Abstract: An airway holder for use in holding an airway device, such as an air or nose tube, has a first pair of wings symmetrically disposed about a center portion and a second pair of wings asymmetrically disposed about the center portion. One of the wings of the second pair of wings has an offset to facilitate that wing wrapping about a portion of the other wing of that pair about the airway device, before then, preferably being adhered to the face of the patient. The airway holder may be provided as a portion of a kit with eye protectors in an effort to remove surgical tape (and subsequent reuse with other procedures to potentially spread contamination).

Abstract: A ventilation treatment device and a ventilation-control method are provided. During use, when a headband contacts a headrest, a first valve assembly contacts a second valve assembly to open first air holes and second air holes, thereby communicating a first chamber with a second chamber, such that air from an air source into the first chamber enters the second chamber and further enters a respiratory chamber of a patient connecting apparatus for inhalation by a patient; and when the headband is separated from the headrest, the first valve assembly and the second value assembly are separated to close the first air holes and the second air holes, thereby preventing the air in the first chamber and the second chamber from flowing out through the first air holes and the second air holes, respectively.

Abstract: A device for sealing a tracheostoma in a patient includes a seal member for insertion through the tracheostoma to a trachea. The seal member includes a disc having a predetermined line of weakness. In a first configuration, the seal member forms a seal by being pulled against the tracheostoma. In a second configuration, the seal member is removed from the trachea through the tracheostoma by breaking along the line of weakness.

Abstract: A neck strap, a crown strap assembly and a headgear for a breathing mask. The neck strap for a headgear includes a one-piece main body adapted to engage a patient's neck, first and second lower connection portions adapted to connect to first and second lower mask connection straps, and first and second upper connection portions adapted to connect to respective first and second lateral crown straps.

Abstract: Endotracheal tube holders having bottom surface including protrusions that contact the endotracheal tube, and a strap that wraps around the bottom surface and the tube to secure the endotracheal tube to the tube holder.

Abstract: A dispenser assembly comprising a nasal fluid dispenser device having a reservoir forming body (10) containing fluid or that supports such a reservoir in stationary manner, a dispenser head (20) being assembled on said body (10), said dispenser head (20) being provided with a dispenser orifice (21), said assembly further comprising a positioner member (40) that co-operates with said nasal dispenser device, said positioner member (40) including at least a first facial bearing zone (42) that, during actuation, co-operates with the forehead or the bridge of the user's nose, said dispenser head (20) being movable axially relative to said body (10), said positioner member (40) including at least one hollow sleeve (41) in which said dispenser head (20) is inserted in clamping manner, said positioner member (40) including a second facial bearing zone (46) that is adapted to co-operate with the user's top lip.

Abstract: A surgical system includes: a plurality of surgical instruments each of which includes a flexible shaft provided with a surgical tool on a leading end-side portion thereof, a supporting platform that supports the plurality of surgical instruments; a medical instrument that includes a plurality of flexible inner tubes into which the flexible shafts of the surgical instruments can be inserted, and an outer tube into which the plurality of flexible inner tubes can be inserted and that is to be inserted into a body cavity; and a gripping mechanism that includes a gripping portion that grips the outer tube, and a supporting portion that includes at least one joint portion and that fixes and supports the gripping portion, the at least one joint portion making the medical instrument adjustable regarding the position and orientation thereof.

Abstract: A device (100) for facilitating the positioning of a catheter for the delivery of liquid medicament to spontaneously breathing patient, including: —an elongated main body (101) shaped to follow the internal shape of the patient's upper airways, the elongated main body (101) being provided with guiding means (107) adapted to house a catheter; —a substantially ring-shaped terminal element (103) adapted to engage the internal wall of the patient's retro-pharynx, the substantially ring-shaped terminal element (103) being connected to the elongated main body (101) by means of at least one spoke (105), the substantially ring-shaped element (103) and the at least one spoke (105) creating a chamber where the medicament can be delivered through the catheter.

Abstract: A respiratory mask for providing positive pressure therapy and a bias-flow venting system configured to reduce discernable draft generated by exhausted air are disclosed herein. The respiratory mask has a ball jointed elbow, one or more detachable forehead pieces and a headgear with a spacer fabric region. The elbow is configured to be removable when oriented to a predetermined position. The forehead pieces are provided in one or more sizes. The spacer fabric region having two or more layers wherein the raw edges are turned to the inside of the layers. The seal having improved seal performance and accommodating a wider variety of facial geometries. The bias-flow system having a tube and exhaust holes radially aligned on a bead of the tube. The bias-flow system also having an annular component exhaust holes and a shroud having a plenum chamber around the exhaust holes.

Abstract: A nasal cannula is described herein for respiratory therapy which includes a first gas supply tub with a distal end terminating in a first connector, and a nasal cannula body which includes a first end rotatably coupled to the first connector, a second end opposite the first end, a longitudinal axis extending from the first end to the second end, and a first nasal prong in fluid communication with the first gas supply tube. The first nasal prong is rotatable relative to the first gas supply tube about the longitudinal axis of the nasal cannula body.

Abstract: Infusion systems and related methods involving a catheter hub and an extension or IV administration set having a male Luer connector for fluid communication with the catheter hub. A support adaptor is provided with the extension or IV administration set and has a body with a length between first and second ends, and a body wall having a continuous wall surface in a radial direction relative to the length and which defines an exterior of the body. An internal wall of the support adaptor defines a bore with the body wall, wherein the bore has first and second openings. A tubing length is located in the bore and extends out of the second opening. The bore includes first and second bore sections. Optionally, the second bore section is angled relative to the first bore section. A support surface is located beneath the bore, elevation wise.

Abstract: A device (100) for facilitating the positioning of a catheter for the delivery of liquid medicament to spontaneously breathing patient, including: —an elongated main body (101) shaped to follow the internal shape of the patient's upper airways, the elongated main body (101) being provided with guiding means (107) adapted to house a catheter; —a substantially ring-shaped terminal element (103) adapted to engage the internal wall of the patient's retro-pharynx, the substantially ring-shaped terminal element (103) being connected to the elongated main body (101) by means of at least one spoke (105), the substantially ring-shaped element (103) and the at least one spoke (105) creating a chamber where the medicament can be delivered through the catheter.

Abstract: Various embodiments of a tracheostomy tube having neck flanges with filleted ends are provided. In certain embodiments, the neck flange may include a fillet extending from a bottom surface of the neck flange to a tip of the neck flange. In addition, the filleted end may also be tapered from a top surface of the neck flange to the tip of the neck flange. The neck flange may also include several curved edges, such as curved edges from the tip of the neck flange to side surfaces of the neck flange, and a curved bottom surface from side surface to side surface of the neck flange.

Abstract: A device and method for performing a cricothyrotomy and/or a tracheotomy has an outer cannula. An inner cutting cannula is positioned within the outer cannula. An actuator is coupled to a proximate end of the inner cutting cannula. The actuator keeps the inner cutting cannula in a retracted position within the outer cannula when the actuator is not activated and an extended position where a distal end of the inner cutting cannula extends out of the outer cannula with a force for the distal end of the inner cutting cannula to penetrate one of a cricothyroid membrane or tracheal wall when the actuator is activated.

Abstract: Tubing protectors, systems including tubing protection, and methods for protecting tubing, are disclosed, such as for protecting tubing connected between a patient and a dialysis machine (e.g., peritoneal dialysis machine) during a dialysis treatment. A tubing protector may include a tubing sheath attachable to a patient. The sheath may include a first portion for receiving and protecting a length of tubing extendible in the sheath, such as to minimize collapse, kinking, blockage, or combinations thereof, along the length of the tubing. A second portion may comprise a flexible material and enclose the first portion. The first portion may comprise a resilient material, which allows for movement in the sheath and has a strength to allow for reorientation of the tubing, while withstanding deformation of the tubing along the length. The first portion may be a coil, a plurality of rings, a woven mesh, or a solid tube, or combinations thereof.

Abstract: It is the object of the invention, which relates to a tracheal tube (1) and a method for producing a tracheal tube (1), to provide a tracheal tube (1) with a connector (3), wherein the connector (3) is connected to a curved tube (2) by way of a rotatable and pivotable connection that can be easily realized. This object is solved with a device having a joint head part (4) of a ball joint arranged on first end of the connector (3) facing the curved tube (2), a first partial socket (2.1) of the ball joint arranged on a first end of the curved tube (2) facing the connector (3), a locking socket (5) arranged as a second partial socket of the ball joint, and a locking ring (6) arranged for connecting the locking socket (5) with the curved tube (2).

Abstract: A system, comprising a support adapted to be worn on a head and support a light source to administer an effective amount of light to a nose of the head sufficient to treat a nasal disorder.

Abstract: The medical tube securing device is a fastener that is further adapted for use with a first and second catheter. The medical tube securing device fastens the first catheter to the second catheter. The medical tube securing device comprises an intubation strap, a gastric clip, and a latch. The intubation strap and the gastric clip are attached to the latch. The intubation strap and the latch attach the first catheter to the medical tube securing device. The gastric clip attaches the second catheter to the medical tube securing device thereby securing the first catheter to the second catheter. The first catheter is an endotracheal device and the second catheter is a gastric catheter. The medical tube securing device further comprises a bite guard that prevents the patient from biting one or more devices selected from the group consisting of the endotracheal device or the gastric catheter.

Abstract: A device for sealing a tracheostoma in a patient includes a seal member for insertion through the tracheostoma to a trachea. The seal member includes a disc having a predetermined line of weakness. In a first configuration, the seal member forms a seal by being pulled against the tracheostoma. In a second configuration, the seal member is removed from the trachea through the tracheostoma by breaking along the line of weakness.

Abstract: A tracheal tube attachment for a tracheal device is disclosed. The tracheal tube attachment includes a tube and a plate. The tube includes a bend provided to prevent water from entering into the tracheal tube attachment and tracheal tube. The tube includes a proximal section having an open proximal end for attaching to a tracheal device, and a distal section having an open distal end.

Abstract: The mouthpiece is adapted for insertion into a mouth of an end user. The mouthpiece enables teeth of an end user to clinch up and down so as to exercise the muscles associated with the jaw and head of the end user. The mouthpiece comprises an adjustable resistance. The mouthpiece further comprises an exterior surface that includes a superior dental arch cavity that accommodates the superior dentition. The mouthpiece further comprises an interior surface that includes an inferior dental arch cavity that accommodates the inferior dentition. The mouthpiece comprises a posterior surface that includes a shelf that is adapted to interface with a tongue. Optionally, the superior dental arch cavity has a curvature that coincides with the superior dental arch. Further, the inferior dental arch cavity has a curvature that coincides with the inferior dental arch.

Abstract: A device for preventing obstruction of an endotracheal tube includes a sleeve including an open front end; an open rear end; a central cavity extending between and communicating with the front end and the rear end; and a slot extending longitudinally from the front end to the rear end to access the cavity, wherein the sleeve is configured to receive the endotracheal tube fitted within the cavity through the slot and extending through the front end and the rear end; and an anchor extending from the rear end of the sleeve, wherein the anchor includes: a top surface configured to engage the endotracheal tube; and a gripping feature disposed on the top surface configured to increase friction between the anchor and the endotracheal tube.

Abstract: An air delivery system for providing a supply of air from a source of air at positive pressure to an interfacing structure located at the entrance to the airways of a patient includes a manifold adapted to connect with the supply of positive air pressure and at least one tube connected to the manifold and adapted to deliver the supply of air to the interfacing structure. Each tube is structured to allow movement between an open phase in which the tube allows the passage of air and a collapsed phase in which the tube is collapsed. Each tube is structured such that weight of a typical patient's head against bedding apparel is sufficient to collapse the tube from the open phase to the collapsed phase.

Abstract: An airway device and a securing mechanism or faceplate each of which include active stabilizing components which prevent clinically significant movement of the airway device with respect to a patient's vocal cords in response to the application of significant forces in any direction to the airway device, be they longitudinal, torsional/rotational or bending. The improved airway device and faceplate each have interactive components that cooperate integrally with and engage one another to provide unparalleled strength and stability against movement. The securing mechanism includes a stabilizer adapted to releaseably engage or release a retention structure on the airway device to facilitate ease of application in all conditions. A mechanism attached to the airway device allows a secure connection of a 15 mm respiratory connector to the airway device while facilitating easy disconnection of the 15 mm connector from the airway device.

Abstract: A device and method for performing a cricothyrotomy and/or a tracheotomy has an outer cannula. An inner cutting cannula is positioned within the outer cannula. An actuator is coupled to a proximate end of the inner cutting cannula. The actuator keeps the inner cutting cannula in a retracted position within the outer cannula when the actuator is not activated and an extended position where a distal end of the inner cutting cannula extends out of the outer cannula with a force for the distal end of the inner cutting cannula to penetrate one of a cricothyroid membrane or tracheal wall when the actuator is activated.

Abstract: A patient interface device that includes a support member sized and configured to span at least a portion of a patient's face while remaining below the patient's eyes responsive to the patient interface device being donned by such a patient and a sealing assembly operatively coupled to the support member such that the support member is moveable relative to the support member. The support member defines a gas carrying conduit adapted to carry a flow of gas to the sealing assembly. The support member is a single-piece unitary member and includes a conduit coupling portion adapted to be coupled to a patient circuit.

Abstract: An intubation assembly rod is configured to have an endotracheal tube carried thereon and includes an elongated body having a distal end and a proximal end. The distal end of the intubation assembly rod body is tapered, rounded, or spherical, and defines a leading end of the intubation assembly rod. The intubation assembly rod includes a longitudinally extending channel configured such that an elongated member of a device to which the intubation assembly rod may be attached may be inserted into the channel.

Abstract: A multi-functional oropharyngeal airway device designed to be inserted into the peripheral portion of a patient's oral airway to establish and maintain that airway. The components comprising the invention are a non-compressible, hollow cylinder body with at least three different and commonly used medical connectors incorporated into the proximal end of the body, and a flexible tube incorporated into the distal end of the body. The specific geometry and inclusion of the components of the airway device are arranged to be inserted and affixed into a peripheral position in a patient's mouth.

Abstract: A medical tubing holder system includes a connector, a holding assembly and a retainer block. The holding assembly has an arm, and optional flanges to capture part of medical tubing, such as an endotracheal tube. The retainer block is distal from the holding assembly. The retainer block defines an aperture that receives a tube therein. The aperture is smaller than a tube flange placed between the block and the holding assembly, so as to capture the tube flange. An attachment element joins the holding assembly to the retainer block, and has length that is adjustable to selectively vary a distance between the block and the holding assembly. The attachment element effectively secures the retainer block, holding the tube flange, to the holding assembly and connector, which is secured to the patient's head, to prevent self or accidental extubation. A related method is provided.

Abstract: A laryngeal mask anchoring device serves to seat an airway tube in an operational position against edentulous gums and the roof of the mouth to securely hold the airway tube in a desired position. The device also guides the airway tube towards the lungs, and braces the mouth open for manipulations to the airway tube. The device collapses into a substantially flat configuration for storage and portability. An upper and lower brace directly engage the edentulous gums. The braces are substantially smooth and pliable, and are configured to mate with substantially smooth, bald gums. A supportive platform with a slightly curved surface forms a supportive brace to hold the airway tube into place against the roof of the mouth. The slightly curved configuration of the platform nestles the airway tube, and the large surface area presses the airway tube against the roof of the mouth.

Abstract: A reservoir cannula is described that has a static fluidic control structure, in that it does not employ a membrane or other moving parts. Furthermore, the reservoir is open to ambient air instead of being sealed. In use, the reservoir cannula enables storage of oxygen and oxygen-rich gas in a storage chamber as well as in and around the patient's nasal passages and nasopharynx, which enables high volume oxygen delivery to the patient early in the next inhalation. Consequently, patients using this delivery mode can carry a smaller and lighter portable oxygen container for ambulatory oxygen, because lower flow oxygen is required to meet their oxygenation needs. In addition, patients requiring a higher flow of oxygen can achieve oxygenation levels previously achieved only by high flow mask or high flow nasal oxygen systems.

Abstract: A head frame apparatus is secured to a human head during maxillofacial surgery and includes devices to easily position and secure an endotracheal (breathing) tube and an anesthesia delivery circuit for the patient that reduces the likelihood that the flow of oxygen through the tube is restricted thereby reducing the risk of severe injury or death. The head frame apparatus also includes a removable reference indicator, which may be easily attached and removed while identifying a reference point of the patient's face. Also the reference indicator includes a universal joint and pointer with an attached ruler. A transport apparatus positions multiple preset reference indicators and allows for preoperative transportation and removal, while protecting the preset reference indicators from inadvertent adjustment. A bendable reference indicator used in an articulator for preoperative modeling allows for easily identifying reference points in a cast model.

Abstract: An endotracheal tube holder is provided. The tube holder allows adjustment of the position of an endotracheal tube during use. In some embodiments the tube holder comprises a body portion, wherein the body portion is elongated and comprises an elongated opening. The tube holder also comprises a tube grasping mechanism and an attachment mechanism for adjustably securing the tube grasping mechanism to the body portion. The attachment mechanism comprises a rod member configured to pass through the elongated opening, a widened proximal body connected to a proximal end of the rod member; and a widened distal body attached to a distal end of the rod member, having a size that prevents the widened distal body from passing through the elongated opening to secure the attachment mechanism to the body portion.

Abstract: An endoscope securing and positioning device is provided for adjusting or maintaining the position of an endoscope. The device allows the medical professional to easily rotate an endoscope or maintain its position without having to maintain a grip on the endoscope.

Abstract: Anchors for securing a medical device relative to a body portal, wherein the anchors may accommodate most any implantation trajectory through the portal. Such anchors may further secure the device along any such trajectory without imparting undesirable biasing forces that may shift the device from its intended implanted location. In some embodiments, the anchor is configured as a burr hole anchor including a spherical member contained in a socket of the anchor wherein the socket may be collapsed to lock the spherical member along a particular trajectory.

Abstract: Embodiments provide catheter retention devices such as catheter clips that may be used to stabilize a vascular access catheter during a procedure, particularly a radial access procedure. The catheter clips may include a frame that includes a first frame member portion, a second frame member portion hingeably coupled to the first frame member portion, the first and second frame member portions defining a first aperture therebetween, and a base member extending from the second frame member; and an inner gripping membrane that includes a first inner gripping membrane portion coupled to the first frame member portion and a second inner gripping portion coupled to the second frame member portion, wherein the first and second inner gripping portions define a second aperture within the first aperture.

Abstract: An adjustable headgear assembly (10) for securing a respiratory interface device (26) to the head of a patient that includes a headgear member (12) that fits over the crown and back portion of a human head. The headgear member (12) has upper side portions (14) positionable above and forward of the ears of a human head and lower side portions (16) positionable below the ears and along the back portion of the head. A pair of upper retention members (20) are provided. Each pair of upper retention members (20) extends downwardly and forwardly from the upper side portions (14). A pair of lower retention members (30) extend forwardly and upwardly from each of the side portions. Each pair of upper (20) and lower (30) retention members are structured to engage a respiratory interface device (26).

Abstract: A patient nasal interface is provided that includes a female portion and a first registration feature. The female portion receives a male portion of a generator head. The female portion wraps around and over the male portion when the male portion is inserted into the female portion of the patient nasal interface. The first registration feature is configured for mating with a second registration feature associated with the male portion of the generator head and wherein the mating of the first registration feature with the second registration feature provides a feedback to an operator upon proper insertion of the male portion into the female portion.

Abstract: A breathing device for placing on a tracheostoma of a patient comprising a cylindrical housing, an annular housing support, a flexible flat part with sealing and adhesive functions, a filter or a speech valve, and a cover plate. The housing comprises, in the wall thereof, recesses for introducing and extracting inhaled air, and on the proximal opening thereof, an outer edge comprises at least three edge segments which are on the outer wall and at least three edge recesses. Holding rods support the filter on the proximal opening, the housing support comprises an annular flange having at least three inner wall support projections and an annular outer wall base. The support projections have a receiving area, the housing support supports the housing with the filter or speech valve into which the edge segment can be introduced in a precise manner into the support projections.

Abstract: This invention provides an oral apparatus and method capable of alleviating or curing snore and obstructive sleep apnea by applying a negative pressure through a mini oral interface to the oral cavity. The mini oral interface creates a secure connection to mouth and prevents disengaging from patient's mouth during sleeping. The negative pressure pulls the tongue toward upper palate and also pulls the soft palate forward as well. By moving the tongue and the soft tissue in a forward direction, the patency of the upper airway near the pharynx is maintained to prevent sleep-disordered breathing. The negative pressure will pull the lips inward to close the mouth preventing air from entering the oral cavity from atmosphere. The negative pressure will also pull the soft palate into contact with the rear surface of the tongue to create a seal that prevents the air from entering the oral cavity through the nasal airway.

Abstract: A device for inserting into a tracheostoma prosthesis or a thracheostoma plaster comprises a cylindrical housing and a cylindrical valve element, the housing is provided with a first opening for the connection to the stoma of the patient and with at least one second opening on the opposite side, and the valve element in the second opening of the housing is provided to close the second opening. The valve element is configured so that it can be closed manually by means of a finger and can be opened by elastic return, and the housing surrounds the valve element and the valve element receives a moisture and heat exchanging filter. A cylindrical spring element is arranged between the housing and the valve element.

Abstract: A device for securing a tracheostomy or endotracheal tube to a patient.

Abstract: A patient ventilating (23) and aspirating system (8) is disclosed that has a suction tube (9) and connector (6) for connecting to a catheter mount that has a scaled passageway (15). The catheter mount passageway (15) is sealed with an elastomeric seal (16) including a perforation or slit (17). A connector (12) with a piercing member is associated with the suction tube (9). When the connector is attached to the catheter mount the piercing member (20) pierces the seal (16) such that the suction tube (9) can pass through the connector (6) and catheter mount.

Abstract: A device (11) for supporting and retaining medical appliances (10), such as tracheal cannulas and stoma stents, in the neck of a patient comprising supporting means (12) for supporting and retaining the medical appliance (10) and fastening means (13) for fastening the device on the body (36) of a patient. The fastening means (13) is provided at a distance from the supporting means and comprises means for attaching the device to the chest (36) of the patient. A method for supporting and retaining medical appliances (10), such as tracheal cannulas and stoma stents, in the neck of a patient, by fastening the appliance (10) on the body (36) of a patient outside the neck.

Abstract: A tube-positioning device mounted on a breathing mask and holding a breathing tube has a headgear buckle and a tube retainer. The headgear buckle has a pivot bracket formed thereon and having a pivot hole defined through the pivot bracket and an annular groove defined radially in the pivot bracket. The tube retainer is mounted detachably and rotatably on the headgear buckle and has two resilient arms, a clamping recess, a pivot shaft and two hooking arms. The resilient arms are curved and the clamping recess is formed between the resilient arms. The hooking arms are formed respectively on and protrude down from the resilient arms and detachably engage and hook in the annular groove of the pivot bracket. Pressing the resilient arms toward each other disengages the hooking arms from the annular groove to rapidly detach the tube retainer from the headgear buckle.

Abstract: A tracheostomy support apparatus incorporates a folded sheet of fabric into a pocket formed at one end of the folded sheet. The support apparatus includes a cradle on an outer surface for holding tubes, hoses, and medical equipment connected between a tracheostomy and adjacent equipment, such as a ventilator. The support apparatus cushions and supports the hoses and tubes associated with a tracheostomy but also absorbs fluids emanating from the tracheostomy.

Abstract: A molded tracheostomy tube may provide enhanced comfort for a patient. A unitary molded coating over areas of the tracheostomy tube that come into contact with the patient's skin may prevent irritation. Further, the overmolding manufacturing process may allow the tracheostomy tube assembly to incorporate features that allow for greater ease of movement for a patient, such as features that allow flexing at the connection point of the tracheostomy tube to other medical devices.

Abstract: An improved method for securing a tracheal tube, an adjunct tube, and oropharyngeal tube, a nasogastric tube, a laryngeal tube or laryngeal mask airway to a patient utilizing an elongated strip of adhesive tape, which is specifically adapted therefor.

Abstract: A bite block and methods of use thereof are disclosed. The bite block may be configured to encompass a tube such as an endotracheal tube, and to protect the mouth of an intubated patient from clenching damage.

Abstract: A faceplate assembly that includes a faceplate frame (14) that mounts on a patient's face and a bite block (30) that holds an endotracheal tube (22) that extends into a patient's trachea to assist breathing. The tube is easily mounted on the bite block, and the tube can be shifted sidewardly to reduce discomfort to the lips of the patient. The bite block has a passage (42) through which the tube extends, the passage being spaced (D) sideward from the faceplate centerline (60). The faceplate can be removed from the patient, turned 180° about the centerline, and reinstalled using adhesive tape, to shift the bite block to the opposite side of the patient's mouth.