Abstract: A respiratory interface apparatus (6) is provided that includes a patient contacting portion (21) structured to engage a face of the patient, a common chamber (30) fluidly coupled to the patient contacting portion (21), a first control chamber (26), a first flow regulating mechanism (32) provided between the first control chamber (26) and the common chamber (30), a second control chamber (28), and a second flow regulating mechanism (34) provided between the second control chamber (28) and the common chamber (30).

Abstract: An over-pressure control device prevents over-pressure conditions during the delivery of pressure treatment therapy to a patient with a respiratory treatment apparatus. The device may prevent delivered pressure from exceeding a first maximum pressure threshold. The device may also prevent the delivered pressure from exceeding a second maximum pressure threshold when the delivered pressure exceeds another pressure threshold for a period of time. In some embodiments, the second maximum pressure threshold may be lower than the first maximum pressure threshold. In an example embodiment, a set of comparators are configured to compare pressure with a maximum pressure threshold and to control a reduction in the pressure if the pressure exceeds the maximum pressure threshold. The set may also be configured to compare the pressure with a pressure threshold and to control reduction in the maximum pressure threshold if the pressure exceeds the pressure threshold for a period of time.

Abstract: A casing adapted to use with a mobile device for monitoring health condition of a user is provided. The casing includes (a) a memory unit, (b) a sensor unit at a surface of the casing, (c) a plurality of health parameter measuring sensors embedded within the sensor unit for measuring raw health parameters data of the user, (d) a processor which is activated from a sleep mode based on a user input including contacting at least one predetermined sensor surface on the casing for a predetermined period, and (e) a power unit for controllably supplying power to the sensors and the processor upon detecting the user input. The processor (i) initializes and configures the sensors, and (ii) receives the raw health parameters data from the sensors. The casing further includes a communication unit for communicating the raw health parameters data to a mobile device for processing.

Abstract: A medical vaporizer includes a liquid drug reservoir configured to receive and hold a liquid drug. A low power graphical display is configured to intermittently receive power. The low power graphical display is operable to visually present information and maintain the visual presentation of information in the absence of power. A controller is configured to intermittently receive power and upon receiving power the controller operates to determine a status of a medical vaporizer. The controller operates the low power graphical display to present the status of the medical vaporizer as visually presented information.

Abstract: The present invention relates to novel lip/cheek probes for detection of pulse-based differences in light absorbence across the vascularized tissue of a lip or cheek of a patient. These probes are fabricated to provide signals to estimate arterial oxygen saturation, and/or to obtain other photoplethysmographic data. The present invention also relates to a combined probe/cannula. The present invention also relates to other devices that combine a pulse oximeter probe with a device supplying oxygen or other oxygen-containing gas to a person in need thereof, and to sampling means for exhaled carbon dioxide in combination with the novel lip/cheek probes. In certain embodiments, an additional limitation of a control means to adjust the flow rate of such gas is provided, where such control is directed by the blood oxygen saturation data obtained from the pulse oximeter probe.

Abstract: Embodiments of devices and system for controllable nasal delivery of materials are described. Methods of use of such devices and system and software for controlling the operation of such devices and systems are also disclosed.

Abstract: A server is configured to be communicatively linked with drug delivery devices used by a plurality of different subjects to receive aerosolized medicament as part of a therapy regime. The server provides a user with a user interface that enables the user to access therapy information related to the therapy of a plurality of different subjects. This may facilitate the monitoring of therapy received by the plurality of subjects.

Abstract: The disclosure provides a system that displays a posture state indication to a user. A posture state indication represents the current posture state of the patient, which may be a combination of patient posture and activity. As a patient changes posture and activity throughout a daily routine, a posture state detector may generate a posture state value that may be used to categorize the patient's posture or posture and activity level as one of multiple posture states used to adjust therapy. The posture state may be associated with one of multiple posture state indications that may be presented to the patient. The posture state indication shows the patient the posture state currently detected by the posture state detector. The posture state indication may help the patient to effectively monitor therapy changes due to automatic, semi-automatic or patient-directed therapy adjustments made as a function of posture state.

Abstract: A method for controlling a capacity of a carbon dioxide remover in an anesthesia breathing system is disclosed herein. The method includes determining exhaled breathing gas flow volume of a subject in the breathing system, and determining exhaled gas flow volume removed from the breathing system. The method also includes determining carbon dioxide concentration exhaled, and calculating a data indicative of a volume of carbon dioxide removed by the carbon dioxide remover from a breathing gas flow based on the determined exhaled breathing gas flow volume, the determined exhaled gas flow volume removed from the breathing system and the determined carbon dioxide concentration. The method also includes storing the calculated data indicative of the volume of carbon dioxide removed by the carbon dioxide remover, and comparing the stored calculated data with information indicative of carbon dioxide removing capacity of the carbon dioxide remover.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for delivering humidified breathing gas to a patient are provided. The apparatus includes a humidification system configured to deliver humidified breathing gas to a patient. The humidification system includes a vapor transfer unit and a base unit. The vapor transfer unit includes a liquid passage, a breathing gas passage, and a vapor transfer device positioned to transfer vapor to the breathing gas passage from the liquid passage. The base unit includes a base unit that releasably engages the vapor transfer unit to enable reuse of the base unit and selective disposal of the vapor transfer unit. The liquid passage is not coupled to the base unit for liquid flow therebetween when the vapor transfer unit is received by the base unit.

Abstract: The present disclosure pertains to a portable handheld pressure support system configured to deliver a blending gas enriched pressurized flow of breathable gas to the airway of a subject. The pressure support system is configured to treat patients suffering from dyspnea and/or other conditions. The therapy provided to dyspnea patients is configured to be used as needed by a subject to rapidly alleviate shortness of breath. The pressure support system is configured to be small and lightweight so that the subject may carry the system and use the system as needed without requiring a device to be worn on the face. In some embodiments, the system comprises one or more of a pressure generator, a subject interface, a blending gas inlet port, one or more sensors, a valve, one or more processors, a user interface, electronic storage, a portable power source, a housing, a handle, and/or other components.

Abstract: The invention comprises a method of operating a breathing apparatus comprising measuring a baseline breath flow parameter being respiratory rate and/or tidal volume or a parameter derived therefrom, varying the flow rate provided by the breathing apparatus, measuring a current breath flow parameter being respiratory rate and/or tidal volume or a parameter derived therefrom, comparing the baseline and current breath flow parameters, and altering operation of the breathing apparatus based on the comparison. The invention also comprises a breathing apparatus that implements the above method.

Abstract: A therapy system configured to wash out or flush out the oral and/or nasal cavity to reduce the effective dead space and reduce the work of breathing. The system may displace the expired air in the oral and/or nasal cavity with atmospheric air, or air with altered concentrations, for example, increased humidity, or oxygen levels. A sealed oral interface is provided to the mouth of a patient to supply a volume of pressurized gas. A control system to synchronize the supply of pressurized gas with the patients respiratory cycle. The supply of respiratory gas may be provided during only a portion of the respiratory cycle.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided to separate Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) utilizing standard whole blood harvesting techniques and separating the solution via centrifugation preparation. A pump is provided to pump PRP/Stem Cell solution from a centrifugation reservoir in to a nebulizer to aerosolize the PRP/Stem Cell solution in the nebulizer with oxygen. A patient will then inhale the aerosolized or vaporized PRP/Stem Cell solution into their respiratory system. Removal of any waste PRP/Stem Cell solution is provided by trapping the PRP/Stem Cells and any other biological matter other in a HEPA filter and allowing exhaled gasses to safely exit the from the Semi-Rebreathing Chamber.

Abstract: Disclosed are a zero point calibration method and apparatus for a pressure sensor of an anesthesia machine. The method comprises: performing zero point calibration on an airway pressure sensor of the anesthesia machine (110); restarting and carrying out startup self-testing (120); and judging whether pressure change values of the airway pressure sensor and an ambient pressure sensor are the same, and if the values are the same, performing zero point calibration on the ambient pressure sensor according to a zero point of the airway pressure sensor (130). By the method of the invention, zero point calibration for a pressure sensor of an anesthesia machine can be realized via a simple operation, thereby avoiding errors in operation.

Abstract: A respiratory humidification system includes a humidifier that is capable of electronic communication with one or more other components of the system thereby permitting transfer of data or control signals between the humidifier and other components of the system. In some systems, a flow generator, such as a ventilator, is provided to supply a flow of breathing gas. The humidifier and the flow generator are capable of electronic communication with one another. In some arrangements, an operating mode or parameter of the humidifier to be set or confirmed by the flow generator, either automatically or manually through a user interface of the flow generator. The humidifier can also utilize data provided by the flow generator or other system component, such as an incubator, to set or confirm an operating mode or parameter of the humidifier. In some arrangements, a user interface of the humidifier can display data from another system component, such as a nebulizer or pulse oximeter.

Abstract: Various characteristics of a gas flow can be sensed at the end of a respiratory conduit near the patient interface using a sensing module. The sensing module can be removable from the patient end of the respiratory conduit for ease of use and ease of cleaning. The sensor module can transmit sensor data over the same wires used to heat the respiratory conduit.

Abstract: Several embodiments of a Nitric Oxide Inhaler that uses an electrical spark to produce Nitric Oxide from Air, optimized to maximize the production of Nitric Oxide and minimize the production of Nitrogen Dioxide through hardware and control system. Further disclosed is a system to control such inhalers.

Abstract: Several embodiments of a Nitric Oxide Inhaler that uses an electrical spark to produce Nitric Oxide from Air, optimized to maximize the production of Nitric Oxide and minimize the production of Nitrogen Dioxide through hardware and control system.

Abstract: A humidifier and humidity sensor is disclosed for use with a breathing assistance apparatus. The humidity sensor preferably includes means to sense absolute humidity, relative humidity and/or temperature at both the patient end and humidifier end. The humidifier may also include provision to both control independently the humidity and temperature of the gases. Further, a chamber manifold is disclosed to facilitate easy connection of the humidifier to various outlets, inlets and sensors. A heated conduit is described which provides a more effective temperature profile along its length.

Abstract: A breathing circuit humidification system (200) is described that includes a humidification system (102) and a patient breathing circuit (201). The humidification system includes at least a moisture water source (209), a flash evaporator (211) and a moisture exchanger. Water is selectively introduced from the water source to the flash evaporator. The flash evaporator includes a heating element that evaporates the received water to form water vapor. The water vapor is sent to the moisture exchanger. The moisture exchanger receives gas from a gas source. The received gas is humidified with the water vapor received from the flash evaporator. The moisture exchanger sends the humidified gas to the patient breathing circuit. The patient breathing circuit provides, in a controlled manner, the humidified gas to a patient (106). Related methods, apparatus, systems, techniques and articles are also described.

Abstract: The present invention provides clinical decision support that can be used with non-portable and portable systems when delivering and/or monitoring delivery of a therapeutic gas comprising nitric oxide to a patient. Further, clinical decision support can be used with non-portable and portable systems during delivery and/or monitoring of delivery of therapeutic gas when nebulized drugs may and/or may not be being delivered to a patient (e.g., when nebulizers are delivered upstream in the inspiratory limb of the breathing circuit, into a breathing gas delivery system, etc.).

Abstract: Methods and systems for delivering a pharmaceutical gas to a patient. The methods and systems provide a known desired quantity of the pharmaceutical gas to the patient independent of the respiratory pattern of the patient over a plurality of breaths every nth breath, where n is greater than or equal to 1. The pharmaceutical gases include CO and NO, both of which are provided as a concentration in a carrier gas. The gas control system determines the delivery of the pharmaceutical gas to the patient to result in the known desired quantity (e.g. in molecules, milligrams or other quantified units) of the pharmaceutical gas being delivered. Upon completion of that known desired quantity of pharmaceutical gas over a plurality of breaths, the system can either terminate, continue, activate and alarm, etc.

Abstract: A system and method for administering nitrous oxide to a patient has a fluid control system that allows a user to monitor and control the supply of gases to a patient. A shutoff valve allows a user to selectively activate the fluid control system. Oxygen flow is adjusted by a flow controlling valve. A differential pressure regulator allows flow of nitrous oxide in response to sufficient oxygen flow. Flow of the nitrous oxide is further controlled by a ratio controlling valve. A display shows the flow of the gases through the fluid control system. A flush valve allows a user to flush the output with oxygen. A flow indicator light may be included. An optional output selector allows the user to direct the flow to one of various output ports. An optional safety scavenge valve prevents operation of the fluid control system when there is insufficient scavenge vacuum pressure.

Abstract: Described are methods for safer nitric oxide delivery, as well as apparatuses for performing these methods. The methods may include detecting the presence or absence of a nasal cannula, and stopping the delivery of nitric oxide or providing an alert if the cannula is disconnected. The methods may also include purging the nasal cannula if it is reconnected after a disconnection or if it is replaced by a new cannula. Other methods pertain to automatic purging of the delivery conduit if the elapsed time between successive deliveries of therapeutic gas exceeds a predetermined period of time.

Abstract: A pressure sensitive device includes a ring having a central axis, first side and second side. The ring includes a dielectric portion parallel to the central axis and between the first and second sides. A flexible membrane is connected to a periphery of the ring on the first side, the flexible membrane including a conductive portion. A perforated membrane is connected to a periphery of the ring on the second side. The perforated membrane is spaced apart and electrically isolated from the flexible membrane by the ring below a threshold pressure differential across the pressure sensitive device. The perforated membrane includes an opening therethrough and a conductive portion facing and corresponding to the conductive portion of the flexible membrane such that a threshold pressure differential across the pressure sensitive device causes deflection between the conductive portions of the flexible membrane and the perforated membrane to change an electrical property.

Abstract: Anaesthesia machine arrangement and a method in connection with an anaesthesia machine arrangement comprising a gas dispenser of an anaesthesia machine connected to a patient circuit that comprises a monitor device, a control device and an interface unit. The gas dispenser is configured to deliver a desired concentration of fresh gas to the patient circuit, the desired concentration being set by using the interface unit. The monitor device is configured by using a sample line to monitor gas concentration in the patient circuit and the control device is configured to control the gas dispenser from the basis of the data received from the monitor device to keep the desired fresh gas concentration.

Abstract: A respiratory assistance apparatus has a gases inlet configured to receive a supply of gases, a blower unit configured to generate a pressurised gases stream from the supply of gases; a humidification unit configured to heat and humidify the pressurised gases stream; and a gases outlet for the heated and humidified gases stream. A flow path for the gases stream extends through the respiratory device from the gases inlet through the blower unit and humidification unit to the gases outlet. A sensor assembly is provided in the flow path before the humidification unit. The sensor assembly has an ultrasound gas composition sensor system for sensing one or more gas concentrations within the gases stream.

Abstract: An anesthetic delivery system for use in conjunction with an anesthetic return system for reutilizing anesthetic exhaled by a subject, the system including a measurement system operatively connected to a breathing circuit for continuously measuring at least one flow parameter and anesthetic content of a gas stream reaching the subject and a control system for receiving input from the measurement system and controlling the amount of anesthetic entering the system, the control system including an input device for inputting a setting that corresponds to a desired amount of anesthetic in the gas stream reaching the subject, and utilizing a control algorithm for controlling the amount of anesthetic entering the system based on said desired amount of anesthetic, and flow and anesthetic content parameters as determined by the measurement system, such that the control algorithm is adapted to supplement anesthetic already in gas stream flowing to the subject to attain a level of anesthetic reaching the subject that co

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for delivery of nitric oxide to the upper respiratory tract without resulting in nitric oxide delivery to the lungs. In certain embodiments, the invention comprises the use of a flow sensor to sense the exhalation of the subject, and delivering a nitric oxide containing gas upon sensed exhalation.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an inhalation device for delivering at least one dose of a medicament, comprising a lock-out mechanism to prevent an operation of the inhalation device when a given number of doses has been delivered.

Abstract: There is provided herein devices for delivering hydrogen to a subject comprising a flow path including a breather bag and an inhalation outlet for engagement with the subject respiratory system; and a breathing gas supply source comprising hydrogen gas and in fluid communication with the flow path. Also provided are devices for the cutaneous delivery of hydrogen.

Abstract: A vaporizer arrangement for a breathing apparatus serves the double purpose of vaporizer and pressurized supply of vapor-containing gas for direct delivery to a patient. The vaporizer arrangement has at least a first gas inlet channel for conveying a flow of a carrier gas into a vaporization chamber, a vaporizer for vaporizing a liquid into the carrier gas in the vaporization chamber, and a gas outlet channel for conveying a flow of vapor-containing carrier gas out of the vaporization chamber and toward the patient. The vaporizer arrangement further has a gas flow regulator that maintains the carrier gas within the vaporization chamber at an overpressure, and that controls the flow of vapor-containing carrier gas out of the vaporization chamber in a variable manner.

Abstract: A respiratory gas delivery system monitors gas flow over the course of a breath in real time and uses this parameter to simulate, in whole or part, the function of a reference respiratory gas delivery system, in particular structural features, particularly structural components of parts of the reference system, to overcome a structural limitation of the reference system.

Abstract: A sonic aerosol generator is provided that provides a constant concentration of particulate aerosol over a long exposure time to an animal. The concentration of aerosols is maintainable for greater than 30 hours at concentrations of 15 mg/m3 or more. The aerosol generator is used to expose subject to high concentrations of aerosols that more accurately represents the levels that may be seen in a workplace environment.

Abstract: A method, apparatus, and system are provided for mucous membrane therapy. The method includes receiving at least one body signal from a patient; detecting a condition of the patient based on the body signal; and administering the therapy to at least one of a mucous membrane or a serous membrane of the patient. A medical device system configured to implement the method is provided. A computer-readable storage device for storing instructions that, when executed by a processor, perform the method is also provided.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an anesthetic vaporizer comprising a refrigeration system configured to cool a liquid anesthetic to less than 0° C. and to the anesthetic's temperature of minimal alveolar concentration. Further disclosed are methods of administering a liquid anesthetic comprising cooling the liquid anesthetic to less than 0° C. and to the anesthetic's temperature of minimal alveolar concentration.

Abstract: The invention relates to an inhalation support apparatus and the use thereof and to a method for supporting the inhalation of an inhalation mixture that is to be inhaled. The invention further relates to a device for the control of pressure changes, their use in the medical and non-medical field and a method for detecting respiratory problems.

Abstract: A flow generator and humidifier construction is described, including a flow generator construction adapted to reduce noise output compared to known flow generators of comparable size. The flow generator includes a chassis forming first and second muffler volumes and a venturi-shaped connection portion, and a metal/polymer composite material blower enclosure which suppresses noise from the blower. The flow generator may be programmed to include a reminder system including a menu from which the user may request a reminder to take specific action, e.g., replace a component, call a physician, and/or enter patient data card, etc.

Abstract: An aerosol generation system has a light source arrangement which provides signals at first and second wavelengths, and the detected light signals are recorded. The detected signals are processed to derive at least a measure of the aerosol particle size. This can be used in combination with the other parameters which are conventionally measured, namely the aerosol density and flow velocity. Thus, optical measurement (possibly in combination with an air flow measurement) can be used to estimate the aerosol output rate as well as the particle size.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for maintaining patient temperature during an anaesthetic procedure. Patients, particularly small patients, can lose body temperature when undergoing surgery or other procedures where they are anaesthetised. The process of breathing the cool anaesthetic gas contributes to the temperature loss of the patient. An anaesthetic apparatus of the present invention is arranged to warm the gas being provided for the patient to breathe, to facilitate maintaining body temperature. An inspired limb of an anaesthetic circuit comprises tubing with a heating conductor for heating the inspired gas.

Abstract: CPAP treatment apparatus is disclosed having a controllable positive airway pressure device. A sensor generates a signal representative of patient respiratory flow that is provided to a controller. The controller is operable to determine the occurrence of an apnea from a reduction in respiratory airflow below a threshold determined from long term ventilation. When an apnea or hypopnea has occurred the calculation of the threshold is suspended until the end of that event.

Abstract: A mixer-heater device provides controllable reduction in aerosol droplet size. Additionally, an intermittent delivery mode for administering an aerosol to a patient may take into account patient expiration and reduce aerosol losses without prolonging treatment time. Depositional losses in aerosol delivery systems may be reduced by streamlining the three dimensional geometry of conduits which change stream direction or flow path diameter. Ventilation systems may also benefit from streamlined components, in particular Y-connectors, with resulting advantages such as reduced rebreathed CO2.

Abstract: A flow sensor comprises a flow restriction disposed within a passage such that a fluid passing through the passage must pass through the flow restriction. The flow sensor also has an upstream pressure sensor coupled to the passage at a point upstream of the flow restriction and configured to measure and provide an upstream pressure of the fluid within the passage, a downstream pressure sensor coupled to the passage at a point downstream of the flow restriction and configured to measure and provide a downstream pressure of the fluid within the passage, and a temperature sensor coupled to the passage and configured to measure and provide a temperature of the fluid within the passage. The flow sensor also includes a flow sensor processor coupled to the upstream and downstream pressure sensors and the temperature sensor and configured to accept measurements therefrom and calculate a compensated flow rate based at least in part on the measured pressures and temperature.

Abstract: This invention relates to a new technology that enables administration of Cannabis to patients for medical purposes. In one embodiment, this invention is a component of a system of technologies, processes and concepts that creates a new method of producing, delivering, administering and regulating the use of medical cannabis.

Abstract: A humidifier includes a tub configured to contain a supply of water and a heater including a first polymer film having an electrically conductive circuit provided upon a surface. The first polymer film is electrically insulating and the tub is formed of molded resin and the heater is molded at least partially within the resin. A respiratory apparatus for delivering a flow of breathable gas to a patient includes the humidifier. A method of humidifying a flow of pressurized breathable gas includes passing the flow of pressurized breathable gas over a supply of water contained in a tub. The tub is formed of molded resin and a heater including a first polymer film having an electrically conductive circuit on a first surface is molded at least partially within the resin.

Abstract: An anesthetic breathing apparatus has a processing unit, a breathing circuit for providing an inspiratory patient gas mixture of re-breathed gas and/or fresh gas to a patient fluidly connected to the breathing circuit, and a fresh gas supply controllable by the processing unit for supplying a flow of the fresh gas to the breathing circuit in a composition including oxygen and at least one anesthetic agent (AA). A user interface includes a first user input element for receiving operator input for an anesthetic target value including an end expiratory concentration of the AA (EtAA) target value and/or an end expiratory minimum alveolar concentration (EtMAC) target value of an end expiratory MAC value of the patient, and a second user input element for receiving operator input for a desired control profile for the fresh gas supply for obtaining at least the anesthetic target value.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for delivering breathable gas to a user includes a humidifying unit that is controllable to humidify the gas in accordance with a variable humidity profile such that the gas is delivered to the user at variable humidity levels, e.g., during a treatment session.

Abstract: There is provided an aerosol generating device, including a heater element configured to heat an aerosol-forming substrate; a power source connected to the heater element; and a controller connected to the heater element and to the power source, wherein the controller is configured to control the power supplied to the heater element from the power source to maintain the temperature of the heater element at a target temperature, and is configured to compare a measure of power supplied to the heater element or energy supplied to the heater element from the power source to a threshold measure of power or energy to detect the presence of an aerosol-forming substrate close to the heater element or a material property of an aerosol-forming substrate close to the heater element.

Abstract: An oxygen sensor seat assembly, an oxygen sensor assembly, and an anesthesia machine are disclosed.