Inventors:
Christopher Grey - Davie FL, US
International Classification:
A61M016/00
US Classification:
128/207140, 128/207150, 128/200260
Abstract:
An endotracheal tube and suction catheter system having an inflatable cuff with a unique shape, collection pocket formed by the inflatable cuff and a unique railing system for controllably guiding a suction catheter along the tube and into or proximal to the pocket. The cuff and pocket facilitate the collection of pooled secretions that accumulate in the trachea area. Pooled secretions are collected in the cuff pocket and the cuff may be pitched toward the pocket or have a concave hemispherical design at the posterior pocket end and, or a convex hemispherical design at the anterior end to further urge pooled secretions into the pocket. The cuff preferably has an elongated parallelogram-like shape to counter the rocking phenomenon caused by a patient coughing or turning. The parallelogram-like shape causes the cuff to maintain its contact with the trachea walls so secretions and fluid do not leak past the cuff balloon. The suction catheter, which is guided along the tube toward the pocket, is used to aspirate the collected secretions in the pocket and above the cuff. The railing system allows the suction catheter to be replaced without having to remove the endotracheal tube. Although the instant invention is primarily described with reference to flexible endotracheal tubes, it may also be adapted for trachea tubes, which are typically shorter and more rigid. The instant invention may also comprise a system having a suction catheter with a temperature probe and, or sublingual system probe.
