Abstract: Apparatus and methods are disclosed by which a closed ventilating system accommodates multiple access to the respiratory system of an intubated medical patient without comprising the closed character of the system. Access to the respiratory system through one or more access sites of the closed system apparatus is provided at proximal adapter ports to ventilate the lungs of the patient with gas or gases, to aspirate secretions from the lungs, to oxygenate the lungs to eliminate or reduce residual co.sub.2 therefrom, to visually inspect selected parts of the respiratory system, to sample sputum and gases, to sense parameters such as flow rates, pressure, and temperature, to flush with washing solution, and/or to administer medication, gases, and/or lavage.

Abstract: An improved unilimb anesthesia tube assembly includes a rotatable end fitting at the patient end and inner and outer cylinders to which inner and outer unilimb tubes are secured with gas-tight seals. The invention also includes a tool and method for checking the gas-tight seals of the assembly.

Abstract: A tracheal guide (10) for positioning a medical device (11) such as an endotracheal or intubation tube in the trachea (12) of a human patient (13). The tracheal guide includes an elongated member (14) with a generally U-shaped passage (17) extending therethrough. Ears (18, 33) are disposed laterally about the passage and, in particular, the distal end (15) thereof. These ears are shaped for conformance with and placement in the piriform fossa (19, 34), which are located in the vicinity of the glottic opening (39) of the trachea. A tongue (25) extends distally from the distal end of the elongated member and into the esophagus (32) of the patient when the ears of the guide are positioned in the piriform fossa. The passage of the elongated member includes first and second surfaces (20, 24) that form an edge (26) that extends anterior to the cricoid cartilage and, in particular, the transverse arytenoid when the edge and ears are properly positioned in the patient's airway.

Abstract: A closed ventilator system includes a universal endotrachael tube adapter having a pair of interconnected hollow body members. One of the hollow body members includes a pair of interconnected air passageways coupled respectively between a ventilator and an endotrachael tube, where the air passageway coupled to the endotrachael tube includes a universal access port for receiving a measurement gauge or a suction catheter device. The other hollow body member is adapted to receive a valve which is maintained in a normally open position to permit air under pressure from the ventilator to be supplied to the endotrachael tube. However, when the measurement gauge or suction device is attached to the access port, the valve can be manually operated to close the passageway to the ventilator without closing the other air passageway to facilitate accurate breathing measurement or fluid removal procedures.

Abstract: Filtration and closure barriers are disclosed which prevent passage of gas-carried contamination between the atmosphere and a collapsible sheath, which surrounds a catheter tube, during insertion and/or removal of the catheter tube from the respiratory tract of a medical patient.

Abstract: A method for optimizing the breathing ability of an intubated patient is based on an evaluation of the expirational flow characteristics of an endotracheal tube connector. It has been found that an increase in the amount of work required for the expirational portion of the breathing cycle while minimizing the inspirational work of a patient improves the patient's blood chemistry and the absorption of oxygen and/or medication by the lung.The method may be obtained by using an improved connector which includes an annular gas inlet and an annular gas outlet which share a common longitudinal axis. The inlet has an inside diameter which is about 2-1/2 to 3 times greater than the inside diameter of the outlet and is adapted to receive a flexible tube having an outside diameter which is approximately the same as the inside diameter inserted therein.

Abstract: A ventilator manifold provided with access ports and method thereof for accessing the interior chamber of the manifold and cleansing secretions from the inner wall of the manifold's interior chamber with a cleaning device without having to disconnect the patient from the respiratory support system.

Abstract: An improved male luer connector assembly including a central elongated male luer connector tapering from a distal end to a locking collar disposed approximately at the mid-point of the connector. A recessed section is disposed between the first collar and a second collar. Locking teeth are disposed on a proximal face of the locking collar in spaced relation. A threaded lock nut is mountable on the male luer connector. An inner peripheral end wall of the lock nut surrounds the male luer connector and carries a ratchet at an inner end face thereof. In the connection of the male luer connector assembly to a complementary female threaded luer connector, the engaging teeth on the proximal face of the locking collar are drawn into engagement with the ratchet on the inner face of the lock nut to ensure and maintain a locking fluid-tight connection between said male luer connector assembly and the female luer connector.

Abstract: An endotracheal tube construction includes an elongated kink resistant flexible tubular member having distal and proximal ends with a curved portion therebetween. The tubular member defines a major passageway or airway and a relatively small cuff inflating lumen which is parallel to the major passageway and disposed in the wall of the tubular member. The cuff inflating lumen is positioned within a portion of the wall which is subjected to tension as the tubular member is bent as opposed to being positioned in that portion of the wall which is under compression. In addition, the portion of the wall adjacent to the lumen is thicker than the wall in other portions of the tube so that the tube is less likely to kink or collapse during intubation of a patient. The endotracheal tube includes a beveled tip and is constructed and arranged so that the beveled tip can be rotated by twisting a portion of the tube which extends out of a patient's mouth or nose without kinking or collapsing the tube.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are disclosed by which a closed ventilating system accommodates multiple access to the respiratory system of an intubated medical patient without compromising the closed character of the system. Access to the respiratory system through one or more access sites of the closed system apparatus is provided at proximal adapter ports to ventilate the lungs of the patient with gas or gases, to aspirate secretions from the lungs, to oxygenate the lungs to eliminate or reduce residual co.sub.2 therefrom, to visually inspect selected parts of the respiratory system, to sample sputum and gases, to sense parameters such as flow rates, pressure, and temperature, to flush with washing solution, and/or to administer medication, gases, and/or lavage. A distal swivel fitting provides multiple sealing sites by which entry of atmosphere is prevented.

Abstract: An endotracheal tube can be inserted into a patient's trachea during resuscitation by using a face mask and a curved guide. The guide is inserted through a flexible port in the face mask and has a curved distal portion that extends into the patient's mouth and hypopharynx. The patient is initially resuscitated by supplying a flow of air/oxygen through the mask. An endotracheal tube is inserted over the distal end of a fiber optic probe. Resuscitation, oxygenation, or artificial ventilation continue without interruption while the fiber optic probe and endotracheal tube are inserted through a flexible port at the proximal end of the curve guide and then advanced along the guide into the patient's airway. The direction of the distal tip of the fiber optic probe can be controlled by the physician. This allows the physician to carefully guide the fiber optic probe and endotracheal tube to a position past the larynx while resuscitation continues.

Abstract: A medical device securing apparatus for releasably securing at least one medical device to a supporting object. The securing apparatus includes a foundation strap (12) and a securing mechanism for releasably securing the foundation strap to a supporting object (22). An engaging strap (26) extends outwardly from a second end portion (16) of the foundation strap (12) for being received about at least a portion of at least one medical device. Also included is a securing strap (30), secured at its proximal end (31) to the foundation strap (12), for releasably engaging at least a portion of the distal end portion (28) of the engaging strap (26), after the engaging strap has been received about at least a portion of at least one medical device.

Abstract: The connector includes a socket (14) attachable to the proximal end of the drain tube so that the socket is in fluid flow communication with the drain tube. An adapter (38) having opposite tapered ends is provided for connecting the socket to the suction/collection device. The adapter is flexibly connected to the socket to be movable between first and second positions. In the first position, one end of the adapter is inserted into the socket. In the second position, both ends are removed from the socket. A cap (22) is flexibly connected to the socket for substantially closing-off the socket. The cap may cover one end of the adapter while the other end of the adapter is inserted in the socket, or the cap may be inserted directly into the socket.

Abstract: The invention relates to a tracheostomy tube holder having a strap and at least two tabs. The tabs are designed to pass through slots on the tracheostomy tube. The tabs have VELCRO type hook surfaces on their ends for releasable attachment to the exterior surface of the strap which has a soft VELCRO type loop surface. This provides for a tracheostomy tube holder which is inexpensive to make and use and which provides significant flexibility in the initial installation and subsequent replacement of individual components when they become soiled in use.

Abstract: A facial mask assembly for covering at least the nose and nares of a patient's face and compensating for any unequal forces that may be generated in the straps holding the mask on the patient's face. The assembly includes a rigid, cup-shaped shell with a soft seal engaging and sealing against the patient's face. The shell is preferably secured or attached to the patient's head by an arrangement including a rigid plate mounted to the rigid shell and a harness. The harness extends about the back of the patient's head and preferably has side straps attached to the top of the rigid plate. The rigid plate is loosely mounted to the rigid shell at at least three locations and can move to compensate for any unequally applied forces that would otherwise tend to rock or cock the shell off the patient's face and create a gap or leak in the seal.

Abstract: The endotracheal device comprises a common slave unit and an endobronchial tube. The endobronchial tube is preformed for either left curvature or right curvature. The common slave unit includes a tracheal lumen and an endobronchial lumen. The endobronchial tube is inserted through the endobronchial lumen and into either the left or right bronchus. A first inflatable cuff secures the common slave unit with respect to the trachea. A second inflatable cuff secures the endobronchial tube with respect to the endobronchial lumen.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an arrangement for the acceptance of an object such as a measuring device, sensor, probe, tube for use in the mouth, nose or other body orifice of a person or animal. A pressure applying component of the arrangement is capable of being applied externally around the orifice on the body of the individual while an attachment component receives the object of the kind in question. The pressure part is arranged to cause attachment through interaction with the object or by applying a counter-pressure device attached to the pressure component.

Abstract: Disposable antibacterial filter particularly applicable to lines for connection to spirometric devices, including a filter body which is substantially bag-shaped and is connected, at its open end, to a sleeve that can be coupled to the connecting hose of a spirometric device and acts as mouthpiece for the user.

Abstract: An endotracheal tube holder or positioner is disclosed having a collar or clamp member formed from at least two body portions engaged together to form a central orifice extending axially therethrough. The body portions rotate relative to each other to radially adapt to accommodate and grip endotracheal tubes of varying diameters.

Abstract: An apparatus for ventilating and aspirating the respiratory system of a patient, the apparatus having a patient module, a disposable center module, and a vacuum module. The patient module includes tubular connecting means connectable to a supply of air and to the trachea of the patient for involuntarily supplying air to and withdrawing air from the lungs of the patient. The center module includes a first end element connected to the patient module, a second end element, an elongated flexible tubular catheter element permanently connected to the second end element and extending slidably and sealingly through the first end element, and an elongated, collapsible, tubular plastic sleeve connected to the first and second end elements and extending therebetween around the catheter element. The vacuum module is connected to the second end element and adapted to be connected to a source of vacuum for applying vacuum to the catheter element.

Abstract: A neonatal suction adaptor with reduced deadspace allows tidal volume monitoring and synchronization to continue without substantial interference while a suction catheter is used. The adaptor includes a central housing disposed about a central chamber. A ventilation connector and an endotracheal connector are each secured to, and extend from, the central housing. Each tubular connector defines a passage connected with the central chamber. The connectors are sized and shaped to form press-fit connections with endotracheal tubes and ventilation monitors. The endotracheal connector includes a sleeve separated from a core by an annular recess configured to receive part of an endotracheal tube ventilation adaptor. A suction access tube is also secured to, and extends from, the central housing. The suction access tube is connectable to a wide variety of standard sleeved or exposed suction catheters.

Abstract: A ring element (10) attaches to a length of tubing (12) to prevent contamination at a site (24) through which a portion of the length of tubing (12) extends. A resilient material having a first end (14) and a second end (16) is provided capable of mating to form a hollow, cylindrical shell (10). An electrically conductive material is provided on a surface of the resilient material. In a preferred embodiment, the conductive material includes silver. The ring element (10) may be placed on a tube (12) to prevent contamination at a site (24) through which a tube (12) is secured. The ring element (10) is connected to the tube (12) at the site (24) of injection of the tube (12) wherein the ring element (10) is capable of removal without removal of the tube (12) from the site (24). The ring element (10) is particularly adaptable for a transfer set connectable to a peritoneal cavity and insertable at a site (24) for, for example, peritoneal dialysis.

Abstract: An improved adaptor and protector for same which is removably sealing an opening of the adaptor located at an end of a tubular member. The adaptor has a longitudinal passageway for receiving a cannula. An upper end of the adaptor has an interior diameter defining a first end of the passageway for receiving the cannula. A lower end of the adaptor has an interior diameter defining a second end of the passageway adapted for receiving an injection site wherein the diameter of the first end is larger than the diameter at the second end. A middle portion intermediate the first end and the second end has a tapering interior diameter for directing the cannula to the injection site and further having an exterior surface with gripping surfaces. The tapering interior diameter of the middle portion of the adaptor includes guiding members to direct the cannula or other injection devices. The adaptor may also be provided with a protector removably sealing an opening located at an end of the adaptor.

Abstract: A tubing assembly is disclosed for use between an exhalation valve and a ventilator for providing assisted breathing to a patient. The ventilator has a patient air outlet, a exhalation valve control outlet and a sensor outlet connected to a sensing mechanism. The exhalation valve has a first outlet to a tracheotomy connector, a second outlet to ambient atmosphere, an inlet and a control air inlet. The exhalation valve is switched between an inhalation position and an exhalation position by air pressure at the control air inlet. The tubing assembly comprises an exhalation valve connection, a ventilator-sensor connection, an intermediate tube, a sensor tube and an exhalation valve control tube assembly. The exhalation valve connection is attached at one end to the intermediate tube and at the other end to the inlet. The ventilator-sensor connection is attached at one end to the patient air outlet and at the other end to the intermediate tube.

Abstract: A malleable fiberoptic intubating apparatus has an elongate arcuate thin-walled tubular stylet which removably carries an endotracheal tube around it and the fiberoptic bundle of a flexible fiberoptic bronchoscope within it, a handle at the rearward end of the stylet, and a telescoping bronchoscope support arm that releasably receives and carries a bronchoscope and moves relative to the handle. An adjustable endotracheal tube positioning element engages the proximal end of the endotracheal tube and positions it on the stylet. An adjustable fiberoptic bundle positioning element engages the flexible fiberoptic bundle of the bronchoscope and positions it within the stylet. The instrument is placed in the mouth, the larynx is identified, and the instrument is advanced as a unit into the trachea. Then the fiberoptic bronchoscope and stylet are removed from the mouth, leaving the endotracheal tube in the proper part of the trachea.

Abstract: A suction adapter couples a fluid drain tube to a suction canister for fluid collection while maintaining the drain tube at atmospheric pressure for optimal draining flow rate. The suction adapter further allows the surgeon to easily apply suction to the drain tube when he desires to increase the flow rate through the drain tube and to just as easily return the drain tube to atmospheric pressure. The suction adapter does not spill and is muffled to reduce noise. The suction adapter comprises a housing defining an interior space. The housing has a suction port in communication with the interior space for connection to a suction source and a fluid port in communication with the interior space for connection to a fluid drain tube. The housing also has a ventilation port formed in the housing to allow atmospheric air into the interior space. The ventilation port communicates with a ventilation tube located in the interior space, the ventilation tube having a ventilation hole.

Abstract: A medical device is herein described for provision of a pressurized fluid through interchangeable probes. In the preferred embodiment of this medical device, the interchangeable probes are mounted to a handset having a quick disconnect/reconnect mount which not only permits rapid attachment and removal of such probes to the handset, but also the freedom of change in orientation of the probe relative to the handset to accommodate variable condition/requirements of an operative procedure and clinician preferences. In the preferred embodiment of this invention, quick disconnect/reconnect mount of this invention permits rotational movements of the probe tip while preserving sealing engagement thereof to the handset.

Abstract: A device to facilitate securing an endotracheal tube to an adaptor connected to a suction or gas source is disclosed. The device is comprised of a collar slidable over an endotracheal tube and adaptor. The collar has a prong for engaging the endotracheal tube. The device is further comprised of a ring for temporarily locking to the collar and forcing the collar prong into fastening engagement with the tube.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a reliable, contamination free, distal end adapter for a suction catheter. The adapter allows the patient to breathe directly therethrough when it is connected to the patient's endotracheal tube for use, and provides an enclosure for preventing exposure of medical personnel to contaminants when withdrawing the catheter from the patient and disconnecting the catheter adapter from the endotracheal tube for disposal.

Abstract: A package for a catheter which may be connected to a fluid source, the source and catheter having quick disconnect means, the package comprising an elongated envelope of flexible plastic sheet material such as polyethylene. The package converts to a protective sheath when the catheter and its envelope are connected to the fluid source, such connection anchoring the sheath to such source while forming a fluid seal between the quick disconnect means. The sheath/envelope reconverts to a package for disposal of the catheter after use.

Abstract: An endotracheal device to facilitate joining an endotracheal tube to an adaptor connected to a suction or gas source is disclosed. The device is a tubular connector having opposed ends, one end of which has a locking means for temporarily locking the connector to the adaptor and another end for receiving and securing the tube to the connector.

Abstract: A sub-miniature aerosolizer comprises a substantially elongated sleeve member, a substantially elongated insert and a substantially elongated body member. The sleeve member includes a threaded inner surface which is adapted to receive the insert which is a correspondingly threaded member. The threaded insert provides a substantially helical channel. The body member includes a cavity on its first end which terminates by an end wall at its second end. The end wall includes an orifice extending therethrough. The body member is connected with the sleeve member to provide the sub-miniature aerosolizer of the present invention. The sub-miniature aerosolizer is sized to accommodate insertion into the trachea of a subject for use of the device. For operation of the device, the sub-miniature aerosolizer is connected by a suitable tube with a liquid pressure driver apparatus. The liquid pressure driver apparatus is adapted to pass liquid material therefrom which is sprayed from the sub-miniature aerosolizer.

Abstract: In oxygen therapy, the patient is provided a mixture of air and oxygen. In the process, the oxygen is led from an oxygen supply container or an oxygen concentrator through a tube to the patient and made available for inhalation. The distribution system includes a whirler with openings directed toward the patient's mouth and nose. The oxygen flow is twisted into a spiral shape inside the whirler before it exits from the openings.

Abstract: A tube restoring apparatus includes a tube insertion passage through which a connected flexible tube having a deformed cross-sectional portion at a joint portion thereof can be passed, at least a pair of press members defining at least a part of the tube insertion passage and formed with press surfaces for pinching the deformed cross-sectional portion of the flexible tube therebetween, and driving mechanism for moving the press surfaces at least in opposite directions relative to each other under the condition that the deformed cross-sectional portion is pressed between the press surfaces.

Abstract: Patient connection apparatus is disclosed for connecting a patient to a respirator or anesthesia machine. The patient connection apparatus includes a nipple for providing an inhalation-exhalation stream, a Y-piece for dividing the inhalation-exhalation stream into an inhalation conduit and an exhalation conduit, a patient conduit for connecting the nipple to the Y-piece, a heat and moisture exchanger disposed in the patient conduit for exchanging heat and moisture with the inhalation-exhalation stream, and a nebulizer connector located between the nipple and the heat and moisture exchanger for connecting the inhalation-exhalation stream to the nebulizer. In another embodiment, the patient connection apparatus includes an inhalation connector arranged downstream of the heat and moisture exchanger for connecting the patient conduit to the nebulizer. In another embodiment, a powder inhalator is provided in connection with the nipple so that powder can be supplied to the patient.

Abstract: The present invention relates to endotracheal tubes used for conducting gases or vapors along the trachea, for example by an anesthesiologist, paramedic or emergency room doctor. In particular, the present invention relates to an improved and novel endotracheal tubes having structure which enables the simultaneous administration of medication to both lungs of the patient.

Abstract: Device for respiratory assistance, comprising a tube (4) which forms a main channel (5) and which is intended to be connected via its distal end (3) to the respiratory tract of a patient so that said main channel (5) connects the respiratory system of said patient to the outside, with said device moreover comprising at least one auxiliary channel (8) formed in the wall of said tube (4) and permitting the insufflation of a respirable gaseous jet into said respiratory system and opening into said main channel (5) in the vicinity of the distal end (7) of the latter.According to the invention, this device is distinguished by the fact that it comprises a controlled valve (21) capable of closing at least partially the proximal end of said main channel (5), at least during insufflation of said gaseous jet.

Abstract: A nasal ventilation system comprising a tube terminating in a pair of nasal inserts. Each insert tapers at its end and has a soft membrane covering the tapered end for wearer comfort. A washer positioned below the membrane provides a positive seal with the nostril and prevents gas leakage by resting on the support bar. A support bar having slots which can accommodate the nasal inserts also permits lateral movement of the inserts for positioning of the inserts within the nostrils. An adjustable harness system is removably secured to the wearer.

Abstract: A mask adaptor ring for connecting a medication inhaler having an extended cylindrical breathing tube to masks with attachment connections of child and adult size, the mask adaptor comprising a compound annular ring with a central opening, the central opening having an inlet end and an outlet end, the inlet end having an inside diameter slightly larger than the outer diameter of a child mask attachment, the outside diameter of the outlet end having a diameter slightly smaller than inner diameter of the adult mask attachment, and the inlet end having an outside diameter slightly smaller than the outlet end opening of the extended breathing tube. A skirting is provided for size adaptability to outlet end openings of various cylindrical breathing tubes. The invention also has a center flange disposed between its inlet end and its outlet end, the flange having a diameter larger than the outer diameter of the adult mask attachment and of the outlet end opening of the extended breathing tube.

Abstract: A guard for preventing occlusion of a tracheostomy tube. The guard includes a ring for slipping over the exposed end of the tracheostomy tube, thereby securing the guard to the tube, and a visor-like extension or guard which projects forwardly of and above the tube open end, thus being in a position to fend off an object which threatens to block the tube open end. The guard includes grips enabling sure grasp thereof to facilitate handling by medical personnel, as during removal and replacement of the tube. An opening is formed in the extension, so that in the event the guard rotates about the tube, and the extension is moved from its original location above the tube opening to a new location therebelow, a secondary airway is established. This will enable a patient to continue breathing, even if an object is sufficiently near the tube opening as to partially obstruct the same.

Abstract: A combination plastic relatively rigid bite block and soft nasal cannula intended for one-time use for supplying oxygen to a patient's nostrils during an endoscopic procedure. The cannula is fixed into the bite block by an integral clip portion of the cannula extending downwardly from a manifold portion and adhered to the bite block. Flexible nasal prongs extend upwardly from the manifold into the patient's nostrils to supply supplementary gas separately from air breathed through the patient's mouth.

Abstract: A mask adaptor ring for connecting a medication inhaler having an extended cylindrical breathing tube to masks with attachment connections of child and adult size, the mask adaptor comprising a compound annular ring with a central opening, the central opening having an inlet end and an outlet end, the inlet end having an inside diameter slightly larger than the outer diameter of a child mask attachment, the outside diameter of the outlet end having a diameter slightly smaller than inner diameter of the adult mask attachment, and the inlet end having an outside diameter slightly smaller than the outlet end opening of the extended breathing tube. A skirting is provided for size adaptability to outlet end openings of various cylindrical breathing tubes. The invention also has a center flange disposed between its inlet end and its outlet end, the flange having a diameter larger than the outer diameter of the adult mask attachment and of the outlet end opening of the extended breathing tube.

Abstract: An endotracheal tube stabilizer includes a central z-shaped body portion including a generally rectangular portion and offset portions extending leftwardly and rightwardly therefrom to define a "z" shape. Strap members extend from the ends of the offsets and are used to secure the endotracheal tube stabilizer on the patient. The z-shaped portion has an adhesive layer on one side thereof, the adhesive layer preferably protected by a backing layer that is removed prior to use. In use, the backing layer is removed and the z-shaped of the endotracheal tube stabilizer is attached to an endotracheal tube. The strap members are then secured to the patient to hold the endotracheal tube in place.

Abstract: A conduit swivel connector comprising a unitary central member having a medially oriented abutment flange projecting exteriorly of the central member, and a first sleeve rotatably mounted about the central member about a first tube portion, and a second sleeve rotatably mounted about the central member and about a second tube portion, with the tube portions rotatably secured to the sleeve portions employing respective rings received within cooperating grooves of the tube and sleeve portions permitting a hose to be received upon the first sleeve portion permitting the hose to be rotatably connected by the central member.

Abstract: A tracheostomy tube holder for being received about a patient for maintaining the position of a tracheostomy tube and an associated tube holding method. The tracheostomy tube holder (10) includes first and second tube engaging assemblies (14, 16) for engaging the tracheostomy tube (11). Each of the tube engaging assemblies (14, 16) has a first foundation strap (24) defining an outer bonding surface (30) proximate its distal end portion, and carries a tube engaging strap (36) for engaging the tracheostomy tube (11), with the tube engaging strap (36) having a distal end portion for being positioned on the first bonding surface (30). Each of the tube engaging assemblies (14, 16) further includes a locking strap (36) having a proximal end secured to the foundation strap (24) and defining an inner adhesive surface (44) for releasably engaging both the distal end portion of the tube engaging strap (36) and the outer bonding surface (30) of the foundation strap (24).

Abstract: An airway for both sole esophageal obturator ventilation and for combined endotracheal and esophageal obturator ventilation of a patient. The airway has two lumens one of which has an open distal end and the other of which has a closed distal end. The airway further has an inflatable distal cuff and an inflatable pharyngeal cuff. Communicating with the lumen having the closed distal end is at least one air outlet located in the airway wall between the two inflatable cuffs. To determine the position and orientation of the airway within a patient, the airway is provided with an X-ray opaque stripe that preferably axially extends in the wall, but is interrupted by at least one air outlet between the inflatable cuffs. An X-ray opaque shaft may also be present between the inflatable cuffs and is preferably attached to the wall. The airway may also be provided with monitoring lumens and deflector means in communication with the lumen that has the open distal end.

Abstract: An endotracheal tube attachment device for positively securing an endotracheal tube to a patient and allowing selective lateral positioning and locking of the tube without removing the device or tube from the patient is disclosed. The device comprises an elongated strip of flexible material adapted to be adhesively attached to an upper lip region of a patient and a tube holder which is slideably mounted upon the strip. The tube holder has an arm extending in a direction perpendicular to and away from the strip and a securement strap is provided for positively securing the tube along the length of the arm. Positioning and locking mechanisms are provided for allowing selective lateral positioning of the tube holder along the length of the strip and positively locking the tube holder and tube in a selected position. The tube holder also allows for efficient and easy longitudinal adjustment of the endotracheal tube in the patient's trachea which is often required soon after initial placement of the tube.

Abstract: A versatile medical device for securely positioning naso-tracheal tubes during a medical intervention such as maxillofacial surgery, wherein a comfortable naso-tracheal tube positioning device is provided, with the positioning device comprising a partial mask including a base that overlies at least a segment of the upper portion of the face of the patient, and a top portion comprising a tube holder means that securely positions the naso-tracheal tube in such a way as to permit the formation of a loop, wherein the loop is configured so as to avoid impediment or occlusion of the passage of the content thereof due to a kink in the tube while keeping the mouth area of the patient unhindered.

Abstract: A luer receiving medical valve for the sterile transfer of fluid from a luer-tapered male end having a surrounding female luer lock threaded end. The luer receiver includes a housing having an inlet and an outlet and a lumen extending from the inlet to the outlet. An elastomeric sealing member occludes the inlet and has a slit extending through it. In a preferred embodiment, a support is provided adjacent the housing inlet and adjacent the sealing member. The support includes opposing posts separated by slots, the slots permitting expansion of the sealing member when the male luer is inserted into the slit.

Abstract: Briefly stated, the present invention comprises a resuscitation mask for administering artificial respiration to a patient. The respiration mask has a container for defining an interior region between the container and the face of the patient. Two conduits are provided through the container wall in order to define two air flow passageways which are in fluid communication with the internal region. A valve is disposed in one air flow passageway for permitting air flow into the internal region and preventing air flow from the internal region. A vent is provided to reduce pressure within the internal region in response to an increase in pressure within the internal region. The container is generally cup-shaped and, in the preferred embodiment, it is formed with a cylindrical member coupled to the one-way air flow conduit. The other airflow passageway is adapted to be detachably coupled to an oxygen source.