Abstract: A solution for sterilizing one or more hollow components of a device, such as a medical device, is provided. Ultraviolet radiation having one or more predominant wavelength(s) and a sufficient dose is generated and directed to an interior side of the hollow component(s). The predominant wavelength(s) is/are selected to harm one or more target organisms that may be present on the interior side. The ultraviolet radiation can be delivered by a structure that is periodically inserted and retracted into the hollow component. The structure can be configured to provide additional cleaning capability, such as suction, for removing matter that may be present in the hollow component.

Abstract: The present invention relates to antimicrobial compositions, methods for the production of these compositions, and use of these compositions with medical devices, such as catheters, and implants. The compositions of the present invention advantageously provide varying release kinetics for the active ions in the compositions due to the different water solubilities of the ions, allowing antimicrobial release profiles to be tailored for a given application and providing for sustained antimicrobial activity over time. More particularly, the invention relates to polymer compositions containing colloids comprised of salts of one or more oligodynamic metals, such as silver. The process of the invention includes mixing a solution of one or more oligodynamic metal salts with a polymer solution or dispersion and precipitating a colloid of the salts by addition of other salts to the solution which react with some or all of the first metal salts.

Abstract: A cuffed silicone tracheostomy tube has two tapered recesses (17) and (18) on its outer surface in which opposite ends (7) and (8) of a resilient cuff 6 are bonded using an adhesive or solvent. Two shallow ribs (22) and (23) extend around the tube on the inner edge of each recess (17) and (18), projecting outwardly to prevent the adhesive or solvent spreading onto the inflatable portion (10) of the cuff (6). The cuff (6) has several shallow ribs (9) extending around the cuff and spaced along its inflatable portion (10) to promote even inflation.

Abstract: The invention relates to an infant tracheal device used with a source of air that provides transmission of continuous positive pressure into the lungs of an infant breathing spontaneously using a single tube inspiratory line. The invention serves as an interface with an open trachea. A one-way air valve placed within the tube will not allow pressure to return through the inspiratory line. The internal pressure within the line is measured with a monitor line which is connected to the source and the tracheal device as the pressure enters the infant lungs via a cuffless tracheal tube. A minimal amount of pressure will now be necessary to keep the lungs open. Voluntary exhalation occurs as the pressure of the exhaled air exiting the lungs goes around both the cuffless tracheal tube and out through the nose and mouth of the infant. A pressure release port located on the tracheal device facilitates monitoring and emergency pressure release as necessary. A dispenser port allows use of medication.

Abstract: A first cannula assembly includes a cannula attachable to a patient to extend along and at least partially cover one side of the patient's face and leave completely exposed the other side of the patient's face. A second cannula assembly includes a reusable unit and a disposable and replaceable loop-shaped mouthpiece. The reusable unit contains a suction pump having a flow inlet and a flow outlet, a power source operatively connected to the suction pump, a carbon dioxide sensor in fluid communication with the flow outlet, and a microprocessor adapted to use at least the carbon dioxide sensor to calculate a carbon dioxide level. The mouthpiece has first and second ends, wherein the first end is directly attached to the reusable unit and the second end is positionable in a patient's mouth. The mouthpiece includes at least one respiratory-gas-sampling port in fluid communication with the flow inlet of the pump.

Abstract: Antimicrobial and biofilm-inhibiting nitric oxide-releasing medical appliances for installation into a patient, and processes for producing the medical appliances. The medical appliances are configured for conveying materials into and out of the patient's body and may comprise tubings or pouching systems. The medical appliances comprise a gas-permeable cured resin material selected from the group consisting of curable silicones, polyvinyl acetates, thermoplastic elastomers, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer rubber, polyurethanes and selected combinations thereof, wherein the gas-permeable cured resin material comprises a matrix suitable for releasably sequestering therein permeating gases. A plurality of nitric-oxide gas-releasing moieties is sequestered within and through the gas-permeable resin material. Nitric oxide is released from at least a portion of said plurality of nitric oxide gas-releasing moieties upon contact of the medical appliance with a moisture source.

Abstract: A medical device tube having extended retention tabs with notches therein for improved coupling of an inner cannula connector to an outer cannula connector. The medical device tube comprises an outer cannula connector having retention tabs on an outer cannula connector flange attached to the proximal end of an outer cannula. The retention tabs maintain the snap ears of the inner cannula connector when the inner cannula connector is rotated whereby the notches substantially hold the snap ears. The snap ears may further be positioned in notches in the outer cannula flange when the snap ears lock onto the outer cannula connector flange.

Abstract: A suction arrangement includes a suction source (1) with a single inlet (13) and a connector (5) of caltrop shape with four interconnected ribbed ports 50 to 53, one of which (50) is connected to the suction inlet. The other three ports (51 to 53) are connected with tubing interconnections (15, 23, 33, 46) which each have a valve or the like (25, 35, 48) for blocking flow as necessary. The tubing interconnections connect with respective suction appliances including a suction outlet (41) above the cuff (42) of a tracheal tube (40), a tracheal suction catheter (3) and an oral suctioning catheter (2).

Abstract: A pacifier comprising an endotracheal tube holding means for intubated infants. The pacifier further comprises a nipple member attached to a flange member, wherein a channel is disposed longitudinally along the nipple and flange to accommodate an endotracheal tube. A slot, smaller in circumference than the tube, is disposed along the channel and allows the tube to be inserted and removed from the pacifier. The channel is larger in circumference than the tube, so that once the tube is inserted into the pacifier, it is supported in the channel, but can move longitudinally through the channel relative to the pacifier.

Abstract: A pulmonary secretion clearing airway structure and related airway management system is disclosed that has a double lumen portion which each lumen of the double lumen portion operably secured to an airway management system so that inspiratory fluid (air/oxygen mixtures, with or without added water vapor) is delivered to the distal end of the ventilation catheter through one of the two lumens and expired inspiratory fluid, pulmonary secretions, and pulmonary fluids are removed from the patient through the other lumen. The expiratory fluid pathway preferably includes a secretion collection system for removing the pulmonary secretions and the like from the pathway, thereby improving operation and safety of the system. The airway structure can be a ventilation catheter or a supraglottic airway system such as laryngeal mask and the like.

Abstract: A tracheostomy tube assembly includes a flexible tube (1, 1?) and a flexible introducer (2, 2?) within the tube, the introducer having a passage (22) along its length for receiving a guidewire (9) inserted into the trachea (7) through a tracheostomy (6). The tube (1) has an inwardly-projecting collar (17, 17?) at its patient end (11), which engages an outwardly-projecting shoulder (24, 24?) on the introducer (2, 2?) so that the tube does not ride rearwardly along the introducer during insertion. The flexibility of the assembly is such that it can be inserted through the tracheostomy (6) while straight and then curves to follow the guidewire (9) as its patient end enters the trachea (7).

Abstract: A minimally invasive tracheal fluid removal device and corresponding method of use for removing accumulated subglottic secretions in an intubated patient's endotracheal tube. The device may be configured as a dual-track or single-tube suction guidance system. This device presents a significant improvement over the art as it eliminates the need to reintubate the patient each time the suction mechanism is removed to be cleaned.

Abstract: An airway tube holder (10) has a face plate assembly to fix an airway tube (24). The assembly comprises a face plate (20) for placement over the mouth of a patient. The face plate (20) has a channel (22) including an open end (23) and a closed end (26) in which the tube (24) is fixedly positioned. A tube holding block (30) is integrally mounted to the face plate (20). The block (30) has a securing means (38, 40, 41) mounted in the tube holding block (30). A clamp (41) is secured to a screw (40) of the securing means by a loop (44) encircling the screw (40). A folded strip (106) is attached to the end of a headband (18) so secure the holder to a patient, and forms hooked portions facing in opposite directions. The block (30) is flexible enough to absorb an over-tightening of the screw (40).

Abstract: A method of intubating a subject is disclosed. The method comprises inserting an endotracheal tube into the tracheal airway of the subject; inflating a cuff associated with the endotracheal tube within the airway below the vocal cords; measuring a level of at least one measure being indicative of leakage of secretion past the cuff to the lungs; comparing the level of the measure with an optimal level of the measure; and adjusting inflation of the cuff based on the comparison so as to generally minimize leakage of secretion from above the cuff to the lungs, while minimizing pressure associated damages to the airway. The measure(s) can be carbon dioxide concentration, a proxy measure from which such concentration can be inferred, or the level of one or more additives delivered to a subject during intubation.

Abstract: Methods, systems and devices are described for new modes of ventilation in which specific lung areas are ventilated with an indwelling trans-tracheobronchial catheter for the purpose of improving ventilation and reducing hyperinflation in that specific lung area, and for redistributing inspired air to other healthier lung areas, for treating respiratory disorders such as COPD, ARDS, SARS, CF, and TB. Trans-Tracheobronchial Segmental Ventilation (TTSV) is performed on either a naturally breathing or a mechanical ventilated patient by placing a uniquely configured indwelling catheter into a bronchus of a poorly ventilated specific lung area and providing direct ventilation to that area. The catheter can be left in place for extended periods without clinician attendance or vigilance. Ventilation includes delivery of respiratory gases, therapeutic gases or agents and evacuation of stagnant gases, mixed gases or waste fluids.

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: An endotracheal tube holder assembly is provided. The holder assembly comprises a support strap band for placement around a patient's head or neck region and a flexible linking band for attachment to the support strap band. The flexible linking band further comprises an elongate, central bridge portion, an upper bar portion extending from the central bridge portion, and at least one tab extending laterally from the central bridge portion.

Abstract: An airway device 64 includes a hollow tube 51 having a proximal end 65b and a distal end 71, and is formed with a straight section 65 and a curved section 68. The tube 51 can include a proximal portion 65a, which extends from the proximal end 65b for receipt of a face mask 180. When the airway device 64 is placed in a patient's mouth 28, oral cavity 34 and oropharyngeal area 36, the distal end 71 is located at the patient's glottic opening 46 and vocal cords 40. Inflatable cuffs 75, 73 and 73a may be located individually on the tube 51 in selectable single, double and triple cuff embodiments to form seals in the areas of the patient's mouth 28, oral cavity 34, oropharyngeal area 36, glottic opening 46 and vocal cords 40, esophageal opening 48 and inner nasal-passage opening 33.

Abstract: A therapeutic device (1) for improving the respiration of a patient, with a curved or bent pipe section (2) and a mouthpiece (6) inserted in its first end (3) is intended to provide an easy-to-handle medicinal device (1) by means of which diseases of the airway can be treated or the pulmonary volume as well as the pulmonary inhalation performance of a patient can be improved. This is achieved in that a holding peg (11) firmly connected to the pipe section (2) can be pushed into the second end (4) of the pipe section (2), and a passage channel (12) is worked into the holding peg (11) which penetrates the inside of the pipe section (2) completely or in part, and that the holding peg (11) has a flexible hose (13) attached to it which runs inside the pipe section (2) and the free end (24) of which can move freely in the area of the mouthpiece (6) between the inner wall (5) of the pipe section (2).

Abstract: The clip device of the invention is used for clipping a laryngeal mask airway. The laryngeal mask airway comprises a gas filled portion and a tube portion. The clip device comprises a first clip unit and a second clip unit, wherein the second clip unit is connected to the first clip unit. The gas filled portion can be clipped between the first clip unit and the second clip unit.

Abstract: A medical appliance in the form of a pliable mouth piece in the shape of a funnel having a cylindrical section attached thereto. The pliable mouth piece is made of a robo rubber. An additional rigid tube may be inserted into the cylindrical section. The pliable appliance may be used with patients having a stoma to apply air by blowing into the mouth piece. The mouth piece may also be a part of a spirometer to test the lung capacity of people. The medical appliance may be used in patients who had a tracheotomy and by EMS technicians who perform a tracheotomy in an emergency.

Abstract: An endotracheal tube cleaning device may comprise an elongated member, a cleaning member at a first end of the elongated member, and a collection member. The cleaning member may include a shaving region about a periphery thereof. The elongated member may extend through the collection member, and the elongated member and cleaning member may be slidable relative to the collection member.

Abstract: An emergency breathing apparatus for skiers which is a device for attachment to an item of clothing, or in a ski pole or walking pole, which is adapted to enable a user to breathe in the event of being trapped in an avalanche. The emergency breathing apparatus comprises a conduit and a mouthpiece construction comprising a body member and a mouthpiece member. The mouthpiece member is in fluid communication with the conduit and is moveable between a compressed position at or near the body member and an extended position where it is located away from the body member, and allows a user to exhale through the conduit.

Abstract: A tracheostomy is performed using an access device and a separate ventilation device. The access device is introduced through a surgical opening in the tracheal wall and has an anchor which is expanded in situ to hold the access device in place. The ventilation device is introduced through a passage in the access device and has an expandable cuff which is oriented above the access point through the tracheal wall. A concavity in the expandable cuff collects body secretions, and other materials from the oral and nasal cavities and/or gastro-intestinal reflux into the trachea, and the collected secretions are removed by aspiration through a lumen provided in the ventilation device. A one-way valve may be provided in the expandable cuff in order to permit exhalation through the larynx to assist in speech.

Abstract: A respiratory apparatus includes an instrument introduction section that is adapted for introducing an instrument into an artificial airway of a patient. The instrument introduction section has a distal end and a proximal end with an opening that allows for insertion of the instrument into the instrument introduction section. The instrument is movable through a passageway between the distal and proximal ends. The distal end is configured for releasable attachment with an artificial airway structure that is attached to the patient. Further, a valve is located in the instrument introduction section. The valve has a closed position in which the passageway is at least substantially isolated from the artificial airway of the patient when the instrument is present and is proximal from the valve. The valve at least substantially blocks the passageway of the instrument introduction section when the valve is in the closed position.

Abstract: In one embodiment, an apparatus is characterized by an intubation-tube placement device; and an intubation tube secured to the intubation-tube placement device. In another embodiment, an apparatus is characterized by an intubation-tube placement device; and an anti-perforation device coupled to the intubation-tube placement device. In another embodiment, an apparatus is characterized by an intubation-tube placement device; and at least one tactile-accentuator flap coupled to the intubation-tube placement device. In another embodiment, an apparatus is characterized by an intubation-tube placement device; and a handle affixed to the intubation-tube placement device.

Abstract: A drug delivery device for delivering to a patient a drug composition from a container which contains the drug composition where the container is adapted to be placed in a dispensing mode thereof on application of an actuating condition thereto is disclosed. The device includes a dispensing unit adapted to receive the container, the dispensing unit having an actuating mechanism operable to apply the actuating condition to the container and an outlet through which the drug composition is dispensable from the device, and a removable casing unit for the dispensing unit. The dispensing and casing units have securing features for releasably, fixedly securing the units together, and the dispensing unit is operable to apply the actuating condition to the container when fixedly secured to the casing unit and when independent from the casing unit.

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 rotationally 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 that may be deformed or rotated to engage or disengage projections on the HME. The adaptor may be used with extended use closed suction catheter assemblies.

Abstract: A laryngeal-mask construction comprises a tube body passing through an external expanding portion at its one end, wherein said external expanding portion is triangularly shaped and configured with indentations at its both front sides and a stud on its front end, the said tube body extends and ends with a circular plate outlet; a hollow annular resilient support, which is also supported by a horse-shoe shape fenestrated plate bridging between the said hollow annular resilient support and the groove in the extending tube is defined to surround said external expanding portion; a pliant elastomeric beret, being sticky and tensile is used for enclosing said external expanding portion and said hollow annular resilient support, after inserting into the oral cavity of a patient, the device outlet is adapted to place closer to the larynx of the patient for achieving an effective seal and lessening the risk of aspiration.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a tracheal intubation device and method for placing an endotracheal tube within a patient's trachea. More particularly, the endotracheal tube includes primary and secondary cuffs, in the form of inflatable balloons. A stillette is positioned within the endotracheal tube. The tracheal intubation device includes a guiding mechanism for guiding the stillette and the endotracheal tube within a patent's body. The guiding mechanism is positioned external to a patient and sized and shaped so as to transmit a signal and to receive a signal indicating the location of the stillette in a patient's body. After the endotracheal tube is positioned in the oropharynx, inflating the secondary cuff urges the endotracheal tube toward the trachea of a patient.

Abstract: A flexible connector couples the inlet end of a tracheotomy tube inner cannula to an outlet port of an in-line catheter. The catheter exit end of the connector is adapted to be serially coupled in pneumatic communication with the inlet end of the tracheotomy tube inner cannula and also to guide the downstream tip of the catheter into the inlet end of the inner cannula in response to pushing of the catheter upstream of the catheter outlet port. Thus, the in-line catheter can be inserted into the tracheotomy tube inner cannula with little likelihood of having to compress or “flip” the connector or disconnect the connector from the tracheotomy tube and the patient from the ventilator circuit.

Abstract: A tactile system for an oxygen tube attachable to a tracheostomy mask, the system comprising: an oxygen tube; an oxygen tube cover removeably attached to the oxygen tube, the oxygen tube cover comprising: a first end; a second end located on an end opposite the first end; a width defined generally by the distance along the oxygen tube cover from the first end to the second end; a length; an inner surface; an outer surface located on a surface opposite the inner surface; a plurality of elastic bands attached to the oxygen tube cover generally parallel to the width; a first connecting means located on the inner surface and generally at the first end; a second connecting means located on the outer surface and generally at the second end; and where the oxygen tube cover is generally made of a soft material.

Abstract: Disclosed is a respiratory cannula assembly to deliver and receive gases from a patient. The cannula assembly contains two oral prongs for delivering and receiving gases from the patient as well as at least one gas delivery nasal prong and at least one gas receiving nasal prong. The gas receiving nasal prong extends further into the patients nostril than the gas delivery nasal prong. The cannula assembly further contains a connector that aids in coupling to a medical device, the connector including independent oral and nasal moisture traps that remove moisture from exhaled patient gases.

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

Abstract: A tracheostomy tube assembly comprising a tracheostomy tube and an elongated neck plate secured to said tube having an upper edge, a lower edge and holes at opposite ends thereof, is characterized by a soft, flexible gel-like polymer pad having a center port surrounding the tracheostomy tube and releasably secured on the patient side of the neck plate and extending to or beyond the upper and lower neck plate edges and inside the holes. The pad has a smooth, substantially flat, planar first surface for resting against the patient side of the neck plate and a smooth, soft, transversely concave second surface for resting against a patient's neck, whereby the pad has a thicker cross-section at its opposite side edges and ends, and a thinner cross-section along a center portion extending between the upper and lower pad edges and ends.

Abstract: Spontaneous respiration is detected by sensors. An additional amount of oxygen is administered to the lungs via a jet gas current at the end of an inhalation procedure. Breathing volume, absorption of oxygen during inhalation, and clearance of carbon dioxide during exhalation are improved. If required, the exhalation procedure of the patient can be arrested or slowed by a countercurrent to avoid a collapse of the respiration paths. An apparatus including an oxygen pump can be connected to an oxygen source and includes a tracheal prosthesis that can be connected via a catheter. The respiration detections sensors are connected to a control unit for activating the oxygen pump. The tracheal prosthesis includes a tubular support body with a connection for the catheter, and the sensors are associated with the support body. The tracheal prosthesis and jet catheter are dimensioned so the patient can freely breathe and speak without restriction.

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. A pulmonary decompression device may also be utilized to remove trapped air in the lung or lungs, thereby reducing the volume of diseased lung tissue.

Abstract: Methods and systems for minimally invasively treating an air leak in a lung comprise the steps of detecting an air leak in a lung; locating an airway in fluid communication with the air leak, introducing a bronchoscope into a patient's airway to a position adjacent the target section and occluding an airway upstream of the air leak for a period of time. The airway occlusion is preferably removed after the air leak has substantially permanently healed. The method can also include the injection of a substance into the airway on a distal side of the occlusion.

Abstract: Systems, methods and devices for performing pulmonary procedures, and in particular treating lung disease. A flow control element includes a valve that prevents airflow in the inhalation direction but permits airflow in the exhalation direction. The flow control element is guided to and positioned at the site by a bronchoscope that is introduced into the patient's trachea and used to view the lungs during delivery of the flow control element. The valve may include one, two or more valve elements, and it may be collapsible for easier delivery. A source of vacuum or suction may be used to increase the amount of fluid withdrawn from the lung tissue. A device for measuring hollow structures, such as bronchioles, and a device for removing a previously-placed flow control element are disclosed as well.

Abstract: A closed suction catheter includes a valve assembly and a manifold. A catheter tube is attached to the valve assembly and slidably secured within the manifold. The closed suction catheter may include one or more features for promoting an effective, safe, and efficient process for suctioning mucus and other fluids from a patient's lungs, and for cleaning the various components of the catheter system. For example, the closed suction catheter may include a tube wiper having a reinforced leading ridge and/or an internal ledge for efficiently wiping the catheter tube. The valve assembly may include a locking mechanism having a slider unit, a cam arm, and/or ribs that engage openings in the slider unit for maintaining a valve stem in proper alignment and an actuator on the valve assembly in a locked position. The closed suction catheter may include several other features, as well.

Abstract: In a system for dislodging a foreign body 60 from the vocal cords 52 of a patient 32, a retrograde intubation tube 64 is passed through the cricoidthyroid membrane 58, and between the vocal cords and the foreign body, and out of the oral cavity opening 34. A guide wire 84 is passed through, and extends outward from opposite ends 68 and 70 of, the tube 64. The carrier device 88, having a foreign-body dislodging means 104, is formed with a hollow opening 93, and is moved over, and guided by, the guidewire 84 and the tube 64 to a location adjacent the foreign body 60. The tube 64 and the guidewire 84 are removed, and the dislodging means 104 is manipulated to dislodge, and facilitate removal of, the foreign body 60.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for delivering a medicine to a patient via the patient's respiratory system with control and efficiency. A nebulization catheter is positioned in the patient's respiratory system so that a distal end of the nebulization catheter is in the respiratory system and a proximal end is outside the body. In a first aspect, the nebulization catheter may be used in conjunction with an endotracheal tube and preferably is removable from the endotracheal tube. The nebulization catheter conveys medicine in liquid form to the distal end at which location the medicine is nebulized by a pressurized gas or other nebulizing mechanism. The nebulized medicine is conveyed to the patient's lungs by the patient's respiration which may be assisted by a ventilator. By producing the aerosol of the liquid medicine at a location inside the patient's respiratory system, the nebulizing catheter provides for increased efficiency and control of the dosage of medicine being delivered.

Abstract: Spontaneous respiration is detected by sensors. An additional amount of oxygen is administered to the lungs via a jet gas current at the end of an inhalation procedure. Breathing volume, absorption of oxygen during inhalation, and clearance of carbon dioxide during exhalation are improved. If required, the exhalation procedure of the patient can be arrested or slowed by a countercurrent to avoid a collapse of the respiration paths. An apparatus including an oxygen pump can be connected to an oxygen source and includes a tracheal prosthesis that can be connected via a catheter. The respiration detections sensors are connected to a control unit for activating the oxygen pump. The tracheal prosthesis includes a tubular support body with a connection for the catheter, and the sensors are associated with the support body. The tracheal prosthesis and jet catheter are dimensioned so the patient can freely breathe and speak without restriction.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for determining proper endotreachal placement is disclosed. The apparatus includes an audio receiver having a body, a microphone mount in a center thereof the body and an audio cavity, an audio processing unit; and a signal cable connected at a first end to the microphone and at a second end, where the receiver is adapted to be positioned in a suprasternal notch of a patient and the acoustic signal detected after inflation of a balloon associated with an endotracheal tube. The method uses the apparatus to detect and analyze an audio signal. The audio signal is then used to confirm endotracheal tube placement.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides for a guide adapted for facilitating insertion of a medical device into the trachea of a patient. The guide comprises an integral curved-shaped member having at least a first leg at one end of the guide. The curved-shaped member consists essentially of an outside curved side defining a concave groove. A first angle is defined on the first leg configured and dimensioned to allow for at least the first leg to pass through the mouth and into the trachea of the patient. Insertion of the guide into the trachea allows for elevation of the tongue and surrounding soft tissue of the patient thereby forming an air space that allows for passage of a medical device.

Abstract: A laryngeal mask airway installation kit, comprising a laryngeal mask airway comprising a gastric access tube; and a stylet capable of being inserted into the gastric access tube from the inlet end and, when bent, of changing the original shape of the laryngeal mask airway and thus facilitating the installation of the laryngeal mask airway.

Abstract: There is provided a balloon cuffed tracheostomy tube with a balloon designed so as to enhance the tube's anchorability without sealing the tracheal stoma. The tracheostomy tube device includes a conventional curved hollow tube. The distal end of the tube is adapted for insertion through a tracheal stoma and into the tracheal lumen of a patient's throat. The device further includes an inflatable balloon enveloping a portion of the tube. The balloon has a distal portion substantially centered about and attached to the distal end portion of the tube. The balloon also has a proximal portion attached to the bend region of the tube and positioned substantially off-center relative to the proximal portion of the tube and about the bend region below the proximal plane of the device.

Abstract: There is provided a balloon cuffed tracheostomy tube with a balloon designed so as to enhance the tube's anchorability without sealing the tracheal stoma and to allow for an easier insertion into the trachea than a comparable tube with a thicker balloon. The tracheostomy tube device includes a conventional hollow tube having a proximal end portion, a distal end portion, and a bend region intermediate of the end portions. The distal end portion of the tube is arranged for insertion through a patient's throat and tracheal stoma and into the tracheal lumen. The device further includes an inflatable balloon enveloping a portion of the tube. More particularly, the balloon is equal to or less than 30 microns in thickness, allowing for a greater ease of insertion and insertion through a smaller stoma opening, than a comparable tube with a balloon having a thickness greater than 30 microns.

Abstract: A tube (30) for inducing gases into critically ill patients, in which the distal end (20) is perforated, and covered with an inflatable-deflatable sleeve (36). Gas is pumped into the proximal end of the tube (30), which inflates the sleeve (36) engaging the inner walls of an airway. The gas, typically a mixture of oxygen, subsequently exits the sleeve (36) and enters the airway. Auxiliary accessories (80) can be attached to the tube (30).

Abstract: A endotracheal tube protector for use with an endotracheal tube comprises an elongated tubular member having a first end configured to extend out of a patient's mouth when in use and a second end configured to enter the throat of the patient. The tubular member has openings in the first and second ends and defines a substantially cylindrical cavity with an interior wall configured to hold an endotracheal tube therewithin. The tubular member has a longitudinal slit for inducing radial expansion of the cavity and a pair of opposed bosses formed longitudinally in the tubular member at positions adjacent to the slit. The opposed bosses are configured to project into the cavity and to transmit a clamping force onto the endotracheal tube when contacted by the upper teeth of the patient when the endotracheal tube protector is in use and oriented such that the slit faces toward the roof of the patient's mouth.