Abstract: One embodiment provides a nasal guide. The nasal guide includes a pair of supports adapted to be positioned adjacent nostrils of a nose of a patient. The nasal guide includes a bridge connecting the pair of supports. The bridge is usable to adjust positioning of the pair of supports. Each of the pair of supports forms one or more lumens configured to receive one or more medical instruments. The one or more lumens are shaped for insertion into a nasal cavity of the nose.

Abstract: An apparatus for securing a nasal cannula comprising a pair of oxygen tube holders connected via a strap, the nasal cannula securing device being positionable behind the head of a patient and slightly below the patient's ears so as to secure the nasal cannula in place.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a breathing support device for use in the event of a disaster such as a fire in a building or the like. The breathing support device includes: a connection pipe having any length; an induction pipe connected to one end of the connection pipe; and a supply pipe connected to the other end of the connection pipe, wherein an opening provided in the bottom of the induction pipe is combined with a mesh having a plurality of apertures which is fixed by a fastening piece, and a cover plate is combined to an opening of the supply pipe such that the interior of the supply pipe is sealed by the cover plate and one or more intake/exhaust pipes are combined to the cover plate such that the intake/exhaust pipes communicate to the interior of the supply pipe.

Abstract: A method of intercepting controlled quantities of air exhaled from at least one of two nostrils on an individual's nose to permit inhalation of the intercepted air, including the steps of: providing an air flow intercepting apparatus; and placing the air flow intercepting apparatus in an operative position relative to the individual's nostrils so that as the individual inhales and exhales during repeating breathing cycles: a) a first quantity of exhaled air flows past the air flow intercepting apparatus; and b) a second quantity of exhaled air impinges upon the air flow intercepting apparatus so as to at least one of: i) stagnate; and ii) be redirected by the air flow intercepting apparatus so that at least a portion of the second quantity of exhaled air is drawn into the individual's nostrils as the individual inhales.

Abstract: A nasal interface device and a method of use are disclosed. The device includes a facial adaptor configured to be secured to the nose of a user and having two nostril pads having open channels configured to be inserted into nostrils of the user and a piercing/swivel adaptor configured to interact with the facial adaptor through the two nostril prongs. The piercing/swivel adaptor is further configured to be coupled to an airway tube, the airway tube is configured to supply air/gas to the user.

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

Abstract: A continuous positive airway pressure system features a housing forming an airway chamber, and an air pressure inlet and an air pressure outlet. The housing further defines internally a pair of tapered air jets, and a pair of tapered air receivers. The air receivers are located downstream of the air supply jets and disposed coaxially with respective ones of the air supply jets. Each receiver has a taper in an opposite direction to the direction of the taper of the air supply jets. A pair of nasal prongs is located downstream of the air receiving jets. Each receiver comprises a hemispherical section that is oriented at an angle off the center line of the supply.

Abstract: A system, method, and apparatus for air delivery. A cannula having a low velocity airflow and efficient air delivery system. The cannula includes at least one compartment to reduce airflow velocity and nostril inserts. The cannula may further include moldable components and materials to increase comfort and minimize chafing of a wearer. The cannula further may include a head strap to hold the mask in position on a user's head, where said harness minimizes chafing of the user.

Abstract: Described here are devices for altering the flow of air in a respiratory cavity such as the mouth and nostrils of the nose. These methods and devices may be useful for affecting a physiologic benefit in patients suffering from a variety of medical diseases, particularly those that may benefit from “pursed-lip” breathing and non-invasive ventilation, such as COPD, heart failure, sleep apnea, and other medical disorders. The devices are typically removable devices that may be placed over or in a respiratory cavity to increase resistance to airflow within the respiratory cavity. Resistance to expiration may be selectively increased relative to inspiration. Removable oral and removable nasal devices are described. Oral and nasal devices that filter inhaled airflow of debris and allergens are also provided. A nasal device that increases patency of the nares is also provided.

Abstract: An anatomically designed egg-shaped or elliptical-shaped nasopharyngeal airway for providing a comfortable and safe air passage through a nose to a nasopharynx includes a cannula having a proximal open end, a distal end, and a sidewall surrounding a lumen of the cannula. The nasopharyngeal airway has a port, which includes two or more openings separated by one or more bridges, in the sidewall, at a distal portion of the cannula. Upper and lower conduits may be located in channels of the sidewall of the cannula for delivery of oxygen and measurement of CO2 or other purposes.

Abstract: A branching unit for delivering a respiratory gas of a subject is disclosed herein. The branching unit includes a first limb for delivering an expiratory gas during an expiratory phase and a second limb for delivering an inspiratory gas during an inspiratory phase. The branching unit also includes a third limb for delivering both the expiratory gas and the inspiratory gas and a common branching point for the first limb, the second limb and the third limb. The first limb, the second limb and the third limb include a volume for the respiratory gas and which volume includes both an active volume with the gas exchanging between the inspiratory phase and the expiratory phase and a dead volume for the respiratory gas with insufficient gas exchange from the inspiratory phase to the expiratory phase and the dead volume being less than 1 ml.

Abstract: A nasal cannula fitting, comprising in combination, a rigid plastic tubular first duct configured to directly endwise connect with apparatus assisting respiratory air, a relatively flexible plastic second duct fitting onto an end portion of the first duct, relatively flexible third plastic ducts integral with the second duct and diverging endwise therefrom to receive flow of the assistance air, and nasal cannula plastic tubing connected in series with the respective third ducts. Nasal prongs on the cannula tubing may carry pressure sealing toggling skirts.

Abstract: Devices for attaching medical tubing to a nasal cannula are provided. Such devices may comprise a body having a distal end and a proximal end, a connector disposed on the body and adapted to releasably attach the body to the nasal cannula, and one of the following: at least one tube holding member extending along at least one surface of the body and adapted to accept the medical tubing, or at least one body channel extending through the body and having an outlet at the distal end of the body, and a tube connector attached to the proximal end of the body and adapted to fluidly connect the medical tubing the at least one channel.

Abstract: A nasal dilator capable of introducing separating stresses in nasal outer wall tissues has a resilient member and a pair of spaced-apart end surfaces which can be forced toward one another from an initial flat position of the dilator to thereby substantially reduce the direct spacing therebetween by an external spacing reducing force. This results in restoring forces in the dilator tending to return it to the original direct spacing between the end surfaces. Resilient members, which can be asymmetrical with respect to a centerline of the dilator that is parallel to the long axis of the dilator, have a spring rate which continuously diminishes from the centerline to the end surfaces. The edges of the resilient members are contiguous to the edge of the cushion layer so that adhesive on the cushion layer is at the same level as the bottom surface of the resilient members.

Abstract: A cannula support device holds an oxygen cannula in place on a user's face and includes a pair of collars utilized on each side of a user's face, thereby providing a fit to existing cannula tubing. Each set of collars is interconnected with thread that is laced back and forth forming a harness structure. The device supports existing oxygen tubing in place while alleviating excessive pressure which is normally associated with oxygen cannula.

Abstract: In an embodiment, a respiratory device is disclosed. The respiratory device may include a nasal device. The respiratory device may also include a conveyor device coupled with the nasal device. The respiratory device may further include an oral device, wherein the oral device may include an adjustment nut sized to couple with the conveyor device.

Abstract: A replaceable nasal pillow (46) for use in a patient interface device (10), the nasal pillow comprising: a base portion (62), a casing (64), and a fill material (66). The base portion is structured to be disposed on a portion of the patient interface device. The casing is coupled to the base in a manner that defines a sealed cavity therein. The casing includes an inner portion (67) and an outer portion (65) that is structured to sealingly engage a nare of a patient. The fill material is disposed in the sealed cavity defined by the casing and the base.

Abstract: A nasal interface device delivers a high flow rate of a gas having a pressure that is adjustable to a patient. The device includes a nasal insert that is adapted to deliver pressurized gas to a nasal cavity of the patient, and receive and direct expired air. The nasal insert has a pressurized breathing gas delivery port and an expired gas port. An expiratory limb pressure regulator is in fluid communication with the expired gas port.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a device, system and method for providing high flow therapy interfaces for use in the treatment of respiratory conditions and in assisted respirations. In an embodiment of the invention, a nasal cannula for delivery of respiratory gases can include at least one nasal insert and at least one flange coupled to the at least one nasal insert where the at least one flange is configured to partially impede the egress of respiratory gasses delivered to an upper airway of a patient is provided. In another embodiment, a flange has a shape selected from the group consisting of a slotted, vented or slitted design and configured to partially impede the egress of respiratory gasses.

Abstract: A high flow therapy system including a microprocessor, a heating element a non-sealing respiratory interface and a sensor is disclosed. The heating element is disposed in electrical communication with the microprocessor and is capable of heating a liquid to create a gas. The non-sealing respiratory interface is configured to deliver the gas to a patient. The sensor is disposed in electrical communication with the microprocessor and is configured to measure pressure in an upper airway of the patient.

Abstract: A delivery device (20, 22) for and a method of delivering a substance to the nasal airway (1) of a subject, in particular the posterior region of the nasal airway, the delivery device comprising: a closure unit for causing the closure of the oropharyngeal velum of the subject; and a delivery unit for delivering a gas flow entraining a substance to one of the nostrils of the subject at such a driving pressure as to flow around the posterior margin of the nasal septum and out of the other nostril of the subject, wherein the delivery unit comprises a nosepiece (30, 40, 58, 82, 102, 132) which includes an outlet through which the gas flow is in use delivered to the one nostril and a sealing member for sealing the one nostril to the outlet such as in use to prevent the escape of the gas flow through the one nostril.

Abstract: A cannula tip for insertion in a patient's nostril includes nostril- and cannula-ends, with a cannula-end that has a greater cross section than that of the nostril end. The cross section of the cannula tip may decrease from its cannula end to its nostril end linearly or non-linearly.

Abstract: A nasal assembly for delivering breathable gas to a patient includes a frame having an integrally formed first connector portion. A nozzle assembly includes a gusset or base portion and a pair of nozzles. At least one inlet conduit is structured to deliver breathable gas into the frame and nozzle assembly for breathing by the patient. A pair of second connector portions are removably and rotatably connected to respective first connector portions of the frame and are in communication with respective inlet conduits, e.g., directly or via angle connectors. A headgear assembly is removably connected to the pair of second connector portions and/or the angle connectors so as to maintain the frame and the nozzle assembly in a desired adjusted position on the patient's face.

Abstract: A nasal assembly for delivering breathable gas to a patient includes a frame having an integrally formed first connector portion. A nozzle assembly includes a gusset or base portion and a pair of nozzles. At least one inlet conduit is structured to deliver breathable gas into the frame and nozzle assembly for breathing by the patient. A pair of second connector portions are removably and rotatably connected to respective first connector portions of the frame and are in communication with respective inlet conduits, e.g., directly or via angle connectors. A headgear assembly is removably connected to the pair of second connector portions and/or the angle connectors so as to maintain the frame and the nozzle assembly in a desired adjusted position on the patient's face.

Abstract: Described herein are nose-reduced nasal devices configured to reduce or eliminate the unwanted noises associated with use of a nasal device. These noise-reduced nasal devices include a flap-valve airflow resistor and a noise-reduction feature that is a noise-reduction element, a noise-reduction flap valve, or both. The noise-reduction feature typically prevents the flap valve from oscillating or vibrating and producing an audible sound during use, particularly during inhalation through the device. The method and devices described herein may prevent the flap, and particularly the edge region of the flap face or tip of the flap, from oscillating during inhalation.

Abstract: This invention is a device designed to eliminate the discomfort and irritation behind the ears caused from oxygen supply line tubes by having the oxygen supply line tube wrapped on the holster and off the ears and securely in place.

Abstract: Whole-nose nasal respiratory devices and methods of making and using whole-nose nasal respiratory devices are described and illustrated herein. These devices are typically configured to be adhesively secured to a subject so that they engage both of the subject's nostrils and allow airflow from both nostrils to communicate with an airflow resistor. The airflow resistor is configured so that it inhibits exhalation through the nostrils more than it inhibits inhalation through the nostrils.

Abstract: Described here are devices for altering the flow of air in a respiratory cavity such as the mouth and nostrils of the nose. These methods and devices may be useful for affecting a physiologic benefit in patients suffering from a variety of medical diseases, particularly those that may benefit from “pursed-lip” breathing and non-invasive ventilation, such as COPD, heart failure, sleep apnea, and other medical disorders. The devices are typically removable devices that may be placed over or in a respiratory cavity to increase resistance to airflow within the respiratory cavity. Resistance to expiration may be selectively increased relative to inspiration. Removable oral and removable nasal devices are described. Oral and nasal devices that filter inhaled airflow of debris and allergens are also provided. A nasal device that increases patency of the nares is also provided.

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: Described here are devices for altering the flow of air in a respiratory cavity such as the mouth and nostrils of the nose. These methods and devices may be useful for affecting a physiologic benefit in patients suffering from a variety of medical diseases, particularly those that may benefit from “pursed-lip” breathing and non-invasive ventilation, such as COPD, heart failure, sleep apnea, and other medical disorders. The devices are typically removable devices that may be placed over or in a respiratory cavity to increase resistance to airflow within the respiratory cavity. Resistance to expiration may be selectively increased relative to inspiration. Removable oral and removable nasal devices are described. Oral and nasal devices that filter inhaled airflow of debris and allergens are also provided. A nasal device that increases patency of the nares is also provided.

Abstract: A nasal assembly for delivering breathable gas to a patient includes a frame having an integrally formed first connector portion. A nozzle assembly includes a gusset or base portion and a pair of nozzles. At least one inlet conduit is structured to deliver breathable gas into the frame and nozzle assembly for breathing by the patient. A pair of second connector portions are removably and rotatably connected to respective first connector portions of the frame and are in communication with respective inlet conduits, e.g., directly or via angle connectors. A headgear assembly is removably connected to the pair of second connector portions and/or the angle connectors so as to maintain the frame and the nozzle assembly in a desired adjusted position on the patient's face.

Abstract: The ventilation interface for sleep apnea therapy interfaces a ventilation device to the patient's airways. The ventilation interface includes a pair of nasal inserts made from flexible, resilient silicone which are oval shaped in cross-section and slightly tapered from a base proximal the ventilation supply to the distal tip end. A bead flange is disposed about the exterior of each insert at the distal end of the insert. A bleed port for release of exhaled air is defined through a conical vent projecting normally to the path of the incoming air flow, and continues through a nipple extending to the exterior of the air conduit. In one embodiment, a pair of nasal inserts are integral with a nasal cannula body, with bleed ports axially aligned with each insert. In another embodiment, each insert is independently connected to a separate, thin-walled, flexible supply line.

Abstract: Described herein are packaging systems for nasal devices, and methods of packaging and/or dispensing nasal devices. A packaging system may include one or a plurality of nasal devices removably secured to a support backing, and a dispenser. In some variations an applicator may also be included. Methods of using and methods of assembling packaging systems and dispensers are also described.

Abstract: A nCPAP device includes an net configured for receiving a single gas jet flow. The single gas jet flow supplies gas for both nares. The device also includes a flow splitter configured for proportionally splitting said gas jet flow into two channels for the both nares according to one or more of nave anatomy and flow path resistance.

Abstract: Provided is an easy-to-handle prefilled type nasal drip appliance which can spray medical solution surely into the nostril while holding down the production cost. A syringe barrel has a spray hole and a latching portion of a center stopper on one side, with a conduction portion of medical solution being provided at the latching portion, and has a portion protruding inward of the inner circumferential surface formed on the other end side. A plunger has a portion protruding outward of the outer circumferential surface formed substantially in the axial center wherein both protrusions engage with each other. When the plunger is moved in the spray direction of the syringe barrel to get over the plunger side protrusion and disengaged, the medical solution moves the center stopper in the spray direction to form a medical solution inflow groove between the conduction portion formed at the center stopper latching portion and the center stopper.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for delivering a supply of gases to a patient. The device includes a patient interface and connecting member. The connecting member is preferably a L-shaped swivelled connector that is capable of being fixed into one of two positions, a first position where the connector is freely rotatable within the patient interface, and a second position where an interference between the interface and connector prevents the free rotation of the connector within the patient interface. The present invention further relates to a connector that has outlet means, which includes at least one outlet vent and a funnel, which in use directs and passes a substantial portion gases expired from the patient through the outlet vent or vents.

Abstract: A nasal cannula assembly is disclosed having a face mount part, in use resting against a user's face, which includes at least one nasal prong capable of being fitted into a person's nares. The cannula assembly also includes a manifold part, in fluid communication with the face mount part, having a single horizontal side gases entry. In particular, this cannula assembly is for supplying heated, humidified gases to a patient suffering from COPD. A tie or lanyard is disclosed for use with a breathing assistance apparatus such as a nasal cannula, face or nasal mask or tracheostomy connector. The tie or lanyard transfers the weight of the conduits supplying gases to the breathing assistance apparatus from the breathing assistance apparatus and distributes it onto the neck of the patient.

Abstract: An endotracheal tube holder is provided. The endotracheal tube holder includes an adjustable securing clamp, an adjusting unit, a bite block, and a securing strap. The adjustable securing clamp includes a first clamping unit having a first clamping portion, and a second clamping unit having a second clamping portion. The first clamping portion and the second clamping portion are oppositely and correspondingly aligned for holding an endotracheal tube. The adjusting unit includes an elastic member, coupled between the first clamping unit and the second clamping unit. The bite block is configured at one side of the first clamping portion and includes an endotracheal tube accommodation portion. The endotracheal tube accommodation portion covers over the endotracheal tube for providing a protection to the endotracheal tube. The securing strap includes two ends respectively coupled to two lateral sides of the first clamping unit.

Abstract: Various embodiments of the invention may provide a breathing and/or anesthetic unit that is portable, compact, inexpensive, and convenient, and which may expedite medical procedures by allowing a health care provider to quickly sedate a patient. Such a unit may be ideal for minor medical procedures needing mild or moderate analgesia/sedation (e.g., <30 minutes) in various fields. Such a unit may include (i) a handheld gas supply container including a therapeutic amount of anesthetic gas; (ii) a mask; (iii) a single-use, uninterruptable flow coupler to couple the mask to the supply container; and (iv) a handheld, self-contained, recovery gas container, including a negative pressure, coupled to the mask.

Abstract: Breathing assistance apparatus for treating sleep apnoea are described. More specifically, nasal interface for the supply of respiratory gases, but most particularly positive pressure gases are described. The nasal interfaces may include various forms of nasal pillows or nasal plugs. Associated elements such as manifolds or housings to hold or secure the pillows or plugs, or headgear are also disclosed.

Abstract: Described herein are adjustable whole-nose nasal devices having a first passageway for communication with a first nasal passage and a second passageway for communication with a second nasal passage, an airflow resistor that inhibits expiration more than inspiration, and an adjustable connector. The adjustable connector may include one or more adjustable joints or regions that allow the whole-nose device to conform to the spacing between a subject's nostrils, and/or the orientation and angle of the subject's nostrils. Also described herein are whole-nose devices having a single airflow resistor communicating with both of a subject's nasal passages. Methods of treating a disorder using the whole-nose nasal devices are also described.

Abstract: Described here are devices for altering the flow of air in a respiratory cavity such as the mouth and nostrils of the nose. These methods and devices may be useful for affecting a physiologic benefit in patients suffering from a variety of medical diseases, particularly those that may benefit from “pursed-lip” breathing and non-invasive ventilation, such as COPD, heart failure, sleep apnea, and other medical disorders. The devices are typically removable devices that may be placed over or in a respiratory cavity to increase resistance to airflow within the respiratory cavity. Resistance to expiration may be selectively increased relative to inspiration. Removable oral and removable nasal devices are described. Oral and nasal devices that filter inhaled airflow of debris and allergens are also provided. A nasal device that increases patency of the nares is also provided.

Abstract: A respiratory mask assembly for use in the delivery of non-invasive positive airway pressure to a user. The assembly includes a rigid shell having a channel portion defined by an inner wall, an outer wall and a channel floor, a face-contacting cushion acting to space the shell away from the user's face and a sealing tab extending from the cushion to engage a portion of the shell to provide a continuous airtight seal between the cushion and the shell. A retaining ring within the mask assembly is configured to secure the cushion to the shell. The retaining ring has a first portion including at least one clip configured to pass through at least one slot portion such that an underside surface of the at least one clip engages a section of the shell when the retaining ring is positioned within the channel.

Abstract: Fluid regulators provide a fluid to a cannula for use by a person. Fluid conservers also a fluid to a cannula for use by a person. A fluid conserver may be operational in a continuous flow mode of operation and an intermittent flow mode of operation. The selection of either the continuous flow mode of operation and the intermittent flow mode of operation may be based on a position of a flow selector. A home fill device may operate with a fluid conserver and may include an oxygen concentrator which provides a source of fluid.

Abstract: A nasal cannula, for supplying a respiratory gas to a patient, comprising: a pair of spaced apart supply lines which each have a head at one end thereof with a discharge opening therein. The opposite end of each supply line is connectable to a respiratory gas source. Each head is sized to be snugly received and retained within one of the nasal cavities of the patient while forming a sufficient leakage passage, between a portion of inwardly facing nasal cavity skin of a patient and a portion of an exterior surface of the head, to facilitate exhausting of any excess respiratory gas supplied to the patient through the leakage passage and also facilitate inhalation of any room air required in excess of the respiratory gas to be supplied to the patient.

Abstract: A nasal cannula assembly is disclosed having a face mount part, in use resting against a user's face, which includes at least one nasal prong capable of being fitted into a person's nares. The cannula assembly also includes a manifold part, in fluid communication with the face mount part, having a single horizontal side gases entry. In particular, this cannula assembly is for supplying heated, humidified gases to a patient suffering from COPD. A tie or lanyard is disclosed for use with a breathing assistance apparatus such as a nasal cannula, face or nasal mask or tracheostomy connector. The tie or lanyard transfers the weight of the conduits supplying gases to the breathing assistance apparatus from the breathing assistance apparatus and distributes it onto the neck of the patient.

Abstract: Described here are devices for altering the flow of air in a respiratory cavity such as the mouth and nostrils of the nose. These methods and devices may be useful for affecting a physiologic benefit in patients suffering from a variety of medical diseases, particularly those that may benefit from “pursed-lip” breathing and non-invasive ventilation, such as COPD, heart failure, sleep apnea, and other medical disorders. The devices are typically removable devices that may be placed over or in a respiratory cavity to increase resistance to airflow within the respiratory cavity. Resistance to expiration may be selectively increased relative to inspiration. Removable oral and removable nasal devices are described. Oral and nasal devices that filter inhaled airflow of debris and allergens are also provided. A nasal device that increases patency of the nares is also provided.

Abstract: A low flow heated/humidified respiratory gas delivery system, especially useful for low flow rates as preferred in the treatment of neonate and other such patients, wherein the respiratory gas is heated and humidified as desired for delivery to the patient and the temperature is monitored at the point of delivery to the patient.

Abstract: An apparatus and a system for stably positioning a nasal cannula in a manner effective for oral or nasal delivery of oxygen or gas mixtures to an individual are described. A generally rectangular cannula support member having at least one retention device secures a nasal cannula to the support member. A pad may be disposed between the support member and the face of the person to assist in positioning the support member without the requirement of tape, and for reducing skin irritation. Depending on the size of the cannula support member, the support member may be constructed from flexible materials to conform to the facial features of the wearer. The apparatus and the system may further include a flexible strip having shape memory.

Abstract: A continuous positive airway pressure system features a housing forming an airway chamber, and an air pressure inlet and an air pressure outlet. The housing further defines internally a pair of tapered air jets, and a pair of tapered air receivers. The air receivers are located downstream of the air supply jets and disposed coaxially with respective ones of the air supply jets. Each receiver has a taper in an opposite direction to the direction of the taper of the air supply jets. A pair of nasal prongs is located downstream of the air receiving jets.