Abstract: The invention relates to a phonation assistance device for a tracheotomy patient, including: an exhalation circuit connected to a tracheotomy cannula inserted in the trachea of the patient, the exhalation circuit including an outlet opening for the passage of the air exhaled by the patient; and a valve for opening/closing the outlet opening for normally assuming, when the patient inhales, a position for closing the outlet opening and, when the patient exhales, a position for closing the outlet opening. It also includes means for the positive priority control of the valve for selectively moving the valve into the closed position when the patient exhales.

Abstract: A mouthpiece supply valve which may be used in connection with a rebreather. An exemplary mouthpiece supply valve may include a housing, an inlet mushroom valve, an outlet mushroom valve, a supply gas regulator, an exhaust valve, and a mode selector. An exemplary mouthpiece supply valve may perform manual diluent valve, automatic diluent valve, overpressure relief valve, excess fluid ejection, and bail-out valve functions.

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 speaking tube for a patient's airway management having a body with a chamber formed therein connected to a tracheotomy tube. A plurality of ramps are disposed within the chamber retaining a ball therein. The body is rotatable through 180° to adjust the positioning of the ball when the patient inhales and exhales, thereby facilitating speech by the patient. An adapter for heat moisture exchange is attachable to the body.

Abstract: A valve, usable in connection with a tracheostomy tube, permits phonation by selectively blocking passage of air therethrough. The valve includes a main body portion with first and second internal passages. A first aperture extends radially through a peripheral wall, connecting the first internal passage to an environment external to the main body. A second aperture extends radially through the peripheral wall, connecting the second internal passage to the environment. A trach body portion defines a third internal passage and is connected to the main body portion. A flapper valve is sandwiched between the main body portion and the trach body portion. First and second adjustment rings permit adjustment of opening defined by the first and second apertures, thereby permitting control over the air passing through the first and second apertures.

Abstract: A method of operating a ventilator assembly having inhalation and exhalation passages communicating with one another, and a respiration assembly that can perform repetitive respiratory cycles. The method includes (a) repetitively cycling the respiration assembly so that during the inhalation phase, gas in the inhalation passage flows to the patient, and during the exhalation phase, an exhalation valve is maintained relatively closed and the exhaled gases flow pass the vocal cords and out of the mouth thereby facilitating the patient's ability to speak, (c) monitoring the pressure within at least one of the passages during the exhalation phase, and (d) determining whether a circuit disconnect or an occlusion exists based on the pressure monitoring.

Abstract: A tracheostoma valve (1) comprises a main air passage structure provided with a main valve arrangement. The tracheostoma valve is switchable in response to a spurt of inhalation air from a breathing condition into a speaking condition, while the tracheostoma valve is switchable in response to a spurt of exhalation air from said speaking condition into said breathing condition. The main valve arrangement comprises an at least partly flexible bistable wall portion which has a circumferential bordering edge. At least part of the bordering edge forms a hinging means around which the bistable wall portion is hingeable between a first stable position in which an orifice of the main air passage structure is being blocked, and a second stable position in which said orifice is released.

Abstract: A method for regulating gas flows into and out of a patient includes repetitively forcing respiratory gases out of the lungs. Respiratory gases are prevented from entering back into the lungs during a time between when respiratory gases are forced out of the lungs. Periodically, an oxygen-containing gas is supplied to the lungs.

Abstract: Fluid flow regulators and fluid conservers are disclosed. An exemplary fluid conserver may be operated in one of an intermittent mode of operation and a continuous mode of operation. Further, the exemplary conserver provides at least two pulses of fluid in response to a first trigger, such as the inhalation of a patient.

Abstract: Lung conditions are treated by implanting a flow restrictor in a passageway upstream from a diseased lung segment. The restrictor will create an orifice at the implantation site which inhibits air exchange with the segment to induce controlled atelectasis and/or hypoxia. Controlled atelectasis can induce collapse of the diseased segment with a reduced risk of pneumothorax. Hypoxia can promote gas exchange with non-isolated, healthy regions of the lung even in the absence of lung collapse.

Abstract: A device comprising a unit (1) through which a subject can breathe, the unit comprising: an opening (AA) to allow airflow communication to the outside of the device; a mouthpiece element (2) through which the subject can breathe air in from and out into the device; and means for providing resistance (4) to airflow positioned between the opening and the mouthpiece element, said means being arranged to controllably vary the resistance to airflow during inspiration or expiration. Also provided are methods for the use of such a device.

Abstract: 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 one aspect of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The system includes a trap, a filter/one-way valve and an air carrying conduit. The system also includes a retention device for securing system elements in position.

Abstract: The embodiments of the present tracheostomy valves include a flexible diaphragm abutting a rib shaped substantially as a flat plate. Opposite the rib, the diaphragm abuts a boss and forms an uninterrupted seal therewith. As the tracheostomized patient inhales, the diaphragm bends about the rib, interrupting the seal and allowing air to flow smoothly into the valve. The features of the various embodiments contribute to a positive seal at all times except during inhalation, and low resistance to airflow through the valve during inhalation.

Abstract: A method of minimally invasively reducing a volume of a hyper-inflated target section of diseased lung comprising the steps of introducing a bronchoscope into a patient's airway to a position adjacent the target section and equilibrating air within the target section with atmospheric air to at least partially deflate the target lung section; injecting an inflammation-causing substance into the target section to precipitate adhesion of the walls within the target lung section, preventing substantial re-inflation of the target section by occluding an airway upstream of the target section for a period of time, and removing the airway occlusion after the target section has substantially permanently been reduced in volume. The injected substance can be autologous blood or a constituent thereof.

Abstract: A positive pressure endotracheal device used with an air source which provides transmission of continuous positive pressure into the lungs using an inspiratory line and a one-way valve placed within the inspiratory line. This one-way valve will not allow exhaled air to return through the inspiratory line. The pressure in the device is measured with a monitor line which is connected to the air source and the disclosed Positive Pressure Endotracheal Device. The device includes: 1) WYE molded endotracheal connector interface, 2) a primary pressure release port, 3) a pressure monitor port, 4) a dispenser port (optional), 5) and inspiratory line (smooth walled), 6) a one-way valve connected to the inspiratory line, 7) an expiratory line (smooth walled), and 8) a peep valve connected on an end of the expiratory line to control lung inflation pressure at the end of exhalation.

Abstract: The embodiments of the present tracheostomy valves include a flexible diaphragm abutting a rib shaped substantially as a flat plate. Opposite the rib, the diaphragm abuts a boss and forms an uninterrupted seal therewith. As the tracheostomized patient inhales, the diaphragm bends about the rib, interrupting the seal and allowing air to flow smoothly into the valve. The features of the various embodiments contribute to a positive seal at all times except during inhalation, and low resistance to airflow through the valve during inhalation.

Abstract: A method of operating a ventilator assembly having inhalation and exhalation passages communicating with one another, and a respiration assembly that can perform repetitive respiratory cycles. The method includes (a) connecting the conduit with an open end of an endotracheal tube positioned within the trachea so that the open end leads into the airway below the vocal cords, (b) repetitively cycling the respiration assembly so that during the inhalation phase, gas in the inhalation passage flows through the endotracheal tube and into the airway, and during the exhalation phase, an exhalation valve is maintained relatively closed and the exhaled gases flow pass the vocal cords and out of the mouth thereby facilitating the patient's ability to speak, and (c) monitoring ring the pressure within at least one of the passages during both phases for determining the pressure within the patient for use in operating the ventilator assembly.

Abstract: A device for facilitating fluid delivery to the trachea of a patient which comprises, a tubular housing adapted to be sealably mounted on an elongate element of an endoscope for examining the trachea of the patient and configured to mount an adapter for an endotracheal tube for intubating the patient over and around the elongate element, the housing having at least one inlet into a cavity inside the housing for supplying at least a first fluid and an outlet for delivering the first fluid between the elongate element and an inside wall of the endotracheal tube mounted on the adapter.

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: A method of operating a ventilator assembly having inhalation and exhalation passages communicating with one another, and a respiration assembly that can perform repetitive respiratory cycles. The method includes (a) connecting the conduit with an open end of an endotracheal tube positioned within the trachea so that the open end leads into the airway below the vocal cords, (b) repetitively cycling the respiration assembly so that during the inhalation phase, gas in the inhalation passage flows through the endotracheal tube and into the airway, and during the exhalation phase, an exhalation valve is maintained relatively closed and the exhaled gases flow pass the vocal cords and out of the mouth thereby facilitating the patient's ability to speak, and (c) monitoring ring the pressure within at least one of the passages during both phases for determining the pressure within the patient for use in operating the ventilator assembly.

Abstract: Methods and devices are disclosed for manipulating the airway, such as to treat obstructive sleep apnea. An implant is positioned within the body with respect to the airway. The spatial orientation of the airway is manipulated, directly or indirectly, to affect the configuration of the airway. In general, the implant is manipulated to displace the trachea in an inferior direction, resist superior displacement of the trachea and/or to alter the tracheal wall tension. The implant restrains the trachea in the manipulated configuration.

Abstract: Methods, apparatus, and kits for enhancing breathing in patients suffering from chronic pulmonary obstructive disease are described. The methods and apparatus rely on increasing flow resistance to expiration in a manner which mimics “pursed lip” breathing which has been found to benefit patients suffering from this disease. In a first example, a device is implanted in a trachea or bronchial passage to increase flow resistance, preferably selectively increase resistance to expiration relative to inspiration. In a second embodiment, a mouthpiece is provided, again to increase resistance to expiration, preferably with a lesser increase in flow resistance to inspiration. In a third embodiment, the patient's trachea or bronchial passage is modified by the application of energy in order to partially close the lumen therethrough.

Abstract: A tracheotomy tube apparatus includes an outer cannula having first and second ends, a fenestration along the length of the outer cannula between the first and second ends, and a first inner cannula sized for insertion into the outer cannula. The first inner cannula includes a resilient region which lies adjacent the fenestration when the first inner cannula is properly oriented within the outer cannula, and a valve operatively associated with the first inner cannula. A region between the resilient region and the valve provides a passageway between the first inner cannula and the outer cannula when the first inner cannula is properly oriented within the outer cannula.

Abstract: A voice prosthesis dilator and sizer device is provided including an elongated member having a first end with a tip and a flange and a second end with a stop portion. The elongated member includes an intermediate portion with a measuring area disposed adjacent to the flange and including measuring indicia thereon and having a dilation area adjacent to the second end. The elongated member also includes a recessed region adjacent to the flange to receive the flange in a folded position upon insertion into the non-dilated fistula. The dilation area has a larger diameter than the measuring area.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to devices and methods for finite control and regulation of patient intrathoracic pressures, and more specifically, to devices and methods that finitely regulates a patient's intrathoracic pressures during repeated cycling events (i.e. respiration) by use of a cross-seal vent valve to form transient pressure windows. The cross-seal vent valve is biased against the pressure necessary to evacuate and/or inflate the lungs of that patient, while a controlled venting of that pressure by at least a partial volume thereof allows for controlled resetting of the baseline pressure to anatomical norms. This enhanced means for regulating intrathoracic pressure are applicable in a number of medically important therapies, including but not limited to, conditioning of pulmonary systems for acclimation to altered environmental conditions, reconditioning of pulmonary system after operating in a diminished state, and application in cardiopulmonary resuscitation procedures.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a novel device and method for providing a disposable endotracheal intubation device for use with an auxiliary passageway serving as a guide for the placement of an orogastic or other enterally directed device in a patient. The present invention pertains to a combination intubation device comprising an endotracheal tube and a catheter proximate the endotracheal tube to guide the path of an enteral tube. In a preferred embodiment, the endotracheal tube is capable of defining an arcuate path in a first geometric plane between its proximal end and its distal end to facilitate introduction of the tube into the trachea of a patient. In a preferred embodiment, the catheter employs a fenestration to facilitate removal of the intubation device from the patient without removal of any enteral device previously directed therethrough into the patient.

Abstract: A nasal cannula for delivering respiratory gas to a neonatal infant includes a gas inlet configured to engage a respiratory conduit, a gas outlet configured to engage an expiratory conduit, and a pair of nasal prongs. The gases inlet and the gases outlet are in fluid communication via a low resistance path. Each of the nasal prongs is located substantially equidistant from, and in fluid communication with, the gases inlet, and substantially equidistant from and in fluid communication with, the gases outlet. The nasal prongs are juxtaposed directly in the low resistance path.

Abstract: A breathing circuit is described for the supplying of low pressure oxygen to a patient that is at risk of hypoxia. The breathing circuit includes a patent airway maintaining device, a first tube that includes a substantially rigid elbow and connectors and a flexible tubular extension. An inflatable bag is coupled to the first tube and has a pressure relief valve that exhausts into the atmosphere. A second tube has a first end that terminates in proximity to the patent airway maintaining device and a second opposed end that terminates external to the first tube. A third tube connects an external source of oxygen to the second tube. A method for an oxygen breathing circuit is also described that further includes the use of a carbon dioxide monitor and the inflatable bag for assisted breathing. The breathing circuit uses only non-metallic polymer or composite type materials.

Abstract: The disclosed laryngeal mask airway device includes a rigid airway tube, a mask portion, and a viewing system. The mask portion is inflatable and can be inserted, when deflated, through a patient's mouth to a location near the patient's glottic opening. The mask portion also includes an epiglottis elevator bar and a distal end of the bar defines an aperture. The viewing system has a proximal end located outside the patient. The viewing system also has a distal end positioned so that light rays can pass from a portion of the patient's anatomy, through the aperture in the elevator bar, and into the distal end of the viewing system.

Abstract: A lung-volume-reduction device for treating a lung to relieve symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and/or emphysema. The device includes a chest-mounted housing and a conduit which projects from the housing through an aperture in the chest of the patient into the lung. The other end of the conduit is connected to flow-control device which may include a valve such as a one-way valve, check valve or pressure-actuated valve. The flow-control device is positioned within the chest-mounted housing. The lung-volume-reduction device permits gasses to pass through the conduit and flow-control device and vent to atmosphere external of the patient.

Abstract: A respiratory suction catheter assembly includes a manifold supporting a rotatable swivel member for engagement with an endotracheal tube, and a seal support body disposed on a boss of the manifold opposite the part supporting the swivel for supporting a catheter tube seal and a porous filter for filtering air flowing into and out of a flexible elongated sheath enclosing the catheter tube. The sheath includes opposed tapered ends secured to the seal support body and to a boss on a suction control valve housing. The valve housing supports a tapered plug closure member engageable with a resilient actuator and a slide-lock member. Certain components, including the sheath, the seal support body, the filter, the catheter tube seal and the catheter tube may be treated with an anti-microbial agent.

Abstract: Treatment of a pneuomothroax or other condition wherein unwanted fluid is present in a pleural cavity is achieved using a system comprising a chest device (1) and a mouth device (3). The chest device comprises a catheter having at least one opening and a one-way outlet valve arrangement. The mouth device comprises a body defining a cavity, a mouthpiece opening into the cavity, a one-way inlet valve arrangement, and a one-way outlet valve arrangement opening at a positive pressure greater than the outlet valve arrangement of the chest device. The catheter of the chest device is inserted through the chest to open into the pleural cavity (50). The mouthpiece of the mouth device is placed in the mouth. The patient inhales and exhales through the mouth device. During exhalation a positive pressure is developed in the chest against the outlet valve arrangement of the mouth device, which drives the unwanted fluid out of the pleural cavity through the chest device.

Abstract: A closed specimen collection system includes a port tube that is rotatably attached to tubing of a urinary drainage system attached to an indwelling urinary catheter. The port tube has a one-way valve located adjacent one end formed to fit sealably with a shaped nozzle. A collection has a proximal end and a distal end with a shaped nozzle at the proximal end adapted to fit sealably into the port tube adjacent the one-way valve. A specimen container has a hollow body, a back end and a front end with a sealable aperture sized and shaped to attach to the distal end of the collection tube. A piston fits closely within the hollow body and is attached to an actuating rod. When the actuating rod is moved away from the front end of the container, urine will flow into the specimen container through the collection tube in a sterile condition.

Abstract: A tracheotomy tube apparatus includes an outer cannula having first and second ends, and a fenestration along the length of the outer cannula between the first and second ends. The apparatus further includes a first inner cannula sized for insertion into the outer cannula. The first inner cannula has a raised region substantially to close the fenestration when the first inner cannula is inserted into the outer cannula. The apparatus further comprises a second inner cannula for insertion into the outer cannula when the first inner cannula is removed therefrom. The second inner cannula includes a resilient region which lies adjacent the fenestration when the second inner cannula is properly oriented within the outer cannula, a valve at an end thereof and a region between the resilient region and the end thereof which provides a passageway between the second inner cannula and the outer cannula when the second inner cannula is properly oriented within the outer cannula.

Abstract: According to one aspect of the present invention, an aerosol inhalation system includes a first conduit member for delivering medication in the form of aerosol particles to a patient. The system also includes a first device in fluid communication with the first holding chamber for producing the aerosol particles and being sealingly yet releasably received within an adapter that forms an entrance into a first holding chamber. The adapter has a compressible material disposed thereon which is at least partially compressed by insertion of the first device to form the seal between the first device and the adapter, thereby creating a closed system that is therefore capable of delivering a fixed concentration of the medication to the patient due to a valve of the valve mechanism being closed when the patient inhales and the medication is delivered to the patient.

Abstract: Apparatus for assisting phonation in a wearer of a tracheostomy tube having a first end lying outside the trachea of the wearer in the use orientation, a second end lying inside the trachea of the wearer in the use orientation, and a first lumen coupling the first and second ends of the tracheostomy tube. The tracheostomy tube may or may not include a fenestration through a sidewall of the tracheostomy tube coupling the first lumen to the outside of the tracheostomy tube. The apparatus includes a cannula for insertion into the first lumen from the first end of the tracheostomy tube. The cannula includes a first end lying outside the first end of the tracheostomy tube in the use orientation, a second, opposite end, and a second lumen coupling the first and second ends of the cannula.

Abstract: Methods and systems for lung volume reduction of a patient are described. The methods include implanting a flow control device in a bronchial passageway of the lung. The flow control device regulates fluid flow through the bronchial passageway and includes a valve protector that at least partially surrounds a valve member. The valve protector has sufficient rigidity to maintain the shape of the valve member against compression.

Abstract: A respiratory interface device includes a respiratory mask that interfaces with a face of a patient. The respiratory mask comprises a body portion that forms an enclosure around a nose of a patient and at least one set of headgear strap flanges. The body portion is substantially entirely manufactured from an elastomeric material. A bellows-like structure is integrally molded in the body portion to create a sealing interface between an inner bottom portion of the mask and the patient's nose.

Abstract: A mask (10) for use with a system for supplying breathable gas pressurised above atmospheric pressure to a human or animal's airways. The mask (10) includes a mask shell (12) which is, in use, in fluid communication with a gas supply conduit and a gas washout vent assembly (20). The gas washout vent assembly (20) includes at least one gas washout orifice (22) extending from a first side of the vent assembly (20) positioned, in use, adjacent the human or animal's face and a second side positioned, in use, adjacent the atmosphere. The cross-sectional area of the orifice (22) at the first side is larger than the cross-sectional area of the orifice (22) at the second side.

Abstract: A system for adjusting a gas delivery mask is provided. The system may include a first housing portion, a first rim flexibly coupled to the first housing portion by a flexible member, a second housing portion coupled to the first housing portion, a second rim associated with the second housing portion, and a ball rotatably disposed between the first and second rims and having a gas passageway extending therethrough. The ball may be maintained in contact with both the first and second rims by a resiliency of the flexible member.

Abstract: A plaster for attaching a trachestoma valve in connection with a traceostoma on a person's neck. The plaster comprises a socket and an annular flange, communicating with a central opening of the flange which is connected with a single-coated adhesive tape, which extends radially beyond the edge of the flange. The connection includes a first annular joint at or inwardly of the outer periphery of the flange, and a second annular joint located between the outer periphery of the flange and the inner periphery of the flange spaced radially from the first annular joint. A protecting liner covers the adhesive on the tape.

Abstract: Disclosed is a flow control device for a bronchial passageway. The device can includes a valve member that regulates fluid flow through the flow control device, a frame coupled to the valve member, and a membrane attached to the frame. At least a portion of the flow control device forms a seal with the interior wall of the bronchial passageway when the flow control device is implanted in the bronchial passageway. The membrane forms a fluid pathway from the seal into the valve member to direct fluid flowing through the bronchial passageway into the valve member.

Abstract: According to the invention, the device for respiratory assistance (1) is tubular, forms a main channel (5), comprises at least one auxiliary channel (8) connected to a source (25) of breathable gas, has means of diversion (36) for diverting a volume fraction of the breathable gas intended for the auxiliary channel (8), and means of aspiration (38) which aspirate ambient air and are driven by the diverted fraction of breathable gas, in such a way that the aspirated ambient air, mixed with the diverted fraction of breathable gas, is conveyed into the main channel (5) between the distal orifice (18) of the auxiliary channel (8) and the distal end (7) of the main channel (5).

Abstract: A system to alleviate a symptom of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in a lung of a patient by providing a ventilation bypass pathway which allows air to exit the lung via the bronchus or trachea. The system includes a conduit connected by an airway connection device to an artificial opening through a wall of a region of a trachea and a bronchus external to the lung. The other end of the conduit is connected by a lung connection device to an artificial opening through a visceral membrane of the lung. An access fitting is connected to the conduit between the first end of the conduit and the second end of the conduit and allows intermittent access to the lumen from outside the patient.

Abstract: A laryngeal mask includes an airway conduit, and a mask connected to the airway conduit, the mask that includes an inflatable portion. An inflation lumen is coupled to the inflatable portion of the mask as well as an inflation valve. The inflation valve includes an exterior housing that has an exit aperture and a stem that is movable between an open position and a closed position. A vent clip is removably coupled to the inflation valve and includes a body portion, an exterior housing interface portion extending from the body portion and a finger extending from the body portion. The exterior housing interface portion includes a gripping surface which is formed to contact at least an approximately 90 degree portion of the inflation valve exterior housing and the finger maintains the inflation valve in an open position.

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: In one embodiment, the invention provides a medical method for treating a person and comprises repeatedly compressing the person's chest. While repeatedly compressing the person's chest, the method further includes repeatedly delivering a positive pressure breath to the person and extracting respiratory gases from the person's airway using a vacuum following the positive pressure breath to create an intrathoracic vacuum to lower pressures in the thorax and to enhance blood flow back to the heart.

Abstract: An endoscopic bite block system for increasing the speed and efficiency of an endoscopic procedure. The endoscopic bite block system includes a base member including a central opening and at least one tube attachment, a channel member latitudinally extending from an outer edge of the central opening and a strap member removably attached to the base member, wherein the strap member removably attaches the base member to the mouth of the patient.

Abstract: One embodiment of an air flow regulating device may include a first chamber, a first one-way valve, a second chamber, and a second one-way valve. The first chamber may include an intermediate member having a tapered opening, a first hollow adaptor may be coupled to a ventilation tube for receiving air, and a second hollow adaptor may be coupled to an endotracheal tube for delivering the air to a patient. The first one-way valve may be carried within an end portion of the intermediate member. The second chamber may enclose the first chamber for configuring a hollow space therebetween. The second one-way valve may be configured between the first chamber and the second chamber for regulating a flow of the air through the tapered opening toward the hollow space, and to vibrate the air upon emerging from tapered opening.

Abstract: A bronchoscopy oxygenation system having a channel for inserting alternately an instrument or fluids and for delivering oxygen to a patient. The system being provided with pressure relief vent and a pressure relief valve for the relief of excessive oxygen pressure. The bronchoscopy oxygenation system may be used during bronchoscopy and with patient suctioning, bronchoalveolar lavage or biopsy. The bronchoscopy oxygenation system is intended to be used with a conventional bronchoscope.