Abstract: An airway manifold includes a manifold body having an upper body portion and a lower body portion. The body portions are engaged such that the upper body portion is rotatable relative to the lower body portion, whereby a generally hollow interior space is defined. The lower body portion has a port open to the interior space, and the upper body portion includes a plurality of ports open to the interior space. A first upper body port is axially alignable with the lower body port to define a substantially linear passageway therebetween when the upper body portion is at a first rotatable position relative to the lower body portion. A second upper body port is axially alignable with the lower body port to define a substantially linear passageway therebetween when the upper body portion is at a second rotatable position.

Abstract: Techniques for single lung ventilation (SLV) include a hollow main tube with outer diameter sized to fit inside a bronchus of a patient. The length of the main tube is sufficient for a distal end of the main tube to reach a first side bronchus from a proximal end configured to be located in a vicinity of a mouth of the patient. The hollow main tube has a ventilating orifice separated from the distal end at a location that corresponds to a different second side bronchus. A hollow tubular sleeve is moveably disposed inside and longitudinally aligned with the main tube. The sleeve is configured to be positioned in at least two positions: a first position that does not block the ventilating orifice; and, a second position that does block the ventilating orifice.

Abstract: An oral airway for insertion into a mouth and pharynx of a patient to provide a breathing pathway and for cooperating with either an anesthesia breathing connector, a suction tube, or a nasal cannula. The oral airway includes a first tubular member, a second tubular member disposed within the first tubular member, and a connector configured to securely attach to both the first tubular member and the second tubular member. The connector includes a first portion in fluid communication with the first tubular member and a second portion in fluid communication with the second tubular member.

Abstract: A coupling for connecting a ventilator tube to an improved single cannula tracheotomy tube has a latching mechanism which prevents the coupling from inadvertently axially displacing from a tapered tubular extension of the tracheotomy tube after they have been mated in a pneumatically discrete path. Non-axial and non-rotational forces are used to engage and disengage the coupling from the tracheotomy tube. The coupling has a trailing end adapter which permits rotation of the coupling relative to the ventilator tube rather than to the tracheotomy tube.

Abstract: Medical devices and related methods are disclosed for delivering an implant into the body of a patient. The devices include a damping assembly having an internal chamber with a varying inner diameter, and a piston slideably disposed therein. The piston is operably connected with a catheter portion such that movement of the piston is associated with concurrent movement of the catheter for implant delivery. The varying inner diameter of the damping assembly results in a decrease in damping force during implant delivery, thus providing a substantially constant velocity of implant delivery.

Abstract: A system and method for endotracheal intubation of airways are disclosed. A malleable stylet having a distal end and a proximal end, a charged coupled device (CCD) at the distal end and a transmitter, at or near the proximal end or connected to the proximal end of the stylet with connectors, transmits video to a visualization device comprising a receiver means, a display means, and a display support adapted to be worn on an operator in a position so that the operator can view the display with one eye while simultaneously viewing the airway directly. The display support is typically worn on the head of a physician. A second display can be worn by a student or observer. In some instances, the transmitter means and receiver means are wireless.

Abstract: According to various embodiments, a tracheal tube may include an integral humidification system. The tracheal tube may be formed at least partially from a material that is permeable to water vapor but substantially impermeable to respiratory gases. The water vapor may be actively provided to the tracheal tube or may be passively transferred from a patient's surrounding airway space.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a device having a guide catheter for the introduction of a tracheal cannula into a tracheostoma.

Abstract: A method for positioning a cannula for permanent implant through the orifice or tracheostoma in a fully aligned manner with the help of an inserter. The inner end or suprastomal extension of the cannula, upon withdrawing the inserter is vertically positioned in the supra-ostial area of the trachea, allowing, once the permanent cannula has been permanently positioned, the introduction of a perforated cannula having a characteristic curvature therethrough. The perforated cannula is oriented, through the lower aperture of the permanent cannula -1-, towards the interior of the lungs in order to allow insufflation of air from the exterior, while the exhaled air is derived through the vertical extension towards the larynx through the orifices disposed in the curvature elbow thereof.

Abstract: A respiratory access assembly includes a distal plate having a port, the port adapted to be positioned in operable communication with an artificial airway of a patient. The assembly also includes a proximal plate including a first port and a second port and, when the distal plate is positioned against the proximal plate in a stacked configuration, each plate is configured to move relative to the other. There is a clutch positioned between the plates, the clutch cooperating with both plates to substantially prevent movement of the plates when the port of the distal plate is positioned in an alignment with at least one port of the proximal plate and an object is positioned through the aligned ports of the plates.

Abstract: Apparatus for randomly varying the breathing resistance applied to human and animal subjects to improve their performance.

Abstract: According to various embodiments, a tracheal tube may include signal sources for providing information at various locations on the tube or in an inflated cuff. The signals from the signal sources may be triangulated to determine the location of the tube in relation to a reference point on the body. The location information may provide an indication as to whether or not the tracheal tube is properly placed within the trachea.

Abstract: The cheek pocket anchor, formed of a resilient filament, fits within a user's cheek pouch. The anchor dynamically spans a user's inter-occlusal space and lip opening as a user's jaws open and close. The anchor can be formed of inter-connected, adjustable loops to enable user adjustment of its whole span. It can stabilize a work piece, such as an airway, in a user's mouth. The cheek path airway fits a path between a user's lips and through the user's cheek pouch and rear-jaw gap, avoiding the user's bite. It provides supplemental air to a user's rear-mouth cavity independently of a user's nasal airways while a user's lips remain closed. It can be used in combination with mandibular jaw-control and tongue-control devices whereby the combination mitigates breathing restrictions in a user's nasal and throat airways. It can be manufactured in-line and folded by a user to fit the user's cheek pathway.

Abstract: A device for aiding intubation of a patient comprising a generally ovular palate bridge having a flexible convex surface to allow the device to conform to a roof of a patient's mouth and a flexible concave surface to allow for space in the mouth for placement of an endotracheal tube or to clear an oral airway which is attached to a teeth guard to prevent dental trauma and an esophageal block to block aspiration from a patient's stomach into a patient's lungs and to prevent erroneous intubation.

Abstract: Various embodiments of tracheostomy tube assemblies including a cannula and a flange are provided. One of the cannula and the flange includes a pair of slots and the other of the cannula and the flange includes a pair of protrusions adapted to be received by the pair of slots. The pair of slots and the pair of protrusions enable two or more degrees of freedom of movement of the flange with respect to the cannula.

Abstract: Systems and methods for predicting potential difficult intubation of a subject acquire, using a facial structure analysis system, facial structure data of the subject. The systems and methods also extract, using facial structure analysis software of the facial structure analysis system, at least one facial structure variable value from the facial structure data and obtain a predicted potential difficult intubation value using an airway classification model and the at least one facial structure variable value. The systems and methods generate a report based on the predicted potential difficult intubation value.

Abstract: According to various embodiments, a tracheal tube may employ optical sensing techniques for determining a distance between the inserted tube and an anatomical structure such as a carina. The distance information may provide an indication as to whether or not the tracheal tube is properly placed within the trachea. The optical techniques may include interferometry.

Abstract: An automatic video instillator that can accurately and easily administer inhalation into an airway of an animal by providing images of a throat is provided. An automatic video instillator includes a case defining a space, a guide unit that protrudes frontward from the case to secure an airway of an animal by being inserted through a throat of the animal, an image pickup unit that is installed on a front end of the guide unit to capture images of portions in front of the guide unit, an administration unit that is installed through the case and the guide unit to administer an inhalation, an administration switch for adjusting administration of a predetermined amount of the inhalation directed to the administration unit into the airway of the animal, and an image display unit that is connected to the image pickup unit to allow a user to see the images captured by the image pickup unit.

Abstract: According to various embodiments, a tracheal tube may employ optical sensing techniques for determining a distance between the inserted tube and an anatomical structure, such as a carina. The distance information may provide an indication as to whether or not the tracheal tube is properly placed within the trachea. The optical techniques may include time of flight techniques.

Abstract: A mouthpiece polymer body comprising a distal side and a proximal side. The distal side further having a fastener element, and where the fastener element is integrated into the mouthpiece polymer body. A mouthpiece comprising at least one fastener element and a polymer body, where the fastener element is integrated as part of the polymer body. A method to demountably attach/detach a mouthpiece to a regulator comprising using the proximal side of a mouthpiece to create a mechanical advantage to open the distal side of the mouthpiece using a fulcrum. Also using the mouthpiece polymer to provide the elastic force to lock said mouthpiece onto the regulator.

Abstract: A method of making a device by integrally molding. The device includes an inflatable mask comprising a relatively stiff component and a relatively soft compliant flexible component. The mask is insertable, at least when deflated, through a mouth of the patient to an inserted location within a patient. The inserted location is near a laryngeal inlet of the patient. The device also includes an airway tube and an evacuation tube coupled to the mask. The relatively soft compliant flexible component of the mask is integrally formed in a single moulding operation.

Abstract: Intubation is a potentially dangerous invasive procedure with many plausible errors, such as over-inflation of a cuff and insertion of an intubation tube in the wrong lumen, potentially resulting in a patient's internal bleeding, suffocation, or even death. An intubation aide according to example embodiments of the present invention allows intubation of a patient, while eliminating potential injury to the patient, increasing accuracy and reliability of the placement of the intubation tube, and drastically decreasing procedural time. Within moments of insertion of the device into a patient, the medical caregiver knows, with complete certainty, the location of the intubation device without applying traditional time-consuming tasks. Embodiments also provide patient safety, if intubated for a prolonged periods, by regulating an inflation pressure of the cuff. The intubation aide can also be used for training purposes and is ideal for intubation in hospital and field settings.

Abstract: An apparatus for maintaining a surgical airway and method for the same includes an elongated body insertable orally into a patient. The elongated body defines leading and trailing ends. An opening is defined through the leading and trailing ends, such that surgical equipment may be insertable through the opening of the elongated body. A securing member is connected to the trailing end. The securing member holds the elongated body in a position such that an airway remains open to treat the patient, while supporting oxygen flow to the patient.

Abstract: Various embodiments of a medical device tube having scaffolding-supported inner and outer walls are provided. In particular, the medical device tube may include a plurality of struts extending from an inner wall to an outer wall of the medical device tube. In certain embodiments, each of the individual struts may connect to adjacent struts at the inner wall and the outer wall. As such, the plurality of struts may comprise a zigzag pattern circumferentially around the medical tube device. In other embodiments, the struts may extend radially from the inner wall to the outer wall of the medical tube device. Regardless, the area between the struts and the inner wall and/or the outer wall form a plurality of lumens, which may be used for suctioning, blowing, and various other applications of the medical device tube.

Abstract: According to various embodiments, an endotracheal tube ventilating device with a sealing cuff includes an anchoring device. The anchoring device may be secured to the tube above the sealing cuff and extend outwardly from the tubular body. In addition, the anchoring device may be configured to be positioned completely within the hypopharynx of a patient, in contact with the piriform fossa and a laryngeal surface of the epiglottis without creating an airtight seal of the hypopharynx or the esophagus.

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: A loading dilator for positioning a medical apparatus across a stoma formed in a body wall of a patient. The medical apparatus, such as a tracheotomy tube, is sized to fit over a portion of the loading dilator during positioning of the apparatus across the stoma. The loading dilator includes an elongated dilator body having a tapered distal end for facilitating entry into the stoma. The dilator body has an inflatable balloon disposed along an outer surface at the distal end. The balloon is inflatable to a configuration such that a generally smooth diametrical transition is formed between the elongated dilator body and a leading end of the medical apparatus when the medical apparatus is fit over the loading dilator.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a double-lumen endotracheal tube having an access sheath or optical system positioned between the two lumens. Embodiments of the the present disclosure are directed toward systems, devices, and methods that provide continuous visual input to a clinician during initial lung separation with the use of a double-lumen endotracheal tube device and throughout a treatment procedure to facilitate the ongoing maintenance of a proper position of the double-lumen endotracheal tube.

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 device for securing an oral tube, such as an endotracheal tube, positioned in a patient's trachea includes a support surface, such as an open channel, for supporting the tube. First and second arms extend outwardly from the open channel. The first and second arms form an arch having first and second ends. Bite blocks are provided adjacent the first and second arch ends for contacting the patient's teeth or gums, and a receiver for securing the tube against the support surface is likewise provided. A flexible member having first and second ends for looping around the patient's nasal septum is likewise provided. At least one of the ends of the flexible member is received in a retainer and assists in securing the device in position.

Abstract: An oral airway providing a patent airway to a patient, supplies oxygen to the patient and monitors expelled gases during endoscopic or intubating procedures. The oral airway includes a central lumen and two lateral breathing channels. A bracket at the proximal end of the oral airway functions to guide an oxygen supply line and an end tidal carbon dioxide monitoring line into the lateral breathing channels and to act as a barrier beyond which the airway cannot be inserted into the mouth of the patient. The airway has a straight main central lumen which serves as a guide and conduit to facilitate endoscope, bronchoscope, or fiber optic bronchoscope placement and manipulation.

Abstract: One aspect of the invention is a method to vent gas from a body cavity during an endoscopic procedure. A body cavity is in fluid communication with an exhaust gas inlet of a vacuum break device. The vacuum break device has a chamber in fluid communication with both the inlet and an outlet. The chamber may comprise one or more openings in fluid communication with the atmosphere. A conduit in fluid communication with the exhaust gas outlet may be connected directly or indirectly to a suction source. The suction source may be activated.

Abstract: There is disclosed an endotracheal tube which has a minimal cross-sectional profile for easy viewing of anatomical features during intubation. After the tube is placed into the trachea, the tube is adapted to increase the diameter. In this manner the tube diameter may be expanded to allow for decreased Work of Breathing (WOB) for patient, while not having so large a diameter as to cause tracheal discomfort.

Abstract: Various embodiments of flange members and tracheostomy tube assemblies including such flange members are provided. An embodiment of a flange member includes a base portion adapted to receive a proximal end of a cannula, a first flange disposed on a first side of the base portion, and a second flange member disposed on a second side of the base portion opposite the first side. The first flange and the second flange are adapted to rest against a patient's neck to maintain the flange member outside of a patient's airway. The flange member also includes a biocompatible pad reversibly integrated with at least one of the base portion, the first flange, and the second flange.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes systems and methods that utilize a tracheal tube adaptor system. The tracheal tube adaptor system includes a tracheal tube adaptor and/or a flaring jig. A proximal end of a tracheal tube may be flared and the tracheal tube adaptor may be coupled to the proximal end of the tracheal tube. The tracheal tube adaptor may be configured to easily attach and detach an end connector. The end connector may be used to couple a variety of medical devices such as a ventilator, a manual respirator, a nebulizer, a vaporizer, suctioning equipment, and so forth, to the tracheal tube. The use of the tracheal tube adaptor system and methods enables the rapid detachment and attachment of various end connectors, thus allowing the coupling of the tracheal tube to a variety of medical devices.

Abstract: An apparatus for maintaining a surgical airway and method for the same includes an elongated body insertable orally into a patient. The elongated body defines leading and trailing ends. A passageway is defined through the leading and trailing ends, such that surgical equipment may be insertable through the opening of the elongated body. A securing member may be connected to the trailing end that can hold the elongated body in a position such that an airway remains open to treat the patient, while supporting oxygen flow to the patient.

Abstract: A neonatal endotracheal tube stabilizer has a tube cradle, a tube fixation element attached to said tube cradle and a stabilization bar having a plurality of engagement elements. The stabilization bar extends on either side of the tube cradle to engage two cheek pads. The cheek pads each have a releasable engagement interface dimensioned to engage the engagement elements of the stabilization rod in at least one engaged position. When so engaged, the cradle firmly holds the endotracheal tube in a position selected by a health care provider.

Abstract: Many embodiments of an airway assembly and methods of using an airway assembly are disclosed. In one embodiment, an airway assembly includes an outer tube, an inner tube disposed coaxially with the outer tube, and a seal disposed on the inner tube. The seal is movable between a collapsed position and an expanded position where the seal engages an airway. Another embodiment is an airway assembly that includes an outer tube having a proximal portion and a distal portion, and an inner tube disposed coaxially with the outer tube. The inner tube has a proximal portion and a distal portion. The proximal portion of the outer tube has an outer diameter that is larger than an outer diameter of the distal portion of the outer tube.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes systems and methods that utilize a multi-lumen tube with an integral visualization apparatus, such as a camera. The multi-lumen tracheal tube system may include a camera apparatus that is positioned to facilitate left or right bronchial intubation. In addition, the camera apparatus may be a unitary assembly that functions to hold and position the camera relative to the tube and provides an acceptable profile for comfortable intubation. The camera apparatus may include additional components, such as integral light sources and flushing or cleaning devices to remove any buildup from the camera or optical components.

Abstract: Various embodiments of tracheostomy tube assemblies including a flange member having a variable volume are provided. The tracheostomy tube assemblies may include a cannula having a distal end and a proximal end. The distal end may be adapted to be inserted into a patient's trachea, and the flange member may be disposed about the proximal end of the cannula. The flange member is adapted to expand to a first volume and to contract to a second volume, the first volume being greater than the second volume.

Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods are disclosed for the cleaning of an endotracheal tube while a patient is being supported by a ventilator connected to the endotracheal tube. According to some embodiments, a mechanically-actuated non-inflatable cleaning device for scraping debris (e.g., biofilm) from an interior wall of an endotracheal tube is provided. In one embodiment, the cleaning device comprises an elongated member having a proximal end and a distal end and a mechanically-expandable scaffold positioned along the distal end of the elongated member. In one embodiment, the mechanically-expandable scaffold comprises one or more removal members configured to engage an interior surface of an endotracheal tube when the scaffold is in a radially-expanded position and to remove debris from the interior surface of the endotracheal tube when the device is withdrawn from the endotracheal tube.

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

Abstract: A medical stabilization device that directs medical tubing onto a compressible foam block where it is attached and stabilized to the patient's body allowing it to be secured against excessive movement, tube dislodgement and positioned in a time efficient manner to prevent obstruction of patient treatment.

Abstract: An inflatable balloon cuff may be adapted to seal a patient's trachea when associated with an endotracheal tube. These cuffs may include indicia that facilitate attachment of the cuff relative to the tube to reduce manufacturing variability for such characteristics as rotational and length alignment. Such indicia may include protrusions that are formed in the wall of the cuff collars or may include visual indicators, e.g., colorimetric or shape-wise indicators. Cuffs with improved attachment relative to the tube may have increased sealing performance.

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 system for unilateral lung ventilation includes an endotracheal tube and a blocking device for blocking the bronchus of a non-ventilated lung to prevent a ventilation medium from entering the lung. The blocking device includes an inflatable member supported by a catheter having an inflation lumen for inflating the inflatable member. The catheter includes at least one lung treatment lumen for delivering a therapeutic agent to the non-ventilated lung. An inner channel within the main channel and a side branch provide a guideway for the blocking device within the tube. A valve may be included to close the side branch when the blocking device is removed from the inner channel for parallel flow of ventilating gas in the main and inner channels. A method of using the system provides for ventilation/perfusion (V/Q) matching by respectively delivering cooled air and nitric oxide to the non-ventilated and ventilated lungs.

Abstract: A tracheotomy shield includes a first sheet defining an opening extending therethrough. The opening in the tracheotomy shield is configured to receive a portion of a tracheotomy tube assembly and to establish a liquid-tight seal about the portion of the tracheotomy tube assembly. The first sheet is wholly supported by the tracheotomy tube assembly.

Abstract: Described herein is an apparatus that includes an endotracheal tube or airway device having a proximal end and a distal end and an occlusion cuff. The occlusion cuff includes a sensor for helping determine proper endotracheal or airway device placement.

Abstract: A tracheal tube assembly includes a cannula configured to be positioned in a patient airway, the assembly further comprising a reinforcing member and/or extension member. The tracheal tube assembly further includes a flange member secured about the cannula. The tracheal tube assembly additionally includes a connector coupled to a proximal end of the cannula, wherein the cannula and the connector form a contiguous passageway for exchanging fluid with the patient airway in operation.

Abstract: A pulsed breathing device has a base unit containing a motor and control circuit and a detachable head unit containing a valve, driven by the motor, which can interrupt the flow of air being breathed.