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.

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 tracheostomy device has a short tube terminating adjacent the internal end of an opening into the trachea. A flange secures the external end of the tube and a retainer secures the internal end of the tube against the surface of the trachea. The device also includes a seal, which engages the surface of the trachea above the opening, and a suction passage extending externally by which secretions can be removed.

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.

Abstract: An adapter for use on a suction lumen of a catheter is disclosed. The adapter is capable of extending the suction capabilities of the catheter to a point distal to a suction port in the catheter. The adapter is at least partially inserted into the catheter. The adapter contains a plug and a duct. The duct has an inlet and an outlet. The duct effectively extends the reach of a suction source and the plug is adapted to seal the catheter between the adapter and the distal end.

Abstract: A respiratory apparatus includes an instrument introduction section that is used for introducing an instrument into an artificial airway of a patient. The instrument introduction section has a distal end and proximal end with an opening which allows for insertion of the instrument into the instrument introduction section. The instrument is movable through the passageway in the instrument introduction section between the proximal and distal ends. A valve is located in the instrument introduction section and has a closed position in which the instrument may be isolated from the artificial airway of the patient. The valve at least substantially blocks the passageway of the instrument introduction section when in the closed position. The valve also has an open position that allows for the instrument to be advanced through the instrument introduction section. A manifold is attached to the distal end of the instrument introduction section. The manifold is in communication with the artificial airway of the patient.

Abstract: A tracheotomy valve unit for use with a tracheotomy tube inserted into a patient's trachea comprises a first end for connection to the tracheotomy tube, a second end comprising a valve unit inlet, a first valve that permits airflow to the tube when the patient inhales and blocks airflow from the tube when the patient exhales thereby permitting speech, and a second valve that permits airflow from the tube back out the valve unit when the intrathoracic pressure during expiration is greater than about 12 cm of water. The second valve functions as a pressure release valve that increases tolerance and wearing comfort. In one embodiment, the second valve comprises a slit valve or an umbrella valve.

Abstract: According to the invention, methods and devices for increasing cardiopulmonary circulation induced by chest compression and decompression when performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation are provided. According to one method, a pressure responsive inflow valve is coupled to a patient's airway. Chest compressions and chest decompressions are performed. During chest decompression the inflow valve prevents respiratory gases from entering the lungs until a certain negative intrathoracic pressure level is exceeded at which time the one inflow valve opens. In this way, the inflow valve assists in increasing the magnitude and duration of negative intrathoracic pressure during decompression to enhance the amount of blood flow into the heart and lungs. Further, the patient is supplied with a pressurized respiratory gas through the inflow valve when the inflow valve opens to ventilate the patient.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a breathing-speaking valve intended to be used as a speaking valve of patients requiring filtration of inspiration air inhaled via tracheostomas and are mounted on a tracheal tube, which breathing-speaking valve includes a valve housing (1) inended to be attached to the tracheal tube and which comprises a check valve in the form of a membrane (10), which check valve opens when the patient inhales and closes at expiration and filter (7) for filtration of the inspiration air, which filter is located within this membrane, and optional, a nipple (6) for connection to a oxygen apparatus for oxygen delivery to the inspiration air whereby the filter (7) is laying against a number of ribs (5) located in the bottom (2) of the valve housing (1) and a nipple (6) for connection to a oxygen apparatus is mounted substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the valve housing (1) by the bottom of the valve housing (1), and said nipple (6) opens into the space (14) defined by t

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 (30), and a gas washout vent assembly (20). At least the region of the mask shell (12) or conduit (30) surrounding or adjacent the vent assembly is formed from a relatively flexible elastomeric material.

Abstract: A long term oxygen therapy system having an oxygen supply directly linked with a patients 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 patients 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.

Abstract: A respiratory suction catheter apparatus includes a suction catheter that has a tubular portion with a distal end. The suction catheter may be adapted for removing fluids from a patient by insertion of the tubular portion into an artificial airway of the patient and application of negative pressure to a lumen of the tubular portion. A catheter attachment section is present and has a proximal end that is attached to the suction catheter, and has a distal end that is configured for releasable attachment with an artificial airway structure that is attached to the patient. A valve is located in the catheter attachment section. The valve has a closed position that at least substantially blocks the passageway of the catheter attachment section which causes the tubular portion to be substantially isolated from the artificial airway 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: A facial mask includes a mask body that is adapted to be coupled to a patient's face. A valve system is coupled to the mask body to permit the inflow of respiratory gasses into the mask body and to permit the outflow of respiratory gasses from the mask body. A metronome is coupled to the mask body to produce a repeating chest compression signal to facilitate the performance of regular chest compressions when performing cardio pulmonary resuscitation. The metronome may also produce a ventilation signal to facilitate the proper ventilation of the patient.

Abstract: A nasal spray with a container for rinsing fluid, which has a delivery aperture, with a valve body kept movable in the region of the delivery aperture with a tube attached to said valve body, such that different swivel positions of the valve body in co-operation with the delivery aperture determine an open position (FIG. 2), in which the tube is in communication with the container, and a closed position (FIG. 1), in which the container is sealed, wherein the valve body can be swivelled into a ventilation position (FIG. 3) which is different from the open and closed positions, in which the container is ventilated and residue can be emptied.

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: By interposing an adapter between the endotracheal or tracheal tube inserted to a patient and the ventilation and suction systems that are connected to the endotracheal tube, a catheter could be inserted via an input port built into the adapter so as to enable a medical personnel to provide localized treatments in the lungs of a patient without having to disconnect either one of the systems connected to the endotracheal tube. The adapter is configured to have a securing mechanism that allows the medical personnel to secure the medication catheter in place. A one way valve fitted to the apertured arm that forms the input port of the adapter prevents any back flow of fluid from the input port.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved flap valve or other internal component for use with respiratory suction catheter and manifold assemblies. This flap valve or other internal component provides the assembly with an improved mechanism for cleaning the tip of the catheter without drawing an excessive amount of air from the respiration circuit to which the endotracheal catheter is attached. More specifically, the present invention relates principally to a closed suction endotracheal catheter system which provides improved cleaning of the catheter while minimizing air drawn from the patient's ventilation circuit by providing at least one protrusion on at least one surface of the flap valve or other internal component. By using a flap valve or other internal component with at least one protrusion, the flap valve or other internal component is strengthened and designed to prevent the flap from scraping mucus or other secretions from the catheter onto the distal surface of the flap during retraction.

Abstract: A flexible tracheotomy endotracheal tube comprises a short distal section of tubing, an intermediate section of tubing, a pre-formed obtuse-angle bend in the tube between the distal and intermediate sections, an elongated proximal section of tubing, a pre-formed abrupt bend in the tube between the intermediate and proximal sections, and an inflatable cuff integrated into the distal section of tubing.

Abstract: A pressure support system having enhanced noise reduction and a valve assembly for use in pressure support system. The pressure support system includes a pressure generator having an inlet and an outlet. A first conduit defining a tortuous path is coupled between a gas source and the inlet of the pressure generator. A second conduit coupled to the outlet of the pressure generator delivers the flow of gas from the pressure generator to a patient. A valve assembly communicates gas from the second conduit to the first conduit to control the pressure or a rate of the flow of gas in the second conduit. By communicating gas from the second conduit to the first conduit, the noise associated with exhausting gas from the second conduit is muffled by the tortuous path of the first conduit.

Abstract: Devices, kits, and methods for selectively and alternately isolating one of a pair of bronchi or lungs are provided. A main body has proximal and distal ends defining a lumen, a side port and opening formed near the distal end. An insert having first and second ends, and an aperture located near the second end, is configured to have the second end placed in the main body lumen. The insert aperture permits passageway to at least one of the main body side port or distal opening, while an exchangeable insert permits passageway to the other main body side port or opening, or optionally one insert moves between first and second positions to selectively and alternately permit passageway to the one or other main body side port or opening. Kits and methods are provided for selectively and alternately isolating one of a pair of bronchi or lungs.

Abstract: A device for adapting a transtracheal catheter to a tracheostomy tube includes a plurality of projections for engaging a security flange of the transtracheal catheter. The device provides for proper orientation of a beveled end of the catheter tube when the security flange is oriented as directed with it longest flat side up. A method of adapting a transtracheal catheter to a patient's tracheostomy tube is also provided for providing the delivery of heated and/or humidified gas to tracheotomized patients and/or for weaning a ventilator-dependent patient from the ventilator.

Abstract: An open ventilation system for intensified breathing that includes both a manual ventilation system and an automatic ventilation system. A ventilation selection switch is positioned in the system prior to the patient circuit to select between the manual and automatic ventilation systems. The manual ventilation system includes a manual bag filling valve that controls the flow of inhalation gases from the ventilation selection switch to a manual bag. The manual bag filling valve includes a valve assembly that is movable between an open position and a closed position based on the difference in the forces created by the pressures of the manual bag and the inhalation gas.

Abstract: A valve for use in a CPAP system or any stem at a pressure above ambient which vents the pressurised gases from the blower during expiration. Due to the pressure-flow characteristics of the blower this results in the patient having a much lower airway pressure during expiration making breathing easier. The valve includes a movable member which blocks flow from the blower to the patient during exhalation and vents externally. During inhalation gases flow normally from the blower to the patient. Also disclosed is a further application as an antiasphyxia.

Abstract: A tracheostoma valve is described for use within a tracheostoma to facilitate speech by use of a vocal prosthesis, which consists of a valve housing defining a valve cavity having an airflow passage therethrough between at least one rearward and at least one forward aperture, and a valve member. The valve member includes a fixed rear portion connected to a forward portion by a collapsible sleeve such that the forward portion is deployable from a collapsed configuration under vegetative breathing pressure wherein the air flow passage is open to an expanded configuration under speech pressure whereat the forward portion acts to restrict flow through the air flow passage.

Abstract: A device for metering anesthetic is provided such that a new anesthetic is immediately available for the metering when the anesthetic is changed. The metering device has an assembly unit that can be removed from the medical apparatus as a module with a reservoir (4) for a liquid anesthetic, an intermediate container (9) arranged downstream of the reservoir (4), a metering gas source (11) connected to the intermediate container (9) and a metering element (14) for anesthetic on the discharge side of the intermediate container (9). An evaporator chamber (15) may be provided for evaporating the metered anesthetic. A connecting device lets through at least anesthetic vapor as an interface between the assembly unit (1) and the medical apparatus (2).

Abstract: A stoma stent with an internal, self-contained flap valve permitting speech. The one-way flap valve is part of the stent.

Abstract: An improved respiratory suction apparatus catheter includes a manifold for attachment to the distal hub of an endotracheal tube to form a respiration circuit, a catheter tube which is displaceable through the manifold and into the endotracheal tube to suction secretions from the tube and lungs, and a valve mechanism disposed adjacent the respiration circuit to minimize the draw of air from the respiration circuit of a patient while the catheter tube is being cleaned. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the catheter tube is cleaned more thoroughly than in the prior art while simultaneously drawing little or no air from the patient's respiration circuit.

Abstract: A flow control device includes a sealing component that can be positioned within a bronchial lumen. The sealing component can comprise two or more overlapping segments that are movable relative to one another such that the segments collectively form a seal that can expand and contract in size to fit within and seal bronchial lumens of various sizes.

Abstract: The present invention provides improved methods, systems, devices and kits for performing lung volume reduction in patients suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or other conditions where isolation of a lung segment or reduction of lung volume is desired. The methods are minimally invasive with instruments being introduced through the mouth (endotracheally) and rely on isolating the target lung tissue segment from other regions of the lung. Isolation is achieved by deploying an obstructive device in a lung passageway leading to the target lung tissue segment. Once the obstructive device is anchored in place, the segment can be aspirated through the device. This may be achieved by a number of methods, including coupling an aspiration catheter to an inlet port on the obstruction device and aspirating through the port.

Abstract: An endotracheal tube bulb aspirator system has a bulb with a top end, a bottom end with an open bottom, and a transition zone therebetween. A first interior space in the top end is contiguous with a second interior space in the bottom end. At least one first flapper valve on the bulb includes at least one aperture in the bulb and an associated sheet positioned over the associated aperture with a portion of one edge being free. A second flapper valve is positioned adjacent the transitional zone between the first interior space and the second interior space has support beams and a disc with free edges coupled centrally to the support beams.

Abstract: The valve mounting system of the invention incorporates a hard cartridge with a grove on its outer, distal surface and a slot communicating distal from the end of the cartridge with the grove and a specially configured elastomeric valve attached to an outer band with a short tab. The band is positioned with the tab aligned with the slot and is stretched and is slid proximally over the cartridge until the tap enters the slot and the band snaps into the seats in the groove. The width of the slot is the same as the width of the tab providing exact alignment of the valve element with the seat provided in the cartridge. The tab can be disposed at an angle to the seat to preload the valve element against the seat.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods and devices for regulating fluid flow to and from a region of a patient's lung, such as to achieve a desired fluid flow dynamic to a lung region during respiration and/or to induce collapse in one or more lung regions. An identified region of the lung is targeted for treatment, such as to modify the flow to the targeted lung region or to achieve volume reduction or collapse of the targeted lung region. The targeted lung region is then bronchially isolated to regulate airflow into and/or out of the targeted lung region through one or more bronchial passageways that feed air to the targeted lung region. The bronchial isolation of the targeted lung region is accomplished by implanting a flow control device into a bronchial passageway that feeds air to a targeted lung region.

Abstract: This invention is a secretion, a suction device, and kit for intubated or tracheostomized patients including a suction valve (1) having a body (2) with a chamber (3) where a selective obstruction device (4) is assembled. The device further includes a spherical valve (45) which selectively opens or closes a passage for a probe (25) through a patient/ventilator connection (56). The kit allows for the correct positioning of the suction device, including a plastic sheathing (65), and a tube for disposal of the suction device.

Abstract: An improved trachea suction system includes a suction catheter with a high efficiency suction control valve providing unobstructed fluid flow in its activated suction applied mode for removal of viscous secretions at a low level of applied input suction through the catheter. The valve also non-restrictive to air flow at the distal tip of the catheter. The valve ideally part of a closed tracheal suction system having a catheter isolator seal with a vortex action catheter cleaning chamber located in front of the isolator seal which takes advantage of the high efficiency characteristics of the suction control valve.

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 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: 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: An insufflation system that includes a first tube that inserts into a patient's airway for providing a primary flow of breathing gas to such a patient. At least one insufflation catheter is provided in or within the first tube for delivering a flow of insufflation gas to the patient. In one embodiment, a flow control system is coupled between the first tube, the insufflation catheter, and a source of insufflation gas to control the flow of gas between the patient circuit, the insufflation catheter, and the source of insufflation gas. In another embodiment, a ventilator and tracheal gas insufflation system are provided in a common housing.

Abstract: A respiratory apparatus includes an instrument introduction section that is used for introducing an instrument into an artificial airway of a patient. The instrument introduction section has a distal end and proximal end with an opening which allows for insertion of the instrument into the instrument introduction section. The instrument is movable through the passageway in the instrument introduction section between the proximal and distal ends. A valve is located in the instrument introduction section and has a closed position in which the instrument may be isolated from the artificial airway of the patient. The valve at least substantially blocks the passageway of the instrument introduction section when in the closed position. The valve also has an open position that allows for the instrument to be advanced through the instrument introduction section. A manifold is attached to the distal end of the instrument introduction section. The manifold is in communication with the artificial airway of the patient.

Abstract: A tracheal cannula (1) which is inserted into the trachea (9) after tracheotomy. The cannula comprises a shaft (2) and a cuff (3) to block the tracheotomy surrounding the shaft (2). Speaking is made possible even in the case of patients at risk for aspiration due to the fact that a membrane-protected window (4) is embodied in the section of the shaft (2) located above the cuff (3).

Abstract: An improved respiratory suction apparatus—catheter includes a manifold for attachment to the distal hub of an endotracheal tube to form a respiration circuit, a catheter tube which is displaceable through the manifold and into the endotracheal tube to suction secretions from the tube and lungs, and a valve mechanism disposed adjacent the respiration circuit to minimize the draw of air from the respiration circuit of a patient while the catheter is being cleaned. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the catheter is cleaned more thoroughly than in the prior art while simultaneously drawing little or no air from the patient's respiration circuit.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a tracheal ventilating device, especially a tracheal tube or tracheal cannula which obturates the trachea as hermetically as possible for ventilating a patient, the device comprising a cuffed balloon which blocks the trachea below the glottis and through which a ventilating cannula is passed, with the cuffed balloon when filled or inflated and freely unfolded without any limitation, being larger than when placed in the trachea in an inflated state, and being made from a soft flexible foil material. To intubate a patient with said device as gently as possible at low pressures over a long period of time and with a low risk of infection, the invention suggests that the draped fold of the cuffed balloon should rest on the trachea and be designed in such a way that the loop created at the dead end of a fold has a small diameter which inhibits the free flow of secretion through the loop of said fold.

Abstract: A tracheostomy valve (10) having a low profile for use on a tracheal tube (100) of a user. The tracheostomy valve is a unidirectional valve which allows gases to enter into the tracheal tube but does not allow gases to exit the tracheal tube through the tracheostomy valve. The valve includes a valve body (12), a flapper valve (24), a valve clamp (26) and a cover (32). The valve body has notches (30) which provide inlets (18) for the gases to move past the valve body. The valve clamp has grooves which provide inlets for the gases to move past the valve clamp into the valve body. The cover mounts over the second end (12B) of the valve body and holds the valve clamp and flapper valve in position in the hole of the valve body.

Abstract: An improved manual resuscitation device such as a bag-valve-mask (BVM) device with flow control valve to eliminate the danger of patient distension and aspiration of stomach contents during ventilation. The BVM having the usual patient mask with a gas inlet and flexible patient face sealing edge, flexible manually squeezed bag with a one way intake and output valves in flow communication with a gas source and the mask inlet, and exhaust port for exhausting exhaled gas from the mask when the bag output valve is closed. The flow control valve is interposed between the mask and bag to automatically and variably limit the rate of gas flow from the bag to the mask between a predetermined minimum flow rate and a maximum flow rate. A similar flow control valve can be included in any manual resuscitation device such as a pocket mask or face shield to equal advantage.

Abstract: A valved tracheotomy tube device usable with conventional tracheostomy tubes wherein the valve housing is of very low profile and covered with an attractive cap so as to appear as a necklace jewelry piece, and preferably, a necklace of attractive jewelry is associated with the tracheostomy tube support so that the entire device is of an attractive, aesthetically acceptable appearance eliminating the medical configuration and appearance of the device.

Abstract: A tracheotomy valve unit for use with a tracheotomy tube inserted into a patient's trachea comprises a first end for connection to the tracheotomy tube, a second end comprising a valve unit inlet, a first valve that permits airflow to the tube when the patient inhales and blocks airflow from the tube when the patient exhales thereby permitting speech, and a second valve that permits airflow from the tube back out the valve unit when the intrathoracic pressure during expiration is greater than about 12 cm of water. The second valve functions as a pressure release valve that increases tolerance and wearing comfort. In one embodiment, the second valve comprises a slit valve or an umbrella valve.

Abstract: A manifold assembly useful in patient ventilation/aspiration systems includes a stop cock valve with a hollow stem and a transverse slot arranged to permit the stem to be rotated between open and closed positions. In both positions, a ventilating pathway is maintained through the slot and the stem between ventilator and patient connection ports of the manifold. In open position the stem provides a travel pathway for a catheter between the patient connection port and an access port of the manifold. In closed condition, the stem seals this travel pathway. Catheter depth finding features and internally walled manifold structure for direction of respiratory therapy fluids particularly useful for neonatal patients are presented.

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: An insufflation system that includes a first tube that inserts into a patient's airway for providing a primary flow of breathing gas to such a patient. At least one insufflation catheter is provided in or within the first tube for delivering a flow of insufflation gas to the patient. In one embodiment, the flow of insufflation gas is delivered in a first direction generally toward the patient's lungs and in a second direction generally opposite the first direction so that the flow in the second direction is greater than the flow in the first direction. As a result, a negative stagnation pressure is created that is sufficient to substantially cancel out the positive stagnation pressure generated by flow in the first direction in conjunction with a pressure drop induced in the first tube by the presence of the insufflation catheter.