Abstract: Smoke evacuation system for removal of aerosolized chemical compounds and biological fine particles produced during laser treatment of tissue. The rapid smoke evacuation is achieved by coupling a low capacity vacuum pump to a vacuum valve and a vacuum reservoir to create very high flow rate for very short durations. The opening time of the valve could at least partially overlap the laser pulse duration.

Abstract: A therapeutic device for treating one or more conditions associated with a user's nasal cavities, sinuses, and/or ear canals includes a housing having an opening, an acoustic vibrator within the housing that is operable to provide an acoustic vibration to the user, a fan within the housing that is operable to provide a pressure to the user and a power supply that provides power to the acoustic vibrator and the fan. A mask is connected to the housing at the opening and includes a nasal interface appliable around the nose of the user, a nasal chamber in which the user's nostrils are located and an aperture through which the fan delivers the pressure.

Abstract: The present disclosure pertains to a portable handheld pressure support system configured to deliver a pressurized flow of breathable gas to the airway of a subject. The pressure support system is configured to treat COPD and/or other patients suffering from dyspnea and/or other conditions. The pressure support system is configured to be small and lightweight so that a subject may carry the system and use the system as needed without requiring a device to be worn on the face. The present disclosure contemplates that the portable handheld pressure support system may be used to treat symptoms and/or conditions related to dyspnea, and/or for other uses. In one embodiment, the system comprises one or more of a pressure generator, a subject interface, one or more sensors, one or more processors, a user interface, electronic storage, a portable power source, a housing, a handle, and/or other components.

Abstract: A blower includes a housing including a proximal opening and a distal opening that are co-axially aligned, a stator component) provided to the housing, an impeller positioned between the proximal opening of the housing and the stator component, and a motor adapted to drive the impeller. The impeller includes a plurality of impeller blades. The stator component includes a plurality of air directing grooves along its exterior surface. The leading edge of the air directing grooves extend tangentially outwards from the outer tips of the impeller blades and are configured to collect the air exiting the impeller blades and direct it from a generally tangential direction to a generally radial direction by dividing the air from the impeller and directing the air along a curved path towards the distal opening so that airflow becomes substantially laminar.

Abstract: A closed suction system module is provided. In one embodiment, the closed suction system module includes 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 includes 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 include 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 includes at least one expandable cleaning member (e.g., balloon, sleeve, wiper).

Abstract: A method and system of controlling medical suction is disclosed. The system comprises a vacuum regulator comprising a valve, wherein the first end of the regulator may be fluidly connected to a vacuum source and the second end of the regulator may be fluidly connected to a patient interface. The valve may comprise a small orifice or pathway, allowing fluid to pass from the second end of the regulator to the first end of the regulator while the valve is closed. The system may also comprise a flow detector, wherein the flow detector is capable of sensing when the patient interface is in contact with a liquid and cause the valve to open, thereby allowing full flow of fluids from the second regulator end to the first regulator end.

Abstract: A reduced pressure treatment system includes a liquid-collection canister for collecting liquid from a tissue site to which reduced pressure treatment is applied. The canister includes a first space configured to collect the liquid from the tissue site and a filter having a frame and a non-planar filter element. The filter defines a second space within the canister separated from the first space by the filter element. The filter element substantially prevents liquid from passing from the first space into the second space. The filter element substantially allows gaseous communication between the first space and the second space when the second space is exposed to a reduced pressure.

Abstract: A medical implant deployment system for placing an implant at a preselected site comprising a deployment system that includes a mechanical coupling assembly at the distal end of a delivery member that engages the proximal end of the implant and a release member having an extended configuration in which the release member cooperatively maintains the coupling assembly engagement with the implant proximal end and a retracted configuration where the release member allows the coupling assembly to disengage from the implant proximal end. An attachable handle assembly is provided to place the release member in the retracted configuration allowing the coupling assembly to disengage from the implant proximal end, thereby releasing the implant.

Abstract: A device for the introduction of a fluid into a human's airway. The air so introduced has a carefully modulated envelope of pressure vs. time. The envelope generally includes sequences of pressurized air packets of controlled frequency and pressures. The device produces the packets using pressurized air occluded by a shutter action that “chops” and interrupts the fluid stream. The vibrations induced by the device within human organs have been shown to have beneficial effects on various bodily systems, such as an increase in heart rate variability, an increase in absorbed oxygen, and a decrease in absorbed CO2.

Abstract: A system includes an insufflator provided with a gas inlet, a valve that regulates the flow to be supplied, an adjustable heater for the gas to be supplied, a sensor that detects the temperature of the heated gas, an outlet for supplying the gas, and a mechanism for propelling the gas toward the supply outlet. A disposable supply duct can be coupled to the gas outlet for the insufflator in order to convey the heated gas into the patient and a return duct for the gas is connected to a distal area of the supply duct and to an inlet of the heater, wherein the gas supply duct and the gas return duct form a continuous recirculation circuit for heated gas.

Abstract: Medical techniques include systems and methods for administering a positive pressure ventilation, a positive end expiratory pressure, and a vacuum to a person. Approaches also include treating a person with an intrathoracic pressure regulator so as to modulate or upregulate the autonomic system of the person, and treating a person with a combination of an intrathoracic pressure regulation treatment and an intra-aortic balloon pump treatment.

Abstract: A gas flow reversing element is provided comprising a main piece defining at least one closable outlet opening, a branching piece extending from the main piece, a line connector connected to the distal end of the branching piece, a pressure connector connected to the main piece, the pressure connector being structured to be fluidly connected to a pressurized gas supply; and a nozzle being configured and arranged in the main piece in such a way that a gas flow flowing in the main piece from the pressure connector through the nozzle to the at least one outlet opening, with the at least one outlet opening being disposed in the second open position, a gas flow can also be generated in the branching piece in a direction toward the at least one outlet opening.

Abstract: A bi-directional gas flow generation system (10), the system comprising: (a) a pressure generator (14) comprising an inlet (40) and an outlet (42), (b) a flow member (16) comprising an outlet port (50), an inlet port (52), a respiratory circuit port (54) and a flow path (60), (c) a first valve (18), (d) a second valve (20), and (e) a processor (24) configured to selectively control the first valve and the second valve to operate in (i) a first mode in which gas flows from the flow member inlet port (52) to the respiratory circuit port (54), thereby creating a positive pressure at the respiratory circuit port (54) to insufflate the subject; and (ii) a second mode in which gas flows from the respiratory circuit port (54) to the flow member outlet port (50), thereby facilitating gas flow out from the airway of the subject to exsufflate the subject.

Abstract: A system and method of using both positive and negative airflow to create differential pressures in the oral and nasal cavities for support of the pharynx to treat obstructive sleep apnea.

Abstract: A respiratory treatment device having an inlet configured to receive exhaled air into the device and an outlet configured to permit exhaled air to exit the device. A blocking member is moveable between a closed position where the flow of air through the device is restricted, and an open position where the flow of air through the device is less restricted. A biasing member is configured to bias the blocking member toward the closed position, wherein a level of bias decreases as the blocking member moves from the closed position to the open position.

Abstract: A CPAP or other ventilation system includes a mask, a flow generator, a positive or high pressure line to provide positive or high pressure air from the flow generator to the mask and a vacuum or return line provided to actively extract exhaled gas from the breathing chamber and/or the air delivery conduit of the mask. The vacuum or return line includes a vent outlet preferably positioned remote from the mask.

Abstract: A medical device and method for combination lung ventilation and mucus clearance of a patient is disclosed. The medical device may be configured to provide lung ventilation with intermittent, on-demand mucus clearance, freeing the patient's mouth for activities of daily living such as when the patient is awake; and, in another configuration, the device can provide lung ventilation with automated mucus clearance, such as when the patient is sedated or asleep. The medical device may comprise a pressure generation source, a ventilation portion, and a mucus clearance portion. The mucus clearance portion may be separable from or separate from the ventilation portion such that the medical device is capable of maintaining lung ventilation with the mouth interface removed from the patient.

Abstract: An anesthesia machine having an automatic scavenger system is disclosed herein. The anesthesia machine includes a scavenger hose configured to direct the transfer of an exhaled anesthetic agent from a patient, and a valve operatively connected to the scavenger hose. The valve is configured to selectively control the transmission of the exhaled anesthetic agent through the scavenger hose. The anesthesia machine also includes a switch operatively connected to the valve and to a controller. The switch is configured to link an operational status of the anesthesia machine with a position of the valve.

Abstract: A method for automatically controlling negative pressure supplied in oral cavity, for relieving sleep apnea and snoring is provided. The method includes: sensing a physiological signal from the user and outputting the sensed physiological signal; extracting a physiological status based on said sensed physiological signal; and automatically controlling said negative pressure provided to the user's oral cavity based on said physiological status.

Abstract: A device for removing bronchopulmonary secretions of a patient provides for a duct, an expansion chamber and means for accelerating the exhaled air.

Abstract: There is provided a looped tether to prevent the over-withdrawal of a suction catheter from a connecting fitting in a closed suction catheter respiratory device. The looped tether is made from a single thread or strand that is looped or doubled in length with the two loose ends connected together to produce the loop. The looped tether provides better distribution of the forces at the ends of the device and is relatively simple to assemble. Also provided is a system for preventing the over-withdrawal of a suction catheter from a connecting fitting in a closed suction catheter respiratory device.

Abstract: A vacuum demand valve for controlling flow of exhalation gases from a patient to a vacuum line. The demand valve comprises: a housing having a housing inlet that allows exhalation gases to flow into the housing from a patient, and a housing outlet that allows gases to flow from the housing into the vacuum line; a diaphragm having a flexible skirt and a rigid portion moveable in response to gas pressure in the housing; a sealing member connected to the rigid portion to engage the housing outlet to resist the flow of gases from the housing to the vacuum line. In a first condition, the vacuum line pressure causes the sealing member to engage the housing outlet and in a second condition a predetermined pressure of exhalation gases in the housing causes the sealing member to disengage from the housing outlet.

Abstract: A flexible pneumostoma management device maintains the patency of a pneumostoma while controlling the flow of material through the pneumostoma. The pneumostoma management device includes flange attaches to the chest of the patient to secure the device in position. The pneumostoma management device also includes a tube which enters the pneumostoma to allow gases to escape the lung. The length of the tube is selected to match the dimensions of the pneumostoma of a patient. In order to manufacture devices having different tube lengths, the tube is formed at a longer length than required, cut to size and tipped. The tube may be formed by molding or extrusion.

Abstract: A pneumostoma management system which includes a pneumostoma management device and a cover. The pneumostoma management device maintains the patency of a pneumostoma while controlling the flow of material through the pneumostoma. The pneumostoma management device includes a hydrophobic filter and/or a one-way filter. The cover serves to protect the pneumostoma management device and/or provide a cosmetic skin to make the pneumostoma management device more acceptable to the patient and thereby encourage patient compliance with a pneumostoma treatment regimen.

Abstract: A system comprises a respiratory delivery arrangement adapted to cover at least one respiratory orifice of a patient. The system also comprises a first conduit having a first end and a second end, the second end connected to the respiratory delivery arrangement. A positive pressure is provided to the respiratory orifice via the first conduit and a second conduit having a third end and a fourth end, the fourth end connected to the respiratory delivery arrangement. An exhaled gas is extracted from the respiratory orifice by one or both of a valve configured to redirect flow through the respiratory delivery arrangement and a venturi opening.

Abstract: A pneumostoma management system for maintaining the patency of a pneumostoma while controlling the flow of material through the pneumostoma. The pneumostoma management system includes a two-part pneumostoma management device and associated insertion and removal tools. The pneumostoma management device includes a pneumostoma vent and a chest mount for positioning and securing the vent into a pneumostoma. The pneumostoma vent includes a hydrophobic filter and/or a one-way valve.

Abstract: A flexible pneumostoma management device maintains the patency of a pneumostoma while controlling the flow of material through the pneumostoma. The pneumostoma management device includes a pneumostoma vent having a tube which enters the pneumostoma to allow gases to escape the lung, a flange and a filter/valve to control flow of materials through the tube. The flange is a thin flexible patch which conforms and attaches to the chest of the patient. The flange secures the tube in position in the pneumostoma. The flange is formed in one piece with the tube.

Abstract: An oscillating positive expiratory pressure apparatus having a housing defining a chamber, a chamber inlet, a chamber outlet, a deformable restrictor member positioned in an exhalation flow path between the chamber inlet and the chamber outlet, and an oscillation member disposed within the chamber. The deformable restrictor member and the oscillation member are moveable between an engaged position, where the oscillation member is in contact with the deformable restrictor member and an disengaged position, where the oscillation member is not in contact with the deformable restrictor member. The deformable restrictor member and the oscillation member move from the engaged position to the disengaged position in response to a first exhalation pressure at the chamber inlet, and move from the disengaged position to an engaged position in response to a second exhalation pressure at the chamber inlet.

Abstract: A flexible pneumostoma management device maintains the patency of a pneumostoma while controlling the flow of material through the pneumostoma. The pneumostoma management device includes a pneumostoma vent having a tube which enters the pneumostoma to allow gases to escape the lung, a flange and a filter/valve to control flow of materials through the tube. The flange is a thin flexible patch which conforms and attaches to the chest of the patient. The flange secures the tube in position in the pneumostoma.

Abstract: An integrated ventilation system is presented. The integrated ventilation system includes a high frequency ventilation module configured to be operationally coupled to a ventilation system, where the high frequency ventilation module is configured to aid the ventilation system in performing high frequency ventilation. A method for providing high frequency ventilation via use of a high frequency ventilation module, where the high frequency ventilation module is configured to be operationally coupled to a ventilation system, and where the high frequency ventilation module is configured to aid the ventilation system in performing high frequency ventilation, is presented. The method includes creating a vacuum effect at an outlet port of the ventilation system to aid in active exhalation of gas from a patient.

Abstract: A flexible pneumostoma management device maintains the patency of a pneumostoma while controlling the flow of material through the pneumostoma. The pneumostoma management device includes a pneumostoma vent having a tube which enters the pneumostoma to allow gases to escape the lung, a flange and a filter/valve to control flow of materials through the tube. The flange is a thin flexible patch comprises of multiple thin layers of materials and which conforms and attaches to the chest of the patient. The flange includes a filter, a protective outer layer and an inner hydrocolloid layer. The flange secures the tube in position in the pneumostoma.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for decreasing intracranial pressure and enhancing circulation in a breathing person, as well as for increasing the respiratory rate and encouraging spontaneous respiration. According to such methods, a valve system is interfaced to a person's airway. The valve system has a threshold valve and an airway member that interfaces with the person's airway. The threshold valve is configured to prevent respiratory gas flow to the person's lungs during a portion of an inhalation event until the inspiration equals or exceeds an opening pressure of the threshold valve. Also, a small level of external vacuum is constantly supplied at a juncture between the threshold valve and the airway member.

Abstract: A device and method for suctioning mucus and secretions from a patient's tracheostomy tube is described. The device utilizes a reusable squeezable bulb with check valves to regulate air flow in and out of the squeezable bulb and a disposable mucus trap and suction catheter to suction a tracheostomy tube effectively and discretely without using an electrically powered suction machine.

Abstract: A method for treating a lung using an intra-bronchial device may be placed and anchored in an air passageway of a patient to collapse a lung portion associated with the air passageway. The method includes using an obstructing member that prevents air from being inhaled into the lung portion, and an anchor that anchors the obstruction device within the air passageway. The anchor may piercingly engage the air passageway wall. The anchor may be releasable from the air passageway for removal of the obstructing member. The anchor may be releasable by collapsing a portion of the obstructing member, or by drawing the obstructing member toward the larynx. The obstructing member may be a one-way valve.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a respiratory suction system for providing ventilation of a patient's respiratory tract, the system comprising an elongated catheter with a distal end, a manifold defining a flow path in a ventilator circuit and comprising access structure allowing the catheter to be advanced through the manifold and into a respiratory tract of a patient, the access structure including a valve which is openable in response to the advancement of the catheter through the valve and into the flow path. The valve has a proximal end has an annular outer flange section, a distal end and a tubular body extending between the proximal end and the distal end, the tubular body having a plurality of valve members extending from the annular flange section to the distal end which has end surfaces wherein a plurality of radial slits are provided, extending from the center towards the periphery and thereby separating the valve members at the distal end.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for treating obstructive sleep apnea by using negative oral pressure to a patient. The present apparatus includes a vacuum unit for controlling and maintaining negative pressure of an oral cavity of the patient, a tube with one end thereof connecting to the vacuum unit to suck out air in the oral cavity to generate the negative pressure therein, and a mouthpiece connecting to the other end of the tube and fitting into and sealing the patient's mouth to prevent the oral cavity from air leakage. By using negative pressure in the oral cavity, the patient's soft palate is pulled toward the oral cavity and the patient's tongue is pulled toward an upper palate so as to maintain the patient's nasal air passageway open.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the invention provides a device for decreasing intracranial or intraocular pressures. The device comprises a housing having an inlet opening and an outlet opening that is adapted to be interfaced with a person's airway. The device further includes a valve system that is operable to regulate respiratory gas flows through the housing and into the person's lungs during spontaneous or artificial inspiration. The valve system assists in lowering intrathoracic pressures during each inspiration to repetitively lower pressures in the venous blood vessels that transport blood out of the head to thereby reduce intracranial or intraocular pressures.

Abstract: A method of pressure regulation and a ventilator are provided. The ventilator includes a positive relative pressure gas supply, a negative relative pressure gas supply, and a diverter valve. The diverter valve includes a positive pressure port connected to the positive relative pressure gas supply, a negative pressure port connected to the negative relative pressure gas supply, and a gas supply port communicating with a gas delivery device. The ventilator preferably further includes a feedback sensor that detects a gas supply difference between a gas supply and a predetermined gas supply and generates a feedback signal that is substantially related to the gas supply difference. The ventilator preferably further includes a diverter valve actuator communicating with the diverter valve and operating the diverter valve to communicate the positive relative pressure gas supply and the negative relative pressure gas supply to the gas supply port of the diverter valve based upon the feedback signal.

Abstract: An improved high efficiency suction control valve providing unobstructed fluid flow in its activated suction applied mode for removal of viscous secretions at a low level of applied input suction through the catheter. The valve provides positive sealing between a hand-operated plunger and the valve passageway walls against which the plunger engages by slightly over sizing the plunger walls such that the plunger walls expand against a further suction passageway. Similar sealing is provided between the plunger and passageway above the suction passageway.

Abstract: A suction catheter assembly, particularly adapted for neonatal use includes a distal manifold body including a rotatable connector for connection to an endotracheal tube, a ventilating port member and an ancillary catheter receiving port member. The manifold body is rotatably joined to a catheter tube seal housing. The seal housing includes an irrigation port member. A catheter tube wiper seal and a filter member are disposed in the seal housing which is joined to a suction control valve assembly by an elongated flexible sheath defining an enclosed space through which the catheter tube extends between the valve assembly and the manifold. A resilient closure member actuator and slide lock member are engageable with a closure member of the valve assembly.

Abstract: A closed system suction catheter has a catheter enclosed within a flexible envelope secured between a patient end fitting and a machine end fitting. The patient end fitting has a cleaning chamber with a valve at its patient side and is normally closed so that the cleaning chamber is isolated from the patient. The valve has an outer rigid housing enclosing a one-piece elastomeric moulding of tubular shape. The elastomeric moulding has two pads projecting externally through openings in the outer housing. The elastomeric moulding also has a web extending internally across its diameter with a diametrically-extending slit aligned with the pads. A collar mounted on the housing is slidable along the housing to engage the pads so as to apply pressure across the web and open the slit, thereby allowing the catheter to be advanced to the patient.

Abstract: A method of applying total liquid ventilation to a patient according to a ventilation cycle including inspiration and expiration profiles, comprises supplying oxygenated liquid to the patient's lungs, withdrawing liquid from the patient's lungs, and controlling independently supply of oxygenated liquid to the patient's lungs and withdrawal of liquid from the patient's lungs. This supply and withdrawal independent control comprises producing a ventilation cycle having independently controlled inspiration and expiration profiles. To carry out the method, a total liquid ventilator system comprises an inspiration pump for supplying oxygenated liquid to the patient's lungs, and an expiration pump for withdrawing liquid from the patient's lungs. A ventilation cycle control comprises first and second pump controllers connected to the inspiration and expiration pumps, respectively, to produce a ventilation cycle having independently controlled inspiration and expiration profiles.

Abstract: A device for removing bronchopulmonary secretions of a patient provides for a duct, an expansion chamber and means for accelerating the exhaled air.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a negative-pressure oral apparatus capable of relieving discomfort of soft tissues in the oral cavity and improving fixation of the oral apparatus to prevent the oral apparatus from falling off due to mouth opening. The oral apparatus is compact and elastic so that it fits various shapes and sizes of the oral cavity and is easy to be put on and taken off to provide convenience and safety to the user. In another embodiment, a method for maintaining a negative oral pressure and collecting liquid by coupling the oral apparatus to a liquid collecting apparatus capable of effectively providing the oral cavity with a negative pressure to expel liquid in the oral apparatus and deliver the liquid to an absorbing element in the liquid collecting apparatus so as to prevent liquid leakage or contamination.

Abstract: An integrated ventilation system is presented. The integrated ventilation system comprises a high frequency ventilation module configured to be operationally coupled to a ventilation system, where the high frequency ventilation module is configured to aid the ventilation system in performing high frequency ventilation. A method for providing high frequency ventilation via use of a high frequency ventilation module, where the high frequency ventilation module is configured to be operationally coupled to a ventilation system, and where the high frequency ventilation module is configured to aid the ventilation system in performing high frequency ventilation, is presented. The method includes creating a vacuum effect at an outlet port of the ventilation system to aid in active exhalation of gas from a patient.

Abstract: A multilumen tracheal tube or catheter is disclosed. The tube has a plurality of suction lumens, each having a suction port. A rotatable suction port collar is provided. The suction port collar has an inlet and an outlet. The collar overlaps each suction port and is capable of selectively occluding a number of the suction ports while enabling unimpeded passage between a remainder of the ports and the outlet.

Abstract: A device for a respirator. A tube is operative to be introduced into a trachea of a patient and supply and discharge gas from the patient's lungs. A first conduit connects the tube to the respirator to discharge exhalation gas. A second conduit extends between the tube and a source of sub-pressure. The second conduit is connected to an exhalation tube of the tube. A third conduit connects the tube to the respirator and supplies inhalation gas. In an active position a valve arrangement keeps the second conduit open and connects the exhalation tube to a source of sub-pressure. In an inactive position the valve arrangement keeps the second conduit closed and the first conduit open. A controller moves the valve arrangement from the inactive position to the active position for a period of time to simulate coughing to cause a gas flow to support transport of secretions.

Abstract: A long term oxygen therapy system having an oxygen supply directly linked with a patient's lung or lungs may be utilized to more efficiently treat hypoxia caused by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis. The system includes an oxygen source, one or more valves and fluid carrying conduits. The fluid carrying conduits link the oxygen source to diseased sites within the patient's lungs. A collateral ventilation bypass trap system directly linked with a patient's lung or lungs may be utilized to increase the expiratory flow from the diseased lung or lungs, thereby treating another aspect of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The system includes a trap, a filter/one-way valve and an air carrying conduit. In various embodiments, the system may be intrathoracic, extrathoracic or a combination thereof. In order for the system to be effective, an airtight seal between the parietal and visceral pleurae is required. Chemical pleurodesis is utilized for creating the seal.

Abstract: Modes, methods, systems and devices are described for providing assisted ventilation to a patient, including wearable ventilation systems with integral gas supplies, special gas supply features, ventilation catheters and access devices, and breath sensing techniques.

Abstract: A manual inexsufflator including a standard mechanical ventilator, a medical suction unit, and a piston-like sliding valve mechanism which connects a patient ventilation interface with either the ventilator or the suction unit. By sliding the valve mechanism in and out the user selectively connects the patient to either the ventilator, for purposes of insufflation, or the suction unit, for purposes of exsufflation. The ventilator may generate expiratory positive airway pressure between inexsufflation cycles.