Abstract: A humidifier and humidity sensor for use with a breathing assistance apparatus. The humidity sensor senses 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 facilitates easy connection of the humidifier to various outlets, inlets and sensors. A heated conduit provides a more effective temperature profile along its length.

Abstract: A portable, cryogenic gas delivery apparatus includes a chamber which contains cryogenic material, such as oxygen, in both liquid and gas phases. A probe is mounted to move relative to the chamber in response to variations in pressure in the gas phase within the chamber. The probe has one part positioned within the chamber so that it is exposed to the pressure and temperature of the gas within the chamber and a second part located outside the chamber. The probe thus introduces heat from the ambient into the chamber. The probe preferably moves relative to the chamber in response to variations in pressure, moving away from the chamber to reduce the amount of thermal energy introduced into the chamber and toward the chamber to increase the amount of thermal energy introduced into the chamber. The apparatus includes a conserver which receives gas evaporating from the chamber and delivers it in efficient pulses to the end user in response to the user's inhalation.

Abstract: A method is provided for generating an aerosol. The method includes preparing a solution formed of a first component in a liquid component such that after volatilization of the liquid component by passing the solution through a flow passage while heating the solution, an aerosol is formed having a predetermined particle size distribution of the first component, wherein the solution is prepared such that the amount of the first component therein is sufficient to achieve the predetermined particle size distribution of the first component. The method also includes passing the solution through the flow passage while heating the solution to a temperature sufficient to volatilize the liquid component, wherein the flow passage comprises an outlet through which the first component and the volatilized liquid component flow, and wherein an aerosol is formed.

Abstract: To provide a unit for adjusting humidification capable of improving inconveniences that may otherwise be caused to occur due to damages, while sustaining the humidifying ability and other performance that are to be originally achieved by the humidification adjusting unit. Around the outer surface of the exothermic member 13 are wound multiple hollow fibers 14 each having a minute diameter and having a peripheral wall with minute openings each being large enough to allow water vapor to permeate therethrough yet small enough to fail to permeate water therethrough, and the multiple hollow fibers 14 and the exothermic member 13 are inserted tightly into an extendable mesh cover tube 15 in engagement therewith. In order to perform humidification, water to be supplied to the multiple hollow fibers 14 is warmed by the exothermic member 13 to generate water vapors.

Abstract: A respiratory circuit incorporates an insulated heater wire comprising a stranded core of three or more electrically conductive strands of wire.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for practicing a method of treating viruses in the nasal mucosa. Vapor is generated, heated and delivered to the nasal mucosa in intermittent bursts, timed to coincide with inhalation. Control circuits are provided to maintain the temperature of the vapor at the point of delivery at a level greater than that necessary to kill viruses in the nasal mucosa. Timing circuits can synchronize the vapor delivery with a breathing cycle with heated vapor being supplied during inhalation and blocked during exhalation. Other circuits terminate operation when liquid is insufficient or after a predetermined timed interval.

Abstract: A humidifier (24) for use with a breathable gas supply apparatus (20). The humidifier (24) comprises a hollow body (42, 44) adapted for partial filling with water to a predetermined maximum water level, a gas inlet (48) to the body (42, 44) above the maximum water level and a gas outlet (50) from the body (42, 44) above the maximum water level. The humidifier (24) further comprises a constant temperature heating element (30) for heating the water and/or an adjustable flow divider (62) adapted to divide the interior of the body (42, 44) above the maximum water level into a relatively dry gas region (68) and a relatively wet gas region (70). The position of the divider (62) is variable so as to vary the relative proportion of the gas flowing from the inlet (48) to the outlet (50) that passes through the relatively dry (68) and relatively wet (70) gas regions to thereby vary the amount of humidification thereof.

Abstract: A breathing assistance apparatus adapted to deliver humidified gases at a desired level of humidity to a patient including a humidifier and a heated conduit is disclosed. The humidifier includes a controller which determines the flow rate of the gases and then determines the required power input to the humidifier to deliver the gases to the patient at the required patient humidity. This means the need for external sensors is dispensed with and thus the apparatus is simple and less bulky.

Abstract: A device for passive humidification of tracheostomized or intubated patients, comprising an outer body which forms an opening for connection to the patient and is connected to at least one seat of a filtering element which is connected to the outside, the device further comprising, on the outer body, a coupling for connection to at least one oxygen delivery duct which ends proximate to the outer part of the filtering element.

Abstract: An air-to-air heat exchanger for pre-cooling and humidifying a breathing gas supplied to a patient. The air-to-air heat exchanger is made of low specific heat material and has an elongate conduit, a plurality of interior fins and a plurality of exterior fins. The elongate conduit is installed adjacent the output of an inspiratory lumen, through which a breathing gas is supplied to a patient. The interior fins extend from an inner surface toward a central axis of the elongate conduit, while the exterior fins extend radially outwardly from an outer surface of the elongate shell.

Abstract: A cold weather breathing device and method. Exhaled air warmed by the lungs of a user is flowed into contact with a heat exchange medium to heat the heat exchange medium. The heat exchange medium is positioned in a hollow body adjacent the chest and under cold weather outer clothing of the user. Upon inhaling, cold outside air is contacted with the heat exchange medium so that the inhaled air is heated by the heat exchange medium.

Abstract: A pressure regulator for regulating the expiratory flow in a CPAP system includes submerging a tube into a column of water. Improvements are included for adjusting the level to which the tube is submerged and for ensuring constant water level.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for reducing the work of breathing. Heated and humidified air is delivered through a nasal cannula to the nasal passageway of a patient at a flow rate above 20 liters/min thereby reducing inspiratory work.

Abstract: A flow probe for use in a humidification system is disclosed. The flow probe is adapted to be positioned in a humidified gases flow (for example oxygen or anaesthetic gases) such as that which is provided to a patient in a hospital environment. The flow probe is designed to provide both temperature and flow rate sensing of the gases flow by incorporating two sensors (preferably thermistors) and the shape and alignment of the probe enables accurate readings by reducing the occurrence of condensation on the sensors.

Abstract: A first and second housing joined together and rotatable with respect to each other, each housing having a conduit integral with an exterior wall, the conduits each having passageways leading to an internal portion of the respective housings. An internal edge of each housing mounts a heat-moisture exchange material having a transverse opening axially aligned with the passageway of the closest conduit. The passageway in the respective conduits are offset permitting passage of air to and from the patient through the heat-moisture material. The housings are rotated with respect to each other to axially align the passageways in the two conduits to permit passage of aerosol medicine through the exchanger without passing through the heat-moisture material.

Abstract: A breathing protector for a laryngectomized or tracheotemized person to be applied over a tracheostoma includes a heat-moisture exchanger body which communicates with the tracheostoma through an inlet (relative to exhaling) and has contact surface turned toward the person. A substantially flat surface layer on the body faces the neck when the breathing protector is applied to the neck covering the stoma and is dimensioned to extend beyond the stoma to cover also a part of the neck surrounding the stoma. A elate covers a flat end surface on the heat-moisture exchanger body which is sandwiched between the surface layer and the plate. An outlet opening extends along the periphery of the heat-moisture exchanger body between the surface layer and the plate to impart to respiration air at least one component which is substantially parallel with the surface layer.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for the vaporization of materials that releases active constituents for inhalation without the creation of harmful byproducts such as carcinogens associated with combustion and inhalation of substances.

Abstract: A heat and moisture exchanger (HME) adaptor for a closed suction catheter assembly having one end in communication with a closed suction catheter assembly and another end configured to engage and releasably hold the HME is disclosed herein. The adaptor may include a retainer having an aperture that engages projections on the HME to releasably secure the adaptor to the HME. The adaptor may include a retaining ring or retaining arms that may be deformed or rotated to engage or disengage the projections from the HME.

Abstract: A conduit for a breathing circuit includes a heater associated, at least in part, with a hydrophilic layer. The purpose of the heater is to evaporate any condensed liquid collecting in the conduit, which is first sucked up by the hydrophilic layer. The heated wick reduces the risk of collected water being passed to the patient and causing choking fits or discomfit. It is preferred that the heated wick lies freely in the conduit to settle at low points in the conduit where condensation may collect.

Abstract: A device for passive humidification of tracheostomized or intubated patients, comprising an outer body which forms an opening for connection to the patient and is connected to at least one seat of a filtering element which is connected to the outside, the device further comprising, on the outer body, a coupling for connection to at least one oxygen delivery duct which ends proximate to the outer part of the filtering element.

Abstract: A self-moistening tracheostomy device including a box-like shell having an entry attachment mouth disposed on one side thereof for receiving the end of a tracheostomy cannula, an inlet opening for oxygen administration, and an exchanger element located inside said box-like shell wherein an exchanger element has a plurality of cellulose-type laminar elements.

Abstract: A limb for a breathing circuit manufactured from very thin walled polymer materials has an elongate axial reinforcing spine lying freely inside the conduit and fixed to each end connector. The spine is laterally compliant but axially stiff. The spine provides resistance to tensile and compressive loads on the conduit, including that induced by prevailing internal pressures.

Abstract: A conduit for a breathing circuit includes a heater associated, at least in part, with a portion of hydrophilic material. The purpose of the heater is to evaporate any condensed liquid collecting in the conduit, which is first sucked up by the hydrophilic material. The heated wick reduces the risk of collected water being passed to the patient and causing choking fits or discomfit. It is preferred that the heated wick lies freely in the conduit to settle at low points in the conduit where condensation may collect.

Abstract: An aerosol generator includes a fluid passage arranged between a first and a second layer wherein the first and second layers at least partially define the fluid passage. A liquid supply is arranged to provide a fluid in liquid phase to the fluid passage. The aerosol generator also includes a heater arranged to volatilize the fluid in the fluid passage. An outlet of the aerosol generator is arranged to receive the volatilized fluid and direct the volatilized fluid out of the fluid passage. The aerosol generator can be used to generate aerosols containing medicated materials.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a much safer and less expensive way of providing portable oxygen from a gas concentrator for patients who do not want to be tied to a stationary machine or restricted by present oxygen technology. The present invention involves a home liquid oxygen ambulatory system for supplying a portable supply of oxygen, where a portion of the gaseous oxygen output obtained from an oxygen concentrator is condensed into liquid oxygen. The system includes an oxygen concentrator which separates oxygen gas from the ambient air, a condenser in communication with the oxygen concentrator for receiving and liquefying the oxygen gas flow, a cryocooler associated with the condenser, and a first storage dewar in fluid communication with the condenser and adapted to store the oxygen liquefied by the condenser, the first storage dewar including means for transferring liquid oxygen from the first dewar to a second dewar for storing a quantity of oxygen suitable for moveable oxygen treatment.

Abstract: A portable air temperature controlling device useful for warming air surrounding an aerosolized drug formulation. Warming the air of an aerosol makes it possible to reduce the diameter of aerosol particles produced by an aerosol generation device. Additionally, warming the air forces the diameter of the aerosol particles to be in the range required for systemic drug delivery independent of ambient conditions. Smaller particles can be more precisely targeted to different areas of the respiratory tract.

Abstract: A flow probe for use in a humidification system is disclosed. The flow probe is adapted to be positioned in a humidified gases flow (for example oxygen or anaesthetic gases) such as that which is provided to a patient in a hospital environment. The flow probe is designed to provide both temperature and flow rate sensing of the gases flow by incorporating two sensors (preferably thermistors) and the shape and alignment of the probe enables accurate readings by reducing the occurrence of condensation on the sensors.

Abstract: An aerosol generator and methods of delivering aerosol to a user inhaling on a mouthpiece when a pressure drop is detected within the mouthpiece are disclosed. A medicated fluid passing through a capillary passage is heated to vaporize the fluid and form the aerosol by condensation or mixture of the vaporized fluid with admixed air. A metering chamber allows consistent delivery of precise doses of fluid to the capillary passage. Once the pressure drop is detected, aerosol can be quickly delivered to the user as the user begins to inhale on the mouthpiece. The quick delivery of aerosol provides more efficient use of the user's lung capacity.

Abstract: A control system for a home ambulatory liquid oxygen system having an oxygen concentrator, condenser, cryocooler, a heater and a storage dewar, includes an oxygen concentration sensor which senses the concentration of oxygen gas generated by the oxygen concentrator and generates a first signal in response thereto; a liquid level sensor which senses the liquid level in the dewar and generates a second signal in response thereto; a temperature sensor which senses the temperature in the dewar and generates a third signal in response thereto; and a microprocessor for receiving the first, second and third signals for computing the flow concentration of gaseous oxygen out of the concentrator and into the condenser, the level of liquid oxygen in the dewar, the temperature in the dewar and for controlling the transfer of liquid oxygen from the storage dewar.

Abstract: An aerosol generator includes a heater arrangement having multiple heating sections and corresponding flow paths for volatilization of a fluid in liquid form. The flow paths can include first and second flow paths which are parallel to each other and sized such that the first flow path is smaller than the second flow path. During delivery of liquid to the flow paths, a smaller amount of vaporized liquid can be ejected from the first flow path, and the bulk of the vaporized liquid can be ejected from the second flow path.

Abstract: A heat exchange module comprising a number of substantially parallel and spaced apart heat exchange elements is provided. One or more surfaces of the heat exchange elements may be coated with a dessicant. The module can be manufactured so that first and second surfaces of the module are curved. The module may be used as part of a face mask or other garment that positions the module within the respiratory air stream of a user. The module may be inserted in a mesh sleeve provided as part of the garment. The module may also be used as part of other forms of clothing that protect the face and in protective helmets, or as part of outdoor or survival equipment.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a much safer and less expensive way of providing portable oxygen from a gas concentrator for patients who do not want to be tied to a stationary machine or restricted by present oxygen technology. In one preferred embodiment, the present invention splits off some of the excess capacity gas flow from a gas concentrator which is then stored via liquefaction. The stored gas can then be used as a portable supply. A portion of the oxygen gas flow generated by the oxygen concentrator is channeled to a condenser which receives and liquefies the oxygen gas using cryocooler. A storage dewar is used for storing the oxygen liquefied by the condenser. Liquid is then selectively transferred to a smaller portable dewar. A controller can be used for monitoring the parameters of liquefaction, including oxygen concentration, the amount of liquid oxygen in the dewar, and for controlling the parameters of liquid oxygen generation and transfer.

Abstract: An apparatus for concentrating the oxygen content of and injecting aroma into a stream of air and delivering the stream of air to the nostrils of a person includes an air intake filter in fluid communication with the air compressor for drawing a stream of air out of the surrounding atmosphere; a sieve bed in fluid communication with the air intake means, each sieve bed containing a quantity of nitrogen absorption material and having sieve bed input and output valve mechanism; so that the sieve bed extracts nitrogen from the air stream so that the proportion of oxygen exiting the sieve bed is elevated, and as the input valve mechanism closes, the sieve bed output valve mechanism opens and vents absorbed nitrogen from the sieve bed to the atmosphere; an aroma chamber containing aroma releasing material in fluid communication with the output valve mechanism so that the stream of air is delivered through the aroma chamber and receives and retains an aroma; and a canula comprising an exit port having a nose delive

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for delivering heated and humidified air to the respiratory tract of a human patient for respiratory tract therapy and treatment. The apparatus includes a supply unit (11) and a delivery tube (28) that can be releasably connected to the supply unit (11). Methods of respiratory tract therapy and treatment are also provided.

Abstract: A pressure regulating device for use with a breathing assistance apparatus which conveys gases to a patient requiring breathing assistance. The device includes a valve member disposed within a valve housing which when gases flowing through the regulator reach a predetermined level at least a portion of the gases are permitted to flow through a vent aperture externally, similar to known pressure relief valves. The present invention includes an adjustment mechanism engaged with the valve member and for adjusting the predetermined level, and a locking mechanism for permanently preventing access to the adjustment mechanism once the predetermined level has been factory set.

Abstract: A fluid vaporizing device useful for vaporizing fluid into an aerosol and includes first and second capillary tubes connected electrically in series by providing separate electrodes at the inlet ends of each capillary tube, and connecting the outlet ends of the capillary tubes by an electrical connection that connects the outlet ends both electrically and thermally. The capillary tubes are heated by the flow of electricity therethrough, and liquid flowing through the tubes is vaporized. The outlet ends of the capillary tubes are easily maintained at a temperature for optimizing aerosol generation since there is minimal heat loss through the connection connecting the outlet ends.

Abstract: A device for controlling the breathing gas flow is provided including a breathing gas block (2), a cover (4) and a valve plate (3) as well as a heating device. Condensation effects are prevented from occurring with the supply of the smallest possible amount of energy by provision of a heating foil (16) as a heating element.

Abstract: A portable air temperature controlling device useful for warming air surrounding an aerosolized drug formulation is described. Warming the air of an aerosol makes it possible to reduce the size of aerosol particles produced by an aerosol generation device. Additionally, warming the air forces the size of the aerosol particles to be in the range required for systemic drug delivery independent of ambient conditions. Smaller particles can be more precisely targeted to different areas of the respiratory tract.

Abstract: This invention relates to respiratory humidifiers and heated breathing conduits used to couple a patient to the humidifier. A conduit overheating detection system for a conduit having heating wire or element is disclosed. The overheating detection system may be utilised with a in a single limb conduit system or dual limb system. In each of these systems the conduit overheating detection system monitors the current in the heating element(s) and alters the power to the heating element(s) to prevent the occurrence the heating element(s) and/or conduit from overheating.

Abstract: A fault protection circuit for a respiratory conduit heater element in a respirator humidification system is disclosed. The circuit includes a spark detector as well as overcurrent detector. Several variations are included for the spark detector including a two winding transformer, a center tapped two winding transformer), and a high pass filtered inductor. A semiconductor switching configuration is also disclosed. Once the protection circuit detects a change in current over a certain level, or the average level raises above a threshold, then the current in the heater element is interrupted for a preset period.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods for changing the body temperature of a patient by having them breathe a mist created by nebulizer. The temperature of the mist is adjusted using a heat exchanger. The methods may be used to either cool or warm patients for a variety of clinical reasons. In addition, the invention includes a device (Thermomist) that can be used for generating a mist that can be administered to patients.

Abstract: A disposable active humidifier for the mechanical ventilation of a patient, which has the particularity that it comprises a cartridge which forms a humidification chamber which is delimited by an inlet and by an outlet and can be interposed in the ventilation circuit. The cartridge has an interspace which is externally delimited by a heat exchange surface and is internally delimited by a hydrophobic membrane which surrounds the humidification chamber. A humidification fluid, originating from a bottle or bag, can be introduced in the interspace.

Abstract: A HME bypass system including a manually actuated bypass valve which is coupled into a respiratory air circuit, preferably upstream of the HME, to permit inspiratory air to be selectively passed through the HME, or to bypass the HME, depending upon the treatment desired by the healthcare provider.

Abstract: A flow probe for use in a humidification system is disclosed. The flow probe is adapted to be positioned in a humidified gases flow (for example oxygen or anaesthetic gases) such as that which is provided to a patient in a hospital environment. The flow probe is designed to provide both temperature and flow rate sensing of the gases flow by incorporating two sensors (preferably thermistors) and the shape and alignment of the probe enables accurate readings by reducing the occurrence of condensation on the sensors.

Abstract: A humidification unit adapted to be disposed in a patient circuit for humidifying the flow of breathing gas delivered to the patient via the patient circuit by an artificial ventilator system. The humidification unit includes an exothermic member having an outer surface and a plurality of hollow fibers disposed on the outer surface of the exothermic member. Each hollow fiber is defined by a peripheral wall having minute openings large enough to allow a gas to pass therethrough yet small enough to prevent a liquid from passing therethrough. Liquid delivered to the hollow fibers is heated by the exothermic member and the gas vapor resulting from the heating passes through the hollow fiber walls and humidifies the flow of breathing gas delivered to the patient.

Abstract: A vaporizer apparatus for vaporizing medical herbs and essences is described that uses an electrical power driven medium to vaporize the herbs and essences. The vaporizer apparatus has a heating element assembly mounted at an angle within an enclosure. The heating element assembly also includes an insulating shield which covers the heating element and which has a mating section for mating with a hand piece. The hand piece includes a vaporization chamber where herbs are packed, an inlet for connecting with the mating section of the shield, and an outlet for inhalation by a user. Methods for using the vaporizer apparatus is also discussed.

Abstract: A heat-moisture exchanger (HME) and nebulization device for connection to a mechanical ventilator or anesthesia apparatus, to provide humidification or an aerosolized medication without disconnection of the HME from the ventilator circuit, a respiratory device comprising a first housing having an output fitting to provide a connection to an artificial airway of a patient, and a rotatable second housing connected to the first housing, having an input fitting to provide a connection to a ventilator circuit, the input fitting, and the output fitting are in communication with a primary gas flow, the first housing is partitioned into at least two chambers, a chamber to provide an enclosure for an absorbent material, and a chamber to provide a passageway for conveyance of an aerosol, the second housing to provide an enclosure for a nebulizer having a reservoir for a liquid medication, an instillation port to inject the liquid medication, interior to the chamber or passageway, a reciprocating member to open and clos

Abstract: A method of making thin-walled permeable tubing using air blown extrusion, and of using the tubing in a device which enables a substantial humidification or drying of patient breathing gases in the breathing lines for patient monitoring or anesthesia results in cost savings and increased efficiency.

Abstract: An apparatus for delivering humidified gases has a connection manifold adapted to connect with inlet and outlet ports of a slide on water chamber in a single slide on motion. Connection of the gases inlet and gases outlet ports as well as any additional electrical and/or pneumatic connections are all made in the same slide on motion. The water chamber may include inwardly extending elongate extension tubes with one of the extension tubes having an air bleed aperture to aid filling of the chamber.

Abstract: A breathing tube for humidified gases ventilation system has an internal conduit and a surrounding conduit within which the internal conduit is disposed. A connector at one end of the internal conduit and the surrounding conduit has an inhalation gases port for connection to an inhalation gases supply port of a ventilator. A gases flow path leads from the inhalation gases port to the space between the internal conduit and the surrounding conduit. A spirally wound heater wire may be disposed between the internal conduit and the surrounding conduit with turns of the spirally wound wire passing around the internal conduit.