Abstract: The invention relates to a device comprising a digital camera, a speculum and an attachment means for attaching the camera to the speculum, wherein the speculum defines a first end with a first opening, and a second end with a second opening; and wherein the attachment means is attached to the first end of the speculum and the camera is has a first position substantially in the plane of the first opening such that it can view a region beyond the second opening. The device may be an otoscope and may be used in the visualization and treatment of the ear canal.

Abstract: A laryngoscope includes a curved blade including a proximal end, a distal end, and a first channel. The laryngoscope also includes a handle and a second channel. The handle includes a non-electric light source, e.g., a chemiluminescent light source. A catalytic agent in the chemiluminescent light source is activated by pressure on the chemiluminescent light source to generate light that transmits along the first channel. The second channel is disposed proximate and through the blade and configured to provide at least one of oxygen, suction, and an instrumentation into the proximal end and out of the distal end of the blade.

Abstract: Disclosed is a video laryngoscope having a body, an insertion section extending from the body generally parallel to a median plane of the laryngoscope extending through the body, and a display screen assembly extending from the body generally perpendicular to the median plane, the body having a grip portion intermediate the display screen assembly and the insertion section. The display screen assembly, including a display screen, extends laterally from the body and the inner edge of the display screen falls within the lateral extent of the body. The display screen may be adjustable about an axis.

Abstract: Provided is a tongue separation device including: a body unit including a contact surface fixing a tongue; a support unit arranged at one end portion of the body unit and supporting the body unit from outside a mouth; a tooth mounting unit arranged at one surface of the support unit adjacent to a first region of the body unit, mounting the teeth in a state where the body unit is inserted into the mouth, and including an upper surface mounting upper teeth among the teeth and a lower surface mounting lower teeth among the teeth; and a tongue position checking unit including an opening formed at the support unit to check a position of the tongue from outside the mouth.

Abstract: A dual-blade retractor comprising a handle having a first end and a second end, a first blade extending from the first end of the handle, a second blade extending from the second end of the handle, and an illumination assembly including (a) one or more first direct light sources provided on the first blade and (b) one or more second direct light sources provided on the second blade, wherein the dual-blade retractor is configured to house therein an internal power source for supplying energy to the one or more first and second direct light sources.

Abstract: A device to check the quality and dosage of anesthetic dispensing device that is used for the application of anesthetic fluids using a spray nozzle is provided. This device can be adapted for use in the oral cavity and upper tracheal area of a medical patient prior to intubation of such patient. The present device comprises of a camera system, a stroboscopic lighting system, and an image analysis software.

Abstract: A method for producing a laryngoscope blade and a laryngoscope blade including a base blade and a tube which is arranged at least in part on an outer face of the base blade, extends approximately in a longitudinal direction of the base blade and is firmly connected to the base blade, wherein the tube, at its side facing toward the base blade, has at least in part a longitudinally extending corrugation which, with the outer face of the base blade, forms a longitudinally extending cavity, wherein the tube is connected to the base blade by a respective soldering seam in the lateral edge regions of the corrugation.

Abstract: A fornix manipulator includes a collar and stabilizer. The collar has a first end and a second end, the second end having an opening and diameter greater than the first end and the first end having an opening to receive a cervix into the collar. The stabilizer has a base portion defining a guide hole and a plurality of prongs extending from the base portion to contact the first end of the collar.

Abstract: The present invention provides improved medical devices equipped with a visualization device for intubation, extubation, ventilation, drug delivery, feeding and continuous remote monitoring of a patient. The present invention also provides methods for rapid and accurate placement of a medical device in a patient and continuous real time monitoring, including a remote monitoring, of the patient after the placement.

Abstract: A laryngoscope with integrated and controllable suction includes a handle and a blade. A suction port is at the proximal end of the handle and is configured for connection to an air source. The suction port defines an opening into one or more air flow paths defined through the laryngoscope, which each terminate at one or more intake ports. In some embodiments, a valve is interposed into each air flow path to regulate air flow along each air flow path. Such a valve is operably connected to a switch mounted on an exterior surface of the laryngoscope, such that manipulation of the switch causes the valve to open or close, thus allowing the physician or other medical professional to control the air flow and selectively apply constant or intermittent suction.

Abstract: An accessory for laryngoscopes configured for being detachably affixed to laryngoscopes, a combination laryngoscope and accessory, and/or methods of use of the accessory and/or combination laryngoscope and accessory. The accessory, combination laryngoscope and accessory, and/or method is preferably configured to increase comfort, safety, and the efficiency of use of laryngoscopes in the medical profession.

Abstract: A retractor includes a handle portion, a blade portion coupled to the handle portion. The blade portion is configured for insertion into an internal region of a patient. The blade portion includes a first portion configured to manipulate tissue of the patient. In an embodiment, a locator element is configured to highlight an external region of the patient to indicate to a user the location of the first portion in the internal region. In an embodiment, a signal-transmission medium is coupled to the blade portion and has a port. An overmolded camera unit has a lens and is configured to couple with the port. When the camera unit is coupled with the port, the lens is oriented to capture images of the internal region.

Abstract: A medical device for carrying out internal examination, such as laryngoscopes, has a body including a transmitter and receiver, and a blade portion including a receiver and transmitter. The transmitters and receivers are used to provide an indication of whether or not a particular blade portion has already been attached to a body portion previously.

Abstract: A catheter for tracheal or bronchial suction including a unit for displaying the artificial airways, the trachea and the bronchial tree so as to allow the removal of secretions; in particular, the catheter for tracheal or bronchial suction includes optical fibers, a microcamera or another visualization technology positioned in the distal end. The operator can identify the position of the distal end, of the artificial airways, of the trachea and of the bronchial tree on the screen. Therefore, it is possible to ensure that the tube of the catheter is adjacent to or inside collections of fluid secretions or other material to be sucked up. The suction can be selectively applied to avoid damage to the mucosa and to facilitate the more complete elimination of secretions.

Abstract: A coupled pair of retractors which are coupled at the distal end to allow the handles at the proximal end to be urged apart to increase the distance between handles to allow for direct line of sight to the surgical site while also allowing the use of curved tools and curved access to the surgical site. A cannula with a cross section taken perpendicular to a straight portion of the cannula that increases between the proximal end of the cannula and the distal end of the cannula allows for direct line of sight to the surgical site while also allowing the use of curved tools and curved access to the surgical site. These tools may be used in a postero-lateral approach from an incision in the back to a target position adjacent to the spine.

Abstract: A Glottiscope for assisting with the insertion of an endotracheal tube or an Eschman like stylet into a patient is claimed. The Glottiscope comprises a blade which defines an internal passage for receiving an endotracheal tube or an Eschman like stylet, the blade having a proximal end and a distal end and means for viewing the patient's glottis, wherein the viewing means is disposed at the distal end and in use, below the point of emergence of an endotracheal tube or a stylet/guide (to rail road the endotracheal tube) in the internal passage to provide a view of the patient's glottis, the blade being adapted to direct the viewing means towards the center of the patient's glottis.

Abstract: A video laryngoscope is provided that includes a body having a handle portion and a blade portion. The blade portion terminates in a tip and defines at least one aperture formed proximal to the tip. The blade portion is dimensioned for oral insertion into a subject buccal cavity. A fiber optic light source terminates within the blade portion and upon light source activation illuminates an area including the tip. A video system is coupled to the body and relays imagery of the tip and surrounding area to a video monitor. A channel extending through the body provides fluid communication to the aperture and an external source of suction. As a result, an operator is capable of visualizing debris and/or obstructions in a subject airway and is able to observe and guide the scope for suction removal.

Abstract: The invention provides a laryngoscopic device that can be paired with any video baton imaging system to concurrently view the upper airway, deliver oxygen and administer a topical anesthetic to select areas in the airway as needed. The invention also provides a video laryngoscope that includes two conduits, one for delivering oxygen and the other for delivering a pharmaceutical agent to select areas of the airway under real-time visualization.

Abstract: A laryngoscope is provided with a suction catheter assembly that includes a catheter to supply suction for removal of fluids (e.g., blood, vomit, secretions, and so on) proximate to the distal end of the blade of the laryngoscope during intubation. A connector secures the catheter to the distal end of the blade. A retainer holds the catheter against the side of the blade.

Abstract: A system for illuminating a body orifice includes: a frustoconical optical waveguide speculum includes a distal end, a proximal end wider than the distal end, an at least partially circumferential body wall having a bore passing between the proximal and distal ends of the speculum; and a base that couples to the speculum and receives a light source such that the speculum is configured to propagate light from the light source along the body wall. In a preferred embodiment, the body wall defines between an inner and outer surface of the body wall a fluidic channel configured to delivery fluid to the distal end of the speculum and a suction channel configured to drain fluid from distal end of the speculum.

Abstract: Described are insertion aid devices including a handle, a tongue depressor, a first passageway, and a guide with a recess formed by a pair of prongs. The first passageway includes an entry portal and an exit portal, and may also include an alternative entry portal. The insertion aid devices may also include one or more additional passageways, each with an entry portal and an exit portal. The additional passageway may be formed by a plurality of C-clips or a shelf. The tongue depressor may be pivotally coupled to the handle.

Abstract: An electronically controlled high frequency jet ventilation laryngoscope includes a laryngoscope handle and a laryngoscope blade. An oxygen supply tube is set within the laryngoscope handle and the front end of oxygen supply tube is placed on the front end of the laryngoscope blade. The laryngoscope also includes an electronic controller having a shell body, a display screen, a solenoid valve, a power supply module, a control module and a control switch. The shell body is fixed at the top of the laryngoscope handle; the display screen and control switch are on the shell body; the power supply module and control module are within the shell body; the solenoid valve is on the oxygen supply tube within the laryngoscope handle; the display screen, control module and control switch are connected with the power supply module; and the control module is connected with the display screen and the solenoid valve, respectively.

Abstract: The claimed subject matter provides systems and/or methods that facilitate improving visualization associated with intubation. A dynamically articulating laryngoscope blade can be controlled to configure to normal anatomic variants and pathologic abnormalities to facilitate placing of an endotracheal tube into a patient's trachea. Further, cameras can be integrated into and/or mounted upon the dynamically articulating laryngoscope blade. The cameras can enable stereoscopic visualization of the laryngeal aperture allowing for depth perception. Moreover, the cameras can be moved independently of the blade allowing for optimal viewing of the laryngeal opening.

Abstract: Video-based laryngoscopes having an external centrally located channel coursing from the handle to a curved blade configured to deliver an ETT to a trachea as visualized by a non-removable, or alternatively, a removable video camera and lighting unit located beneath the external channel. The channel laryngoscope may be made for single use in a patient and discarded, or be processed for re-use. Alternatively, the channel laryngoscope may have a removable video camera and lighting member located within an internal chamber that runs parallel with the external channel. In another embodiment a laryngoscope adapter may be detachably affixable to the channel laryngoscope equipped with the non-removable camera to provide a decontaminated or sterile surface to permit re-use of the channel laryngoscope without having to undergo washing or decontamination procedures.

Abstract: A system and method for endotracheal intubation of airways are disclosed. A malleable stylet having a distal end and a proximal end, a charged coupled device (CCD) at the distal end and a transmitter, at or near the proximal end or connected to the proximal end of the stylet with connectors, transmits video to a visualization device comprising a receiver means, a display means, and a display support adapted to be worn on an operator in a position so that the operator can view the display with one eye while simultaneously viewing the airway directly. The display support is typically worn on the head of a physician. A second display can be worn by a student or observer. In some instances, the transmitter means and receiver means are wireless.

Abstract: This invention is related to a laryngoscope used in endoscopic surgery of the larynx. The laryngoscope (1) which is the subject of this invention includes; a body (2) which is cylinder in shape and empty inside with one end placed inside the larynx, at least one handle (6) fixed with one tip to the other end of the body (2) and at least one sleeve (7) which is fixed to the other end of the handle (6) unconnected to the body (2) and facilitates the motion of the body (2). The body (2) includes; at least a canal (3)upon which the intubation tube is placed; a ridge (4)preventing the slippage of the intubation tube within the larynx; and at least two burrows (5) located on its end attached to the handle (6).

Abstract: Disclosed is a laryngoscope insertion section having a curved superior surface and a curved inferior surface, and a channel extending from the proximal end the channel having an inferior internal surface with a greater curvature than the curvature of the inferior surface. The insertion section is compatible with laryngoscope hardware optimised for indirect viewing, yet enables direct viewing. Additionally, the distance between the inferior and superior surfaces is at a maximum within the intermediate portion, and enables the dimensions of the proximal and distal portions to be minimized. Thus, the intermediate portion, which is located in the patient's oral cavity in use, is provided with greatest depth and therefore strength where the greatest forces are received, whereas the distal and proximal portions are of reduced dimensions to as to minimize trauma to the patient's airway and mouth areas, respectively, in use.

Abstract: Described are insertion aid devices including a handle, a tongue depressor, a first passageway, and a guide with a recess formed by a pair of prongs. The first passageway includes an entry portal and an exit portal, and may also include an alternative entry portal. The insertion aid devices may also include one or more additional passageways, each with an entry portal and an exit portal. The additional passageway may be formed by a plurality of C-clips or a shelf. The tongue depressor may be pivotally coupled to the handle.

Abstract: System and method to remove a foreign object from a body cavity, the system including: a speculum that has a base configured to attach to an otoscope head; a hollow tapered section, having a wide end coupled to the base, and a narrow end that is open; and a hollow tube having a proximal end and an open distal end; the proximal end coupled to the narrow end of the hollow tapered section to form a hollow interior of the speculum. The system further includes a suction port coupled to a lateral side of the speculum, the suction port configured to provide access from outside the speculum to the hollow interior of the speculum; a suction pump configured to provide a variably controlled suction strength; and an interface to provide the variably controlled level of suction to the suction port.

Abstract: Articulating laryngoscope to aid in the intubation of patients by providing illumination of the oral cavity and trachea during the process having, for example, ‘fingers’ with fiber optic lights at the ends and at joints of the fingers, fingers spread open or ‘flower’ when the device is deployed, gently retracting and compressing soft tissues in the oral cavity and providing medical professionals with much better illumination of the passageway they are addressing, constructed from a malleable material, including rubber, plastics/polymers, and carbon fiber, instead of hard metal. The fingers may have multiple light sources to ensure a flooding of the patient's oropharynx with light. Some versions might have fiber-optic cameras connected to one or more fingers for use in teaching and research, and one might have suction capability to facilitate removal of solids and fluids, one embodiment can have at least one finger with a scalpel at its distal end.

Abstract: A system for illuminating a body orifice includes: a frustoconical optical waveguide speculum includes a distal end, a proximal end wider than the distal end, an at least partially circumferential body wall having a bore passing between the proximal and distal ends of the speculum; and a base that couples to the speculum and receives a light source such that the speculum is configured to propagate light from the light source along the body wall. In a preferred embodiment, the body wall defines between an inner and outer surface of the body wall a fluidic channel configured to delivery fluid to the distal end of the speculum and a suction channel configured to drain fluid from distal end of the speculum.

Abstract: A two-piece video laryngoscope includes a disposable handle/blade unit having a handgrip portion with a cavity at the proximal end, a curved distal end portion extending from the handgrip portion terminating in a terminal face containing a LED and a lens and digital image sensor connected with a first connector in the cavity, and a tube receptacle channel extending distally along the dorsal surface of and a vacuum/oxygen passageway extending through the curved distal end portion; and a power/video module releasably engaged in the cavity having a flat panel display pivotally mounted at the proximal end thereof and containing a rechargeable battery and electrical and video circuitry connected with a second connector. An endotracheal tube is received and releasably retained in the tube receptacle channel in a preloaded condition. When assembled, the connectors are engaged to complete the electrical and video circuits and allow viewing of insertion and intubation.

Abstract: A video laryngoscope is provided that includes a body having a handle portion and a blade portion. The blade portion terminates in a tip and defines at least one aperture formed proximal to the tip. The blade portion is dimensioned for oral insertion into a subject buccal cavity. A fiber optic light source terminates within the blade portion and upon light source activation illuminates an area including the tip. A video system is coupled to the body and relays imagery of the tip and surrounding area to a video monitor. A channel extending through the body provides fluid communication to the aperture and an external source of suction. As a result, an operator is capable of visualizing debris and/or obstructions in a subject airway and is able to observe and guide the scope for suction removal.

Abstract: Various embodiments for providing removable, pluggable and disposable opto-electronic modules for illumination and imaging for endoscopy or borescopy are provided for use with portable display devices. Generally, various rigid, flexible or expandable single use medical or industrial devices with an access channel, can include one or more solid state or other compact electro-optic illuminating elements located thereon. Additionally, such opto-electronic modules may include illuminating optics, imaging optics, and/or image capture devices, and airtight means for suction and delivery within the device. The illuminating elements may have different wavelengths and can be time-synchronized with an image sensor to illuminate an object for 2D and 3D imaging, or for certain diagnostic purposes.

Abstract: An otoscope kit has an otoscope with an attachable ear wax removal device for ear wax removal. A fluid dispensing means which is attachable to the otoscope for ejecting fluid through said ear speculum into the ear canal, the fluid dispensing means being mounted on the gripping body of the otoscope. The fluid dispensing means preferably includes a housing, a fluid supply and dispensing container, a pump, a tube connected to the fluid supply and dispensing container at one end extending and connected to a connector on a speculum cover. The fluid dispensing means is controlled by an actuator switch that is mounted in an opening of said housing wherein the actuation of the fluid dispensing means occurs without blocking the line of sight through the viewing means. The fluid dispensing means further can have a fluid recovery means having a vacuum pump, a fluid and debris recovery container and a tube for connecting the fluid recovery container to a second connector in the speculum cover.

Abstract: A laryngoscope is provided with a suction catheter assembly that includes a catheter to supply suction for removal of fluids (e.g., blood, vomit, secretions, and so on) proximate to the distal end of the blade of the laryngoscope during intubation. A connector secures the catheter to the distal end of the blade. A retainer holds the catheter against the side of the blade.

Abstract: Intubation laryngoscope comprises blade (201) including upper elongated part (206) and lower longitudinal part (211) disposed below upper elongated part (206) between its left (207) and right (209) edges. Lower longitudinal part (211) along with a right portion of upper elongated part (206) form right passageway (213), and lower longitudinal part (211) along with a left portion of upper elongated part (206) form left passageway (214). This allows both the right-handed operation using right-passageway (213) for the advancement of endotracheal tube, while left passageway (214) can be used for arrangement of an oxygenation tube, suction tube or endoscope probe, and the left-handed operation using left passageway (214) for the advancement of endotracheal tube, while right passageway (213) can be used for the arrangement of mentioned auxiliary means.

Abstract: A laryngoscope includes a blade assembly with a base that is coupled to a handle. Attached to the blade assembly are two hollow guide tubes that generally follow along the longitudinal axis of the blade assembly. The two tubes are oriented at different angles of attack for directing aspirating and/or oxygenating tubes into different regions of the patient's oral cavity. The handle has an ergonomic shape to conform to the user's hand, thereby facilitating the user's application of a downward force necessary to effect laryngeal suspension. A tube extension/retraction mechanism effects user-controlled powered movement of an aspiration/oxygenation tube into or out of the patient's oral cavity. A bayonette connection is provided for connecting the blade assembly to the handle.

Abstract: A multipurpose surgical platform and intubation apparatus for ENT or Surgery with a lifting bar handle, video scope passage and multiple operating channels is described. The surgical platform may have a number of configurations and methods of assembly having an operating stage to allow delivery of the relevant scopes and tools reliably and with an angulation that reduces the mechanical force required to obtain the access needed for diagnosis and therapy. Laser surgery, smoke evacuation and jet ventilation are design features provided by the single-use surgical platform and intubation apparatus.

Abstract: Methods and instruments for performing surgery in a patient are provided that minimize tissue dissection and retraction to access locations within the patient. One specific application concerns devices, instruments and techniques that provide for selective retraction of tissue, neural elements, organs or other anatomical structures at locations distally of the retractor sleeve providing percutaneous access to the locations.

Abstract: A tongue stabilizer includes a tongue-engaging plate that is held on a laryngoscope blade by pressure sensitive adhesive, with a foam strip in-between to compensate for any irregularities between the tongue-engaging plate and the laryngoscope blade. The tongue-engaging plate is cup shape to cradle the tongue to prevent the tongue from interfering with the visibility and process of intubation. A protective strip can be used to cover the adhesive.

Abstract: Methods and instruments for performing surgery in a patient are provided that minimize tissue dissection and retraction to access locations within the patient. One specific application concerns devices, instruments and techniques that provide for selective retraction of tissue, neural elements, organs or other anatomical structures at locations distally of the retractor sleeve providing percutaneous access to the locations.

Abstract: The instrument has an original cleaning system, which includes a gas nozzle supplying a gas jet onto the optical surface under high pressure. This pressure is sufficient to enable the gas jet to be a single cleaning means for cleaning the optical surface in all clinical instances. A safety means prevents the patient's internal organs from barotrauma by the gas jet and includes a gas jet catcher and a suction pump of ejection type. The latter is arranged in the instrument's handle and can be used also for the removal of abundant secretions or body's small particles from the patient's cavity. Besides, the gas jet and the suction pump along with a control means form the system for pressure control within the patient's cavity.

Abstract: A laryngoscope system has a blade with a distal end, and intermediate extent, and a generally C-shaped recess adjacent to a proximal end. A handle has a lower end, a central extent, and an upper end. The lower end has a space between two parallel shoulders to receive the blade and a pin spanning the space to rotatably support the recess of the blade. A suction subassembly extends between the blade and the handle. An optical subassembly extends between the blade and the handle. The blade and optical subassembly move between an operative position and inoperative position.

Abstract: A suction unit is placed inside the handle of a laryngoscope to allow portable suction to be utilized during intubation without requiring multiple devices. The suction tip can be attached to the distal end of the laryngoscope blade. Replacing the light on a laryngoscope with an LED allows for a small watch-sized battery to be used instead of current large batteries taking up the handle space. This opens up the handle space to make room for the suction unit. Evacuated fluids and discharge exit into a tube and into a portable receptacle.

Abstract: An improved laryngoscope blade is described wherein the blade includes a conduit for attaching detachable tubing for delivery of oxygen to the airway during laryngoscopy.

Abstract: A two piece endotracheal intubation device is provided having a multidirectional eyepiece, a suction port and a fiber optic assembly that enables a practitioner to apply suction to a patient's airway while at the same time visualizing the airway from any position relative to the patient for insertion of the endotracheal tube.

Abstract: An element for a phonomicrosurgical modular glottiscope system comprises a proximal end; a distal end; a pair of opposing curved sides intersecting at an apex line; a substantially planar base, and internal channels disposed within the base. The base plate is removably attached to the pair of curved sides, and the base and curved sides define a lumen extending from the proximal end to the distal end. The internal channels include a first internal channel that provides illumination to the distal end and a second internal channel that provides aspiration to the distal end. In operation, the distal end of the element is inserted into a body cavity and the lumen provides visualization of the distal end and access to the distal end for tools inserted into the lumen from the proximal end. A method of manufacturing the element is also disclosed.

Abstract: A suctioning laryngoscope blade is provided that allows a user to efficiently suction the airway of a patient without increasing costs or time for the user. More particularly, a suctioning laryngoscope blade is provided that includes a blade portion and a suction tube, coupled to an external surface of the blade portion, wherein the suction tube is a permanent component of the laryngoscope blade.

Abstract: An otoscope having (a) a gripping body; (b) a hollow ear speculum, having an outer end adapted to be placed in the ear canal of a patient, said ear speculum being connected to a top end of the gripping body; (c) a viewing port connected to the top end of said gripping body to provide a line of sight through the ear speculum; (d) a light source which is directed through said ear speculum; and (e) a dispenser which is integral with said otoscope for ejecting medicament through the ear speculum.