Abstract: A patient tube securement apparatus is disclosed that may be used for oral or nasal intubation of a patient. The apparatus may comprise an endotracheal tube securement apparatus for securing an endotracheal tube to a patient, the apparatus comprising a dermal patch arranged to be positioned on the skin of the patient, and at least one tube holder on the dermal patch. The apparatus may comprise a patient tube securement apparatus for securing a patient tube to a patient, the apparatus comprising a dermal patch arranged to be positioned on the skin of the patient, and at least one tube holder on the dermal patch. Examples are provided in which the tube holder is adjustably mounted on the dermal patch such that the position of the tube holder on the dermal patch can be adjusted without removing the dermal patch from the skin of the patient.

Abstract: Uni-molded pacifier includes nipple, stem, shield and typically a handle. The stem includes a round surface, as in classically designed pacifiers, or may be orthodontically shaped, extending proximally and longitudinally into a base which in turn is blended into a shield. Change in the base to stem contact angle lowers the applied force to the stem as compared to traditional pacifier stems and bases. The decrease in applied force to the stem equates to less pressure needed to compress the stem thru sucking activity. The shield, in this uni-molded pacifier, also has an increase in the area and mass of the center surface. This decreases diameter of the posterior mouth of the shield opening to a lumen of the base and stem which has an added benefit to make it more difficult for debris to enter the lumen. If desired there is no posterior mouth.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to an oral device, or mouthpiece, for delivering a fluid to the mouth or oropharynx of a user. In one embodiment, the oral device includes an intraoral portion, an extraoral portion, and an auxiliary support device that serves to stabilize the oral device. In various embodiments, the auxiliary support device may be configured with ear loops, a support band, a support frame and/or a support member. The intraoral portion generally includes at least one outlet port through which the fluid is delivered to the oral cavity or oropharynx. A method of dispensing a fluid using the oral device is also provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to a cannula holder having a guide for a stomach tube, which consists of a main body or mask; a male-female type of holder attached to said main body or mask, which provides graduated support for an endotracheal cannula; a support substrate that is attached to the rear part of the main body or mask; and an extensible band or strap, the ends of which are attached to each of the lateral ends of the main body or mask, wherein said extensible band or strap extends around and behind the head of the patient or user to keep the cannula holder having a guide for a stomach tube in place. The invention also relates to the fact that the holder, in addition to being used for holding an endotracheal cannula, can be used to hold any other medical device used in connection with the oral airways, such as a laryngeal mask.

Abstract: Methods and devices for orally administering fluids and medical instrumentation to individuals for the promotion of health are disclosed. An apparatus is described comprising a pacifier configured to hold fluid and configured for sucking. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes a balloon positioned within a cavity of the pacifier. The balloon is configured to facilitate expulsion of the fluid from the cavity and to limit a user's ingestion of air. In other embodiments, the apparatus includes a cartridge or ampoule configured to store a fluid and expel the fluid through the pacifier. Systems are disclosed which include the pacifier apparatus, a known quantity of fluid or powder, and sterile packaging. Other systems are disclosed whereby various attachments, both medical and non-medical, couple to the apparatus. Methods of using and methods of manufacturing are also disclosed.

Abstract: A mouthpiece has a bite-off-prevention feature. The mouthpiece has been manufactured from an elastomeric parent material with at least one first component, where a reinforcing component embedded within the parent material forms the bite-off-prevention feature and derives from the same group of substances or group of materials as the first component. The reinforcing component is preferably composed of fibers.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to an oral device, or mouthpiece, for delivering a fluid to the mouth or oropharynx of a user. In one embodiment, the oral device includes an intraoral portion, an extraoral portion, and an auxiliary support device that serves to stabilize the oral device. In various embodiments, the auxiliary support device may be configured with ear loops, a support band, a support frame and/or a support member. The intraoral portion generally includes at least one outlet port through which the fluid is delivered to the oral cavity or oropharynx. A method of dispensing a fluid using the oral device is also provided.

Abstract: An oral administration device having a nipple member and a frangible seal is disclosed. An oral administration system having a nipple member and a syringe to fill the nipple member is disclosed. An oral administration device having a vacuum package surrounding the oral administration device is also disclosed.

Abstract: Systems and methods are described for implementing or deploying medical or veterinary utility modules comprising a first module operable in a digestive or respiratory tract to engage a second module, optionally by a magnetic field. Alternatively or additionally, systems may be operable to remain in situ and also operable to permit a therapeutic material dispensation. In some contexts, for example, systems or methods may dispense a therapeutic material via a subject's throat or elsewhere in the digestive or respiratory tract.

Abstract: An oral administration device having a nipple member and a frangible seal is disclosed. And oral administration system having a nipple member and a syringe to fill the nipple member is disclosed. An oral administration device having a vacuum package surrounding the oral administration device is also disclosed.

Abstract: Systems and methods are described for implementing or deploying medical or veterinary utility modules comprising a first module operable in a digestive or respiratory tract to engage a second module, optionally by a magnetic field. Alternatively or additionally, systems may be operable to remain in situ and also operable to permit a therapeutic material dispensation. In some contexts, for example, systems or methods may dispense a therapeutic material via a subject's throat or elsewhere in the digestive or respiratory tract.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to an oral device, or mouthpiece, for delivering a fluid to the mouth or oropharynx of a user. In one embodiment, the oral device includes an intraoral portion, an extraoral portion, and an auxiliary support device that serves to stabilize the oral device. In various embodiments, the auxiliary support device may be configured with ear loops, a support band, a support frame and/or a support member. The intraoral portion generally includes at least one outlet port through which the fluid is delivered to the oral cavity or oropharynx. A method of dispensing a fluid using the oral device is also provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to an external female incontinence device. The device comprises a flexible elastic strip having an opening in the strip, a fluid collection means surrounding the opening on one face, the strip and opening are sized and shaped so that when stretch fitted over the external urogenital organs the labia minor extends through the opening and a fluid tight fit between the upper face of the strip and the flesh surrounding the labia minora is formed. The device may further comprise a waistband for attachment of the device and to assist in maintaining a positive tension to press the device against the flesh surrounding the labia minora.

Abstract: An easy to use, squeezable device with a soft, flexible tube for feeding liquid nutrition to a person, includes: a) a squeezable bottle portion for holding the ingestible liquid therewithin, the bottle portion comprising an opening at its top surrounded by a neck; and b) a cap assembly comprising: flexible fluid-flow tubing, a spout or nipple assembly, and a threaded collar, an upper portion of the spout assembly being insertable through a central aperture in the collar, the flexible tubing having a first end in fluid communication with the bottle portion and a second end insertable in the patient's mouth, the flexible tubing extending through or encircling a central aperture in the spout assembly. The spout assembly preferably includes a leakproof flange, and a valve assembly for controlling flow. The device is particularly intended for use where suction such as nipples, straws, or sip cups are contraindicated after craniofacial surgery.

Abstract: This invention relates to a feeding apparatus for breathing masks that allows food and drink intake when the mask is in use, does not reduce the wearer's field of vision, requires little space, and is protected from dirt or other contamination.

Abstract: A dispenser for administering liquid or paste medication to a horse has a hollow tube open at one end for insertion of a plunger rod and is closed off at an intermediate location by a stop, with an upward-pointing aperture for ejection located adjacent the stop. The tube is supported at each end by members attachable to a bridle, with the tube and support members simulating normal components of a bridle. For liquid medication the liquid is introduced into the tube through the ejection aperture, with the plunger rod in place. For paste material the medication is introduced axially into the open end of the tube by a tight-fitting syringe, and the same syringe is then used to eject a portion of the medicine. Ejection is then completed by removing the syringe and inserting the plunger rod to eject the remaining material.

Abstract: An apparatus for holding and feeding a preterm infant comprising a neonatal bassinet that holds the infant in a position for feeding, a gavage syringe for holding and dispensing nutritional liquid through a catheter, and a Gavage Syringe Restraining Device (GSRD) attached to the bassinet. The GSRD is an L-shaped bracket which holds the gavage syringe in an elevated position above the infant. The GSRD comprises a vertical arm which holds the gavage syringe and a horizontal arm which is mounted to the inside bottom surface of the bassinet under a removable mattress. The vertical arm includes a plurality of vertical slits arranged in pairs. An adjustable strap is positioned through a selected pair of slits and is wrapped around the gavage syringe to hold the syringe in a selected position. The bassinet may be mounted on a mobile cart and moved without interrupting the feeding of the infant, and without having to remove the syringe from a fixed mounting location.

Abstract: A liquid dispensing infant pacifier has a mouth guard with a hollow tubular connector portion on its rear side over an opening extending through the mouth guard from its rear side to its front side. The connector has a configuration similar to that of a catheter hub and is selectively and removably connectable to either the interiorly threaded discharge end of a conventional liquid dispensing syringe or a closure cap portion of the pacifier which serves to block fluid flow through the connector portion. Projecting outwardly from the front side of the mouth guard, over the opening therein, is a specially designed double-walled tubular nipple which is formed from a partially everted pliable material tube and has a large interior flow space extending outwardly through the open front end of the nipple body.

Abstract: An endotracheal system is disclosed which contains a contoured mouthpiece capable of fitting between a patient's teeth. The endotracheal system also provides a medication injection line capable of delivering precise doses of medication directly to the patients lungs. The medication may also be delivered in spray form when necessary. The endotracheal system includes a number of arresting elements, attached to the mouthpiece, which are capable of restricting the motion of the endotracheal tube. The endotracheal system may be secured to the patient by means of a flexible cord such as umbilical tape.

Abstract: An infant-feeding nipple and an infant-feeding nipple system in which the nipple may be used conventionally on a baby bottle or used in conjunction with an elongate conduit connected between the nipple and a container holding liquid to be drunk by the infant. The nipple has a radially enlarged flange on its base end, with a rigid safety ring insert which prevents the flange from being pulled from beneath the cap holding the nipple to a bottle, and which prevents the nipple from being swallowed by an infant when the nipple is detached from a container. In one form of the invention, the nipple has a flexible transverse wall across its base end, with a central opening therethrough for receiving one end of an elongate conduit whose other end may be extended into a container of liquid to be drunk by the infant. Different diameter conduits may be connected to the nipple.

Abstract: A liquid vitamin and medicine dispenser for infants and toddlers, comprising a flexible mask contoured to the shape of a mouth of an infant/toddler to provide support. A lock assembly is centrally mounted into the flexible mask. A nipple having a pinhole therein is secured into the lock assembly on an inner side of the flexible mask, so that the infant/toddler can suck on the nipple. A vial is mounted in a removable manner into the lock assembly on an outer side of the flexible mask. A liquid vitamin/medicine can be placed into the vial to flow into the nipple, allowing the infant/toddler to suck the liquid out of the nipple.

Abstract: A method for animal training. More specifically, this invention provides a method for rapidly and effectively training horses and other animals by facilitating the delivery of a primary reinforcement reward substance to the animal simultaneously with, or immediately following the exhibition of desired behavior by the animal.

Abstract: Retaining device on a single-port feeding tube connector for patient feeding set to prevent unintentional disconnect of the feeding solution supply tube from the feeding tube.

Abstract: A drinking device is sanitary, easy to clean, and heightens the user's level of independence by (1) being readily yet semi-permanently positionable at a location permitting access to the device by the mouth of the user; and (2) being easily activated by the mouth of the user to reliably and continuously supply liquid to the user upon demand using only the user's mouth. The device includes a mouth operated drinking valve the semi-permanent positioning of which for accessibility by the mouth of the user is made possible by a tubing assembly in the form a flexible tube supported by a stiffener. The stiffener permits the tubing assembly to be readily bent to position the tube and drinking valve as desired yet maintains its position after bending. The stiffener is provided on the outside rather than within the flexible tube to facilitate cleaning of the tube and thus to promote sanitary use.

Abstract: A device having a manually operable plunger slidably mounted within a container for orally administering liquid. The plunger operates to administer the liquid through an outlet, which is at least partially surrounded by a radially extending shield.

Abstract: A prosthesis for protecting the palate of a small infant from injury by airway or other tubes required to be maintained in the throat of an infant patient for extended periods, comprises a thin mass of injection molded, soft, resiliently deformable plastic having an upper surface contoured to conform to a normal palate of a healthy infant of approximately the same size as the patient. The plastic mass incorporates an integral, downwardly opening passage for an air way tube, thus disposing the plastic mass between the tube and the palate of the infant patient.

Abstract: An esophagus probe for delivery of treatment doses of material to domestic livestock directly into the animal's esophagus. This enhances an availability of the product to the animal and assures the correct dosage without risk of the animal spitting the dose out of its mouth.

Abstract: Apparatus for administering an ingestible oral fluid to a patient takes the form of an elongate tubular member (10) closed at the extremity of one end portion shaped as a hook (11), the hook having a hollowed outward projection (16) which is resilient at least over its area facing in the same general direction as the mouth of the hook, with this area also being formed with an orifice (17). The overall geometry of the apparatus is such that the hook passes over the lower mouth of the patient to locate and retain the projection or oral actuation, while the remainder of the member hangs across the jaw of the patient.

Abstract: Endotracheal tube clutch including a left half, a right half mounted about a living hinge, wings extending out from each half, a semi-circular large hole, small hole and bite block in each half, and a locking assembly for each half for engagement with respect to each other.

Abstract: Apparatus including a vacuum packed flexible bottle containing a hook at its upper-most end for securement to a support such as a crib rail with a feed conduit directed from a lower terminal end of the container directed into a neck harness for securement about an infants neck wherein the harness includes a first tube end receiving a second tube end telescopingly therewithin to provide a safe yet secure securement about an infants neck portion with a nipple member directed through the harness for feeding of an associated infant.Modifications of the invention include a generally U-shaped securement strap mounting flexible straps thereto where the straps include hook and loop fasteners to mount the U-shaped strap to a forward orientation relative to an infant. The strap includes a slot for reception of a nursing nipple therethrough with a boss extending through a forward surface of the U-shaped strap to secure a spare nipple thereon.

Abstract: A device for administering oral fluid to a patient from a container (18) has a nipple (14) connected to the container (18) by a tube (16). The nipple (14) is held on the patient's tongue. A valve (22) opens in response to the patient sucking or pressing the nipple to initiate a flow of fluid in the tube (16). A detector (92) responds to this flow and switches on a peristaltic pump (90) for a period determined by the setting of a controller (102) to deliver positively a suitable bolus of 2 to 6 ml to the patient. To give the patient time to swallow the bolus, the detector (92) is inhibited for a predetermined delay period after termination of the bolus and over the same delay period, the tube (16) remains pinched or clamped.

Abstract: A holder for anchoring medical tubes which are used for providing access to hollow body organs. The holder consists of a band adapted to be adhesively secured to the face of the patient at three points. A series of receptacles is provided along the length of the band into which anchor elements may be selectively engaged. The anchor element supports the tube adjacent the band and anchors the tube against both lateral displacement and longitudinal displacement affecting the depth of penetration of the tube. The interconnection of the anchor with the band is facilitated by a quick-connect-disconnect arrangement provided by a plug portion on the anchor engaging in a complementary receptacle in the band.

Abstract: A device for administering oral fluid to a patient from a container (18) has a nipple (14) connected to the container (18) by a tube (16). The nipple (14) is provided with a soft reticulate mouthpiece (10) which fits between the lips and the gums or teeth to hold the nipple (14) on the patient's tongue. A valve (22) opens in response to the patient sucking or pressing the nipple (14) to admit fluid into the patient's mouth.

Abstract: A device for administering to animals a treatment liquid stored in a container, the device comprising a hollow loop serving as a flow conduit between the container and a flexible nozzle mounted on one side of the loop adapted to direct a jet of the liquid toward the back of the animal's throat. The loop has a geometry close to that of an equilateral triangle, the corners of which adjacent the side which carries the nozzle being rounded whereby the loop may be clamped very firmly on the nose of the animal without inflicting pain.

Abstract: To satisfy the sucking need present to some degree in all humans, a sucking device having the shape of a smoking pipe has its bowl filled with a consumable liquid which the user withdraws through the stem of the device by sucking on the stem mouthpiece. An adjustable needle valve is provided on the stem to regulate the sucking power required to receive the liquid in the mouth. The bowl of the device is provided with a cover on which is mounted a diaphragm valve or other one-way opening check valve through which air enters the bowl to prevent the formation of a vacuum therein.

Abstract: A pneumatic dilatator for introduction into the esophagus and for treatment of a constricted segment of the intestinal system of a living being contains an inflatable balloon and a tube of a given length which is passed through the balloon. The tube receives a gastroscope for observation during treatment. The balloon is preferably of cylindrical shape. Preferably it consists of a flexible material of little elasticity, such as polyurethane, which limits its diameter during an inflation to a given upper value.