US20080099013A1 - Gas-Treatment Devices - Google Patents

Gas-Treatment Devices Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US20080099013A1
US20080099013A1 US11/793,235 US79323505A US2008099013A1 US 20080099013 A1 US20080099013 A1 US 20080099013A1 US 79323505 A US79323505 A US 79323505A US 2008099013 A1 US2008099013 A1 US 2008099013A1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
port
housing
oxygen supply
oxygen
gas
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US11/793,235
Inventor
Mark Andrew Graham
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Smiths Group PLC
Original Assignee
Smiths Group PLC
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from GB0500133A external-priority patent/GB0500133D0/en
Priority claimed from GB0501937A external-priority patent/GB0501937D0/en
Application filed by Smiths Group PLC filed Critical Smiths Group PLC
Assigned to SMITHS GROUP PLC reassignment SMITHS GROUP PLC ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: GRAHAM, MARK ANDREW
Publication of US20080099013A1 publication Critical patent/US20080099013A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61MDEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M16/00Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
    • A61M16/10Preparation of respiratory gases or vapours
    • A61M16/1045Devices for humidifying or heating the inspired gas by using recovered moisture or heat from the expired gas
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61MDEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M16/00Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
    • A61M16/04Tracheal tubes
    • A61M16/0465Tracheostomy tubes; Devices for performing a tracheostomy; Accessories therefor, e.g. masks, filters
    • A61M16/047Masks, filters, surgical pads, devices for absorbing secretions, specially adapted therefor
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61MDEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M16/00Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
    • A61M16/08Bellows; Connecting tubes ; Water traps; Patient circuits
    • A61M16/0816Joints or connectors
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61MDEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M16/00Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. mouth-to-mouth respiration; Tracheal tubes
    • A61M16/08Bellows; Connecting tubes ; Water traps; Patient circuits
    • A61M16/0875Connecting tubes
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61MDEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M2202/00Special media to be introduced, removed or treated
    • A61M2202/02Gases
    • A61M2202/0208Oxygen

Definitions

  • This invention relates to gas-treatment devices of the kind having a housing, a first port adapted for connection to a patient breathing device, a gas-treatment element through which gas can flow in both directions to and from the patient and a second, oxygen supply port by which oxygen can be supplied to the patient via the gas-treatment device, the oxygen supply port being in the form of a tubular stem.
  • the invention is more particularly, but not exclusively, concerned with heat and moisture exchangers (HMEs) of the kind connected to a patient breathing device.
  • HMEs heat and moisture exchangers
  • HME heat and moisture exchange device
  • HMEs When the patient inhales, gas passes through the exchange element in the opposite direction and takes up a major part of the heat and moisture in the exchange element so that the gas inhaled by the patient is warmed and moistened.
  • HMEs are low cost and disposable after a single use so do not require cleaning or present any cross contamination risk. They can be connected in a breathing circuit or simply connected to the machine end of a tracheal tube and left open to atmosphere where the patient is breathing spontaneously.
  • HMEs are sold by Smiths Medical International Limited of Hythe, Kent, England under the Thermovent name (Thermovent is a registered trade mark of Smiths Medical International Limited), by Hudson RCI AB under the TrachVent name (TrachVent is a registered trade mark of Hudson RCI AB), by DAR, Medisize, Intersurgical and other manufacturers.
  • HMEs often include an oxygen inlet port to which an oxygen supply tube can be connected. This enables supplementary oxygen to be administered to the patient via the HME.
  • the oxygen port opens on the side of the HME element remote from the patient so that the oxygen has to pass through the HME element before reaching the patient. Examples of HMEs with oxygen supply ports are described in GB 2391816, WO 01/72365, U.S. Pat.
  • HME is often connected to the end of a tracheal tube it is desirable that its construction be as compact as possible.
  • a gas-treatment device of the above-specified kind characterised in that the housing has a recess on its external surface, and that the major part of the oxygen supply port extends within the recess when not in use.
  • the device preferably has two gas-treatment elements at opposite ends of the housing.
  • the oxygen supply port may be located intermediate the ends of the housing.
  • the or each gas-treatment element may be an HME exchange element.
  • the housing preferably has an elongate shape and the port preferably extends at right angles to the axis of the housing.
  • the oxygen supply port may be displaceable from a first position in which a major part of the port is contained within the recess and a second position in which it projects from the recess for connection of an oxygen supply tube.
  • the port may be displaceable by rotation or by sliding.
  • the housing may have a suction aperture located substantially opposite the first port, the suction aperture being covered by a flap that can be displaced to enable a suction catheter to be extended through the suction aperture into the patient breathing device.
  • An oxygen supply passage preferably extends along the housing and opens onto an external face of the or each gas-treatment element, the oxygen supply port being directed at an angle to the oxygen supply passage such that oxygen flow changes direction where it emerges from the port into the passage, and the cross-sectional area of the oxygen passage being greater than that of the oxygen port so that oxygen pressure drops where it emerges from the port into the passage.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective side view of the HME connected to the end of a tracheostomy tube;
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective end view of the HME
  • FIG. 3 is view of the lower side of the HME
  • FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a part of the HME
  • FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an alternative HME with its oxygen port stowed
  • FIG. 6 is a side elevation view of the HME of FIG. 5 with the oxygen port extended;
  • FIG. 7 is a view of the underside of the HME of FIG. 5 with the oxygen port extended;
  • FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the HME with the oxygen port extended.
  • FIG. 9 is a side elevation view of a second alternative, modified HME.
  • the HME has an outer housing 1 with a coupling or port 2 by which it is connected to a tracheal tube 3 .
  • the housing 1 supports two heat and moisture exchange elements 4 at opposite ends by which gas supplied to the patient is warmed and moistened.
  • An oxygen supply port 5 is mounted on the housing 1 to enable supplementary oxygen to be supplied to the patient when necessary.
  • the housing 1 is generally cylindrical and is moulded from a rigid plastics material.
  • the patient coupling 2 projects radially outwardly of the housing midway along its length and has an internal tapered surface 20 adapted to connect to a standard male tapered coupling 21 on the end of the tracheal tube 3 .
  • the coupling 2 opens to the interior 22 of the housing 1 in communication with the inner surface of the exchange elements 4 .
  • the exchange elements 4 are each conventional, being in the form of a disc comprising a spiral roll of corrugated paper treated with a hygroscopic salt to promote the retention of moisture.
  • the exchange elements 4 extend transversely of the axis of the housing 1 , being retained on the ends of the housing by annular, inwardly-projecting end flanges 23 and 24 .
  • the external face 30 of each exchange element 4 is located just rearwardly of a curved slot 31 formed between the end of the housing 1 and the respective end flanges 23 and 24 .
  • Each slot 31 communicates with an oxygen conduit 32 extending longitudinally of the HME in a ridge 33 along the lower side of the housing 1 .
  • the space between the external face 30 of the exchange elements 4 and the ends of the housing 1 helps protect the elements from contact and contamination.
  • the ridge 33 is interrupted by a recess 40 , of a tapering shape, on the lower side of the exterior of the housing 1 .
  • the depth of the recess 40 is about half the width of the ridge 33 , the oxygen conduit 32 continuing with a reduced width behind the recess, along the entire length of the housing 1 so that the slots 31 at both ends communicate with one another via the conduit.
  • the recess 40 serves to house and protect the oxygen supply port 5 .
  • the oxygen supply port 5 is formed by a stem 51 of circular external section and with a taper on its external surface such that its outer, free end 52 has a smaller diameter than its inner end 53 .
  • the port 5 extends parallel to the patient coupling 2 in the opposite direction, that is, at right angles to the axis of the housing 1 .
  • the oxygen supply port 5 is located in the recess 40 on the lower side of the housing and its length is such that it is entirely contained within the recess. In modifications of the HME, the oxygen supply port could project slightly from the recess providing that the major part of its length was contained within the recess.
  • the space within the recess 40 around the oxygen supply port 5 is such as to enable a female coupling on the end of an oxygen supply tube (not shown) to be pushed onto and retained on the port.
  • This space 32 ′ has a larger cross-sectional area (typically about 13.4 mm 2 ) than that of the passage through the oxygen port (typically about 3.1 mm 2 ) thereby resulting in a drop in pressure as the oxygen flows out of the port 5 into the section 32 ′.
  • the flow of oxygen is then abruptly diverted through 90° as it flows outwardly in both directions away from the port 5 . This change in direction produces turbulence and a further drop in pressure.
  • the oxygen then flows from the reduced width section 32 ′ into opposite ends of the main section 32 and, because these have a larger cross-sectional area (typically about 47.9 mm 2 ) than the reduced width section, this results in a further reduction in the pressure of the oxygen.
  • Oxygen flow from the port 5 in both directions is substantially equal because of the central location of the port and its symmetrical disposition. Oxygen flows along the conduit 32 and out of the slots 31 over the external surface 30 of the two exchange elements 4 . In this way, the supplementary oxygen has to pass through the exchange elements 4 before passing to the trachea, so that it is warmed and moistened in the same way as the ambient air.
  • the reduced pressure caused by the geometry of the oxygen flow path from the port 5 to the external surfaces of the exchange elements 4 reduces the flow rate out of the slots 31 and ensures that a maximum proportion of the oxygen remains in the region of the exchange elements without flowing past them. This helps ensure the maximum efficiency of oxygen mixing with ambient air in the region of the exchange elements 4 and hence the maximum concentration of oxygen supplied to the patient.
  • the HME additionally has a suction access aperture 60 located directly opposite the tracheal tube coupling 2 .
  • the aperture 60 is rectangular and is normally covered and closed by a cover or flap 61 formed integrally with the housing 1 and attached with it at one end by a web or living hinge 62 , which is bendable to allow the flap to be raised or lowered over the aperture.
  • the edges of the flap 61 and the aperture 60 are shaped such that the flap can snap into position in the aperture and provide a substantially gas-tight seal.
  • the free end 63 of the flap 61 is curved away from the surface of the housing 1 to form a lip when the flap is closed by which it can be gripped and opened.
  • the clinician lifts the flap 61 and inserts the suction tube down the tracheal tube through the patient coupling 2 .
  • the fit of the flap 61 in the aperture 60 could be arranged such that the flap can be blown outwardly by increased pressure created by the patient, such as when coughing. This would provide a pressure relief feature.
  • the dimensions of the suction aperture 60 are relatively large so that a suction catheter can be inserted through the aperture with minimal contact with the edge of the aperture so as to minimize wiping the catheter and thereby reduce the risk that secretions on the outside of the catheter will be removed and remain inside the HME.
  • the width of the aperture 60 is at least substantially the same as the internal diameter of the tracheal tube 3 with which the HME is used, typically the width is about 10 mm and the depth is about 16 mm.
  • Suction catheters should have an external diameter not greater than half the internal diameter of the tracheal tube, the maximum size of the suction catheter usually being 16 F, that is 5.3 mm outside diameter, for use with a 10 mm internal diameter tracheal tube.
  • the HME can present a compact configuration and its surface is less likely to snag on adjacent tubes, dressings, wires or the like when not in use.
  • the oxygen supply port need not be concealed within the recess when connected to the oxygen supply tube. Instead, the port could be displaceable from a position where it is concealed within a recess, when not in use, to a position where it projects from the recess, when in use.
  • the oxygen supply port 105 has an outer tapered portion 106 and a shorted, inner stem 107 projecting at right angles to the outer portion.
  • the stem 107 is solid and formed with a bifurcated toothed end 108 , which is a snap fit in a hole 109 through the upper wall 110 of the recess 140 into the interior 122 of the housing 101 .
  • One side of the stem 107 makes close sliding contact in a concave cavity 146 formed in the corner between a rear wall 147 and a side wall 148 of the recess 140 adjacent the hole 109 .
  • the cavity 146 has a small opening 149 located towards the rear wall 147 and opening through the wall into the conduit 132 .
  • a passage 152 extends axially through the outer portion 106 of the port 105 from the open, forward end 151 to a rear opening 153 formed in the wall of the stem 141 .
  • the oxygen supply port 105 is rotatable through 90° about the axis of the stem 107 , the fit of the toothed end 108 in the hole 109 enabling the stem to rotate in the hole, whilst the friction between the stem and the hole is sufficient to ensure that the port remains in whatever angular position to which it is displaced.
  • the outer portion 106 In the stowed position shown in FIG. 5 , the outer portion 106 extends parallel to the axis of the housing 101 and parallel to its external surface, alongside the rear wall 147 of the recess 140 .
  • the length of the outer portion 106 locates in the recess 140 with just a small part of its width protruding so that the major part of the port 105 is contained within the boundaries of the recess. In this position, the curved surface of the stem 107 blocks any flow of gas through the opening 149 .
  • the external surface of the HME is substantially uninterrupted by projections so that it presents a compact, retracted configuration.
  • the outer portion 106 When the oxygen supply port 105 is swung clockwise through 90° (as viewed from below and as shown in FIGS. 6 , 7 and 8 ) the outer portion 106 extends outwardly at right angles to the axis of the housing 101 so that the oxygen supply tubing can be connected to it readily. In this position, the rear opening 153 of the oxygen supply port 105 aligns with the opening 149 so that oxygen can flow along conduit 132 .
  • the port 105 ′ could be movable linearly in a slidable, telescopic fashion.
  • the port 105 ′ has an inner stem 141 ′ slidably mounted in a telescopic fashion on the outside of a short, radially extending tube 170 opening into the conduit 132 ′.
  • the outer stem 142 ′ extends at right angles to the inner stem 141 ′ in the same manner as in the swivel port 105 .
  • the telescopic movement is such that, in its retracted position, substantially all the port 105 ′ is contained within the boundaries of the recess 140 ′ whereas, when pulled out fully to its extended position, the outer stem 142 ′ extends outside the recess 140 ′ so that an oxygen supply connector can be fitted easily to the stem.
  • the mounting of the inner stem 141 ′ on tube 170 could be such as either to prevent or to permit rotation of the port 105 ′. Where rotation is prevented, the outer stem 142 ′ would be confined to extend only parallel to the axis of the HME. Where rotation is permitted, the outer stem 142 ′ would be free to swivel to any desired orientation once pulled out of the recess 140 ′.
  • the port 105 ′ could be arranged to restrict flow of gas through it when in the retracted position. This could be achieved by means of a formation inside the port 105 ′ that obstructs the end of the tube 170 when the port is retracted.
  • the open end of the outer stem 142 ′ could be arranged to be obstructed by a formation on the inside of the recess 140 ′ when in its stowed, retracted position.
  • the inner stem 141 ′ embracing the outside of the tube 170
  • alternative arrangements could have an inner stem extending inside a tube in a telescopic fashion.
  • the port need not be bent at an angle but could simply be straight, aligned with the axis of telescoping movement.

Abstract

An HME has exchange elements (4) at opposite ends of a tubular housing (1, 101) and a central port (2) for connection to a tracheal tube (3). An oxygen port (5, 105, 105′) is located centrally with the major part of it being contained within a recess (40, 140, 140′) on the exterior of the housing and extending at right angles to the length of the housing. The oxygen port (5, 105, 105′) opens into a wider passage (32, 32′) extending within the housing, which opens on the external face (30) of the two exchange elements (4). A large suction aperture (60) aligns with the port (2) opening to the tracheal tube (3) and is covered by a hinged flap (61) when not in use.

Description

  • This invention relates to gas-treatment devices of the kind having a housing, a first port adapted for connection to a patient breathing device, a gas-treatment element through which gas can flow in both directions to and from the patient and a second, oxygen supply port by which oxygen can be supplied to the patient via the gas-treatment device, the oxygen supply port being in the form of a tubular stem.
  • The invention is more particularly, but not exclusively, concerned with heat and moisture exchangers (HMEs) of the kind connected to a patient breathing device.
  • Where a patient breathes through a tube inserted in the trachea, such as a tracheostomy or endotracheal tube, gas flow to the bronchi is not warmed and moistened by passage through the nose. Unless the gas is warmed and moistened in some way it can cause damage and discomfort in the patient's throat. The gas can be conditioned by a humidifier in the ventilation circuit but, most conveniently, a heat and moisture exchange device (HME) is used. HMEs are small, lightweight devices including one or more exchange elements, such as of a paper or foam treated with a hygroscopic substance. When the patient exhales, gas passes through the exchange element and gives up a major part of its heat and moisture to the element. When the patient inhales, gas passes through the exchange element in the opposite direction and takes up a major part of the heat and moisture in the exchange element so that the gas inhaled by the patient is warmed and moistened. These HMEs are low cost and disposable after a single use so do not require cleaning or present any cross contamination risk. They can be connected in a breathing circuit or simply connected to the machine end of a tracheal tube and left open to atmosphere where the patient is breathing spontaneously.
  • HMEs are sold by Smiths Medical International Limited of Hythe, Kent, England under the Thermovent name (Thermovent is a registered trade mark of Smiths Medical International Limited), by Hudson RCI AB under the TrachVent name (TrachVent is a registered trade mark of Hudson RCI AB), by DAR, Medisize, Intersurgical and other manufacturers. HMEs often include an oxygen inlet port to which an oxygen supply tube can be connected. This enables supplementary oxygen to be administered to the patient via the HME. Advantageously, the oxygen port opens on the side of the HME element remote from the patient so that the oxygen has to pass through the HME element before reaching the patient. Examples of HMEs with oxygen supply ports are described in GB 2391816, WO 01/72365, U.S. Pat. No. 5,505,768, SE 516666, U.S. Pat. No. 3,881,482, DE 20302580, DE 20114355U, WO 97/01366, US 2002/0157667, U.S. Pat. No. 6,422,235, EP 1208866 and U.S. Pat. No. 4,971,054.
  • Because the HME is often connected to the end of a tracheal tube it is desirable that its construction be as compact as possible.
  • It is an object of the present invention to provide an alternative gas-treatment device.
  • According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a gas-treatment device of the above-specified kind, characterised in that the housing has a recess on its external surface, and that the major part of the oxygen supply port extends within the recess when not in use.
  • The device preferably has two gas-treatment elements at opposite ends of the housing. The oxygen supply port may be located intermediate the ends of the housing. The or each gas-treatment element may be an HME exchange element. The housing preferably has an elongate shape and the port preferably extends at right angles to the axis of the housing. The oxygen supply port may be displaceable from a first position in which a major part of the port is contained within the recess and a second position in which it projects from the recess for connection of an oxygen supply tube. The port may be displaceable by rotation or by sliding. The housing may have a suction aperture located substantially opposite the first port, the suction aperture being covered by a flap that can be displaced to enable a suction catheter to be extended through the suction aperture into the patient breathing device. An oxygen supply passage preferably extends along the housing and opens onto an external face of the or each gas-treatment element, the oxygen supply port being directed at an angle to the oxygen supply passage such that oxygen flow changes direction where it emerges from the port into the passage, and the cross-sectional area of the oxygen passage being greater than that of the oxygen port so that oxygen pressure drops where it emerges from the port into the passage.
  • An HME according to the present invention will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective side view of the HME connected to the end of a tracheostomy tube;
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective end view of the HME;
  • FIG. 3 is view of the lower side of the HME;
  • FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a part of the HME;
  • FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an alternative HME with its oxygen port stowed;
  • FIG. 6 is a side elevation view of the HME of FIG. 5 with the oxygen port extended;
  • FIG. 7 is a view of the underside of the HME of FIG. 5 with the oxygen port extended;
  • FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the HME with the oxygen port extended; and
  • FIG. 9 is a side elevation view of a second alternative, modified HME.
  • With reference first to FIGS. 1 to 4, the HME has an outer housing 1 with a coupling or port 2 by which it is connected to a tracheal tube 3. The housing 1 supports two heat and moisture exchange elements 4 at opposite ends by which gas supplied to the patient is warmed and moistened. An oxygen supply port 5 is mounted on the housing 1 to enable supplementary oxygen to be supplied to the patient when necessary.
  • The housing 1 is generally cylindrical and is moulded from a rigid plastics material. The patient coupling 2 projects radially outwardly of the housing midway along its length and has an internal tapered surface 20 adapted to connect to a standard male tapered coupling 21 on the end of the tracheal tube 3. The coupling 2 opens to the interior 22 of the housing 1 in communication with the inner surface of the exchange elements 4.
  • The exchange elements 4 are each conventional, being in the form of a disc comprising a spiral roll of corrugated paper treated with a hygroscopic salt to promote the retention of moisture. The exchange elements 4 extend transversely of the axis of the housing 1, being retained on the ends of the housing by annular, inwardly-projecting end flanges 23 and 24. The external face 30 of each exchange element 4 is located just rearwardly of a curved slot 31 formed between the end of the housing 1 and the respective end flanges 23 and 24. Each slot 31 communicates with an oxygen conduit 32 extending longitudinally of the HME in a ridge 33 along the lower side of the housing 1. The space between the external face 30 of the exchange elements 4 and the ends of the housing 1 helps protect the elements from contact and contamination.
  • Midway along its length, the ridge 33 is interrupted by a recess 40, of a tapering shape, on the lower side of the exterior of the housing 1. The depth of the recess 40 is about half the width of the ridge 33, the oxygen conduit 32 continuing with a reduced width behind the recess, along the entire length of the housing 1 so that the slots 31 at both ends communicate with one another via the conduit. The recess 40 serves to house and protect the oxygen supply port 5.
  • The oxygen supply port 5 is formed by a stem 51 of circular external section and with a taper on its external surface such that its outer, free end 52 has a smaller diameter than its inner end 53. The port 5 extends parallel to the patient coupling 2 in the opposite direction, that is, at right angles to the axis of the housing 1. The oxygen supply port 5 is located in the recess 40 on the lower side of the housing and its length is such that it is entirely contained within the recess. In modifications of the HME, the oxygen supply port could project slightly from the recess providing that the major part of its length was contained within the recess. The space within the recess 40 around the oxygen supply port 5 is such as to enable a female coupling on the end of an oxygen supply tube (not shown) to be pushed onto and retained on the port.
  • Oxygen supplied to the port 5 flows through the relatively narrow passage through the port and opens into the section 32′ of the oxygen conduit 32. This space 32′ has a larger cross-sectional area (typically about 13.4 mm2) than that of the passage through the oxygen port (typically about 3.1 mm2) thereby resulting in a drop in pressure as the oxygen flows out of the port 5 into the section 32′. The flow of oxygen is then abruptly diverted through 90° as it flows outwardly in both directions away from the port 5. This change in direction produces turbulence and a further drop in pressure. The oxygen then flows from the reduced width section 32′ into opposite ends of the main section 32 and, because these have a larger cross-sectional area (typically about 47.9 mm2) than the reduced width section, this results in a further reduction in the pressure of the oxygen. Oxygen flow from the port 5 in both directions is substantially equal because of the central location of the port and its symmetrical disposition. Oxygen flows along the conduit 32 and out of the slots 31 over the external surface 30 of the two exchange elements 4. In this way, the supplementary oxygen has to pass through the exchange elements 4 before passing to the trachea, so that it is warmed and moistened in the same way as the ambient air. The reduced pressure caused by the geometry of the oxygen flow path from the port 5 to the external surfaces of the exchange elements 4 reduces the flow rate out of the slots 31 and ensures that a maximum proportion of the oxygen remains in the region of the exchange elements without flowing past them. This helps ensure the maximum efficiency of oxygen mixing with ambient air in the region of the exchange elements 4 and hence the maximum concentration of oxygen supplied to the patient.
  • The HME additionally has a suction access aperture 60 located directly opposite the tracheal tube coupling 2. The aperture 60 is rectangular and is normally covered and closed by a cover or flap 61 formed integrally with the housing 1 and attached with it at one end by a web or living hinge 62, which is bendable to allow the flap to be raised or lowered over the aperture. The edges of the flap 61 and the aperture 60 are shaped such that the flap can snap into position in the aperture and provide a substantially gas-tight seal. The free end 63 of the flap 61 is curved away from the surface of the housing 1 to form a lip when the flap is closed by which it can be gripped and opened. When the patient's tracheal tube 3 needs suctioning, the clinician lifts the flap 61 and inserts the suction tube down the tracheal tube through the patient coupling 2. This avoids the need to remove the HME. The fit of the flap 61 in the aperture 60 could be arranged such that the flap can be blown outwardly by increased pressure created by the patient, such as when coughing. This would provide a pressure relief feature. The dimensions of the suction aperture 60 are relatively large so that a suction catheter can be inserted through the aperture with minimal contact with the edge of the aperture so as to minimize wiping the catheter and thereby reduce the risk that secretions on the outside of the catheter will be removed and remain inside the HME. Preferably the width of the aperture 60 is at least substantially the same as the internal diameter of the tracheal tube 3 with which the HME is used, typically the width is about 10 mm and the depth is about 16 mm. Suction catheters should have an external diameter not greater than half the internal diameter of the tracheal tube, the maximum size of the suction catheter usually being 16 F, that is 5.3 mm outside diameter, for use with a 10 mm internal diameter tracheal tube.
  • By locating the oxygen supply port in a recess where it is contained substantially entirely within the boundaries of the recess, in the manner described above, the HME can present a compact configuration and its surface is less likely to snag on adjacent tubes, dressings, wires or the like when not in use.
  • The oxygen supply port need not be concealed within the recess when connected to the oxygen supply tube. Instead, the port could be displaceable from a position where it is concealed within a recess, when not in use, to a position where it projects from the recess, when in use.
  • In the arrangement shown in FIGS. 5 to 8, the oxygen supply port 105 has an outer tapered portion 106 and a shorted, inner stem 107 projecting at right angles to the outer portion. As most clearly shown in FIG. 8, the stem 107 is solid and formed with a bifurcated toothed end 108, which is a snap fit in a hole 109 through the upper wall 110 of the recess 140 into the interior 122 of the housing 101. One side of the stem 107 makes close sliding contact in a concave cavity 146 formed in the corner between a rear wall 147 and a side wall 148 of the recess 140 adjacent the hole 109. The cavity 146 has a small opening 149 located towards the rear wall 147 and opening through the wall into the conduit 132.
  • A passage 152 extends axially through the outer portion 106 of the port 105 from the open, forward end 151 to a rear opening 153 formed in the wall of the stem 141. The oxygen supply port 105 is rotatable through 90° about the axis of the stem 107, the fit of the toothed end 108 in the hole 109 enabling the stem to rotate in the hole, whilst the friction between the stem and the hole is sufficient to ensure that the port remains in whatever angular position to which it is displaced. In the stowed position shown in FIG. 5, the outer portion 106 extends parallel to the axis of the housing 101 and parallel to its external surface, alongside the rear wall 147 of the recess 140. The length of the outer portion 106 locates in the recess 140 with just a small part of its width protruding so that the major part of the port 105 is contained within the boundaries of the recess. In this position, the curved surface of the stem 107 blocks any flow of gas through the opening 149. When the oxygen supply port 105 is stowed, as shown in FIG. 5, the external surface of the HME is substantially uninterrupted by projections so that it presents a compact, retracted configuration.
  • When the oxygen supply port 105 is swung clockwise through 90° (as viewed from below and as shown in FIGS. 6, 7 and 8) the outer portion 106 extends outwardly at right angles to the axis of the housing 101 so that the oxygen supply tubing can be connected to it readily. In this position, the rear opening 153 of the oxygen supply port 105 aligns with the opening 149 so that oxygen can flow along conduit 132.
  • It is not essential for the oxygen supply port be displaceable between an extended and retracted position by rotation. As shown in FIG. 9, the port 105′ could be movable linearly in a slidable, telescopic fashion. In this arrangement, the port 105′ has an inner stem 141′ slidably mounted in a telescopic fashion on the outside of a short, radially extending tube 170 opening into the conduit 132′. The outer stem 142′ extends at right angles to the inner stem 141′ in the same manner as in the swivel port 105. The telescopic movement is such that, in its retracted position, substantially all the port 105′ is contained within the boundaries of the recess 140′ whereas, when pulled out fully to its extended position, the outer stem 142′ extends outside the recess 140′ so that an oxygen supply connector can be fitted easily to the stem. The mounting of the inner stem 141′ on tube 170 could be such as either to prevent or to permit rotation of the port 105′. Where rotation is prevented, the outer stem 142′ would be confined to extend only parallel to the axis of the HME. Where rotation is permitted, the outer stem 142′ would be free to swivel to any desired orientation once pulled out of the recess 140′. Because rotation of the port 105′ is not hindered by contact with the sides of the recess 140′, when it is extended, it can be free to rotate through 360°. The port 105′ could be arranged to restrict flow of gas through it when in the retracted position. This could be achieved by means of a formation inside the port 105′ that obstructs the end of the tube 170 when the port is retracted. Alternatively, the open end of the outer stem 142′ could be arranged to be obstructed by a formation on the inside of the recess 140′ when in its stowed, retracted position. Instead of the inner stem 141′ embracing the outside of the tube 170, alternative arrangements could have an inner stem extending inside a tube in a telescopic fashion. The port need not be bent at an angle but could simply be straight, aligned with the axis of telescoping movement. In such an arrangement, it might be desirable for the port to be able to be locked in its extended position so as to facilitate coupling to the oxygen tubing. This could be achieved by a pull-and-twist bayonet action. After use, the port would be unlocked and retracted to its stowed position within a recess.
  • It will be appreciated that the invention is not confined to HMEs but could be used with other devices such as where the gas-treatment elements are filters.

Claims (10)

1. A gas-treatment device having a housing, a first port adapted for connection to a patient breathing device, a gas-treatment element through which gas can flow in both directions to and from the patient and a second, oxygen supply port by which oxygen can be supplied to the patient via the gas-treatment device, the oxygen supply port being in the form of a tubular stem, characterized in that the housing has a recess on its external surface, and that the major part of the oxygen supply port extends within the recess when not in use.
2. A device according to claim 1, characterized in that the device has two gas-treatment elements at opposite ends of the housing.
3. A device according to claim 1, characterized in that the oxygen supply port is located intermediate the ends of the housing.
4. A device according to claim 1, characterized in that the gas-treatment is an HME exchange element.
5. A device according to claim 1, characterized in that the housing has an elongate shape and that the oxygen supply port extends substantially at right angles to the axis of the housing.
6. A device according to claim 1, characterized in that the oxygen supply port is displaceable from a first position in which a major part of the port is contained within the recess and a second position in which it projects from the recess for connection of an oxygen supply tube.
7. A device according to claim 6, characterized in that the oxygen supply port is displaceable by rotation.
8. A device according to claim 6, characterized in that the oxygen supply port is displaceable by sliding.
9. A device according to claim 1, characterized in that the housing has a suction aperture located substantially opposite the first port, and that the suction aperture is covered by a flap that can be displaced to enable a suction catheter to be extended through the suction aperture into the patient breathing device.
10. A device according to claim 1, characterized in that an oxygen supply passage extends along the housing and opens onto an external face of the gas-treatment element, that the oxygen supply port is directed at an angle to the oxygen supply passage such that oxygen flow changes direction where it emerges from the port into the passage, and that the cross-sectional area of the oxygen passage is greater than that of the oxygen port so that oxygen pressure drops where it emerges from the port into the passage.
US11/793,235 2005-01-06 2005-12-23 Gas-Treatment Devices Abandoned US20080099013A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (5)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB0500133.4 2005-01-06
GB0500133A GB0500133D0 (en) 2005-01-06 2005-01-06 Medico-surgical apparatus
GB0501937.7 2005-01-29
GB0501937A GB0501937D0 (en) 2005-01-29 2005-01-29 Medico-surgical apparatus
PCT/GB2005/005067 WO2006072769A1 (en) 2005-01-06 2005-12-23 Gas-treatment devices

Related Parent Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/GB2005/005067 A-371-Of-International WO2006072769A1 (en) 2005-01-06 2005-12-23 Gas-treatment devices

Related Child Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US14/874,556 Division US9604027B2 (en) 2005-01-06 2015-10-05 Gas-treatment devices

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20080099013A1 true US20080099013A1 (en) 2008-05-01

Family

ID=35685403

Family Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US11/793,235 Abandoned US20080099013A1 (en) 2005-01-06 2005-12-23 Gas-Treatment Devices
US14/874,556 Active US9604027B2 (en) 2005-01-06 2015-10-05 Gas-treatment devices

Family Applications After (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US14/874,556 Active US9604027B2 (en) 2005-01-06 2015-10-05 Gas-treatment devices

Country Status (5)

Country Link
US (2) US20080099013A1 (en)
EP (1) EP1848485B1 (en)
JP (1) JP4881320B2 (en)
PL (1) PL1848485T3 (en)
WO (2) WO2006072769A1 (en)

Cited By (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20130133645A1 (en) * 2011-11-25 2013-05-30 Gary C.J. Lee Heat and moisture exchanger
US8839791B2 (en) 2011-06-22 2014-09-23 Breathe Technologies, Inc. Ventilation mask with integrated piloted exhalation valve
US9038635B2 (en) 2011-06-22 2015-05-26 Breathe Technologies, Inc. Ventilation mask with integrated piloted exhalation valve
US20160250438A1 (en) * 2013-10-11 2016-09-01 Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited Hme and compact breathing apparatus
US9486602B2 (en) 2011-06-22 2016-11-08 Breathe Technologies, Inc. Ventilation mask with integrated piloted exhalation valve and method of ventilating a patient using the same
US20170028155A1 (en) * 2014-04-25 2017-02-02 Smiths Medical International Limited Couplings, tracheostomy tubes and airway systems
WO2017216508A1 (en) 2016-06-18 2017-12-21 Smiths Medical International Limited Heat and moisture exchange devices
US9878121B2 (en) 2013-03-13 2018-01-30 Breathe Technologies, Inc. Ventilation mask with heat and moisture exchange device
WO2022195246A1 (en) 2021-03-15 2022-09-22 Smiths Medical International Limited Gas-treatment devices
WO2022219296A1 (en) 2021-04-12 2022-10-20 Smiths Medical International Limited Hme devices
WO2022248820A1 (en) 2021-05-24 2022-12-01 Smiths Medical International Limited Heat and moisture exchange devices, elements and assemblies

Families Citing this family (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US7961097B2 (en) 2006-12-07 2011-06-14 Psion Teklogix, Inc. RFID based monitoring system and method
JP6357710B2 (en) * 2014-07-22 2018-07-18 泉工医科工業株式会社 Respiratory temperature / humidity exchanger
USD868235S1 (en) * 2016-05-06 2019-11-26 Atos Medical Ab Heat and moisture exchanger component
US11883589B2 (en) * 2018-06-29 2024-01-30 Deepak Kumar Mehta Tracheostomy tube monitor and alerting apparatus
WO2023009365A1 (en) * 2021-07-28 2023-02-02 The Regents Of The University Of California Devices and methods for monitoring respiration of a tracheostomy patient

Citations (12)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3881482A (en) * 1972-11-06 1975-05-06 Octagon Med Prod Device for moistening and heating inhalation air with tracheotomy and endotracheal intubation
US4456007A (en) * 1980-12-12 1984-06-26 Combi Co., Ltd. Inhaler
US4971054A (en) * 1988-01-22 1990-11-20 Respaid Ab Breathing valve
US5109471A (en) * 1989-07-24 1992-04-28 Volker Lang Device for warming and humidifying gases and more particularly respiratory gases during artificial respiration
US5186164A (en) * 1991-03-15 1993-02-16 Puthalath Raghuprasad Mist inhaler
US5505768A (en) * 1994-10-11 1996-04-09 Altadonna; Anthony J. Humidity moisture exchanger
US6158431A (en) * 1998-02-13 2000-12-12 Tsi Incorporated Portable systems and methods for delivery of therapeutic material to the pulmonary system
US6363930B1 (en) * 1998-07-10 2002-04-02 Enternet Medical, Inc. Apparatus for providing heat/moisture to respiratory gases
US6422235B1 (en) * 1998-05-14 2002-07-23 Atos Medical Ab Vocal valve with filter
US20020157667A1 (en) * 2000-03-29 2002-10-31 Massimo Fini Heat and moisture exchanger
US6550476B1 (en) * 1998-05-21 2003-04-22 Steven L. Ryder Heat-moisture exchanger and nebulization device
US20050188990A1 (en) * 2004-02-12 2005-09-01 Fukunaga Atsuo F. Multifunctional integrated filter and breathing conduit

Family Cites Families (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
SE9502354L (en) * 1995-06-28 1996-12-29 Respaid Ab Respiratory Aids
SE516666C2 (en) * 2000-06-08 2002-02-12 Hudson Rci Ab Moisture heat exchanger for connecting to tracheal channel, contains bodies for distribuing oxygen over air inlet surfaces of moisture heat exchange bodies
IT1316950B1 (en) 2000-11-23 2003-05-13 Bellmafiok S R L SELF-HUMIDIFYING DEVICE FOR TRACHEOSTOMY.
DE20114355U1 (en) 2001-08-30 2001-11-15 Schmid Herbert Artificial nose for patients with spontaneous breathing via tracheostomy or endotrachial tube
GB0218954D0 (en) * 2002-08-15 2002-09-25 Intersurgical Ltd Improvements relating to tracheostomy devices
DE20302580U1 (en) 2003-02-18 2003-04-24 Neubauer Norbert Device for exchanging moisture and heat in breathing air for patients lacking a natural nose function, comprises a housing holding elastic elements impregnated with active substances, and elastic filter elements
DE202004004633U1 (en) * 2004-03-25 2004-05-27 Schmid, Herbert Respiratory medical filter for patient with spontaneous breathing and requiring tracheotomy has housing sections directed towards patient neck

Patent Citations (12)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3881482A (en) * 1972-11-06 1975-05-06 Octagon Med Prod Device for moistening and heating inhalation air with tracheotomy and endotracheal intubation
US4456007A (en) * 1980-12-12 1984-06-26 Combi Co., Ltd. Inhaler
US4971054A (en) * 1988-01-22 1990-11-20 Respaid Ab Breathing valve
US5109471A (en) * 1989-07-24 1992-04-28 Volker Lang Device for warming and humidifying gases and more particularly respiratory gases during artificial respiration
US5186164A (en) * 1991-03-15 1993-02-16 Puthalath Raghuprasad Mist inhaler
US5505768A (en) * 1994-10-11 1996-04-09 Altadonna; Anthony J. Humidity moisture exchanger
US6158431A (en) * 1998-02-13 2000-12-12 Tsi Incorporated Portable systems and methods for delivery of therapeutic material to the pulmonary system
US6422235B1 (en) * 1998-05-14 2002-07-23 Atos Medical Ab Vocal valve with filter
US6550476B1 (en) * 1998-05-21 2003-04-22 Steven L. Ryder Heat-moisture exchanger and nebulization device
US6363930B1 (en) * 1998-07-10 2002-04-02 Enternet Medical, Inc. Apparatus for providing heat/moisture to respiratory gases
US20020157667A1 (en) * 2000-03-29 2002-10-31 Massimo Fini Heat and moisture exchanger
US20050188990A1 (en) * 2004-02-12 2005-09-01 Fukunaga Atsuo F. Multifunctional integrated filter and breathing conduit

Cited By (18)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US9486602B2 (en) 2011-06-22 2016-11-08 Breathe Technologies, Inc. Ventilation mask with integrated piloted exhalation valve and method of ventilating a patient using the same
US8844533B2 (en) 2011-06-22 2014-09-30 Breathe Technologies, Inc. Ventilation mask with integrated piloted exhalation valve
US9038635B2 (en) 2011-06-22 2015-05-26 Breathe Technologies, Inc. Ventilation mask with integrated piloted exhalation valve
US9616194B2 (en) 2011-06-22 2017-04-11 Breathe Technologies, Inc. Ventilation mask with integrated piloted exhalation valve and method of ventilating a patient using the same
US9038634B2 (en) 2011-06-22 2015-05-26 Breathe Technologies, Inc. Ventilation mask with integrated piloted exhalation valve
US9327092B2 (en) 2011-06-22 2016-05-03 Breathe Technologies, Inc. Ventilation mask with integrated piloted exhalation valve
US9415183B2 (en) 2011-06-22 2016-08-16 Breathe Technologies, Inc. Ventilation mask with integrated piloted exhalation valve
US8839791B2 (en) 2011-06-22 2014-09-23 Breathe Technologies, Inc. Ventilation mask with integrated piloted exhalation valve
US20130133645A1 (en) * 2011-11-25 2013-05-30 Gary C.J. Lee Heat and moisture exchanger
US9878121B2 (en) 2013-03-13 2018-01-30 Breathe Technologies, Inc. Ventilation mask with heat and moisture exchange device
US11759594B2 (en) 2013-10-11 2023-09-19 Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited HME and compact breathing apparatus
US20160250438A1 (en) * 2013-10-11 2016-09-01 Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited Hme and compact breathing apparatus
US10471230B2 (en) * 2013-10-11 2019-11-12 Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited HME and compact breathing apparatus
US20170028155A1 (en) * 2014-04-25 2017-02-02 Smiths Medical International Limited Couplings, tracheostomy tubes and airway systems
WO2017216508A1 (en) 2016-06-18 2017-12-21 Smiths Medical International Limited Heat and moisture exchange devices
WO2022195246A1 (en) 2021-03-15 2022-09-22 Smiths Medical International Limited Gas-treatment devices
WO2022219296A1 (en) 2021-04-12 2022-10-20 Smiths Medical International Limited Hme devices
WO2022248820A1 (en) 2021-05-24 2022-12-01 Smiths Medical International Limited Heat and moisture exchange devices, elements and assemblies

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP1848485A1 (en) 2007-10-31
EP1848485B1 (en) 2017-04-26
JP4881320B2 (en) 2012-02-22
PL1848485T3 (en) 2017-09-29
WO2006072769A1 (en) 2006-07-13
JP2008526338A (en) 2008-07-24
WO2006072768A1 (en) 2006-07-13
US9604027B2 (en) 2017-03-28
US20160082219A1 (en) 2016-03-24

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US9604027B2 (en) Gas-treatment devices
EP1888157B1 (en) Medico-surgical apparatus
US8777933B2 (en) Respiratory secretion retention device, system and method
US7549419B2 (en) Heat and moisture exchanger adaptor for closed suction catheter assembly and system containing the same
JP4275536B2 (en) Heat and moisture exchanger adapter for a closed suction catheter assembly and system with improved catheter cleaning
US8814838B2 (en) Respiratory secretion retention device, system and method
US9878119B2 (en) Artificial airway interfaces and methods thereof
US8591496B2 (en) Respiratory secretion retention device, system and method
US20090133697A1 (en) Connector system for an apparatus that delivers breathable gas to a patient
US20210138176A1 (en) Connectors for respiratory assistance systems
US7363925B2 (en) Gas-treatment devices
GB2069849A (en) Face mask adaptor
US20070144511A1 (en) Nebulizer and method therefor
CN217886715U (en) Sputum suction pipe connecting piece and sputum suction pipe assembly
CN216439708U (en) Sputum collection device
CN213252264U (en) Jet oxygen inhalation additional device
CN215024613U (en) Artificial nose with closed sputum suction tube
US11395897B1 (en) Connector assembly for a medical ventilator system
CN213911891U (en) Autogenous cutting moisturizing cup
CN211986612U (en) Tracheostoma oxygen supply device
WO2022195246A1 (en) Gas-treatment devices
CN114191671A (en) Trachea is for integrative sleeve pipe of stifled pipe of oxygen humidifying instillation
CN104415440A (en) Simple multifunctional intubation tube guiding and protecting device
CN104436389A (en) Multifunctional breathing observation device

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: SMITHS GROUP PLC, ENGLAND

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:GRAHAM, MARK ANDREW;REEL/FRAME:019476/0600

Effective date: 20070606

STCB Information on status: application discontinuation

Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION