WO2009105473A2

WO2009105473A2 - Methods and devices for follow-up care and treatment of a pneumostoma

Info

Publication number: WO2009105473A2
Application number: PCT/US2009/034406
Authority: WO
Inventors: Don Tanaka; Joshua P. Wiesman; David C. Plough
Original assignee: Portaero, Inc.
Priority date: 2008-02-19
Filing date: 2009-02-18
Publication date: 2009-08-27
Also published as: US20090205646A1; EP2242527A4; WO2009105432A3; EP2242529A4; US8347880B2; US20110306935A1; US20090205651A1; US7909803B2; US20090209917A1; US8506577B2; US8464708B2; US20110118669A1; EP2242529A2; US20090205649A1; US20090209971A1; US20090209906A1; US20090209909A1; US20090209970A1; US8348906B2; US20090205643A1

Abstract

A pneumostoma assessment and treatment system includes devices for aftercare of a pneumostoma and for additional patient care utilizing a pneumostoma. The system utilizes a number of medical devices and modalities to assess the health and functionality of the pneumostoma, the lungs and/or the patient as a whole. In response to an assessment of the health and functionality of the pneumostoma, lungs and patient, the tissues of pneumostoma may be treated with a treatment device and utilizing one or more different modalities to preserve or enhance the health and function of the pneumostoma and/or treat other conditions of the patient.

Description

METHODS AND DEVICES FOR FOLLOW-UP CARE AND TREATMENT OF A PNEUMOSTOMA

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] In the United States alone, approximately 14 million people suffer from some form of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). However an additional ten million adults have evidence of impaired lung function indicating that COPD may be significantly underdiagnosed. The cost of COPD to the nation in 2002 was estimated to be $32.1 billion. Medicare expenses for COPD beneficiaries were nearly 2.5 times that of the expenditures for all other patients. Direct medical services accounted for $18.0 billion, and indirect cost of morbidity and premature mortality was $14.1 billion. COPD is the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S. and is projected to be the third leading cause of death for both males and females by the year 2020. [0002] Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive disease of the airways that is characterized by a gradual loss of lung function. In the United States, the term COPD includes chronic bronchitis, chronic obstructive bronchitis, and emphysema, or combinations of these conditions. In emphysema the alveoli walls of the lung tissue are progressively weakened and lose their elastic recoil. The breakdown of lung tissue causes progressive loss of elastic recoil and the loss of radial support of the airways which traps residual air in the lung. This increases the work of exhaling and leads to hyperinflation of the lung. When the lungs become hyperinflated, forced expiration cannot reduce the residual volume of the lungs because the force exerted to empty the lungs collapses the small airways and blocks air from being exhaled. As the disease progresses, the inspiratory capacity and air exchange surface area of the lungs is reduced until air exchange becomes seriously impaired and the individual can only take short shallow labored breaths (dyspnea). [0003] The symptoms of COPD can range from the chronic cough and sputum production of chronic bronchitis to the severe disabling shortness of breath of emphysema. In some individuals, chronic cough and sputum production are the first signs that they are at risk for developing the airflow obstruction and shortness of breath characteristic of COPD. With continued exposure to cigarettes or noxious particles, the disease progresses and individuals with COPD increasingly lose their ability to breathe. Acute infections or certain weather conditions may temporarily worsen symptoms (exacerbations), occasionally where hospitalization may be required. In others, shortness of breath may be the first indication of the disease. The diagnosis of COPD is confirmed by the presence of airway obstruction on testing with spirometry. Ultimately, severe emphysema may lead to severe dyspnea, severe limitation of daily activities, illness and death. [0004] There is no cure for COPD or pulmonary emphysema, only various treatments for ameliorating the symptoms. The goal of current treatments is to help people live with the disease more comfortably and to prevent the progression of the disease. The current options include: self-care (e.g., quitting smoking), therapeutic agents (such as bronchodilators which do not address emphysema physiology), long-term oxygen therapy, and surgery (lung transplantation and lung volume reduction surgery). Lung Volume Reduction Surgery (LVRS) is an invasive procedure primarily for patients who have a localized (heterogeneous) version of emphysema; in which, the most diseased area of the lung is surgically removed to allow the remaining tissue to work more efficiently. Patients with diffuse emphysema cannot be treated with LVRS, and typically only have lung transplantation as an end-stage option. However, many patients are not candidates for such a taxing procedure.

[0005] A number of less-invasive surgical methods have been proposed for ameliorating the symptoms of COPD. In one approach new windows are opened inside the lung to allow air to more easily escape from the diseased tissue into the natural airways. These windows are kept open with permanently implanted stents. Other approaches attempt to seal off and shrink portions of the hyperinflated lung using chemical treatments and/or implantable plugs. However, these proposals remain significantly invasive and are still in clinical trails. None of the surgical approaches to treatment of COPD has been widely adopted. Therefore, a large unmet need remains for a medical procedure that can sufficiently alleviate the debilitating effects of COPD and emphysema and is accepted by physicians and patients.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] In view of the disadvantages of the state of the art, Applicants have developed a method for treating COPD in which an artificial passageway is made through the chest wall into the lung. An anastomosis is formed between the artificial passageway and the lung by pleurodesis between the visceral and parietal membranes surrounding the passageway as it enters the lung. The pleurodesis creates an adhesion between the pleural membrane surrounding the passageway which prevents air from entering the pleural cavity and causing a pneumothorax (deflation of the lung due to air pressure in the pleural cavity). Pleurodesis results from a fibrotic healing response between the pleural membranes and may be localized to the vicinity of the passageway. The artificial passageway through the chest wall also becomes epithelialized. The result is a stable artificial aperture through the chest wall which communicates with the parenchymal tissue of the lung.

[0007] The artificial aperture into the lung through the chest is referred to herein as a pneumostoma. The pneumostoma provides an extra pathway that allows air to exit the lung while bypassing the natural airways which have been impaired by COPD and emphysema. By providing this ventilation bypass, the pneumostoma allows the stale air trapped in the lung to escape from the lung thereby shrinking the lung (reducing hyperinflation). By shrinking the lung, the ventilation bypass reduces breathing effort, reduces expiratory pressures, reduces dyspnea, and allows more fresh air to be drawn in through the natural airways and increases the effectiveness of all of the tissues of the lung for gas exchange. Increasing the effectiveness of gas exchange allows for increased absorption of oxygen into the bloodstream and also increased removal of carbon dioxide. Reducing the amount of carbon dioxide retained in the lung reduces hypercapnia which also reduces dyspnea. The pneumostoma thereby achieves the advantages of lung volume reduction surgery without surgically removing or sealing off a portion of the lung or transplanting a lung. [0008] The present invention provides medical devices for assessing, and treating the health and functionality of a pneumostoma. Utilizing the methods and devices of the present invention a physician can enhance the health, patency and/or effectiveness of a pneumostoma thereby enhancing the remediation of COPD. Other objects, features and advantages of the invention are apparent from drawings and detailed description to follow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The above and further features, advantages and benefits of the present invention are apparent upon consideration of the present description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0010] FIG. IA shows the chest of a patient indicating alternative locations for a pneumostoma.

[0011] FIG. IB shows a sectional view of the chest illustrating the relationship between the pneumostoma, lung and natural airways.

[0012] FIG. 1C shows a detailed sectional view of a pneumostoma. [0013] FIG. ID shows a perspective view of a pneumostoma management device.

[0014] FIG. IE shows the chest of a patient showing the pneumostoma management device positioned at alternative pneumostoma locations.

[0015] FIG. IF shows a detailed sectional view of a pneumostoma management device positioned inside a pneumostoma. [0016] FIG. 2A is a flow chart illustrating general steps for follow-up care and assessment of a patient having a pneumostoma.

[0017] FIG. 2B is a flow chart illustrating general steps for follow-up care and treatment of a patient having a pneumostoma.

[0018] FIG. 3 A shows an exterior view of an instrument for internal inspection of a pneumostoma.

[0019] FIG. 3B shows a sectional view of the instrument for internal inspection of a pneumostoma of FIG. 3 A positioned within a pneumostoma.

[0020] FIG. 3 C shows an exterior view of an alternative instrument for internal inspection of a pneumostoma. [0021] FIG. 3D is a flow chart illustrating steps for examination of a pneumostoma with a pneumoscope.

[0022] FIG. 4A shows a view of a spirometry system for assessing the functionality of a pneumostoma.

[0023] FIG. 4B shows a view of a gas analysis system for assessing the functionality of a pneumostoma.

[0024] FIG. 4C shows a view of lung imaging system for imaging gas diffusion from a pneumostoma. [0025] FIG. 4D and 4E show views of a diagnostic device for delivering diagnostic gas to a pneumostoma or sampling gas from a pneumostoma.

[0026] FIGS. 5A-5C show views of a device for cleaning and treating the pneumostoma.

[0027] FIG. 5D is a flow chart illustrating steps for treatment of a pneumostoma with suction, irrigation and/or lavage.

[0028] FIG. 6A shows a view of an ultrasound device for cleaning or treating the pneumostoma.

[0029] FIG. 6B shows a view of a sound-wave therapy device for cleaning or treating the pneumostoma.

[0030] FIG. 6C is a flow chart illustrating steps for treatment of a pneumostoma with sound and/or ultrasound.

[0031] FIGS. 7A-7D show views of a mechanical instrument for dilating the pneumostoma or a portion of the pneumostoma.

[0032] FIG. 7E is a flow chart illustrating steps for treatment of a pneumostoma with a mechanical instrument for dilating the pneumostoma. [0033] FIG. 7F shows an alternative mechanical instrument for dilating the pneumostoma or a portion of the pneumostoma.

[0034] FIG. 7G shows an alternative mechanical instrument for dilating the pneumostoma or a portion of the pneumostoma.

[0035] FIGS. 8A-8C show views of a thermotherapy device for treating tissues of a pneumostoma.

[0036] FIGS. 8D-8E show views of an alternate thermotherapy device for treating tissues of a pneumostoma.

[0037] FIGS. 9A-9B show views of an electromagnetic treatment device for treating tissues of the pneumostoma. [0038] FIG. 9C shows a view of an alternate electromagnetic treatment device for treating tissues of the pneumostoma.

[0039] FIG. 9D shows a view of an alternate electromagnetic treatment device for treating tissues of the pneumostoma.

[0040] FIG. 1OA shows a perspective view of components of a pneumostoma management device.

[0041] FIG. 1OB shows a sectional view of the pneumostoma management device of FIG. 1OA partially implanted in a pneumostoma.

[0042] FIG. 1 OC shows a perspective view of a pneumostoma aspirator designed to operate with the pneumostoma management device of FIGS. 1OA and 1OB. [0043] FIG. 1OD shows a sectional view of the pneumostoma aspirator of FIG. 1OC mated with the pneumostoma management device of FIGS. 1OA and 1OB. [0044] FIG. 1OE shows a positioning of a pneumostoma management device and pneumostoma aspirator relative to the chest of a patient.

[0045] FIG. 1OF shows a method of using a pneumostoma aspirator in the form of instructions for use. [0046] FIG. HA shows a perspective view of an alternative pneumostoma aspirator.

[0047] FIG. 1 IB shows a sectional view of the pneumostoma aspirator of FIG. 1 IA.

[0048] FIG. 12A shows a perspective view of an alternative pneumostoma aspirator.

[0049] FIG. 12B shows a sectional view of the pneumostoma aspirator of FIG. 1 IA.

[0050] FIG. 12C shows a sectional view of an alternative pneumostoma aspirator. [0051] FIG. 12D shows a sectional view of an alternative pneumostoma aspirator.

[0052] FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of an alternative pneumostoma aspirator.

[0053] FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of a motorized alternative pneumostoma aspirator.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [0054] The following description is of the best modes presently contemplated for practicing various embodiments of the present invention. The description is not to be taken in a limiting sense but is made merely for the purpose of describing the general principles of the invention. The scope of the invention should be ascertained with reference to the claims. In the description of the invention that follows, like numerals or reference designators are used to refer to like parts or elements throughout. In addition, the first digit of a reference number identifies the drawing in which the reference number first appears.

Pneumostoma Formation and Anatomy

[0055] FIG. IA shows the chest of a patient identifying alternative locations for creating a pneumostoma. A first pneumostoma 110 is shown on the front of the chest 100 over the right lung 101

(shown in dashed lines). The pneumostoma is preferably positioned over the third intercostal space on the mid-clavicular line. Thus the pneumostoma 110 is located on the front of the chest between the third and fourth ribs. Although the pneumostoma 110 is preferably located between two ribs, in alternative procedures a pneumostoma can also be prepared using a minithoracotomy with a rib resection.

[0056] In FIG. IA a second pneumostoma 112 is illustrated in a lateral position entering the left lung 103 (shown in dashed lines). The pneumostoma 112 is preferably positioned over the fourth or fifth intercostal space under the left arm 104. In general, one pneumostoma per lung is created; however, more or less than one pneumostoma per lung may be created depending upon the needs of the patient. In most humans, the lobes of the lung are not completely separate and air may pass between the lobes. The upper lobe is the preferred location for a pneumostoma as the upper lobe tends to move less during breathing. However depending upon the patient, it may be desirable to position a pneumostoma in any one of the lobes of the lung including the lower lobes.

[0057] A pneumostoma is surgically created by forming an artificial channel through the chest wall and joining that channel with an opening through the visceral membrane of the lung into parenchymal tissue of the lung to form an anastomosis. The anastomosis is joined and sealed by sealing the channel from the pleural cavity using adhesives, mechanical sealing and/or pleurodesis. [0058] FIG. IB shows a sectional view of chest 100 illustrating the position of the pneumostoma 110. The parenchymal tissue 132 of the lung 130 is comprised principally of alveoli 134. The alveoli 134 are the thin walled air-filled sacs in which gas exchange takes place. Air flows into the lungs through the natural airways including the trachea 136, carina 137, and bronchi 138. Inside the lungs, the bronchi branch into a multiplicity of smaller vessels referred to as bronchioles (not shown). Typically, there are more than one million bronchioles in each lung. Each bronchiole connects a cluster of alveoli to the natural airways. As illustrated in FIG. IB, pneumostoma 110 comprises a channel through the thoracic wall 106 of the chest 100 between two ribs 107. Pneumostoma 110 opens at an aperture 126 through the skin 114 of chest 100.

[0059] FIG. 1C shows a detailed sectional view of the pneumostoma 110. As illustrated in FIG. 1C, pneumostoma 110 comprises a channel 120 through the thoracic wall 106 of the chest 100 between the ribs 107. The channel 120 is joined to cavity 122 in the parenchymal tissue 132 of lung 130. The cavity 122 will typically conform to the shape of the device inserted into the pneumostoma 110. An adhesion or pleurodesis 124 surrounds the channel 120 where it enters the lung 130. The thoracic wall 106 is lined with the parietal membrane 108. The surface of the lung 130 is covered with a continuous sac called the visceral membrane 138. The parietal membrane 108 and visceral membrane 138 are often referred to collectively as the pleural membranes. Between the parietal membrane 108 and visceral membrane 138 is the pleural cavity (pleural space) 140. The pleural cavity usually only contains a thin film of fluid that serves as a lubricant between the lungs and the chest wall. In pleurodesis 124 the pleural membranes are fused and/or adhered to one another eliminating the space between the pleural membranes in that region.

[0060] An important feature of the pneumostoma is the seal or adhesion 124 surrounding the channel 120 where it enters the lung 130 which may be formed by pleurodesis. Pleurodesis creates a fusion or adhesion 124 of the parietal membrane 108 and visceral membrane 138. A pleurodesis may be a complete pleurodesis in which the entire pleural cavity 140 is removed by fusion of the visceral membrane 138 with the parietal membrane 108 over the entire surface of the lung 130. However, as shown in FIG. 1C, the adhesion 124 is preferably localized to the region surrounding the channel 120. The adhesion 124 surrounding the channel 120 prevents air from entering the pleural cavity 140. If air is permitted to enter pleural cavity 140, a pneumothorax will result and the lung may collapse.

[0061] Adhesion 124 can be created between the visceral pleura of the lung and the inner wall of the thoracic cavity using chemical methods including introducing into the pleural space irritants such as antibiotics (e.g. Doxycycline or Quinacrine), antibiotics (e.g. iodopovidone or silver nitrate), anticancer therapeutic agents (e.g. Bleomycin, Mitoxantrone or Cisplatin), cytokines (e.g. interferon alpha-2β and Transforming growth factor-β); pyrogens (e.g. Corynebacterium parvum, Staphylococcus aureus superantigen or OK432); connective tissue proteins (e.g. fibrin or collagen) and minerals (e.g. talc slurry). Pleurodesis can also be performed using surgical methods including pleurectomy. For example, the pleural space may be mechanically abraded during thoracoscopy or thoracotomy. This procedure is called dry abrasion pleurodesis. A pleurodesis may also be formed using radiotherapy methods, including radioactive gold or external radiation. These methods cause an inflammatory response and or fibrosis, healing, and fusion of the pleural membranes. Alternatively, a seal can be created in an acute manner between the pleural membranes using biocompatible glues, meshes or mechanical means such as clamps, staples, clips and/or sutures. The adhesive or mechanical seal may develop cause pleurodesis over time. A range of biocompatible glues are available that may be used on the lung, including light-activatable glues, fibrin glues, cyanoacrylates and two part polymerizing glues. [0062] When formed, pneumostoma 110 provides an extra pathway for exhaled air to exit the lung 130 reducing residual volume and intra- thoracic pressure without the air passing through the major natural airways such as the bronchi 138 and trachea 136. Collateral ventilation is particularly prevalent in an emphysemous lung because of the deterioration of lung tissue caused by COPD. Collateral ventilation is the term given to leakage of air through the connective tissue between the alveoli 134. Collateral ventilation may include leakage of air through pathways that include the interalveolar pores of Kohn, bronchiole-alveolar communications of Lambert, and interbronchiolar pathways of Martin. This air typically becomes trapped in the lung and contributes to hyperinflation. In lungs that have been damaged by COPD and emphysema, the resistance to flow in collateral channels (not shown) of the parenchymal tissue 132 is reduced allowing collateral ventilation to increase. Air from alveoli 134 of parenchymal tissue 132 that passes into collateral pathways of lung 130 is collected in cavity 122 of pneumostoma 110. Pneumostoma 110 thus makes use of collateral ventilation to collect air in cavity 122 and vent the air outside the body via channel 120 reducing residual volume and intra-thoracic pressure and bypassing the natural airways which have been impaired by COPD and emphysema. Cavity 122 will typically conform/adapt to the size and shape of the device inserted into the pneumostoma. [0063] By providing this ventilation bypass, the pneumostoma allows stale air trapped in the parenchymal tissue 132 to escape from the lung 130. This reduces the residual volume and intra- thoracic pressure. The lower intra-thoracic pressure reduces the dynamic collapse of airways during exhalation. By allowing the airways to remain patent during exhalation, labored breathing (dyspnea) and residual volume (hyperinflation) are both reduced. Pneumostoma 110 not only provides an extra pathway that allows air to exit the lung 130 but also allows more fresh air to be drawn in through the natural airways. This increases the effectiveness of all of the tissues of the lung 130 and improves gas exchange. Pneumostoma 110 thus achieves many of the advantages sought by lung volume reduction surgery without surgically removing a portion of the lung or sealing off a portion of the lung. [0064] Methods and instruments for forming the channel, opening, anastomosis and pleurodesis are disclosed in applicant's pending and issued patents and applications including those related cases incorporated by reference above.

Pneumostoma Management Device

[0065] As described above, a pneumostoma may be created to treat the symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. A patient is typically provided with a pneumostoma management system to protect the pneumostoma and keeps the pneumostoma open on a day-to-day basis. In general terms a pneumostoma management device ("PMD") comprises a tube which is inserted into the pneumostoma and an external component which is secured to the skin of the patient to keep the tube in place. Gases escape from the lung through the tube and are vented external to the patient. The pneumostoma management device may, in some, but not all cases, include a filter which only permits gases to enter or exit the tube. The pneumostoma management device may, in some, but not all cases, include a one-way valve which allows gases to exit the lung but not enter the lung through the tube. FIGS. ID, IE and IF show an example of pneumostoma management device ("PMD") 150. FIG. ID shows a perspective view of PMD 150. FIG. IE shows a view of the chest of a patient showing PMD 150 positioned in pneumostomas. FIG. IF shows a sectional view of PMD 150 positioned within pneumostoma 110. [0066] Referring to FIG. ID, PMD 150 includes a vent tube 152, a flange 154 and a filter 156. Filter 156 prevents liquid and solid discharge from leaking out of the PMD and such discharge is trapped inside the pneumostoma or vent tube until the PMD is removed and replaced. Filter 156 also prevents the entry of contaminants into the pneumostoma. Filter 156 is preferably a hydrophobic filter to prevent leakage of fluids into or out of the pneumostoma. Flange 154 has an adhesive coating 162 (not shown) on the distal side. The adhesive coating 162 temporarily secures flange 154 to the skin 114 of the patient. Flange 154 also prevents over insertion of vent tube 152 by providing a mechanical stop to further insertion.

[0067] As shown in FIGS. IE and IF, during use, the vent tube 152 of PMD 150 is pushed into the pneumostoma 110. The vent tube is configured to fit into a pneumostoma to keep the pneumostoma open. Gases from the lung enter an opening 158 in the distal end of vent tube 152. Vent tube 152 is sized so as to pass through the thoracic wall into a portion of the pneumostoma 110 within the lung 130 as shown in FIG. IF. However, vent tube 152 but is not so long that it causes damage to the parenchymal tissue 132 of the lung 130. Vent tube 152 is preferably rounded over to provide an atraumatic tip 166 at the distal end. A patient is provided with a PMD having a vent tube 152 of the appropriate length for their pneumostoma. When the patient exhales, the pressure inside the chest is above atmospheric pressure and gases are consequently pushed through the central lumen of vent tube 152 and out through filter 156. Additional details and variations of pneumostoma management devices are described in applicant's pending and issued patents and applications including those related cases incorporated by reference above. Pneumostoma Follow-Up Care

[0068] The patient is typically responsible for day-to-day management of the pneumostoma including replacement of the PMD and whatever daily cleaning and skin care may be required. In preferred embodiments, the PMD is a disposable unit which is changed on a daily basis or as needed. While changing the PMD, the patient and/or caregiver can clean the skin surrounding the pneumostoma and observe the condition of the pneumostoma.

[0069] A patient with a pneumostoma is also under the care of a physician and undergoes periodic checkups to monitor the condition of their lungs and of the pneumostoma. Moreover, the patient is advised to visit the physician if certain conditions are observed. The patient therefore visits the physician for regular follow-up visits and as indicated by observed conditions. The patient will also preferably be enrolled in a pulmonary rehabilitation program which will include: medical evaluation and management including monitoring patient compliance with pneumostoma care procedures; setting short term and long-term exercise goals; therapy programs (including smoking cessation if necessary); evaluation; and exercise. The rehabilitation program can also monitor the pneumostoma and refer the patient for assessment and treatment of the pneumostoma where indicated. [0070] The present invention provides a number of medical devices for pneumostoma assessment and treatment. Such assessment and treatment is typically carried by a medical professional, for example a physician, nurse, respiratory therapist and/or medical assistant (this patent will use the term physician to include other medical care providers). FIG. 2A shows general assessment steps that may be performed when a patient visits a physician. The physician will typically assess the lung function of the patient (step 200). The physician will also assess each pneumostoma of the patient. The assessment of the pneumostoma may include one or more of an external visual inspection of the pneumostoma (step 202), an internal visual inspection of the pneumostoma (step 204); physical measurement of the pneumostoma (step 206), and a functional assessment of the pneumostoma (step 208). The results of the assessments may be compared with standard results and with prior assessments of the patient (step 210) to determine trends and variations in the lung/pneumostoma function. Based on the assessment of the lung function and pneumostoma, the physician determines whether any follow-up assessments and/or treatments are required (step 212). [0071] The assessment of lung function (step 200) is performed as is typically done for COPD and emphysema patients. Such assessment may utilize one or more of: patient questionnaire/self reporting, spirometry (pre-/post-bronchodilator), pulmonary function test (lung volumes), diffusion capacity (DLLO), and arterial blood gas measurement. [0072] In the external visual inspection (step 202) the physician examines the opening to the pneumostoma and the skin of the chest surrounding the pneumostoma. The physician observes any irritation, inflammation or infection and remediates where necessary. In the internal visual inspection (step 204) the physician examines the inside of the pneumostoma. The physician may use a pneumostoma inspection instrument. The pneumostoma inspection instrument includes a short inspection tube that may be pushed into the pneumostoma and that provides illumination and magnification for observation of the interior of the pneumostoma. The observation may be achieved using a direct optical train or a video device which displays images on a video display. The pneumostoma inspection instrument is typically provided with a range of inspection tubes of different diameters and lengths. The physician chooses the inspection tube appropriate to the dimensions of the pneumostoma of the patient and is careful not to damage tissue of the pneumostoma during insertion. During the internal visual inspection the physician observes any irritation, inflammation or infection and remediates where necessary. The physician also makes a qualitative assessment of tissues surrounding the pneumostoma to determine encroachment to the pneumostoma. The physician may also use the pneumostoma inspection instrument to measure the diameter and length of the pneumostoma and the shape and/or profile of the pneumostoma. (step 206). These may be used to determine the size of any pneumostoma management device prescribed to the patient and the size of any instruments to be used during treatment of the pneumostoma. This step also allows the physician to monitor any tissue encroachment into the pneumostoma as indicated by change in dimensions of the pneumostoma over time.

[0073] In the functional assessment of the pneumostoma (step 208) the physician examines the ability of gas to pass through the pneumostoma. The ability of gas to pass through the pneumostoma may be measured in a number of ways. First, gas flow through the pneumostoma can be measured passively by placing a device over the pneumostoma which measures airflow out of and/or into the pneumostoma during regular breathing of the patient. Alternatively, gas may be provided to the pneumostoma at a slight positive pressure from outside the chest of the patient and the rate of flow of gas into the lung through the pneumostoma may be measured. Alternatively, as discussed below, diagnostic gases may be introduced through the pneumostoma to assess the patency and functionality of the pneumostoma. The diagnostic gases may be used for imaging the lungs and/or measuring collateral ventilation and gas exchange. The physician may compare the results of the visual, functional and/or structural assessment with prior assessment results and standard assessment results to determine changes and or trends in the results (step 210).

[0074] Based upon the results of the visual, functional and/or structural assessment of the pneumostoma and any trends in such results, the physician may decide to treat the pneumostoma and/or surrounding tissues to maintain or enhance the pneumostoma (step 212). The physician will select from the available treatment modalities a treatment suitable to maintain and/or enhance the function of the pneumostoma in light of the assessment results, (see step 220 of FIG. 2B). One or more treatment modalities may be used. [0075] FIG. 2B illustrates a general method for treatment of a pneumostoma. First, based on the assessment results, the physician selects a treatment modality to maintain or enhance the health and/or functionality of the pneumostoma (step 220). For example, suction may be used to aspirate discharge or other materials from the pneumostoma. Irrigation/lavage may be used to introduce a liquid into the pneumostoma in order to treat the tissue or aid in the removal of material from the pneumostoma. Irrigation/lavage may be used in conjunction with suction/aspiration to remove the liquid. Suction and/or irrigation may also be used in conjunction with a mechanical cleaning mechanism such as soft bristles, mechanical agitation, sonic/ultrasonic agitation or the like. The pneumostoma may be mechanically expanded using a balloon dilator, mechanical dilator or other tools. The pneumostoma may additionally be treated with heat, cold, light, electromagnetic radiation, electrocautery, sound/ultrasound, and the like.

[0076] The physician next selects a pneumostoma treatment instrument suitable to apply the treatment modality to the pneumostoma (step 222). The selected instrument is preferably sized such that it can be introduced into the pneumostoma and placed at a desired depth in the pneumostoma. As pneumostomas may vary in size, the instrument may have a configurable size, or may have a range of different adapters. Thus selection of the instrument will include selecting an instrument appropriate for the treatment modality and selecting/configuring the instrument for the pneumostoma of a particular patient. [0077] The selected/configured instrument is introduced into the pneumostoma (step 224). In most cases, the pneumostoma management device will need to be removed (step 223) prior to inserting the treatment device. In some cases, the treatment modality requires contact of a target tissue with a treatment surface of the device (step 226). In other cases, the instrument treats the entire pneumostoma. The treatment is applied for a selected time (step 228). The effect of the treatment may then be assessed (step 230). In some cases the effect of the treatment is assessed with the pneumostoma treatment instrument. In other cases the pneumostoma treatment instrument may be removed and replaced with a pneumostoma inspection instrument to permit the assessment. The treatment may then be repeated if and as necessary for the pneumostoma or additional targets within the pneumostoma (step 232) until the desired effects have been achieved. After the treatment is over a new pneumostoma management device should be promptly and correctly positioned in the pneumostoma either by the physician, or by the patient under the observation of the physician (step 234). Particular instruments suitable for assessing and treating pneumostomas in accordance with the general method steps of FIG. 2A and 2B are described below.

Pneumostoma Assessment Instruments And Methods [0078] To observe the interior of the pneumostoma the physician uses a pneumostoma inspection instrument placed within the pneumostoma. One type of pneumostoma inspection instrument includes a light source for illuminating the interior of the pneumostoma and a visualization system for visualizing (and typically magnifying) the interior of the pneumostoma. The visualization system may be a direct optical system comprising one or more optical components for providing a magnified image at an object lens mounted to the instrument. Alternatively, the visualization system may include means for obtaining a video image of the pneumostoma tissues and means for displaying the image, for example a video sensor and a video display. Such a pneumostoma inspection instrument, using a light source and visualization system, is referred to generally herein as a pneumoscope. [0079] A pneumoscope may include a short inspection tube or speculum that may be pushed into the pneumostoma. The speculum holds open the pneumostoma during the inspection. The speculum may in some cases be a detachable metal speculum which may be sterilized between uses. Preferably, however, the speculum is disposable or covered with a disposable sleeve during use. The speculum may be provided in a range of different diameters and lengths as appropriate for a particular pneumostoma or patient. The physician chooses the speculum appropriate to the dimensions of the pneumostoma of the patient. The speculum may be provided with visible exterior markings so that the physician may gauge the depth of insertion of the speculum. The speculum may be provided with a flange which prevents over-insertion of the speculum - however the depth of insertion is typically under the control of the physician who should use care not to damage tissue of the pneumostoma during insertion. The physician may use the speculum to gauge the diameter, length and profile of the pneumostoma.

[0080] FIGS. 3A and 3B show an example of a pneumoscope. FIG. 3A shows an external view of a pneumoscope 300. FIG. 3B shows a sectional view of the pneumoscope positioned within a pneumostoma. As shown in FIG. 3A, pneumoscope 300 comprises a handle 310 and a head 320. A button 312 may be provided on handle 310 by which a physician may activate the light source and/or any image capturing system. A disposable speculum 330 is attached to head 320. Speculum 330 comprises a catch 332 at the proximal end for temporarily mounting speculum 330 to head 320 of pneumoscope 300. Speculum 330 is long enough to reach the end of a pneumostoma. As shown in FIG. 3A, speculum 330 bears external markings 334 indicating how far the distal tip 336 has travelled into the pneumostoma. External markings 334 may also be used to measure the depth of a pneumostoma. Pneumoscope 300 is preferably wireless and portable for ease of use. [0081] As shown in FIG. 3B, handle 310 includes a light source 314 and power supply 316. In use, the distal tip 336 of speculum 330 is inserted into the pneumostoma 110. The physician actuates light source 314 to illuminate the interior of the pneumostoma 110. Light is directed from light source 314 to the pneumostoma 110 using an optical train 324 including e.g. fiber optics and/or lenses. The optical train 324 preferably provides uniform illumination of the field of view. In the embodiment of FIG. 3A, the head 320 comprises optics for viewing and magnifying the interior of the pneumostoma 110. The interior of the pneumostoma 110 may be observed by the physician through objective lens 322 within head 320. As shown in FIG. 3B, speculum 330 may be open at the distal tip 336. In alternative embodiments, distal tip 336 may be closed so long as a transparent window is provided through which the physician may observe the interior of the pneumostoma.

[0082] FIG. 3C shows an alternative embodiment of a pneumoscope 302 comprising a handle 340 and a head 350. One or more buttons 342 may be provided on handle 340 by which a physician may activate the light source 370 and/or any image capturing system. A disposable cover 360 is attached to head 350. Cover 360 comprises a catch 362 at the proximal end for temporarily mounting cover 360 to head 350 of pneumoscope 302. Cover 360 protects an extension 352 of head 350. Extension 352 and cover 360 are long enough to reach the end of a pneumostoma. Cover 360 may be provided with external markings (not shown) indicating how far the distal tip 354 has travelled into a pneumostoma. Pneumoscope 302 is attached to a remote light source 370 and remote display system 378. Remote display system 378 may include an image capturing system to record video images of the pneumostoma. [0083] Light source 370 provides light which is transmitted by a fiber optic cable 372 to the distal tip 354 of extension 352. A window 356 emits light to illuminate the field of view. A window 358 at the distal tip 354 admits light which is focused on an image sensor (not shown) which may be e.g. a CCD or CMOS sensor. The image sensor captures video image data which is transmitted to the display 378. The surgeon may observe video images of the interior of the pneumostoma on display 378 and/or may record images of the pneumostoma for later analysis. In alternative embodiments, one or both of the light source and display may be built into the head 350 and/or handle 340. Pneumoscope 302 may be inserted into a pneumostoma in the same manner as described with respect to pneumoscope 300 and illustrated in FIG. 3B. [0084] FIG. 3D illustrates a general method for examining a pneumostoma with a pneumoscope. First, based on, for example, information from the patient or observation of the pneumostoma, the physician makes a determination to observe the pneumostoma using a pneumoscope (step 380). The physician next selects and/or configures a pneumoscope suitable to observe the pneumostoma of a particular patient (step 382). The selected instrument is preferably sized such that it can be introduced into the pneumostoma and placed at a desired depth in the pneumostoma. As pneumostomas may vary in size, the pneumoscope may have a configurable size, or may have a range of different sized speculums 330 and/or covers 360. Thus selection of the pneumoscope includes selecting/configuring the pneumoscope for the pneumostoma of a particular patient.

[0085] After the pneumoscope is ready, the pneumostoma management device will be removed from the pneumostoma (step 383). The pneumostoma should then be externally inspected (step 384) to determine whether there are any contraindications to use of a pneumoscope, for example any obstruction of the pneumostoma which must first be removed. If the external inspection reveals no contraindications, the pneumoscope is introduced into the pneumostoma (step 386). The physician should observe tissue of the pneumostoma through the visualization system of the pneumoscope (388) and note and/or record the appearance of the tissue. The physician then advances the pneumoscope into the pneumostoma (step 390) and repeats the observation (step 388) until reaching the end of the pneumostoma. When the inspection is completed the pneumoscope is removed (step 392). A PMD should be inserted into the pneumostoma promptly after removal of the pneumoscope either by the physician, or by the patient under the observation of the physician (step 394). In some cases, inspection with the pneumoscope is made in conjunction with treatment of the pneumostoma. In such a case, the pneumoscope may be used before, after and or during the treatment to observe effects of the treatment upon the tissue of the pneumostoma.

[0086] The pneumoscope allows the physician to visually inspect and examine the tissues of the pneumostoma. The physician may observe the pneumostoma and examine the tissue in the region of the chest wall, pleurodesis, and/or within the parenchymal tissue of the lung. In the event that inflamed, injured or unusual tissues are observed, it may be desirable to further assess the tissue. Further assessment of the tissue may be made, for example, by swabbing the tissue and culturing any microorganisms on the swab. Alternatively, a biopsy of tissue of the pneumostoma may be made by scraping tissue from the walls of the pneumostoma and examining cells under the microscope. In some embodiments, the pneumoscope may be provided with an auxiliary lumen through which a tool may be introduced into the pneumostoma in order to scrape or swab tissue under visualization.

Pneumostoma Assessment Using Gas [0087] Measurement of gases entering or leaving the pneumostoma may be useful for assessing the functionality of the pneumostoma. The ability of gas to pass through the pneumostoma may be measured in a number of ways. First, gas flow through the pneumostoma can be measured passively by placing a device over the pneumostoma which measures airflow out of and/or into the pneumostoma during regular breathing of the patient. Essentially, gases exiting the pneumostoma are collected by a system which records the volume of gas.

[0088] Additionally, the gas may be analyzed to determine composition of the gases exiting the pneumostoma. In particular it may be useful to analyze the proportion of oxygen, carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide in the gases exiting the pneumostoma as compared to in air exhaled through the natural airways or in the ambient atmosphere. Levels of carbon dioxide in gases exiting the pneumostoma are a useful indicator that the pneumostoma is still functioning to allow gases to exit the lung. It may also be useful to measure the presence of nitric oxide in the gases exiting the pneumostoma because nitric oxide may be indicative of inflammation of the tissues of the lung. [0089] Gases exiting the pneumostoma may be measured and/or analyzed with a pneumostoma management device in place. However it is preferable to avoid any confounding effects due to the PMD, for example obstruction of the pneumostoma by the PMD, the filter of the PMD or accumulated discharge in the PMD. Therefore gas measurement/analysis is preferably performed using a gas analysis device inserted into the pneumostoma which is designed to collect gases and interface with the gas measurement/analysis equipment. See, e.g. FIGS. 4D and 4E. Gas analysis and measurement may be performed in a number of modes depending upon the results desired. Different systems may be used for analysis of pneumostoma function, lung function or lung imaging as required.

[0090] Systems for supplying gases, to a patient and analyzing gases received from a patient are already in use for supplying gases to be inhaled through the natural airways and analyzing gases exhaled through the natural airways. For example a system for analyzing expiratory gases is described in U.S. Patent 6,506,608 titled "Method And Apparatus For Respiratory Gas Analysis Employing Enhanced Measurement Of Expired Gas Mass" to Mault. A system for supplying and analyzing diagnostic gases is described in U.S. Patent 5,022,406 title "Module For Determining Diffusing Capacity Of The Lungs For Carbon Monoxide And Method" to Tomlinson et al. A review of DLCO spirometry can be found in Macintyre et al., "Standardisation Of The Single-Breath Determination Of Carbon Monoxide Uptake In The Lung," Eur. Respir. J. 26 (4): 720-35 (2005) and reference cited therein. A system for supplying and imaging hyperpolarized noble gases in the lungs is described in U.S. Patent Publication 2005/0174114 title "Method And System For Rapid Magnetic Resonance Imaging Of Gases With Reduced Diffusion-Induced Signal Loss" to Mugler III et al. A review of diffusion imaging of the lung can be found in Mayo et al., "Hyperpolarized Helium 3 Diffusion Imaging Of The Lung," Radiology 222:8-11 (2202) and reference cited therein. The above articles, patents and applications are incorporated herein by reference. These and other such systems may be adapted as described herein to supply and analyze gases utilizing the pneumostoma and thereby provide information regarding lung function, pneumostoma function and collateral ventilation not previously available.

[0091] FIG. 4A shows a system for measuring/analyzing gases leaving the pneumostoma. Gas analysis equipment may be connected to a PMD and/or pneumostoma using one of the several techniques and mechanisms described herein. As shown in FIG. 4A, a gas analysis device 400 is inserted into the pneumostoma 110 of a patient. Gas analysis device 400 is connected by tube 402 to gas analyzer 412. The gases exhaled from the pneumostoma 110 may then be measured and/or analyzed during normal breathing or during an exercise test. The volume of gas exhaled may be measured by gas analyzer 412 to provide information regarding the patency/functionality of the pneumostoma. The exhaled gas may be also be analyzed by gas analyzer 412 to determine oxygen and carbon dioxide concentrations. In some cases, the concentrations are compared to oxygen and carbon dioxide concentrations in the gases exhaled through the natural airways or in the ambient atmosphere. Such evaluation may be useful in determining the effectiveness of a pneumostoma and the location and/or desirability of additional pneumostomas. The output of gas analyzer 412 may be provided to a computer system 414 to display the results of the gas analysis. Computer system 414 preferably records the results of the gas measurement and analysis and allows the physician to compare the results of the gas measurement/analysis with prior results for the same patient.

[0092] Optionally, a mask 416 may be provided. Mask 416 may be used to measure the volume of gas inhaled and exhaled by the patient through the natural airways. The volume of gas inhaled and exhaled through the natural airways may be compared to the volume of gas exiting the pneumostoma. Optionally, a diagnostic gas 418 is introduced through the natural airways and the expiration of gases from the pneumostoma is measured. Computer system 414 controls valve 406 to supply the diagnostic gas 418 to the mask 416. The diagnostic gas may, for example, be a gas mixture such as DLCO gas used in diffusion spirometry (which nominally consists of 10% helium, 3000 ppm carbon monoxide and the balance air). As shown in FIG. 4A, optional mask 416 may be used to provide a diagnostic gas mixture 418 via the natural airways. The concentration of gases exiting the pneumostoma 110 may be compared to the concentration of gases in the diagnostic gas supply 418. The time-course of exhalation of diagnostic gases through the pneumostoma may be analyzed by gas analyzer 412 to evaluate the function of the pneumostoma and the prevalence of collateral ventilation pathways connecting the pneumostoma to the remainder of the lung. Such evaluation may be useful in determining the effectiveness of a pneumostoma and the location and/or desirability of additional pneumostomas.

[0093] Alternatively, gases may be provided through the pneumostoma from outside the chest of the patient. Gas supply equipment may be connected to a PMD and/or pneumostoma using one of the several techniques and mechanisms described herein. The gas is preferably supplied at a controlled pressure slightly above the ambient air pressure so as not to cause injury to the pneumostoma. In a simple case, the rate of flow of gas into the lung through the pneumostoma may be measured. The rate of gas flow at a particular pressure may be used to assess the patency of the pneumostoma. Alternatively, diagnostic gases may be introduced through the pneumostoma for assessing collateral ventilation and gas exchange. Diagnostic gases may be helpful in measuring functional attributes of the pneumostoma and the lung. In particular, introduction of diagnostic gases through the pneumostoma may be useful for assessing gas diffusion between the pneumostoma and the lung. [0094] In one example, a diagnostic gas is introduced through the pneumostoma and the gas is measured as it is exhaled through the natural airways. The diagnostic gas may, for example, be a gas mixture such as DLCO gas used in diffusion spirometry (which nominally consists of 10% helium, 3000 ppm carbon monoxide and the balance air). Gases exhaled through the natural airways are analyzed to determine gas concentrations. The time course of exhalation of the diagnostic gas is indicative of factors such as pneumostoma functionality and collateral ventilation. The time course of exhalation of gas through the natural airways compared to introduction into the pneumostoma may be analyzed to evaluate the function of the pneumostoma and the prevalence of collateral ventilation pathways connecting the pneumostoma to the remainder of the lung. Such evaluation may be useful in determining the effectiveness of a pneumostoma and the location and/or desirability of additional pneumostomas. A supply of the diagnostic gas may be connected to a PMD and/or pneumostoma using one of the several techniques and mechanisms described herein. [0095] FIG. 4B shows a schematic view of a lung assessment system using introduction of diagnostic gas 418 through a pneumostoma 110. As shown in FIG. 4B a gas analysis device 400 is inserted into the pneumostoma 110 of a patient. Gas analysis device 400 is connected by tube 402 to a pressure-regulated source of diagnostic gas 418. A solenoid-controlled valve 406 in tube 402 controls the flow of diagnostic gas into pneumostoma 110. The patient is provided with a mask 416 which allows the patient to inhale ambient air but that collects the exhaled air and passes it to gas analyzer 412. During exhalation, a portion of the exhaled gases is collected in a sample collection system and then analyzed using discrete gas sensors and/or a gas chromatograph. The gas analyzer 412 and the solenoid-controlled valve 406 are connected to a computer system 420 which may be a general purpose computer. Computer system 420 controls solenoid-controlled valve 406 and receives data from gas analyzer 412. Computer system 420 analyzes the gas concentrations in the gas exhaled by the patient and factors the relative values with inspired gas volume and other parameters to calculate factors related to collateral ventilation and pneumostoma function. The output of gas analyzer 412 may be provided to computer system 420 to display the results of the gas analysis. Computer system 420 preferably records the results of the gas measurement and analysis and allows the physician to compare the results of the gas measurement/analysis with prior results for the same patient. [0096] Introduction of diagnostic gases through a pneumostoma may also be used to enhance imaging the lung with a CT scan or NMR scan. For example polarized Helium-3 may be utilized to enhance nuclear magnetic resonance / magnetic resonance imaging of the lung (analogous to the way contrast agents enhance X-ray imaging). For example, polarized helium-3 may be produced with lasers and the magnetized pressurized gas may be stored for several days. When introduced into the lung, the polarized helium-3 can be imaged with an MRI-like scanner which produces breath-by-breath images of lung ventilation, in real-time. Polarized helium-3 may thus, be used to visualize airways in static or dynamic fashion. Alternative gases which may be used as visualization agents include gaseous radionuclide xenon or technetium DTPA in an aerosol form.

[0097] Introducing a controlled amount of a visualizable gas, e.g. polarized Helium-3, through the pneumostoma and imaging the diffusion of the gas into the lung over time may be utilized for quantitative evaluation of the function of the pneumostoma and the prevalence of collateral ventilation pathways connecting the pneumostoma to the parenchymal tissue of the lung. Measuring the time- course variations in diffusion of Helium-3 into the lung allows analysis of diffusion coefficients for areas of the lung. Such evaluation may be useful in determining the effectiveness of a pneumostoma and the location and/or desirability of additional pneumostomas. A source of polarized Helium-3 may be connected to a PMD and/or pneumostoma using one of the several techniques and mechanisms described herein.

[0098] FIG. 4C shows a schematic view of a lung assessment system using a diagnostic gas in conjunction with an imaging scanner 450. Scanner 450 may be an MRI, NMR, CT or X-Ray so long as the particular diagnostic gas used may be successfully imaged with the system. As shown in FIG. 4B, gas analysis device 400 is inserted into the pneumostoma 110 of a patient. Gas analysis device 400 is connected by tube 430 to a pressure-regulated source of a visualizable gas (e.g. polarized Helium-3). A solenoid-controlled valve 432 in tube 430 controls the flow of diagnostic gas into pneumostoma 110. The scanner 450 and the solenoid-controlled valve 432 are connected to a computer system 420 (not shown) which may be a general purpose computer. The computer system 420 (not shown) controls solenoid-controlled valve 432 and receives data from scanner 450. The computer system 420 coordinates the introduction of diagnostic gas into the patient with the patient's breathing and also with the operations of scanner 450 in order to accurately image dispersion of the diagnostic gas from the pneumostoma 110 to other parts of the lung. Computer system 420 analyzes the time course distribution of the diagnostic gas from the pneumostoma into the lung tissues to calculate factors related to collateral ventilation and pneumostoma function, e.g. diffusion coefficients. [0099] FIGS. 4D and 4E show views of the gas analysis device 400 of FIGS. 4A-4C. FIG. 4D shows a perspective view of the gas analysis device 400 while FIG. 4E shows a sectional view of gas analysis device 400 positioned within a pneumostoma. In general terms, gas analysis device 400 is a device which can be secured into a pneumostoma for sampling gases exiting the pneumostoma and/or providing gases into the pneumostoma. Gas analysis device 400 can form part of a system which utilizes such gas sampling or gas provision for assessment of pneumostoma function and/or lung function. As used in FIGS. 4A and 4C, gas analysis device 400 is used to introduce diagnostic gas into the pneumostoma. As used in FIG. 4B, gas analysis device 400 is used to collect gases exhaled from the lung for analysis by gas analyzer 412.

[00100] Referring to FIG. 4D, gas analysis device 400 includes a hollow tube 460 for insertion into the pneumostoma. Hollow tube 460 is surrounded by a flange 462 which secures tube 460 in position in the pneumostoma. Hollow tube 460 connects to a coupling 464 on the proximal side of flange 462. Coupling 464 is configured so that tube 402 (shown in FIG. 4E) may be readily connected and disconnected. Hollow tube 460 has one or more holes 466 at the distal end through which gas may pass into or out of a pneumostoma. Hollow tube 460 and flange 462 also provide a temporary seal which inhibits leakage of gas from around hollow tube 460.

[00101] FIG. 4E shows a sectional view of gas analysis device 400 of FIGS 4A-4D in position in a pneumostoma 110. It is preferable to minimize leakage of gases into or out of the pneumostoma. Flange 462 is thus provided with an adhesive coating 468 on the distal surface to provide a temporary seal between the gas analysis device 400 and the skin of the chest of the patient. Surface features may also be provided on the distal surface of flange 462 or on tube 460 to promote sealing between gas analysis device 400 and the pneumostoma. For example, a circular ridge 470 is shown in section on FIG. 4E. Gas analysis device 400 is preferably a disposable component that will be used only with one patient. One or more filters may be interposed between gas analysis device 400 and the gas supply and/or gas analyzer to prevent possible cross-contamination between patients.

Pneumostoma Treatment

[00102] Based upon the assessment of the pneumostoma, it may be necessary or desirable to treat the pneumostoma in order to preserve and/or enhance the health and/or functionality of the pneumostoma. A principal purpose of the pneumostoma is to permit the escape of gases trapped in the lung thereby reducing the lung volume and ameliorating symptoms of COPD such as dyspnea and anoxia. To serve this purpose gases should be able to enter the pneumostoma from the parenchymal tissue of the lung. High rates of air flow are not required. However, if the pneumostoma becomes completely obstructed then it will no longer permit the escape of gases trapped in the lung. The function of the pneumostoma may be impaired by, among other causes, the encroachment of tissues into the pneumostoma, obstruction with secretions, discharge and/or foreign objects, inflammation and/or infection. For example, encroaching tissues may impair the patency and functionality of the pneumostoma. [00103] The pneumostoma and surrounding tissues may be treated using a number of different treatment modalities to maintain and/or enhance patency, remove obstructions, decrease inflammation and prevent infection. The treatment modalities include: suction, irrigation, lavage, mechanical agitation, ultrasound, infrasound, mechanical dilation, balloon dilatation, cryotherapy, and energy treatment (including e.g. UV, light, LASER, LED, IR, heat, RF and electrocautery). The physician may select from among the several treatment modalities a treatment modality most appropriate for the conditions observed during the pneumostoma assessment.

Pneumostoma Treatment Using Suction, Irrigation and Lavage

[00104] The treatment modalities available for treating a pneumostoma include suction, irrigation, mechanical agitation and lavage. These treatment modalities are suitable for removing obstructions and discharge from the pneumostoma, cleaning the pneumostoma and treating the tissues of the pneumostoma. Additional methods and devices for applying suction to a pneumostoma are disclosed in applicant's U.S. Provisional Patent Application 61/084,559 titled "Aspirator For Pneumostoma Management" which is incorporated herein by reference. An aspirator may be used without irrigation for the removal of liquid/soft discharge and materials from the pneumostoma.

[00105] FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate a device for treating a pneumostoma with suction, irrigation, mechanical irritation and/or lavage. As shown in FIG. 5A, a suction-irrigation device 500 includes a body 510 attached to a suction-irrigation probe 520. Suction-irrigation probe 520 includes a multilumen tube 522 and a flange 524. As shown in the sectional view FIG. 5B of suction-irrigation probe

520, multi-lumen tube 522 has an outer lumen 521 and an inner lumen 523. Referring again to FIG. 5A, multi- lumen tube 522 has a number of side apertures 526 for releasing fluid from the outer lumen

521. Multi- lumen tube 522 has a distal aperture 528 in the distal tip for applying suction and removing fluid via the inner lumen 523. Distal aperture 528 may be provided with a cage or mesh covering to prevent damage to tissues and/or obstruction of distal aperture 528. Multi-lumen tube 522 also supports a plurality of soft bristles 530 for mechanically agitating the surface of a pneumostoma. Although bristles are shown, other mechanical features may be used to assist the removal of material which may be adhered to the tissue of the pneumostoma, for example ribs, fingers or surface roughness.

[00106] Referring now to FIG. 5C, suction irrigation probe 520 is connected to a body 510 by a coupling 532 which mounts releasably to a mating coupling 512 on body 510. Body 510 is also connected to a pressure-regulated supply of irrigation fluid and a pressure -regulated vacuum supply (not shown). The irrigation supply and vacuum supply are attached or connected to an irrigation conduit 514 and suction conduit 516 within body 510. The couplings 532 and 512 releasably mount the suction- irrigation probe 520 to body 510. The couplings 532 and 512 also put the lumens of multilumen tube 522 in fluid communication with the irrigation conduit 514 and suction conduit 516 within body 510. The releasable couplings 532 and 512 also enable the suction-irrigation probe 520 to be removed, and either cleaned and replaced, or disposed of and replaced. Couplings 532, 512 may be, for example, threaded couplings, bayonet couplings, luer locks or other connector suitable for releasable connecting lumens.

[00107] FIG. 5C shows a sectional view of suction-irrigation device 500 with suction-irrigation probe 520 inserted into a pneumostoma 110. As shown in FIG. 5C, irrigation fluid exits through side apertures 526 and is collected through distal aperture 528. Bristles 530 contact the tissue of the pneumostoma 110. Suction-irrigation probe 520 may be moved in and out of pneumostoma 110 so that bristles 530 dislodge any material stuck on the side of pneumostoma 110. The irrigation fluid serves to move any dislodged materials into aperture 528. Flange 524 serves to prevent over-insertion of suction-irrigation probe 520 and also to prevent excessive leakage of irrigation fluid from the pneumostoma. In some embodiments, flange 524 may be configured to slide up and down multi-lumen tube 522 such that the depth of the distal end of probe 520 may be adjusted while the flange remains in contact with the chest of the patient. In other embodiments, flange 524 may be fixed or adjustably fixed to multi-lumen tube 522. [00108] Suction-irrigation device 500 may include additional features to facilitate removal of material from the pneumostoma. For example, suction-irrigation device 500 may include a visualization system to permit the physician to guide suction-irrigation probe 520 and visualize the tissues inside pneumostoma 110. See, e.g. FIGS. 3A-3C and accompanying text. Suction-irrigation device 500 may also include an ultrasound generator or another device to agitate bristles 530 and the irrigation fluid to aid in the mechanical removal of materials from the pneumostoma 110. Suction irrigation device 500 may also include a trap for trapping any solid materials dislodged from the pneumostoma. For irrigation, a sterile but inert solution may be used. For example, sterile saline or sterile water may be used. The irrigation fluid will typically be sterile water or saline solution. In some cases, it may be desirable to use a medicated irrigation fluid. For example, an antibacterial or mucolytic solution may be used. In such cases a small concentration of the therapeutic agent is added to the sterile water or saline. Suitable therapeutic agents include anti-inflammatories, antibiotics and anti-stenosis compounds. The irrigation fluid may also include a small concentration of an agent for maintaining the patency of the pneumostoma, for example, Paclitaxel. The cleaning solution should be formulated carefully to avoid injury or irritation to the lung. [00109] FIG. 5D illustrates a method for treatment of a pneumostoma. First, based on, for example, information from the patient or observation of the pneumostoma, the physician makes a determination to treat the pneumostoma with one or more of suction, irrigation and/or lavage, (step 580). The physician next selects and/or configures an aspirator/irrigator suitable to treat the pneumostoma of a particular patient, (step 582). The selected instrument is preferably sized such that it can be introduced into the pneumostoma and placed at a desired depth in the pneumostoma. As pneumostomas may vary in size, the aspirator/irrigator may have a configurable size, or may have a range of different sized probes 520. Thus selection of the aspirator/irrigator includes selecting/configuring the aspirator/irrigator for the pneumostoma of a particular patient. If irrigation/lavage is to be performed, the physician should also select and/or prepare the irrigation fluid (step 584).

[00110] After the aspirator/irrigator and optional irrigation fluid is ready, the pneumostoma management device will be removed from the pneumostoma (step 586). The pneumostoma should then be externally inspected (step 588) to determine whether there are any contraindications to use of the aspirator/irrigator, for example any obstruction of the pneumostoma which must first be removed. If the visual inspection reveals no contraindications, the aspirator/irrigator is introduced into the pneumostoma (step 590). The physician may then position the flange so as to prevent excess leakage from the pneumostoma (step 592). The physician will the apply suction to remove materials from the pneumostoma (step 594). While suction is applied the physician may also provide irrigation/lavage and or agitation to dislodge materials for removal (step 594.) The physician may advance the aspirator/irrigator incrementally further into the pneumostoma and repeats the treatment (step 594) until reaching the end of the pneumostoma. When the treatment is completed the aspirator/irrigator is removed (step 596). A PMD should be inserted into the pneumostoma promptly after removal of the aspirator/irrigator either by the physician, or by the patient under the observation of the physician (step 598). In some cases, treatment with the aspirator/irrigator is made in conjunction with inspection of the pneumostoma with a pneumoscope. In such case, the pneumoscope may be used before and after treatment to observe effects of the treatment upon the tissue of the pneumostoma and to ensure all deleterious materials have been removed from the pneumostoma.

Pneumostoma Treatment Using Sound

[00111] The treatment modalities available for treating a pneumostoma include the use of sound waves. Sound waves can be used to agitate the walls of the pneumostoma to dislodge materials. Sound waves of different frequencies may be of use, including infrasound below 20Hz, acoustic sound waves between 20Hz and 20KHz and ultrasound above 20KHz. These treatment modalities are suitable for removing obstructions and discharge from the pneumostoma, cleaning the pneumostoma and treating the tissues of the pneumostoma to enhance and/or maintain patency of the pneumostoma. The amplitude, frequency and duration of sound waves supplied may be selected to achieve the desired effects. In some cases the amplitude, frequency and duration of the sound waves may be sufficient to kill cells, inhibit proliferation of cells or disrupt cells and connective tissue in order to enhance or maintain the patency of the pneumostoma. In other cases, the sound waves may be selected to dislodge materials e.g. discharge, which may be adhered to the tissues of the pneumostoma. In some embodiments, ultrasound may be used in conjunction with suction/irrigation to remove materials from the pneumostoma. [00112] FIG. 6A shows a sectional view of an ultrasound device 600 for use in a pneumostoma 110. Ultrasound device 600 includes a body 610 containing an ultrasonic transducer 612 coupled by a coupling 614 to an ultrasound probe 620. Ultrasonic transducer 612 is coupled to ultrasound probe 620 so that, when energized, ultrasonic transducer 612 transmits ultrasound into ultrasound probe 620. Ultrasound device 600 includes within body 610, a switch 617, a controller 616 and power supply 618. The physician operates switch 617 to cause controller 616 to energize ultrasonic transducer 612. In preferred embodiments, controller 616 energizes ultrasonic transducer 612 for a predefined and limited period of time. [00113] Ultrasound probe 620 is sized and configured to enter pneumostoma 110 and conduct ultrasound energy from ultrasonic transducer 612 to the walls of the pneumostoma and any materials adhered thereto. Ultrasound probe 620 may also include a flange 622 which serves as protection against over insertion of probe 620. A biocompatible gel or liquid (not shown) may be used with ultrasound probe 620 to enhance the conduction of ultrasonic waves from ultrasound probe 620 to tissues of the pneumostoma. In such case, flange 622 may also be useful to create a temporary seal to retain the gel or liquid with pneumostoma 110 during the ultrasound treatment. In some embodiments, ultrasound probe 620 may be provided with a channel to provide suction to remove any materials dislodged by the ultrasound. Alternatively, a separate suction/irrigation device may be utilized to remove materials from the pneumostoma after treatment with the ultrasound probe 620.

[00114] FIG. 6B shows a schematic view of alternate sound delivery device 650 for use in a pneumostoma 110. Sound delivery device 650 includes a body 660 containing a speaker 662 which typically comprises a magnetically-driven armature or diaphragm. Speaker 662 generates acoustic and/or infrasound waves in chamber 664. Chamber 664 is in communication via coupling 668 with sound probe 670. As shown in FIG. 6B, sound probe 670 is a hollow tube for holding open the pneumostoma and delivering the sound waves into the pneumostoma. Sound probe 670 may have one or more apertures. A baffle may be provided around sound probe 670 to concentrate pressure waves induced by the speaker with the pneumostoma. Alternatively, sound probe 670 may be a solid probe coupled to the armature of speaker 662 or a suitable transducer. In alternative embodiments, the sound may be generated by a speaker located within the probe which is thus located within the pneumostoma during use. The energy delivered by sound delivery device 650 serves to dislodge materials from the pneumostoma and/or disrupt the connective tissue of the pneumostoma. In some embodiments, sound probe 670 may be provided with a channel to provide suction to remove any materials dislodged by the sound waves. Alternatively, a separate suction/irrigation device may be utilized to remove materials from the pneumostoma after treatment with the sound delivery device 650.

[00115] FIG. 6C illustrates a method for treatment of a pneumostoma. First, based on, for example, information from the patient or observation of the pneumostoma, the physician makes a determination to treat the pneumostoma with one or more of acoustic sound, infrasound, and/or ultrasound, (step 680). The physician next selects and/or configures a sound/ultrasound device suitable to treat the pneumostoma of a particular patient, (step 682). The selected instrument is preferably sized such that it can be introduced into the pneumostoma and placed at a desired depth in the pneumostoma. As pneumostomas may vary in size, the sound/ultrasound device may have a configurable size, or may have a range of different sized probes 620 or 670. Thus selection of the sound/ultrasound device includes selecting/configuring the sound/ultrasound device for the pneumostoma of a particular patient. If a sound conducting liquid or gel is to be used, the physician should also select and/or prepare the fluid (step 684).

[00116] After the sound/ultrasound device and optional sound-conducting fluid is ready, the pneumostoma management device will be removed from the pneumostoma (step 686). The pneumostoma should then be externally inspected (step 688) to determine whether there are any contraindications to use of the sound/ultrasound device, for example any obstruction of the pneumostoma which must first be removed. If the visual inspection reveals no contraindications, the sound/ultrasound device is introduced into the pneumostoma (step 690). The physician may then position the flange so as to prevent excess leakage from the pneumostoma (step 692). The physician will then energize the sound/ultrasound probe for a selected period of time (step 694). The physician may advance the sound/ultrasound device incrementally further into the pneumostoma and repeat the treatment (step 694) until reaching the end of the pneumostoma. When the treatment is completed the sound/ultrasound device is removed (step 696). A PMD should be inserted into the pneumostoma promptly after removal of the aspirator/irrigator either by the physician, or by the patient under the observation of the physician (step 698).

[00117] In some cases, treatment with the sound/ultrasound device is made in conjunction with inspection of the pneumostoma with a pneumoscope. In such case, the pneumoscope may be used before and after treatment to observe effects of the treatment upon the tissue of the pneumostoma and to ensure all deleterious materials have been removed from the pneumostoma. It may also be desirable to clean the pneumostoma with suction/irrigation prior to reinsertion of the PMD in order to remove any materials that may have been dislodged during the treatment.

Pneumostoma Treatment Using Mechanical Dilatation [00118] The treatment modalities available for treating a pneumostoma include the use of mechanical dilatation. Overtime, the natural healing response of the body may cause tissues to encroach into the lumen of the pneumostoma. Additionally, the tissues bordering the pneumostoma may thicken over time reducing the permeability of the pneumostoma walls to gases. A dilator may be used to stretch the tissues of the pneumostoma to maintain the patency of the pneumostoma. Dilatation not only increases the size of the lumen of the pneumostoma but also thins the tissues surrounding the pneumostoma. This thinning of the tissues bordering the pneumostoma in the lung may enhance the ability of air to enter the pneumostoma from the parenchymal tissue of the lung thereby enhancing the functionality of the pneumostoma. In embodiments, a dilator comprises an expander which can be inserted into the pneumostoma at a first contracted size and then expanded to a desired expanded size thereby stretching the pneumostoma. In preferred embodiments the dilator comprises an indicator outside the body which indicates the extent to which the expander has been expanded and/or an adjustable limiter which limits expansion of the expander to a safe amount.

[00119] FIGS. 7A-7D show views of one embodiment of mechanical dilator 700. As shown in FIG. 7A, mechanical dilator 700 comprises a handle 710, a shaft 720 and an expander 730. Handle 710 includes two arms 712a, 712b connected by a pivot 714. A spring mechanism 716 biases arms 712a, 712b apart. A screw mechanism 717 may be used to lock arms 712a, 712b closer together at any desired position. A limit mechanism 715 may be used to limit the approach of arm 712a towards arm 712b in order to prevent over expansion of the expander 730. Handle 710 is connected to shaft 720. Arm 712a, is fixedly connected to the exterior of shaft 720, arm 712b is pivotally connected to inner shaft 722. Moving arm 712b towards arm 712a moves inner shaft 722 more distally relative to shaft 720. Handle 710 also includes a gauge 718 marked to indicate the amount of expansion of expander 730. Gauge 718 is fixed to arm 712a. An indicator 719 fixed to arm 712b moves along gauge 718 as the arms are moved towards each other thereby expanding expander 730. The markings on gauge 718 correspond to the expansion of expander 730.

[00120] Shaft 720 is sized so as to fit into the pneumostoma. Shaft 720 may be provided with markings 724 on the exterior surface so the physician may determine the depth to which the distal tip of expander 730 has been inserted in the pneumostoma. Expander 730 includes two blades 732a, 732b. Blades 732a, 732b are semicircular in section so that, in the collapsed configuration, blades 732a, 732b form a cylinder of the same external diameter as shaft 720. Blades 732a, 732b also form a rounded distal tip 734 in their collapsed configuration to facilitate insertion of expander 730 into the pneumostoma. [00121] FIG. 7B shows mechanical dilator inserted into a pneumostoma 110 (shown in section). As shown in FIG. 7B, the mechanical dilator 700 is inserted into the pneumostoma 110 in the collapsed configuration of FIG. 7A until it is located at the desired depth in the pneumostoma as indicated by the markings 724. In some situations, mechanical dilator 700 may be used to measure the diameter of a pneumostoma. The expander may be inserted into the pneumostoma and the handles compressed until resistance is felt. The indicator 719 will indicate on gauge 718 the degree of expansion of expander 730 at this point of first resistance and thus indicate the internal diameter of the pneumostoma. Limit mechanism 715 may then be positioned to allow only a desired amount of incremental expansion of the pneumostoma compared to the measured initial diameter of the pneumostoma. In alternative embodiments, a fixed or adjustable flange (not shown) may be provided mounted on shaft 720. The flange serves as mechanical stop to limit insertion of the mechanical dilator 700 at a fixed or adjustable depth.

[00122] FIG. 7C shows a close-up view of the expander 730 in an expanded configuration. As shown in FIG. 7C, each of blades 732a and 732b are pivotably connected by linkages 736a, 736b to the distal end of shaft 720. Each of blades 732a, 732b is also pivotably connected to the distal end of inner shaft 722 by linkages 738a, 738b, 738c, 738d. Linkages 738a, 738b, 738c, 738d are designed to fit within a slot in the interior surface of blades 732a, 732b when the blades are in the collapsed configuration of FIG. 7A. In alternative embodiments, expander 730 may have 3 or more blades, each blade taking up a fractional portion of the circumference of the device and each blade having three linkages connecting the blade to the distal end of inner shaft 722. As inner shaft 722 moves in the direction of arrow 704, blades 732a, 732b move outwards as shown by arrows 702a, 702b. [00123] FIG. 7D shows mechanical dilator 700 positioned in a pneumostoma 110. As shown in FIG. 7D, expander 730 is positioned within the pneumostoma at the desired depth. Handle 712b has been pushed towards handle 712a until it makes contact with limit mechanism 715. Handle 712b may optionally be locked into position with screw mechanism 717. Inner shaft 722 has been pushed distally relative to shaft 720. Linkages 738a, 738, b, 738c, 738d have thus forced blades 732a, 732b away from each other causing the expander 730 to adopt the expanded position shown in FIG. 7C (see FIGS. 7B and 7C for identification of the components of expander 730). Note that indicator 719 has moved along gauge 718 to indicate the amount of expansion of expander 730. [00124] In practice, mechanical dilator 700 is preferably expanded a small amount and then locked in place as the tissues of the pneumostoma relax. Mechanical dilator 700 is then expanded another small amount and then locked in place again as the tissues of the pneumostoma relax. A number of incremental expansion steps may be performed until the desired diameter of the pneumostoma is achieved. The incremental steps can be controlled by incremental movement of limit mechanism 715 and screw mechanism 717. In some cases, it may be desirable to expand the dilator at two or more different depths in the pneumostoma so as to expand two or more different potions of the pneumostoma. Dilator 700 may then be collapsed and withdrawn from the pneumostoma. The pneumostoma will tend to contract after dilatation so it is important to insert a pneumostoma management device into the lumen of the pneumostoma upon removal of the mechanical dilator 700. [00125] FIG. 7E illustrates a method for treatment of a pneumostoma with a dilator. First, based on, for example, information from the patient or observation of the pneumostoma, the physician makes a determination to treat the pneumostoma with a dilator, (step 740). The physician next selects and/or configures a dilator suitable to treat the pneumostoma of a particular patient, (step 742). The selected instrument is preferably sized such that it can be introduced into the pneumostoma and placed at a desired depth in the pneumostoma. As pneumostomas may vary in size, the dilator may have a configurable size, or a range of initial sizes. Thus selection of the dilator includes selecting/configuring the dilator for the pneumostoma of a particular patient such that it may be inserted into the pneumostoma to the desired depth prior to dilation. After dilation of the pneumostoma it is preferable to insert a PMD to support the pneumostoma as soon as the dilator is removed. Therefore, it is preferable to select and prepare a larger PMD for the patient to fit the anticipated dilated pneumostoma (step 744).

[00126] After the dilator and replacement PMD are, the original (smaller) pneumostoma management device will be removed from the pneumostoma (step 746). The pneumostoma should then be externally inspected (step 748) to determine whether there are any contraindications to use of the dilator, for example any obstruction of the pneumostoma which must first be removed. If the visual inspection reveals no contraindications, the dilator is introduced into the pneumostoma (step 750). The physician may then expand the dilator incrementally (step 752). The physician will then allow the tissue of the pneumostoma to relax (step 754) and repeat the incremental expansion (step 752) until the desired dilation has been achieved. The physician may also repeat the dilation at one or more depths within the pneumostoma depending upon the length of the pneumostoma. When the dilation is complete the dilator is removed (step 756). A new larger PMD should then be promptly inserted into the pneumostoma by the physician, or by the patient under the observation of the physician (step 758). [00127] In some cases, treatment with the sound/ultrasound device is made in conjunction with inspection of the pneumostoma with a pneumoscope. In such case, the pneumoscope may be used before and after treatment to observe effects of the treatment upon the tissue of the pneumostoma and to ensure all deleterious materials have been removed from the pneumostoma. It may also be desirable to clean the pneumostoma with suction/irrigation prior to reinsertion of the PMD in order to remove any materials that may have been dislodged during the treatment.

[00128] Alternative means may be used to dilate the pneumostoma in alternative embodiments. FIG. 7F shows an alternative mechanical dilator 760 and FIG. 7G shows a balloon dilator 780. Referring to FIG. 7F, mechanical dilator 760 comprises first handle 761 connected to inner shaft 762 which extends to the distal tip of the mechanical dilator 760. A second handle 763 is connected to an outer shaft 764 which rides on inner shaft 762. At the distal end of mechanical dilator 760 is expander 766. Expander 766 includes a plurality of flexible elements 767 covered by a polymer shell 768. The distal end of each flexible element 767 and polymer shell 768 is connected to the distal end of inner shaft 762. The proximal end of each flexible element 767 and polymer shell 768 is connected to the distal end of outer shaft 764. When outer shaft 764 is pushed distally along inner shaft 762 (as shown by arrow 770), flexible elements 767 bend or bow outwards (as shown by arrows 771). Elements 767 push on polymer shell 768 causing it to also bow outwards (in the direction of arrows 771). Thus mechanical dilator 760 transitions from the collapsed configuration to the expanded configuration by pushing handle 763 distally relative to handle 761. Both outer shaft 764 and inner shaft 762 have markings 765 on the exterior surface so the physician may assess the depth of insertion of mechanical dilator 760 and the diameter of expansion of mechanical dilator 760. Mechanical dilator 760 may be used in the same way as dilator 700 of FIGS. 7A-7D, either for dilating the pneumostoma or assessing the diameter of the pneumostoma. Mechanical dilator 760 may additionally be provided with a locking device to hold it in an expanded position and/or a limit device to control expansion of the expander 766.

[00129] FIG. 7G shows a balloon dilator 780. Referring to FIG. 7F, mechanical dilator 780 comprises first handle 781 connected to a hollow shaft 782 which extends to the distal tip of the balloon dilator 780. At the distal end of mechanical dilator 780 is balloon 786. Balloon 786 is sealed to the hollow shaft at the proximal end 787 and distal end 788 of balloon 786. An aperture in hollow shaft 782 communicates between the lumen of the hollow shaft 782 and the interior of balloon 786. A syringe 792 is connected to the proximal end of hollow shaft 782. When syringe 792 is compressed (as shown by arrow 790), a liquid such as sterile saline is pushed through hollow shaft 782 into balloon 786 causing balloon 786 to inflate (as shown by arrows 791). Thus balloon dilator 780 transitions from the collapsed configuration to the expanded configuration by compressing syringe 792. Hollow shaft 782 has markings 785 on the exterior surface so the physician may assess the depth of insertion of balloon dilator 780. Syringe 792 has exterior markings 795 so that the physician may assess the volume of balloon 786 and hence the diameter to which it has been expanded. Balloon dilator 780 may be used in the same way as dilator 700 of FIGS. 7A-7D, either for dilating the pneumostoma or assessing the diameter of the pneumostoma.

[00130] Balloon 786 may be formed of a relatively inelastic material. In such case, injection of the liquid into the balloon will expand the balloon to a preset size. This ensures that the balloon does not stretch the pneumostoma more than desired. Moreover, the balloon can be expanded at high pressure without risk of over-expansion. However, a number of different balloon dilators may be required having different sizes in order to treat different pneumostomas or to incrementally expand a single pneumostoma. In alternative embodiments, a relatively elastic material may be used to make balloon

786. In such case, the balloon will have a larger diameter for larger amounts of liquid allowing broader application. However, the pressure applied by the balloon to the tissue will be lower than for an inelastic balloon.

Pneumostoma Treatment Using Localized Thermotherapy

[00131] The treatment modalities available for treating a pneumostoma include the application of heat (thermotherapy) or cold (cryotherapy). Thermotherapy and cryotherapy can be used to affect physical characteristics of tissues and cell proliferation and also to treat infection. For example, the tissues of the pneumostoma tend to encroach into the lumen of the pneumostoma thereby impairing the function of the pneumostoma. One way to reduce tissue encroachment is through the use of thermotherapy or cryotherapy thereby maintaining or enhancing the patency of the pneumostoma. In some embodiments a pneumostoma treatment device may be used to heat the tissue in others the pneumostoma treatment device may be used to cool the tissue to achieve the desired effects. [00132] In one method of thermotherapy, a surface of a pneumostoma treatment device is brought into contact with a target tissue of the pneumostoma. The surface of the pneumostoma treatment device is then heated to raise the temperature of the target tissue (e.g. by electrical heating, laser heating, or by circulating a heated medium). Other methods of thermotherapy include application of focused ultrasound, infrared light, radio or microwave-frequency radiation to the target tissue to induce the desired temperature rise in the target tissue. For example, thermotherapy treatment device may direct energy at the tissue to heat the target tissue. The energy may be supplied as ultrasound, electrical energy, electromagnetic energy (for example IR or laser energy). The treatment is applied for a selected period of time. After the treatment the tissue is reassessed and treated again as necessary. The treatment may be applied to the pneumostoma tissue using a range of treatment devices and modalities as described in more detail below. In preferred embodiments, the temperature and duration of the heat treatment are selected to affect physical characteristics of tissues, reduce cell proliferation and/or treat infection but not to kill tissues of the pneumostoma. [00133] Methods of cryotherapy include placing the target tissues in thermal contact with a cooled device or medium to lower the temperature of the target tissue. Cryotherapy may be used in two modes. The first mode of cryotherapy is cryogenic ablation in which cryotherapy is used to freeze tissue. A device is used to lower the temperature of the target cells to temperatures below freezing for short periods of time. The cells in the frozen tissue die and the tissue is removed. However, it is a disadvantage of tissue ablation that the cell necrosis stimulates the healing response. The healing response causes cell proliferation and generation of more cells in the form of scar tissue. As a result, cryogenic ablation may ultimately lead to greater tissue encroachment rather than less tissue encroachment. Cryogenic ablation may however still be useful for treating regions where tissue is encroaching into the pneumostoma.

[00134] A second mode of cryotherapy is cryogenic cooling in which cells are cooled below physiologic temperatures without freezing the cells. A device is used to lower the temperature of the target cells to temperatures between normal physiologic temperatures and a temperature above freezing for short periods of time. Cryogenic cooling has been found to reduce hyperplasia in blood vessels. See e.g. U.S. Patent 6,811,550 entitled "Safety Cryotherapy Catheter" to Holland et al. Cryogenic cooling may also be used to his mode of cryotherapy to treat larger areas of the pneumostoma including up to the entire pneumostoma. In preferred embodiments, the temperature and duration of the cryotherapy are selected to affect physical characteristics of tissues, reduce cell proliferation and/or treat infection but not to kill tissues of the pneumostoma.

[00135] FIGS. 8A-8C show a catheter which may be used for cryotherapy or thermotherapy of a pneumostoma tissues. As shown in FIG. 8A, catheter 800 includes a shaft 802, a balloon 804 and a flange 806. Flange 806 slides on the exterior of shaft 802 and acts as a mechanical stop for insertion of shaft 802 into a pneumostoma. The positioning of flange 806 on shaft 802 allows the physician to control the depth of balloon 804 and thus the location of the treatment area. The shaft 802 is provided with external markings 805 to indicate the distance between the treatment area and flange 806 thereby facilitating application of the treatment to the desired target tissues.

[00136] As shown in FIG. 8B, shaft 802 has two lumens in inner lumen 808 and outer lumen 810. In some embodiments shaft 802 may be coated with an insulating layer 803 so that treatment is limited to the region of the balloon 804. The balloon may then be moved to different locations in the pneumostoma to treat different areas. In other embodiments, shaft 802 is not insulated and is also designed to treat the tissues of the pneumostoma in addition to the balloon. In such cases, it is preferable that treatment is performed at a single position (because to do otherwise would treat areas along the shaft 802 multiple times). As shown in FIG. 8C, at the proximal end of shaft 802 are an inlet 809 which communicates with inner lumen 808 and an outlet 811 which communicates with outer lumen 810.

[00137] As used for cryotherapy, catheter 800 is introduced in to the pneumostoma 110 to a depth limited by flange 806 as shown in FIG 8C. Cryotherapy catheter 800 is connected to a cryotherapy coolant system 819 which supplies a temperature-controlled coolant fluid to cryotherapy catheter 800. A coolant fluid is introduced through inlet 809 into inner lumen 808. The coolant passes through inner lumen 808 to the distal end of cryogenic catheter 800. The coolant passes through an aperture out of inner lumen 808 into the balloon 804. The coolant inflates balloon 804 to bring it into contact with the tissue of the pneumostoma 110. The coolant circulates around balloon 804 and cools the surface of balloon 804 to the desired temperature. The coolant then returns through the outer lumen 810 and exits the catheter via the outlet 811. In some embodiments, a temperature sensor may be included in the distal tip of cryotherapy catheter 800 in order to monitor the temperature of the balloon. However, in other embodiments, temperature regulation is performed by regulating the temperature of the coolant supplied by the cryotherapy coolant system.

[00138] The coolant fluid is preferably a non-toxic liquid such as saline. However, liquids other than saline may be used and in some cases the coolant fluid may be a temperature-controlled gas. One system for supplying coolant is described in U.S. Patent 6,432,102 entitled "Cryosurgical Fluid Supply" to Joye et al. If thermotherapy of the tissues is desired, a fluid heated to above body- temperature may be used in place of the coolant.

[00139] FIG. 8D shows an alternative cryotherapy probe 820. Cryotherapy probe 820 includes a shaft 821 and tip 822. Tip 822 is of fixed size and is preferably made of a heat conductive material. Tip 822 may be made in whole or in part of a biocompatible metal, for example surgical steel. Tip 822 may be made in one piece with shaft 821 or may be made separately and joined to shaft 821. As shown in FIG. 8E, shaft 821 (shown in FIG. 8D) includes two lumens 824, 826 for supplying coolant to tip 822 (in FIG. 8D). Tip 822 has a cavity 828 in which the coolant circulates. At the proximal end of cryotherapy probe 820 is an inlet 834 which communicates with lumen 824 and an outlet 836 which communicates with lumen 826. In some embodiments, shaft 820 may be coated with an insulating layer 823 so that treatment is limited to the region of the tip 822. Shaft 821 may be coated with an insulating material 823 in order that the cryotherapy treatment is localized to the region of tip 822. The tip 822 may then be moved to different locations in the pneumostoma to treat different areas. [00140] The size of tip 822 may differ between different cryotherapy probes 820. A physician may have a range of cryotherapy probes available and choose the cryotherapy probe based upon the anatomy of the pneumostoma and the size and location of the tissues to be treated. Cryotherapy probe 820 may optionally be provided with a flange 830 positionable along shaft 821 in order to limit insertion of tip 822 into the pneumostoma and thereby control the location of tip 822 and the location of the cryotherapy treatment site.

[00141] In use, cryotherapy probe 820 is introduced into a pneumostoma to a position indicated by the markings on the exterior of the shaft 821 or position of the flange 830. Tip 822 is brought into thermal contact with the pneumostoma tissues to be treated. Cryotherapy probe 820 is connected to a cryotherapy coolant system 819. A coolant fluid is introduced through inlet 834 into lumen 824. The coolant passes through lumen 824 to the distal end of cryotherapy probe 820. The coolant passes through an aperture out of lumen 824 into the cavity 828. The coolant circulates around cavity 828 and cools the surface of tip 822 to the desired temperature. The coolant then returns through lumen 826 and exits the probe via the outlet 836. In some embodiments a temperature sensor may be included in the tip 822 of cryotherapy probe 820 in order to monitor the temperature of the tip. However, in other embodiments, temperature regulation is performed by regulating the temperature of the coolant supplied by the cryotherapy coolant system. For thermotherapy, a heated fluid may be circulated through the probe in place of the coolant.

Pneumostoma Treatment Using Electromagnetic Radiation [00142] The treatment modalities available for treating a pneumostoma include the application of energy in the form of electromagnetic radiation, for example, infrared, ultraviolet, visible light, RF, microwaves. Such energy treatment can be used to affect physical characteristics of tissues and cell proliferation and also to treat infection. For example, the tissues of the pneumostoma tend to encroach into the lumen of the pneumostoma and/or thicken the walls of the pneumostoma thereby impairing the function of the pneumostoma. One way to reduce tissue encroachment and/or thickness is through the application of energy to the tissues, either to kill the cells or to reduce their proliferation thereby maintaining or enhancing the patency of the pneumostoma. In some embodiments a pneumostoma treatment device may be used to direct energy to particular localized regions of the pneumostoma tissue, in other embodiments, the pneumostoma treatment device may apply energy equally in all directions. In other embodiments, the electromagnetic radiation may be selected to kill or damage bacteria to reduce infection while minimizing damage to the cells of the pneumostoma. Some frequencies of visible light, for example, have been shown to kill certain bacteria without causing significant damage to human cells. [00143] FIG. 9A illustrates a pneumostoma treatment device 900 for treatment of pneumostoma tissues with electromagnetic radiation. The device includes a shaft 902 having at its distal end a treatment head 904. The treatment head has a tapered or rounded tip 920 to facilitate introduction into the pneumostoma. The treatment head 904 may generate electromagnetic radiation in situ, or the electromagnetic radiation may be transmitted from an external source to the treatment head 904. The treatment head may in some cases have a window 905 which is either open or covered with a material transparent to the electromagnetic radiation to be transmitted. In other cases the entire treatment head 904 may be enclosed in a material which is transparent to the delivered electromagnetic radiation. [00144] At the proximal end the pneumostoma treatment device 900 has a coupling 912 for connecting the pneumostoma treatment device 900 to a power source which may provide the electromagnetic radiation directly or provide electrical power to create electromagnetic radiation in the treatment head 904. Coupling 912 may be connected to shaft 910 by a flexible cable 914. The proximal end of shaft 902 may also provide access to lumens 916 which communicate with apertures 918 adjacent treatment head 904. Lumens 916 and apertures 918 optionally provide suction, irrigation and/or cooling to the region adjacent treatment head 904 as necessary and/or desirable for a particular treatment modality. [00145] The shaft 902 and treatment head 904 are of suitable diameter for insertion into a pneumostoma. Typically the shaft 902 and treatment head 904 will be less than approximately 10mm in diameter. In some cases the shaft and treatment head may be approximately 5mm in diameter. The shaft 902 is flexible enough to allow insertion of the treatment head 904 into a pneumostoma even when the pneumostoma is not entirely straight. The shaft 902 should however be stiff enough that it can provide adequate force to push the treatment head 904 to the correct location in the pneumostoma. [00146] The pneumostoma treatment device carries a flange 906 which can slide on shaft 902. The flange 906 has a locking collar 908 to fix the flange 906 at an adjustable position along the shaft 902, other locking means may be used, for example, a suture, tape glue or mechanical lock. The physician will typically adjust the location of the flange 906 along the shaft 902 so that when the treatment head 904 and shaft 902 are inserted to the desired depth into a pneumostoma, the flange contacts the chest of the patient and prevent further insertion. Correct pre -positioning of the flange 906 on shaft 902 serves to guide treatment depth and protect against over insertion. The shaft 902 may also be provided with external markings 910 so that the physician may determine the correct location for flange 906 and the corresponding depth of treatment head 904.

[00147] FIG. 9B shows a sectional view of pneumostoma treatment device 900 inserted into a pneumostoma 110. Note that flange 906 is in contact with the skin 114 of the chest 100 of the patient and thus acts as a mechanical stop to prevent further insertion. Flange 906 may additionally be provided with an adhesive (not shown) to temporarily secure the flange 906 to the skin 114 of the chest 100 of the patient thereby securing the treatment head 904 at the desired depth within the pneumostoma 110. Coupling 912 connects controller 922 via cable 914 to the proximal end of shaft 902 and via shaft 902 to treatment head 904. Controller 922 may be used to control the provision of electromagnetic radiation by treatment head 904. Controller may control one or more of: the location, intensity, wavelength and/or duration of the application of the electromagnetic radiation as directed by a physician.

[00148] The treatment head 904 may be designed so that it delivers electromagnetic radiation equally in all directions thereby treating uniformly all of the tissues adjacent the treatment head. In alternative embodiments treatment head 904 may be designed such that it applies the electromagnetic radiation in a directional manner - this adds additional complexity in that a mechanism needs to be provided for aligning the electromagnetic radiation with the target tissues. However, the directional solution allows for different tissues within the pneumostoma to be treated differently and also different regions to be treated differently from other regions. Directionality may be provided, for example, using scanning optics to aim a beam of electromagnetic radiation provided by controller 922 through a fiber optic cable.

[00149] FIG. 9C shows a sectional view of a pneumostoma treatment device 930 for treatment of pneumostoma tissues with electromagnetic radiation. The device includes a shaft 932 having at its distal end a treatment head 934. The shaft 932 carries a flange 936 which can slide on shaft 932. One or more lumens 946 passes along the length of shaft 932 to one or more aperture 948 adjacent treatment head 934. Lumens 946 and apertures 948 optionally provide suction, irrigation and/or cooling to the region adjacent treatment head 934 as necessary and/or desirable to enhance treatment or protect tissue during treatment. At the proximal end the pneumostoma treatment device 930 has a coupling 942 for connecting the pneumostoma treatment device 930 to a power source 940 which provides electrical power through cable 944 to create electromagnetic radiation in the treatment head 934.

[00150] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 9C, the treatment head 934 generates electromagnetic radiation in situ. The treatment head 934 is enclosed in a material which is transparent to the delivered electromagnetic radiation. As shown in FIG. 9C the treatment head 934 radiates electromagnetic radiation in all directions uniformly from source 935 located within head 934. Source 935, generates the desired electromagnetic radiation from electrical power provided by power source 940. The source may be for example, a source of IR, UV visible light, X-rays or other electromagnetic radiation with which it is desired to treat the tissue of the pneumostoma. Particular devices suitable for use as source 935 include for example incandescent light sources, LEDs, fluorescent lamps and miniature X-ray sources. The source may be provided with additional features to ensure uniformity of distribution of the selected electromagnetic radiation including, for example a collimator, diffuser, and or reflector. [00151] FIG. 9D shows a sectional view of a pneumostoma treatment device 950 for treatment of pneumostoma tissues with electromagnetic radiation. The device includes a shaft 952 having at its distal end a treatment head 954. The shaft 952 carries a flange 956 which can slide on shaft 952. Flange 956 may be locked to shaft 952 and secured to the chest of the patient so that head 954 may be secured in a fixed relation to the pneumostoma during operation of pneumostoma treatment device 950. At the proximal end the pneumostoma treatment device 950 has a coupling 962 for connecting the pneumostoma treatment device 950 to a controller 960 which provides light and power through cable 964 to treatment head 954.

[00152] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 9D, the treatment head 954 does not generate electromagnetic radiation in situ. Instead, the electromagnetic radiation is generated by controller 960 and transmitted through an optical fiber 953 to treatment head 954. The treatment head 954 is enclosed in a material which is transparent to the delivered electromagnetic radiation. As shown in FIG. 9D, the treatment head 954 includes scanning optics 958 which direct the electromagnetic radiation in a particular direction under the control of controller 960. Controller 960 generates the desired electromagnetic radiation, transmits it to head 954 which directs it to a particular region of tissue of the pneumostoma. Controller 960 is connected to a computer system 964 which provides the physician with an interface 966 to operate controller 960 and control head 954 to treat selected target tissues within a pneumostoma.

[00153] Controller 960 may generate one or more selectable frequencies of electromagnetic radiation. Controller 960 may, for example include a tunable laser source cable of generating coherent light over a range of different frequencies. The light frequency and intensity may be selected based upon the effect desired. For example, in some case the light frequency and intensity may be selected to ablate certain target tissues in the pneumostoma. Tissue ablation may be used to generate pores in the wall of the pneumostoma to enhance patency of the pneumostoma and/or restore pathways for gas to exit the pneumostoma. [00154] In some embodiments, the scanning optics may also receive light received back from the tissue, which light may pass back down the fiber optic to controller 960. The received light may be analyzed using tissue spectroscopy and/or tomography techniques to determine properties of the particular tissue from which the light is received. In such way the head 954 can be used to analyze the tissue of the pneumostoma in addition to, or instead of, treating the tissue. Tissue scanning may be used in order to select target tissues for e.g. ablation to enhance the selectivity of treatment and reduce damage to sensitive tissue. For example, tissue scanning may be used to ensure that tissue ablation avoids blood vessels in proximity to the pneumostoma when forming pores to restore or enhance the exit of gas through the pneumostoma. [00155] Because of the proximity of blood vessels to the surface of the pneumostoma, the pneumostoma may also be used as a port for analysis of compounds in the bloodstream. For example analysis of blood gases, and/or glucose concentration. The analysis can be performed by scanning the thin tissues of the pneumostoma and analyzing the light received from the tissues. Information in the received light at different frequencies and in a number of modes (for example scattering, reflectance, absorption and fluorescence) may be used to derive detailed information regarding the tissues of the pneumostoma and blood in vessels immediately adjacent the pneumostoma.

Pneumostoma Management System Including A Pneumostoma Aspirator

[00156] Applicants have found that a pneumostoma aspirator is useful to maintain the patency of the pneumostoma and control flow of materials between the exterior of the patient and the parenchymal tissue of the lung via a pneumostoma. A pneumostoma management system may include a pneumostoma management device and a pneumostoma aspirator as described herein. The pneumostoma aspirator includes a bulb or syringe for applying positive or negative pressure, a tube for entering the pneumostoma and a limiting device for limiting the depth of insertion of the tube into a pneumostoma. The pneumostoma aspirator may also be used to introduce irrigation fluid into the pneumostoma and/or remove irrigation fluid and discharge from the pneumostoma. [00157] FIGS. 1OA through 1OD illustrate views of a pneumostoma management system including a pneumostoma management device ("PMD") 1001 and a pneumostoma aspirator 1060. FIGS. 1OC and 1OD show pneumostoma aspirator 1060 and its interaction with the PMD 1001. Referring first to FIGS 1OA and 1OB, PMD 1001 includes a chest mount 1002 which may be mounted to the skin of the patient and a pneumostoma vent 1004 which is fitted to the chest mount 1002. In a preferred embodiment, pneumostoma vent 1004 is mounted through an aperture 1024 in chest mount 1002. Chest mount 1002 has a first coupling that engages a second coupling of the pneumostoma vent to releasably secure the pneumostoma vent 1004 to the chest mount 1002. As will be further described below, the join between the two components of PMD 1001 is engineered to ensure that pneumostoma vent 1004 cannot be over-inserted into the lung if it separates from chest mount 1002. [00158] As shown in FIGS 1OA and FIG. 1OB, pneumostoma vent 1004 includes a tube 1040 sized and configured to fit within the channel of a pneumostoma 110. Tube 1040 is stiff enough that it may be inserted into a pneumostoma without collapsing. Over time, a pneumostoma may constrict and it is one function of PMD 1001 to preserve the patency of the channel of the pneumostoma by resisting the natural tendency of the pneumostoma to constrict. Tube 1040 of pneumostoma vent 1004 preferably comprises an atraumatic tip 1052 at the distal end. (This application uses the terms proximal and distal regarding the components of the pneumostoma management system in the conventional manner. Thus, proximal refers to the end or side of a device closest to the hand operating the device, whereas distal refers to the end or side of a device furthest from the hand operating the device.) Tip 1052 may be rounded, beveled or curved in order to reduce irritation or damage to the tissues of the pneumostoma or lung during insertion or while in position. Opening 1054 in tip 1052 allows the entry of gases from the cavity of the pneumostoma 110 into lumen 1058 of tube 1040.Tube 1040 is optionally provided with one or more side openings (not shown) positioned near tip 1052 and/or along the length of tube 1040 to facilitate the flow of gas and/or mucous/discharge into lumen 1058.

[00159] Tube 1040 of pneumostoma vent 1004 is sufficiently long that it can pass through the thoracic wall and into the cavity of a pneumostoma inside the lung. Pneumostoma vent 1004 is not however so long that it penetrates so far into the lung that it might cause injury. The material and thickness of tube 1040 of pneumostoma vent 1004 is selected such that tube 1040 is soft enough that it will deform rather than cause injury to the pneumostoma or lung. Pneumostoma vent 1004 has an opening 1054 in tip 1052 of tube 1040. The length of tube 1040 required for a pneumostoma vent 1004 varies significantly between different pneumostomas. A longer tube 1040 is usually required in patients with larger amounts of body fat on the chest. A longer tube 1040 is usually required where the pneumostoma is placed in the lateral position 112 (see FIG. IE) rather than the frontal position 110. Because of the variation in pneumostomas, pneumostoma vents 1004 are manufactured having tubes 1040 in a range of sizes and a patient is provided with a pneumostoma vent 1004 having a tube 1040 of appropriate length for the patient's pneumostoma. [00160] Pneumostoma vent 1004 includes a cap 1042 and a hydrophobic filter 1048 over the opening 1055 in the proximal end of tube 1040. Hydrophobic filter 1048 is positioned over the proximal opening 1055 into lumen 1058. Hydrophobic filter 1048 is positioned and mounted such that material moving between lumen 1058 and the exterior of pneumostoma vent 1004 must pass through hydrophobic filter 1048. Hydrophobic filter 1048 is preferably designed such to fit into a recess in cap 1042. As shown in FIG. 1OB, cap 1042 comprises a recess 1038 into which hydrophobic filter 1048 may be fit. Hydrophobic filter 1048 may alternatively be fitted into cap 1042 using a joint such as a threaded coupling or adhesive or, in some cases, formed integrally with cap 1042. Hydrophobic filter 1048 may be made from a material such as medical grade GOR-TEX (W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc., Flagstaff, AZ). As shown in FIG. 1OB, a snap ring 1043 locks cap 1042 and hydrophobic filter 1048 onto the proximal end of tube 1040.

[00161] Hydrophobic filter 1048 serves several purposes. In general, hydrophobic filter 1048 controls the passage of solid or liquid material between the lumen 1058 and the exterior of cap 1042. For example, hydrophobic filter 1048 prevents the flow of water into the lumen 1058 through proximal opening 1055. Thus, a patient using PMD 1001 may shower without water entering the lung through the pneumostoma. Hydrophobic filter 1048 may also be selected so as to prevent the entry of microbes, pollen and other allergens and pathogens into the lumen 1058. Hydrophobic filter 1048 also prevents the exit of liquid and particulate discharge from lumen 1058 to the exterior of pneumostoma vent 1004. This is desirable to prevent contact between liquid and particulate discharge and clothing for example.

[00162] Chest mount 1002 connects to the proximal end of pneumostoma vent 1004. In one embodiment, illustrated in FIGS. 1OA and 1OB, chest mount 1002 comprises a flange 1022 and an aperture 1024. The aperture 1024 is adapted and configured to receive the pneumostoma vent 1004. Chest mount 1002 is designed to have a smooth surface and a low profile so it is comfortable for the patient to wear. Chest mount 1002 should be designed so as not to snag on the patient's clothing or to restrict motion of the patient's arm (if placed in a lateral pneumostoma 112). Flange 1022 is significantly wider than pneumostoma vent 1004. Flange 1022 thus comprises a contact surface 1032 which contacts the skin of the patient surrounding the pneumostoma and positions the aperture 1024 over the opening of the pneumostoma. Flange 1022 is designed such that it is sufficiently flexible that it can conform to the surface of the chest. Contact surface 1032 is also provided with a pad of biocompatible adhesive 1034, such as a hydrocolloid adhesive, for securing flange 1022 to the skin of the patient. The adhesive 1034 may be protected by a protector sheet that is removed prior to use of flange 1022. Adhesive 1034 should be selected so as to secure flange 1022 to the chest of the patient in the correct position relative to the pneumostoma without causing undue irritation to the skin of the patient. The adhesive need not create an air tight seal between flange 1022 and the skin of the patient. Suitable adhesive pads are available commercially from Avery Dennison (Painesville, OH). [00163] Referring now to FIG. 1OA which shows a perspective view of chest mount 1002 after insertion of pneumostoma vent 1004. Flange 1022 is generally circular but is provided with one or more tabs 1036 to facilitate application and removal of flange 1022 from the skin of the patient. As shown in FIG. 1OA, chest mount 1002 comprises an aperture 1024 through which tube 1040 of pneumostoma vent 1004 may be inserted. Flange 1022 is slightly convex on the upper surface 1035. Flange 1022 includes a recess 1026 into which cap 1042 of pneumostoma vent 1004 may be press fit. Flange 1022 is thick enough in the region of aperture 1024 to receive the cap 1042 of pneumostoma vent 1004 so that the cap of pneumostoma vent 1004 is flush with the upper surface 1035 of flange 1022. Recess 1026 forms a coupling adapted to releasably secure the cap 1042 of pneumostoma vent 1004 into flange 1022. As shown in FIG. 1OB, recess 1026 has a lip 1027 to releasably secure the cap 1042 of pneumostoma vent 1004 into flange 1022. However, other couplings may be used to releasably secure pneumostoma vent 1004 to chest mount 1002 including clips, pins, snaps, catches, threaded joints, temporary adhesive and the like. Cap 1042 is attached to the proximal end of tube 1040. Hydrophobic filter 1048 is sandwiched between cap 1042 and tube 1040. An opening 1044 in cap 1042 communicates with the lumen 1058 of tube 1040 via hydrophobic filter 1048. As shown in FIGS. 1OA and 1OB, cap 1042 comprises a lip 1046 which releasably engages lip 1027 of recess 1026 of flange 1022 to secure pneumostoma vent 1004 within the recess 1026 of flange 1022. Lip 1046 forms a coupling element of pneumostoma vent 1004 that cooperates with recess 1026 to releasably secure pneumostoma vent 1004 into chest mount 1002 with tube 1040 positioned through aperture 1024. [00164] In a preferred embodiment, an aperture plate 1028 is embedded in the conformable polymer of flange 1022. The aperture plate 1028 defines aperture 1024 of chest mount 1002. Aperture plate 1028 is made of a stiffer, less compliant material than flange 1022 in order that the dimensions of aperture 1024 are tightly controlled. Aperture plate 1028 is stiff enough that the size and shape of aperture 1024 remains stable even under any reasonably possible application of force to chest mount 1002. It should be noted that the outer diameter of each of snap ring 1043, hydrophobic filter 1048, flange 1022 and cap 1042 is larger than the diameter of aperture 1024 of aperture plate 1028. Thus, snap ring 1043, hydrophobic filter 1048, flange 1022 and cap 1042 cannot pass through aperture 1024 into the pneumostoma 110. Distal tip 1052 of tube 1040 and the body of tube 1040 are small enough to pass through aperture 1024 however, flange 1022 and/or cap 1042 serve to limit the passage of tube 1040 through aperture 1024. These safety features prevent unsafe entry of any of the components of pneumostoma vent 1004 into pneumostoma even in the unlikely event of damage to the device. Likewise all the components of the chest mount 1002 such as flange 1022 and aperture plate 1024 are significantly larger than the aperture of a pneumostoma thus precluding passage of any component of the chest mount 1002 into a pneumostoma even in the unlikely event of damage to the device. [00165] Referring now to FIGS 1OC and 1OD which show a pneumostoma aspirator adapted for use with PMD 1001 of FIGS. 1OA and 1OB as part of pneumostoma management system. FIG. 1OC shows a perspective view of pneumostoma aspirator 1060. FIG. 1OD shows a sectional view through pneumostoma aspirator 1060 of FIG. 1OC when mounted in a chest mount 1002. As shown in FIGS. 1OC and 10D, pneumostoma aspirator 1060 includes a bulb 1062 a coupling 1064 and a tube 1066. Tube 1066 has an opening 1061 in the distal end. Opening 1061 is adapted to allow entry of gases as well as solid and liquid discharge during operation of aspirator. Tube 1066 may be provided with additional openings is the side of tube 1066. Pneumostoma aspirator 1060 is configured such that tube 1066 may be inserted through aperture 1024 of chest mount 1002 into a pneumostoma. Tube 1066 is sufficiently long to enter the pneumostoma but is not so long that it might cause injury to the pneumostoma. Coupling 1064 is designed such that it is too large to pass through aperture 1024 of the aperture plate 1028 of chest mount 1002 thereby preventing further insertion of tube 1066 into a pneumostoma. Coupling 1064 may also be provided with a feature such as a lip 1065 for releasably engaging lip 1027 of recess 1028 of chest mount 1002. Bulb 1062 is made of a flexible material such that it may be squeezed to reduce the volume of the bulb and when released will return to its previous volume. The re-expansion of bulb 1062 may be utilized to apply suction to the pneumostoma to remove fluid and/or discharge. In some embodiments, the reduction in volume of bulb 1062 may be used to push the contents of bulb 1062 into a pneumostoma, for example an irrigating fluid such as sterile saline or water. [00166] As shown in FIG. 1OD, pneumostoma aspirator 1060 optionally comprises a one-way valve 1068 through which air may pass out of bulb 1062. In some embodiments, pneumostoma aspirator 1060 may also include a one-way valve 1069 configured to allow material to flow from tube 1066 into bulb 1062. Valve 1068 allows air to escape bulb 1062 when it is compressed. Thus, valves 1068 and 1069 prevent air flow into the pneumostoma. In this way device 1060 may be designed to provide suction alone instead of suction and irrigation. In some embodiments, it may be desirable to prevent pneumostoma aspirator 1060 from expelling material into the pneumostoma. In a simple embodiment, an aperture may be provided in bulb 1062 in place of valve 1068. The aperture is configured to allow air to escape when bulb 1062 is squeezed. The aperture may then be covered with a digit so that air may not enter the aperture when bulb 1062 expand and is instead drawn from the pneumostoma through tube 1066.

[00167] A range of pneumostoma aspirators may be manufactured each having a size appropriate for a different pneumostoma. To simplify manufacture, pneumostoma aspirator 1060 may be designed to use some components in common with pneumostoma vent 1004. For example, the range of tubes 1040 of the pneumostoma vent 1004 may be used as tube 1066 of pneumostoma aspirator 1060. In some embodiments, the cap 1064 may also be a shared component. Thus the only additional components required for pneumostoma aspirator 1060 are bulb 1062 and (optionally) valves 1068 and 1069. Alternatively the pneumostoma aspirator 1060 may be made in only one size where the single size of tube 1066 is short enough so as not to cause injury even in a small pneumostoma. [00168] FIG. 1OE illustrates the positioning of pneumostoma aspirator 1060 over pneumostoma 112 of FIG. IA. In a preferred embodiment, the chest mount 1002 remains attached for up to a week thereby avoiding irritation of the skin caused by daily attachment and removal of a mount. Chest mount 1002 may be positioned by the patient by manual alignment of the aperture 1024 of chest mount 1002 with the aperture of the pneumostoma 110. To use pneumostoma aspirator 1060, chest mount 1002 is first positioned over a pneumostoma and secured with adhesive to the skin of the patient. Alternatively, a pneumostoma vent or an alignment tool may be used to align the chest mount. Pneumostoma aspirator 1060 is then inserted through the aperture in the chest mount until it engages the chest mount 1002. As shown in FIG. 1OE the pneumostoma aspirator 1060 is inserted through chest mount 1002 after pneumostoma vent 1004 has been removed. Pneumostoma aspirator 1060 is then used to apply suction to pneumostoma 112 by manual operation of bulb 1062 either by the patient, caregiver or medical practitioner. The application of suction draws discharge from the pneumostoma into the aperture 1061 (not shown) at the distal end of the aspirator 1060. Where suction is applied care should be taken to remove any discharge collected to prevent reentry of discharge into the pneumostoma 112. [00169] FIG. 1OF illustrates a method for using a pneumostoma aspirator. The method is illustrated in the form of Instructions For Use 1070. Instructions For Use are provided to patients with a medical device such as a pneumostoma aspirator. Referring to FIG. 1OF the instructions from use include instructions to perform the following steps. At step 1072 the tube of the pneumostoma aspirator is inserted into the pneumostoma. At step 1074 the tube is pushed into the pneumostoma until the flange of the aspirator engages the chest of the patient and prevents further insertion. At step 1076 the aspirator is actuated to collect discharge in the tube. For example, the bulb is squeezed and then allowed to expand sucking air and discharge into the tube. Alternatively the plunger on a syringe is pulled back sucking air and discharge into the tube. Finally at step 1078, the aspirator is withdrawn from the pneumostoma. The discharge may then be eliminated. The instructions will be slightly different where the aspirator is designed to operate with a chest mount already in place. In such case, the flange is already engaged with the chest and insertion of the aspirator is limited by engagement of the aspirator with the flange of the chest mount. [00170] In some embodiments, pneumostoma aspirator 1060 may alternatively or additionally be used to apply irrigation to pneumostoma 112 by manual operation of bulb 1062 either by the patient, caregiver or medical practitioner. For irrigation, a sterile but inert solution may be used. For example, sterile saline or sterile water may be used. Alternatively, an antibacterial or mucolytic solution may be used. The cleaning solution may also include a small concentration of an agent for maintaining the patency of the pneumostoma for example, Paclitaxel. The cleaning solution should be formulated carefully to avoid injury or irritation to the lung. The pneumostoma aspirator can be used to push the irrigation fluid through the aperture 1061 in the distal end of the aspirator and into the pneumostoma.

Alternative Pneumostoma Aspirators [00171] FIGS. HA and HB show an alternative pneumostoma aspirator 1110 designed to apply suction to a pneumostoma. FIG. 1 IA shows a perspective view of pneumostoma aspirator 1110. FIG. HB shows a sectional view of the pneumostoma aspirator 1110. As shown in FIGS. HA and HB, pneumostoma aspirator 1110 includes a flexible bulb 1112 attached to a flange 1114 which is attached to a tube 1116. Tube 1116 has an opening 1120 in the distal end. Opening 1120 is adapted to allow entry of gases as well as solid and liquid discharge during operation of aspirator 1110. Tube 1116 may also be provided with additional openings in the side of tube 1116. Tube 1116 of aspirator 1110 preferably has an atraumatic tip 1117 at the distal end to prevent injury and/or irritation to the pneumostoma during insertion. [00172] Flange 1114 attached to tube 1116 is significantly larger than the diameter of tube 1116. Flange 1114 is too large to enter a pneumostoma and thus acts as a stop to prevent further insertion of tube 1116 when flange 1114 makes contact with the skin of the patient's chest. The contact surface 1115 of flange 1114 may also be used to make a temporary seal surrounding the pneumostoma so that when applying suction to the pneumostoma there is reduced leakage of air/fluid around tube 1116. Contact surface 1115 may be provided with surface features (for example ridges) to enhance the formation of a temporary seal between flange 1114 and the skin of the chest.

[00173] Tube 1116 extends far enough past flange 1114 so that it can pass through the thoracic wall into the pneumostoma. Tube 1116 is not, however, so long that it may cause injury to the pneumostoma or lung. The maximum desirable length of tube 1116 varies significantly between different pneumostomas. A longer tube 1116 may be desirable in patients with larger amounts of body fat on the chest. A longer tube 1116 may also be desirable where the pneumostoma is placed in the lateral position 112 rather than the frontal position 110. Because of the variation in pneumostomas, pneumostoma aspirators 1110 may be manufactured having tubes 1116 in a range of sizes. A patient can thus be provided with a pneumostoma aspirator 1110 having a tube 1116 of appropriate length for the patient's pneumostoma. Tube 1116 may be from 30 mm to 120 mm in length and from 5 mm to 20 mm in diameter depending on the size of a pneumostoma. A typical tube 1040 may be between 40 mm and 80mm in length and between 8 mm and 12 mm in diameter. In alternative embodiments, a pneumostoma aspirator is made with a tube 1116 of a single length (such as 120 mm) and tube 1116 is then cut to the length appropriate for a particular patient. In alternative embodiments, a pneumostoma aspirator is made with a tube 1116 of a single short length (such as 30 mm) which can be used in any pneumostoma without causing injury.

[00174] As shown in FIGS. 1 IA and 1 IB, bulb 1112, flange 1114 and tube 1116 of pneumostoma aspirator 1110 are made in one piece. They may alternatively be formed separately and then joined by welding, gluing or otherwise bonding/connecting. Suction irrigation device 1110 may also comprise valves 1118 and 1119. Valves 1118 and 1119 are flow control devices (for example flapper valves) which allow flow in on one direction only. Thus, where pneumostoma aspirator 1110 is a suction device, valves 1118 and 1119 may be present and configured such that, when bulb 1112 is compressed air leaves bulb 1112 only via valve 1118, and when bulb 1112 is released air enters bulb 1112 only via tube 1116. In this way materials are drawn out of the pneumostoma. Note that, for safety reasons, the components of valves 1118 and 1119 are too large to fit through tube 1116 and thus cannot be aspirated into the lung even in the event of damage to pneumostoma aspirator 1110. For ease of assembly, valves 1118 and 1119 are press fit into recesses in bulb 1112. Valve 1119 (if present) is smaller than valve 1118 so that valve 1119 can be inserted into bulb 1112 through the aperture for mounting valve 1118.

[00175] FIGS. 12A and 12B show an alternative pneumostoma aspirator 1210 designed to apply suction to a pneumostoma. The pneumostoma aspirator 1210 operates in conjunction with a pneumostoma management device located within a pneumostoma e.g. PMD 1000 of FIGS. 10A- 1OE. FIG. 12A shows a perspective view of aspirator 1210. FIG. 12B shows a sectional view of aspirator 1210. As shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B, aspirator 1210 includes a flexible bulb 1212 attached to a coupling 1214 which has two releases 1216. Aspirator 1210 also has a one-way valve 1218 for releasing air from bulb 1212. Coupling 1214 is designed to releasably attach to cap 1042 of pneumostoma vent 1004. Releases 1216 are release mechanisms which may be operated to release coupling 1214 from cap 1042 in order to reuse aspirator 1210. In an alternative embodiment, aspirator 1210 is a single-use device and coupling 1214 permanently attaches to cap 1042 — releases 1216 are therefore absent. FIG. 12A shows aspirator 1210 aligned for attachment to cap 1042 of pneumostoma vent 1004. FIG. 12B shows aspirator 1210 after it has been attached to cap 1042. [00176] The aspirator 1210 of FIGS. 12A and 12B may be used at the time of removal of pneumostoma vent 1004 in order to remove discharge from the pneumostoma prior to replacement of pneumostoma vent 1004. As shown in FIG. 12B, when coupling 1214 attaches to cap 1042, sufficient seal is made that suction can be applied to pneumostoma vent 1004 by aspirator 1210. Valve 1218 is a flow control device (for example flapper valve) which allows flow in one direction only. Thus, when bulb 1212 is compressed, air leaves bulb 1212 via valve 1218, and when bulb 1212 is released, air enters bulb 1212 only via pneumostoma vent 1004. In this way, materials are drawn out of the pneumostoma through aperture 1054 and into pneumostoma vent 1004. In the embodiment of FIGS 12A, 12B, the discharge will accumulate in tube 1040 of pneumostoma vent 1004 because it cannot pass through the hydrophobic filter 1048. In alternative embodiments, hydrophobic filter 1048 may be absent or removed and discharge may be withdrawn directly into bulb 1212. After applying suction to pneumostoma vent 1004, aspirator 1210 (or another device) can be used to remove the pneumostoma vent 1004 (containing the discharge). Thus aspirator 1210 may serve as a combination of aspirator and pneumostoma vent removal tool. A new pneumostoma vent 1004 may be inserted in chest mount 1002 after removal of the old pneumostoma vent.

[00177] In alternative embodiments, an aspirator 1220 is designed to mate with chest mount 1002 instead of or in addition to pneumostoma vent 1004. For example, as shown in FIG. 12C, bulb 1222 has a mating section 1224, having a mating surface 1226 designed to mate and make a temporary seal with the exterior surface of chest mount 1002. In use, aspirator 1220 is pushed against chest mount 1002 to make a temporary seal. Bulb 1222 is then compressed, expelling air through one-way valve 1228. Bulb 1222 is then released such that it expands and withdraws air and discharge into/through aperture 1054 in the distal end of pneumostoma vent 1004. The discharge collects inside tube 1040 of pneumostoma vent 1004. After applying suction to pneumostoma vent 1004, pneumostoma vent 1004 (containing the discharge) may be removed and disposed of. A new pneumostoma vent 1004 may then be inserted in chest mount 1002. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 12C, bulb 1222 is held in contact with chest mount 1002 in order to make a temporary seal during aspiration of the pneumostoma. [00178] FIG. 12D illustrates another embodiment having an aspirator 1230 designed to mate with a PMD 1240 in which tube 1242 is formed in one piece with (or permanently attached to) a flange 1244. PMD 1240 has a hydrophobic filter 1246 press fit into the proximal end of tube 1242 and has a biocompatible adhesive 1248 on the contact surface 1249 of flange 1244 for releasably securing flange 1244 to the skin of the patient's chest. As shown in FIG. 12D, aspirator 1230 includes a bulb 1232 which has a mating section 1234, having a mating surface 1236 designed to mate and make a temporary seal with the exterior surface of flange 1244. In use, aspirator 1230 is pushed against flange 1244 to make a temporary seal. Bulb 1232 is then compressed, expelling air through one-way valve 1238. Bulb 1232 is then released such that it expands and withdraws air and discharge into/through aperture 1254 in the distal end of tube 1242 of PMD 1240. The discharge collects inside tube 1242 of PMD 1240. After applying suction to PMD 1240, PMD 1240 (containing the discharge) may be removed. A new PMD 1240 may then be inserted into the pneumostoma. [00179] In the previous embodiments, a flexible bulb (with or without one or more valves) has been provided as the mechanism by which irrigation fluid may be provided or suction applied. In alternative designs a different mechanism may be provided to produce the negative pressure required to extract the fluid/air discharge from the pneumostoma. Such mechanisms include vacuum bottles, pumps, fans and syringes. (Or positive pressure for irrigation). In each case it is desirable that the mechanism have safety features to prevent over insertion of any component into the pneumostoma or the application of positive or negative pressure sufficient to cause injury to the lung. The safety features are particularly desirable in devices intended for use by the patient rather than a trained medical professional. [00180] FIG. 13 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a pneumostoma aspirator 1300 in which the positive and/or negative pressure is applied using a syringe 1302. Syringe 1302 includes a plunger 1304 which can be pushed and pulled by a rod 1306 within barrel 1308. Rod 1306 passes through cap 1310 to ring 1312 which may be manually operated to move plunger 1304. Rings 1314 are connected to cap 1310 which is connected to barrel 1308. As plunger 1304 moves up and down in barrel 1308 the volume of the space in the barrel distal of plunger 1304 is changed applying negative positive or negative pressure. Positive pressure can be used to push irrigating fluid through aperture 1320 of nozzle 1316 into a pneumostoma. Negative pressure can be used to withdraw fluid, discharge and/or air through aperture 1320 of nozzle 1316 from the pneumostoma into barrel 1308. Note that in this embodiment, a safety valve 1318 is provided which opens in the event that the positive or negative pressure is outside of a preset safe range. Furthermore, nozzle 1316 comprises a coupling 1321 for engaging a chest mount 1002 as shown in FIGS. 10A- 1OE. A tube 1322 extends distal of coupling 1321 for insertion in the pneumostoma, but coupling 1321 limits the depth of insertion of tube 1322. In alternative embodiments, nozzle 1316 may comprise a flange for preventing over-insertion or mating devices for coupling the syringe to part of a PMD including for example, a chest mount 1002 or pneumostoma vent 1004 as described above. For example, syringe 1302 may be used, with appropriate adaptations, in place of the bulb in the embodiments of FIGS. lOC-E, HA-B and 12A-D. Pneumostoma aspirator 1300 may be a sterilizable reusable device made, for example, from stainless steel and/or glass components. Pneumostoma aspirator 1300 may alternatively be a disposable device made, for example, from medical grade plastics. [00181] FIG. 14 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a pneumostoma aspirator 1400 in which the positive and/or negative pressure is applied using a motorized device 1402. Motorized device 1402 includes a motor 1404 which turns a fan/pump 1406. The power for motor 1404 may be provided by batteries 1430 in battery housing 1432. Batteries 1430 may be rechargeable batteries. Fan/pump 1406 draws air in through tube 1408 and expels it through tube 1410 and vent 1412. Tube 1408 terminates inside removable reservoir 1414. Thus, operation of fan/pump 1406 creates negative pressure inside reservoir 1414. Tube 1416 connects reservoir 1414 to tube 1418 which is adapted to enter a pneumostoma. Tube 1418 has an a traumatic tip 1417 to facilitate insertion into a pneumostoma and one or more apertures 1419 in the tip through which air and discharge may enter tube 1418 to be sucked via tube 1416 into reservoir 1414.

[00182] Note that the end of tube 1408 has a valve/filter 1420 which prevents entry of discharge into tube 1410 and fan/pump 1406. Vent 1412 may also be provided with a replaceable filter (for example a HEPA filter) to prevent the venting of any pathogens which may be in the gases extracted from the lung. Fan/pump 1406 is selected so that it is self- limiting as to the maximum negative pressure it is capable of producing in reservoir 1414. The maximum negative pressure is selected to be at a level which will not damage the pneumostoma or lung. A safety valve may additionally or alternatively be provided which opens in the event that the pressure is outside of a preset safe range. Reservoir 1414 is preferably translucent so that accumulation of discharge may be observed.

[00183] Tube 1418 is connected with a flange 1422 which limits the depth of insertion of tube 1418 into a pneumostoma. In alternative embodiments, tube 1418 may comprise a coupling for engaging a chest mount 1002 as shown in FIGS. 10A- 1OE. Tube 1418 extends distal of flange 1422 for a distance selected so as not to damage a pneumostoma. Different lengths of tube 1418 may be supplied depending on the size of pneumostoma in a particular patient. A coupling 1424 (for example, a threaded joint or slip-on fitting) may allow the tube 1418 and flange 1422 to be removed and replaced.

[00184] In operation, tube 1418 is pushed into the pneumostoma until flange 1422 engages the chest of the patient to prevent further insertion. The patient (or medical provider) then pushes button 1426 which actuates motor 1404. Motor 1404 drives fan/pump 1406 which extracts air from reservoir 1414. Air is sucked through tube 1418 via tube 1416 into reservoir 1414. Solid and liquid discharge may also be sucked through the aperture(s) in the tip of tube 1418 and thence into reservoir 1414. The discharge 1434 accumulates in reservoir 1414. Gases removed from the pneumostoma are vented through vent 1412. After sufficient discharge has been removed from the pneumostoma, the pneumostoma aspirator is removed from the pneumostoma. Reservoir 1414 may be then detached from motorized device 1402, emptied, cleaned and re-attached. Alternatively, reservoir 1414 may be disposable, in which case, the reservoir is detached, disposed of and replaced with a new reservoir. Likewise tube 1418 may be detached and cleaned or detached and replaced. Motorized device 1402 is preferable a reusable device. [00185] Although pneumostoma aspirator has been illustrated with a flange 1422, it should be noted that alternative structures may be connected with motorized device 1402 so that it may be coupled to a pneumostoma vent or chest mount as previously shown. For example, motorized device 1402 may be used, with appropriate adaptations, in place of the bulb in the embodiments of FIGS. lOC-E, HA-B and 12A-D.

Materials

[00186] In preferred embodiments, the pneumostoma management device and the pneumostoma treatment devices are formed from biocompatible polymers or biocompatible metals. A patient will typically wear the PMD at all times and thus the materials, particularly of tubes entering the pneumostoma, should meet high standards for biocompatibility. In general preferred materials for manufacturing the suction irrigation device and the PMD are biocompatible thermoplastic elastomers that are readily utilized in injection molding and extrusion processing. As will be appreciated, other suitable similarly biocompatible thermoplastic or thermoplastic polymer materials can be used without departing from the scope of the invention. Biocompatible polymers may be selected from the group consisting of polyethylenes (HDPE), polyvinyl chloride, polyacrylates (polyethyl acrylate and polymethyl acrylate, polymethyl methacrylate, polymethyl-coethyl acrylate, ethylene/ethyl acrylate), polycarbonate urethane (BIONATEG), polysiloxanes (silicones), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE, GORE-TEX®, ethylene/chlorotrifluoroethylene copolymer, aliphatic polyesters, ethylene/ tetrafluoroethylene copolymer), polyketones (polyaryletheretherketone, polyetheretherketone, polyetherether-ketoneketone, polyetherketoneetherketoneketone polyetherketone), polyether block amides (PEBAX, PEBA), polyamides (polyamideimide, PA-I l, PA- 12, PA-46, PA-66), polyetherimide, polyether sulfone, poly(iso)butylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyvinyl fluoride, polyvinyl alcohol, polyurethane, polybutylene terephthalate, polyphosphazenes, nylon, polypropylene, polybutester, nylon and polyester, polymer foams (from carbonates, styrene, for example) as well as the copolymers and blends of the classes listed and/or the class of thermoplastics and elastomers in general. Reference to appropriate polymers that can be used for manufacturing PMDs and treatment devices can be found, for example, in the following documents: PCT Publication WO 02/02158, entitled "Bio-Compatible Polymeric Materials;" PCT Publication WO 02/00275, entitled "Bio- Compatible Polymeric Materials;" and, PCT Publication WO 02/00270, entitled "Bio-Compatible Polymeric Materials" all of which are incorporated herein by reference. Other suitable materials for the manufacture of the PMD include medical grade inorganic materials such stainless steel, titanium, ceramics and coated materials. [00187] The foregoing description of preferred embodiments of the present invention has been provided for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Many embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application, thereby enabling others skilled in the art to understand the invention for various embodiments and with various modifications that are suited to the particular use contemplated. Embodiments of the present invention may use some or all of the features shown in the various disclosed embodiments where such features are not structurally or functionally incompatible. It is intended that the scope of the invention be defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A medical device for treating a tissue inside a pneumostoma comprising: a probe having a proximal end and a distal end for insertion into a pneumostoma; a flange connected to the probe to control insertion of the probe into the pneumostoma; a treatment head attached to the distal end of the probe adapted to apply a treatment to a tissue inside the pneumostoma selected from: suction; irrigation; thermotherapy; cryotherapy; electromagnetic radiation; light; ultrasound; infrasound; cleaning; and acoustic sound.

2. The medical device of claim 1 , wherein the device comprises means for visualizing the tissue inside the pneumostoma.

3. The medical device of claim 1, wherein the device comprises means for visualizing the tissue inside the pneumostoma during treatment with the treatment head.

3. The medical device of claim 1, wherein: the treatment head is adapted to apply a treatment to a tissue inside the pneumostoma selected from: irrigation; thermotherapy; cryotherapy; electromagnetic radiation; light; ultrasound; infrasound; and acoustic sound; and wherein the medical device further comprises means for applying suction to the pneumostoma for removing a solid or liquid material from the pneumostoma during treatment with the treatment head.

4. The medical device of claim 1, wherein: the treatment head is adapted to apply a treatment to a tissue inside the pneumostoma selected from: thermotherapy; cryotherapy; electromagnetic radiation; light; ultrasound; infrasound; and acoustic sound; and wherein the medical device further comprises means for applying irrigation to the pneumostoma during treatment with the treatment head.

5. The medical device of claim 1, wherein: the treatment head is adapted to apply a treatment to a tissue inside the pneumostoma selected from: thermotherapy; cryotherapy; electromagnetic radiation; light; ultrasound; infrasound; and acoustic sound; and wherein the medical device further comprises means for applying suction and irrigation to the pneumostoma during treatment with the treatment head.

6. The medical device of claim 1, wherein the flange is connected to the probe at a fixed distance from the treatment head.

7. The medical device of claim 1, wherein the flange is connected to the probe at an adjustable distance from the treatment head.

8. The medical device of claim 1, further comprising means for recording an image of the tissue inside the pneumostoma.

9. The medical device of claim 1 , further comprising a disposable speculum.

10. The medical device of claim 1, further comprising a disposable cover received over the probe.

11. A pneumostoma aspirator comprising: a tube having a proximal end and a distal end for insertion into a pneumostoma; a flange connected to the tube to limit insertion of the tube into the pneumostoma; an aspirator adapted to apply negative pressure to the proximal end of the tube; an aperture in the distal end of the tube adapted to allow an ingress of liquid and solid discharge from a pneumostoma; wherein operation of the aspirator is adapted to cause liquid and solid discharge to enter the tube through the aperture from a pneumostoma.

12. The pneumostoma aspirator of claim 11, wherein the aspirator is a manually-operated aspirator.

13. The pneumostoma aspirator of claim 12, wherein the aspirator comprises a flexible bulb adapted to generate negative pressure.

14. The pneumostoma aspirator of claim 12, wherein the aspirator comprises a flexible bulb and at least one one-way valve adapted to generate negative pressure.

15. The pneumostoma aspirator of claim 12, wherein the aspirator comprises a flexible bulb and wherein the bulb, tube and flange are permanently connected to each other.

16. The pneumostoma aspirator of claim 12, wherein the aspirator comprises a syringe adapted to generate negative pressure.

17. The pneumostoma aspirator of claim 11, further comprising a safety device which limits the negative pressure applied to the pneumostoma.

18. The pneumostoma aspirator of claim 11, wherein the tube and flange are permanently connected.

19. The pneumostoma aspirator of claim 11, wherein: the flange is adapted to be releasably secured to skin of a patient surrounding the pneumostoma; the flange comprises an aperture through which the distal end of the tube may be inserted into the pneumostoma; the flange comprises a coupling to releasably connect the tube to the flange to limit insertion of the tube into the pneumostoma.

20. The pneumostoma aspirator of claim 11, wherein: the flange and the tube are formed in one piece; the flange is adapted to be releasably secured to the skin of the patient surrounding the pneumostoma; and wherein the pneumostoma aspirator further comprises a releasable coupling which releasably connects the aspirator to the tube.

21. A pneumostoma aspirator comprising: a flange for engaging a chest of a patient; a tube projecting from the flange, the tube being sized and configured for insertion into a pneumostoma; an aperture in a distal end of the tube adapted to allow an ingress of liquid and solid discharge from a pneumostoma; a suction device which applies negative pressure to the tube to extract discharge from the pneumostoma through the aperture into the tube and thereby remove discharge from the pneumostoma.

22. The pneumostoma aspirator of claim 21 , wherein: the flange is adapted to be releasably secured to skin of a patient surrounding the pneumostoma; the flange comprises an aperture through which the distal end of the tube may be inserted into the pneumostoma; the flange comprises a coupling to releasably connect the tube to the flange to limit insertion of the tube into the pneumostoma.

23. The pneumostoma aspirator of claim 21, wherein the suction device comprises a flexible bulb adapted to generate negative pressure.

24. The pneumostoma aspirator of claim 21, wherein the suction device comprises a flexible bulb and at least one one-way valve adapted to generate negative pressure.

25. The pneumostoma aspirator of claim 21, wherein the suction device comprises a syringe adapted to generate negative pressure.

26. The pneumostoma aspirator of claim 21, further comprising a safety device which limits the negative pressure applied to the pneumostoma.

27. The pneumostoma aspirator of claim 21, wherein the suction device comprises a flexible bulb and wherein the bulb, tube and flange are permanently connected to each other.

28. A pneumostoma management system comprising: a pneumostoma management device which includes, a tube adapted for placement in a pneumostoma, and a flange connected to one end of the tube adapted to secure the pneumostoma management device to the chest of the patient; and a pneumostoma aspirator which includes, a suction device adapted to provide negative pressure to draw discharge from the pneumostoma, and a coupling adapted to couple the pneumostoma aspirator to one of the tube and the flange of the pneumostoma management device.

29. The pneumostoma management system of claim 28, wherein: the pneumostoma aspirator further comprises a pneumostoma aspirator tube for insertion into a pneumostoma to collect discharge; and the coupling is adapted to couple the pneumostoma aspirator to the flange of the pneumostoma management device after the tube of the pneumostoma management device has been removed.

30. The pneumostoma management system of claim 28, wherein the coupling of the pneumostoma aspirator is adapted to couple the pneumostoma aspirator to the tube of the pneumostoma management device and withdraw discharge from the pneumostoma into the tube of the pneumostoma management device.

31. The pneumostoma management system of claim 28, wherein the coupling has a self-seating and centering section which can mate with at least one of the of the tube and the flange of the pneumostoma management device.

32. The pneumostoma management system of claim 28, wherein the pneumostoma aspirator can self-seat against at least one of the tube and the flange of the pneumostoma management device.

33. A system for analyzing gases from a lung comprising: a probe adapted to be inserted in a pneumostoma to collect gases escaping from a lung through the pneumostoma; a flange connected to the probe and adapted to secure the probe to a chest of a patient; a gas analysis system coupled to the probe which determines one of the volume and composition of gases escaping from a lung through the pneumostoma and collected by the probe.

34. The system of claim 33 further comprising means for supplying a diagnostic gas to the natural airways of the patient.

35. The system of claim 33 further comprising means for supplying a diagnostic gas including carbon monoxide to the natural airways of the patient.

36. A system for imaging a lung of a patient: a probe adapted to be inserted in a pneumostoma to supply gases through the pneumostoma into a lung of a patient; a flange connected to the probe and adapted to secure the probe to a chest of the patient; an imaging system for imaging the lung of the patient; a supply of gas connected to the probe wherein diffusion of said gas may be analyzed by said imaging system.

37. The system of claim 36 wherein the gas is a gas selected from: polarized Helium-3, radionuclide xenon and technetium DTPA.

38. A medical device for dilating a pneumostoma to maintain or enhance escape of gases from a lung through the pneumostoma wherein the medical device comprises: a probe adapted to be inserted in the pneumostoma; a dilating head connected to a distal end of the probe wherein the dilating head may be expanded from a first size to at least a second larger size; an actuator coupled to a proximal end of the probe adapted to cause the dilating head to expand from the first size to the second size after placement of the dilating head within the pneumostoma.

39. The medical device of claim 38, wherein the dilating head is a mechanical dilating head.

40. The medical device of claim 38, wherein the dilating head is an inflatable balloon.

41. A suction-irrigation device adapted to remove a non-gaseous material from a pneumostoma to maintain or enhance escape of gases from a lung through the pneumostoma wherein the suction- irrigation device comprises: a tube having a proximal end and a distal end for insertion into a pneumostoma; a flange connected to the tube to control insertion of the tube into the pneumostoma; at least a first aperture in the tube adapted to supply an irrigation fluid to the pneumostoma; means for supplying the irrigation fluid through the first aperture; at least a second aperture in the distal end of the tube adapted to allow an ingress of liquid and solid discharge from a pneumostoma; and means for applying suction to the at least a second aperture.

42. The suction-irrigation device of claim 41, further comprising means for mechanically agitating a tissue of the pneumostoma to enhance removal of the non-gaseous material from the pneumostoma.

43. The suction-irrigation device of claim 41, further comprising a plurality of bristles projecting from the tube to mechanically enhance removal of the non-gaseous material from the pneumostoma.

44. The suction-irrigation device of claim 41, further comprising a plurality of ridges projecting from the tube to mechanically enhance removal of the non-gaseous material from the pneumostoma.

45. The suction-irrigation device of claim 41, further comprising a safety device which limits the negative pressure applied to the pneumostoma.

46. The suction-irrigation device of claim 41, wherein the flange is connected to the tube at a fixed distance from the distal end of the tube.

47. The suction- irrigation device of claim 41, wherein the flange is connected to the tube at an adjustable distance from the distal end of the tube.

48. The suction-irrigation device of claim 41, wherein: the flange is adapted to be releasably secured to skin of a patient surrounding the pneumostoma; the flange comprises an aperture through which the distal end of the tube may be inserted into the pneumostoma; the flange comprises a coupling to releasably connect the tube to the flange to limit insertion of the tube into the pneumostoma.

49. The suction-irrigation device of claim 41, wherein: the flange and the tube are formed in one piece; the flange is adapted to be releasably secured to the skin of the patient surrounding the pneumostoma; and wherein the suction- irrigation device further comprises a releasable coupling which allows for disconnection of the flange and tube.

50. The suction-irrigation device of claim 41, wherein: the tube is disposable; and wherein the suction- irrigation device further comprises a releasable coupling which allows for disconnection and disposal of the tube.

51. The suction-irrigation device of claim 41 , wherein: the flange and the tube are formed in one piece and are disposable; the flange is adapted to be releasably secured to the skin of the patient surrounding the pneumostoma; and wherein the suction- irrigation device further comprises a releasable coupling which allows for disconnection and disposal of the flange and tube.

52. An instrument for imaging a tissue inside a pneumostoma wherein the instrument comprises: a light source; a probe for entering the pneumostoma; means for transmitting light from the light source out of the probe into the pneumostoma; means for receiving light reflected from the tissue of the pneumostoma; and means for displaying an image of the tissue of the pneumostoma from the light reflected from the tissue.

53. The instrument of claim 52, further comprising a disposable cover positioned over the probe.

54. The instrument of claim 53, wherein the disposable cover has a transparent window for transmitting light to and from the tissue of the pneumostoma.

55. The instrument of claim 52, further comprising scale for measuring a dimension of the pneumostoma.

56. The instrument of claim 52, wherein the means for displaying an image of the tissue comprises one or more lenses.

57. The instrument of claim 52, wherein the means for displaying an image of the tissue comprises an electronic imaging device.

58. The instrument of claim 52, further comprising means for recording an image of the tissue.

59. The instrument of claim 52, further comprising a disposable speculum for holding open the pneumostoma.

60. The instrument of claim 52, further comprising a disposable speculum for holding open the pneumostoma wherein the speculum is marked with a scale for measuring a dimension of the pneumostoma.

61. The instrument of claim 52, further comprising a flange connected to the probe for controlling insertion of the probe into the pneumostoma.

62. A medical device for treating a tissue inside a pneumostoma comprising: a probe having a proximal end and a distal end for insertion into a pneumostoma; and a treatment head attached to the distal end of the probe adapted to apply a treatment to a tissue inside the pneumostoma selected from: suction; irrigation; thermotherapy; cryotherapy; electromagnetic radiation; light; ultrasound; infrasound; cleaning; and acoustic sound.

63. A system for analyzing gases from a lung comprising: a probe adapted to be inserted in a pneumostoma to collect gases escaping from a lung through the pneumostoma; and a gas analysis system coupled to the probe.

64. A system for imaging a lung of a patient: a probe adapted to be inserted in a pneumostoma; and an imaging system for imaging the lung of the patient connects to the probe.

65. A suction-irrigation device adapted to remove a non-gaseous material from a pneumostoma to maintain or enhance escape of gases from a lung through the pneumostoma wherein the suction- irrigation device comprises: a tube having a proximal end and a distal end for insertion into a pneumostoma; at least a first aperture in the tube adapted to supply an irrigation fluid to the pneumostoma; means for supplying the irrigation fluid through the first aperture; at least a second aperture in the distal end of the tube adapted to allow an ingress of liquid and solid discharge from a pneumostoma; and means for applying suction to the at least a second aperture.