserted in a patient's trachea, the negative pressure in the second tube may act to remove, or suction out, fluids and other matter from the trachea.

Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods for coupling a tracheostomy tube to a source of humidified breathing gas are disclosed. An adaptor includes a housing, a tracheostomy tube connection device, and a baffle. The housing has an interior surface, an exterior surface, and a breathing gas port. The tracheostomy tube connection device is positioned within the housing and includes an input port for receiving a flow of humidified breathing gas from the breathing gas port and an output port for coupling with the tracheostomy tube. The tracheostomy tube connection device has an internal surface defining a breathing gas passage and an external surface spaced from the interior surface of the housing to create a condensation passage. The baffle may be positioned between the breathing gas port and the input port to cause controlled condensation from the flow of humidified breathing gas by disrupting the flow of humidified breathing gas.

Abstract: The systems and methods include providing oxygenation-ventilation of a patient being monitored or treated with a medical system. The novel systems and methods may be configured to be able to simultaneously treat and/or monitor a patient with both a ventilator and an ECGE system. The novel systems and methods may monitor the patient and/or manage the treatment of a patient with a ventilator-ECGE system.

Abstract: Devices and methods for allowing for improved assisted ventilation of a patient. The methods and devices provide a number of benefits over conventional approaches for assisted ventilation. For example, the methods and devices described herein permit blind insertion of a device that can allow ventilation regardless of whether the device is positioned within a trachea or an esophagus.

Abstract: Breathing devices deliver at least one treatment to a subject and include at least two components comprising at least one of a ventilation unit for supplying a gas to the subject, a humidification unit for humidifying a gas supplied to the subject, a nebulizer unit for supplying a medication to the subject, a suction unit for suctioning a portion of an airway of the subject, and a cough assist unit for simulating a cough within the subject. Methods of providing a treatment to a subject may be provided with a breathing device.

Abstract: A delivery device includes a toroidal shaped housing defining an interior chamber and a central open space. The housing includes an input port communicating with the interior chamber and a delivery port positioned on an inner periphery of the housing. The delivery port is in fluid communication between the interior chamber and the central open space. The delivery port is spaced from the input port, which is adapted to receive an aerosolized medicament. In another aspect, a kit includes an outer ring-like housing component and a plurality of differently configured inner ring-like housing components mateable with the outer ring-like housing to form a holding chamber. A method of delivering an inhalable substance includes positioning a nose and a mouth of a user in a central opening defined by a ring-like housing, inhaling through the nose, and orally soothing the user with a soothing device located in the central opening.

Abstract: The invention relates to a laryngeal mask airway device (1) for insertion into patient to provide an airway passage to the patient's glottic opening, the device (1) including an airway tube (2), a mask (3) attached to the airway tube (2), the mask (3) including a body (4) having a distal end (5) and a proximal end (6), a peripheral inflatable cuff (7), and an outlet (8), the mask (3) being attached to the airway tube (2) for gaseous communication between the tube (2) and the outlet (8), the device (1) further including a structure to prevent occlusion of the outlet (8) by the patient's anatomy, the structure including a support (11), and a conduit (28a) to allow gas to flow out of the outlet (8), past the support.

Abstract: Various embodiments of a tracheal tube having a suction lumen are provided. For example, the suction lumen may be associated with two spaced apart pressure transducers, whereby a pressure drop between the transducers indicates that the suction lumen is free of blockages and a characteristic lack of pressure drop and/or particular pressure curve is indicative of a blockage. In addition, embodiments may include a tracheal tube with sensors configured to sense a buildup of secretions. The sensors may be located proximate to an opening in the suction lumen. In other embodiments, a blockage-clearing system for a suction lumen may be provided that blows air into the suction lumen to clear blockages. In particular, in certain embodiments, the blockage-clearing system may operate to create its own pressurized air source by utilizing the pressure change created in the suction line by a blockage.

Abstract: Disclosed is an endotracheal tube having an absorbent device attached so that the absorbent device is able to absorb and block any procedure produced debris. The absorbent device has strings that are attached to a device around an endotracheal tube so that the absorbent device is properly dislodged at the end of the procedure.

Abstract: The aspiration catheters, systems and methods include a catheter having an elongated body with a cross-section having a flat side and a curve near the distal end. The first side of the cross-section can contact a first side of a delivery lumen in a first orientation, and a second side of the cross-section contacts the first side of the delivery lumen in a second orientation rotated 180° from the first orientation. The curve can be directed 90° relative to a normal of the flat side. The systems and methods can utilize two catheters, and a key joint formed with the two catheters which can rotationally fix the catheters with respect to each other, and the first and second catheters each include at least one pre-formed curve near the distal end. The two catheters can be moved proximally and distally for positioning in the right and left bronchi.

Abstract: A cleaning device, system and method for use with an ETT or tracheostomy ventilation tube 60, a ventilator machine 900, a source(s) 602 of fluid (for example, pressurized or unpressurized) and a source(s) of suctioning 603 is disclosed. In some embodiments, the cleaning device is useful for cleaning an inner surface of the ventilation tube 60 and/or for preventing or hindering the accumulation of biofilm thereon. In some embodiments, it is possible to clean biofilm or any other material on the inner surface 201 by delivering fluid into an interior of the ventilation tube, wiping the tube interior with a width-expanded wiping element (e.g. an inflated balloon) by longitudinal motion of the wiping element, and suctioning material out of the ventilation tube ventilation tube.

Abstract: A fluid delivery and airway management device including a tubular member dimensioned for introducing a fluid into a trachea of a mammal, the tubular member having a proximal portion, a distal portion, and a middle portion between the proximal portion and the distal portion. The tubular member is dimensioned for positioning of the proximal portion in an oral cavity of a mammal, the middle portion in an oropharynx of the mammal and the distal portion in an esophagus of the mammal. An inflatable oral cavity balloon is positioned at the proximal portion and dimensioned to occlude the oral cavity. An inflatable esophageal balloon is positioned at the distal portion and dimensioned to occlude the esophagus. Apertures may be formed within the middle portion such that a fluid introduced into the tubular member is output through the apertures to a trachea.

Abstract: A joint of sputum suction tube includes a patient tube (100), an exhaust tube (200) and a sleeve (300). The sleeve (300) includes a rotatable end (310) and a fixed end (320). The rotatable end (310) rotatably joints the exhaust tube (200). The fixed end (320) fixedly joints the exhaust tube (200). Therefore, the patient tube (100) rotatably connects with the exhaust tube (200) by the sleeve (300).

Abstract: A closed suction system module is provided. In one embodiment, the closed suction system module comprises a coupling member configured to couple to a suction port of a multi-port manifold or endotracheal tube adapter (e.g., dual-port or tri-port adapter). In one embodiment, the closed suction system module comprises a suction catheter configured to clean the interior surfaces of body-inserted tubes or artificial airways (alone or in addition to suctioning natural airways or portions of the respiratory tract or other body lumens). The suction catheter may comprise a cleaning portion at a distal portion of the suction catheter (e.g., near the distal end or tip of the suction catheter). In some embodiments, the cleaning portion comprises at least one expandable cleaning member (e.g., balloon, sleeve, wiper).

Abstract: A system for performing simultaneous ventilation and resuscitation of a patient includes an oxygen source, at least one inspiration control valve, a breathing apparatus, at least one expiration control valve, at least one indicator, and at least one timer. The breathing apparatus is configured to form an air seal with at least a portion of the patient's respiratory tract such that a gas including oxygen can flow from the oxygen source to the lungs. The at least one expiration control valve being configured to selectively actuate an exhalation valve. The at least one indicator for indicating when a rescuer should perform a chest compression. The at least one timer for synchronizing actuation of the at least one inspiration control valve, the at least one expiration control valve, and the indicator, thereby enabling continuous compressions to be provided to the patient while the patient undergoes inspiration and expiration.

Abstract: An oral suction device for insertion into an airway of a patient including a first tube and a second tube. The first tube includes a first gas port configured to be coupled to a ventilation source. The second tube extends coaxially over at least a first section of the first tube and includes a second gas port configured to be coupled to a negative pressure source. The second tube also has an outer surface with at least one hole defined therein.

Abstract: A tracheal tube includes an airway tubular body, an inflatable cuff disposed on the airway tubular body, a suction conduit extending along the airway tubular body to terminate at a suction opening, and a guiding unit disposed on the airway tubular body and adjacent to the suction opening. The guiding unit includes at least one guiding member having a plurality of ribs. Each two adjacent ones of the ribs define a guiding groove that extends toward the suction opening and that terminates at a confluent region in fluid communication with the suction opening so as to guide secretions in the trachea to the suction opening.

Abstract: Methods and devices for orally administering fluids and medical instrumentation to individuals for the promotion of health are disclosed. An apparatus is described comprising a pacifier configured to hold fluid and configured for sucking. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes a balloon positioned within a cavity of the pacifier. The balloon is configured to facilitate expulsion of the fluid from the cavity and to limit a user's ingestion of air. In other embodiments, the apparatus includes a cartridge or ampoule configured to store a fluid and expel the fluid through the pacifier. Systems are disclosed which include the pacifier apparatus, a known quantity of fluid or powder, and sterile packaging. Other systems are disclosed whereby various attachments, both medical and non-medical, couple to the apparatus. Methods of using and methods of manufacturing are also disclosed.

Abstract: An oxygen delivery apparatus for delivery of oxygen to an infant from a source includes a mouthpiece having a body portion and lip-engaging flange portions which surround the body portion and a nipple which extends to one side of the central body portion for acceptance by the mouth of an infant. The body portion of the mouthpiece includes a pair of internal passageways each having an inlet and an outlet and wherein the inlets of the passageways are adapted to accept oxygen delivered thereto from a source and wherein the outlets of the passageways are disposed at locations along the surface of the mouthpiece so that when the nipple is accepted by the mouth of an infant, the outlets of the passageways are disposed adjacent, but not within, the nostrils of the infant.

Abstract: Various embodiments of a tracheal tube capable of suctioning accumulated mucus secretions from the airway of intubated patients are provided. Disclosed embodiments include a variety of endotracheal tubes with integral suction lumens terminating in ports optimally located at the distal end of the endotracheal tubes between a Murphy's Eye and a cuff. During intubation, the foregoing features, among others, of the tracheal tube may have the effect of preventing bacterial colonization of the respiratory airway and the subsequent development of ventilator associated pneumonia (VAP) in the lungs.

Abstract: A portable, adjustable disposable medical suction system and method of use is disclosed. The system includes a delivery device to provide a conduit from a surgical site on a patient to the portable, adjustable medical suction system. The suction system may be a battery powered vacuum pump with one or more different adjustments directed to a strength of the vacuum, duration of the vacuum and interval between suction. The delivery device may be an intranasal tampon device or a tube inserted into the surgical site. During surgery and recovery at a surgical center or hospital, the vacuum source attached to the delivery system may be an industrial type vacuum source. Upon discharge, the suction system can be connected to the delivery system so that bleeding can be resolved by the patient in the comfort of his/her own home. The system and method of use is safer and mitigates body fluid borne contamination.

Abstract: A system for therapy may include a mask (200) for a patient having a frame, cushion, forehead support and a light (100). The mask is connectable to a respiratory treatment apparatus, such as a flow generator, to receive breathable gas for a respiratory therapy. The light may also be connected to the power system and/or control system of the apparatus. A light may also be included in a module, such as a docking station, for a respiratory treatment apparatus. The lights may be controlled by one or more processors, and may be responsive to detected conditions, to assist with therapy. For example, the light may be turned on at a predetermined time or may be synchronized with the patient's sleep state, to assist in waking up the patient or re-setting the patient's circadian rhythm. Other components, such as sound and aroma generators of the system, may also be controlled for such therapies.

Abstract: An endotracheal tube assembly is disclosed. The endotracheal tube assembly includes an elongate tube having an outer wall, and a first connector disposed on the outer wall. The outer wall defines a generally cylindrical elongate central lumen therein, an elongate suction lumen therein, and a first suction lumen aperture therethrough, the first suction lumen aperture being in fluid communication with the elongate suction lumen. The first connector includes a first annular wall disposed within a second annular wall, where the first annular wall and the second annular wall extend away from a longitudinal axis of the elongate tube in a radial direction. An internal surface of the first annular wall defines a first flow passage, and a rim of the first annular wall defines a first connection aperture. The first connection aperture is in fluid communication with the elongate suction lumen through the first flow passage.

Abstract: A data processing device is provided for an anesthesia device for feeding an intravenously administered hypnotic, a volatile hypnotic, and an opioid such that the volume flow can be adjusted. The device determines and standardizes the effective concentrations of the anesthetics. A pharmacokinetic model adds up the standardized concentrations of the hypnotics to a total hypnotic concentration. An isobole is calculated based on a coordinate plane with a total hypnotic concentration axis and an opioid concentration axis, as a function of the currently determined concentrations. The system displays a two-dimensional action diagram with the y-axis as an indicator of the total hypnotic concentration and the x-axis as an indicator of the standardized opioid concentration. The calculated standardized total hypnotic concentration and opioid concentration and the isoboles determined are displayed. The display is adapted to changes occurring in the isoboles determined in the course of time.

Abstract: Methods and devices for creating a supersaturated liquid solution having dissolved gas with hyperbaric partial pressures and aerosolizing the supersaturated solution via a nebulizer. High partial pressures of the dissolved gas may be maintained before, during, and after the aerosolization process. Thus, the hyperbaric partial pressures may be retained in the aerosol particles even after the particles are exposed to ambient barometric pressure. The aerosolized particles may be inhaled to improve oxygenation and blood flow to the lung or alternatively, the aerosolized particles can be topically applied to accelerate wound healing. Nebulizers may produce aerosol particles in some embodiments have mass median aerodynamic diameters of between about 0.25 and about 5 microns, thereby allowing sufficient deposition in the lung parenchyma, proximal to alveoli.

Abstract: A method of relieving pain resulting from breathing in a patient with fractured ribs, wherein the pain interrupts the sleeping of the patient. A positive airway pressure machine is attached to the nose or nose and mouth of the patient. The patient turns the machine on to produce a positive airway pressure in the airways of the lungs and adjusts the positive airway pressure to a level where the patient feels that the pain is reduced or eliminated. The method allows a patient with fractured ribs to sleep comfortably without the pain associated with breathing in and out, and without interruption of sleep. The method also promotes the healing and recovery of the fractured ribs.

Abstract: The invention relates to an artificial airway device (1) to facilitate lung ventilation of a patient, comprising an airway tube (2), a gastric drain tube (3) and a mask (4) at one end of the airway tube (2), the mask (4) including a backplate (5) and having a peripheral formation (6) capable of forming a seal around the circumference of the laryngeal inlet, the peripheral formation (6) surrounding a hollow interior space (7) or lumen of the mask (4) and the airway tube (2) opening into the lumen of the mask, wherein the mask includes an atrium (8) for passage to the gastric drain tube (3) of gastric matter leaving the oesophagus.

Abstract: An oral device for use with a person in which at least one non-toxic gas pulse is delivered to a predetermined location in the mouth via a device conduit. The oral device may be provided as a kit with at least one device for measuring the subject's responses and representing them as feedback to the subject/clinician. A method of creating a gas bolus pulse train, delivering it to a predetermined mouth area, and monitoring the subject's responses to it, is also shown. The oral device and method may be used as a diagnostic tool, or a therapeutic tool, in swallowing or speech rehabilitation of children and adults who have swallowing, speech, salivary, and/or oral sensorimotor impairments.

Abstract: The invention relates to an artificial airway device (1) to facilitate lung ventilation of a patient, comprising an airway tube (2) and a mask (3) canned at one end of the airway tube, the mask (3) having a distal end (4) and a proximal end (5) and a peripheral formation (6) capable of conforming to, and of fitting within, the actual and potential space behind the larynx of the patient so as to form a seal around the circumference of the laryngeal inlet, the peripheral formation (6) surrounding a hollow interior space or lumen (7) of the mask (3) and the airway tube (2) opening into the lumen (7) of the mask, the mask having a conduit (8) for receiving, in use, oesophageal matter, an outer, in use, surface of the peripheral formation (6) defining a channel (10) for use in facilitating drainage of oesophageal matter.

Abstract: The invention relates to a laryngeal mask airway device (10) to facilitate lung ventilation in a patient, the device comprising an airway tube (12) extending from a proximal end (12a) to a distal end (12b) and opening, at the distal end, into the interior of a mask portion (14), the mask portion including a backplate (16) and a cuff (18), the mask portion shaped to seal around the circumference of the laryngeal inlet without penetrating into the interior of the larynx, wherein the mask portion of the device includes guiding means (20), said guiding means being adapted such that, when the laryngeal mask airway device is in use with a drug delivery catheter (22), the guiding means guides the drug delivery catheter towards the larynx.

Abstract: A method of relieving pain resulting from breathing in a patient with fractured ribs, wherein the breathing causes movement of the fractured portion of the ribs. A positive airway pressure machine is attached to the nose, mouth, or both of the patient. The patient turns the machine on to produce a positive airway pressure in the airway or airways of the lungs and adjusts the positive airway pressure to a level where the positive airway pressure relieves pain produced by breathing. The method allows a patient with fractured ribs to sleep comfortably without the pain associated with the breathing-related movement of the fractured portion of the ribs, and also promotes the healing and recovery of the fractured ribs.

Abstract: The self-cleaning and sterilizing medical tube may include a combination of an endotracheal tube or a tracheostomy tube and a suction catheter that decreases the tendency of mucus and bacteria to adhere to the inner surfaces of the thereof. The medical tube may have a hydrophobic surface exhibiting the lotus effect, which may be formed either by femtosecond laser etching or by a coating of poly (ethylene oxide). Alternatively, the medical tube may be formed with a photocatalyst incorporated therein or have a lumen coated with a photocatalyst. The medical tube may also have a light source and a fiberoptic bundle mounted thereon, the optical fibers extending into the lumen to illuminate the photocatalyst.