U.S. patent application number 11/348199 was filed with the patent office on 2007-08-09 for ventilator to tracheotomy tube coupling.
Invention is credited to Brian D. Worley.
Application Number | 20070181130 11/348199 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38332742 |
Filed Date | 2007-08-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070181130 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Worley; Brian D. |
August 9, 2007 |
Ventilator to tracheotomy tube coupling
Abstract
A coupling for connecting a ventilator tube to a tracheotomy
tube has a latching mechanism which prevents the coupling from
axially displacing a tapered tubular extension of the tracheotomy
tube after they have been mated in a pneumatically discrete path.
For use with known adult tracheotomy tubes which have inner and
outer cannulas, the latching mechanism engages the coupling with
the leading end of the outer cannula collar with the inner cannula
collar sandwiched therebetween. For use with known one piece
children's tracheotomy tubes, the latching mechanism is a clamshell
contoured to concentrically grip the tapered tubular extension of
the tracheotomy tube. Interlocking the coupling and the tracheotomy
tube prevents them from inadvertently axially displacing from each
other. Non-axial force disengages the coupling from the tracheotomy
tube so that the coupling can be axially displaced without exertion
of excessive axial force on the system and the patient.
Inventors: |
Worley; Brian D.; (Tulsa,
OK) |
Correspondence
Address: |
GABLE & GOTWALS
100 WEST FIFTH STREET, 10TH FLOOR
TULSA
OK
74103
US
|
Family ID: |
38332742 |
Appl. No.: |
11/348199 |
Filed: |
February 6, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
128/207.14 ;
403/315; 403/37 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61M 16/0875 20130101;
A61M 16/0465 20130101; A61M 16/0488 20130101; A61M 16/0434
20130101; A61M 16/0486 20140204; A61M 2205/581 20130101; A61M 16/08
20130101; Y10T 403/58 20150115; Y10T 403/255 20150115; A61M 16/0427
20140204; A61M 16/0816 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
128/207.14 ;
403/037; 403/315 |
International
Class: |
F16B 21/09 20060101
F16B021/09; A62B 9/06 20060101 A62B009/06 |
Claims
1. For connecting a ventilator tube having a connector at a leading
end thereof to a tubular extension at a trailing end of a
tracheotomy tube, a coupling comprising: a tubular member; means on
a trailing end of said tubular member for connecting said trailing
end of said tubular member in a pneumatic flow path to the
ventilator tube leading end connector; means on a leading end of
said tubular member for mating said leading end of said tubular
member in said pneumatic flow path with the tubular extension of
the tracheotomy tube by motion of said mating means in a generally
axial direction relative to the tubular extension; and means on
said means for mating for engaging with the tracheotomy tube during
mating to prevent said leading end of said tubular member from
axially displacing from the tubular extension after mating.
2. A coupling according to claim 1 further comprising means on said
means for engaging operable by application of force in a direction
other than said generally axial direction for disengaging said
engaging means from the tracheotomy tube.
3. For connecting a ventilator tube having a connector at a leading
end thereof to a tracheotomy tube having an outer cannula and an
inner cannula, the inner cannula being inserted into a trailing end
of the outer cannula and having a tubular extension on a trailing
thereof, a coupling comprising: a tubular member; means on a
trailing end of said tubular member for connecting said trailing
end of said tubular member in a pneumatic flow path to the
ventilator tube leading end connector; means on a leading end of
said tubular member for mating said leading end of said tubular
member in said pneumatic flow path with the tubular extension of
the inner cannula by motion of said mating means in a generally
axial direction relative to the tubular extension; and means on
said means for mating for engaging with the outer cannula during
mating to prevent said leading end of said tubular member from
axially displacing from the tubular extension after mating.
4. A coupling according to claim 3 further comprising means on the
inner cannula for disengaging said engaging means from the outer
cannula by application of force to said mating means in other than
said generally axial direction to permit said leading end of said
tubular member to axially displace from the tubular extension of
the inner cannula.
5. A coupling according to claim 4, the trailing end of the outer
cannula having opposed annular flanges and said means for engaging
comprising opposed means for resiliently snapping over said
flanges.
6. A coupling according to claim 5, said means for disengaging
comprising means on the inner cannula for spreading said opposed
flanges during rotational motion of said mating means about a
longitudinal axis of said tubular member.
7. For connecting a ventilator tube having a connector at a leading
end thereof to a tracheotomy tube having an outer cannula and an
inner cannula, the inner cannula being inserted into a trailing end
of the outer cannula and the outer cannula having a tubular
extension on a trailing thereof, a coupling comprising: a tubular
member; means on a trailing end of said tubular member for
connecting said trailing end of said tubular member in a pneumatic
flow path to the ventilator tube leading end connector; means on a
leading end of said tubular member for mating said leading end of
said tubular member in said pneumatic flow path with the tubular
extension of the outer cannula by motion of said mating means in a
generally axial direction relative to the tubular extension; and
means on said means for mating for engaging with the outer cannula
during mating to prevent said leading end of said tubular member
from axially displacing from the tubular extension after
mating.
8. A coupling according to claim 7 further comprising means on the
outer cannula operable by application of force on said mating means
in a direction other than said generally axial direction for
disengaging said engaging means from the outer cannula to permit
said leading end of said tubular member to axially displace from
the tubular extension of the outer cannula.
9. A coupling according to claim 8, the trailing end of the outer
cannula having annularly opposed flat notches and said means for
engaging comprising opposed means for resiliently snapping into
said notches.
10. A coupling according to claim 9, said means for disengaging
comprising means on the outer cannula for spreading said opposed
flanges during rotational motion of said mating means about a
longitudinal axis of said tubular member.
11. For connecting a ventilator tube having a connector at a
leading end thereof to a tracheotomy tube having a tubular
extension on a trailing thereof, a coupling comprising: a tubular
member; means on a trailing end of said tubular member for
connecting said trailing end of said tubular member in a pneumatic
flow path to the ventilator tube leading end connector; means on a
leading end of said tubular member for mating said leading end of
said tubular member in said pneumatic flow path with the tubular
extension of the tracheotomy tube by motion of said mating means in
a generally axial direction relative to the tubular extension; and
means on said means for mating for engaging with the tracheotomy
tube to prevent said leading end of said tubular member from
axially displacing from the tubular extension after mating.
12. A coupling according to claim 11 further comprising means on
said mating means operable by application of force on said mating
means in other than said generally axial direction for disengaging
said engaging means from the tracheotomy tube to permit said
leading end of said tubular member to axially displace from the
tubular extension of the tracheotomy tube.
13. A coupling according to claim 12, said mating means comprising
a nozzle insertable into the tubular extension.
14. A coupling according to claim 13, said engaging means
comprising a clamshell, said clamshell and said tubular extension
have complementary three-dimensional surfaces preventing axial
displacement of said clamshell from said tubular extension gripped
therein.
15. A coupling according to claim 14, a half of said clamshell
having diametrically opposite lugs and another half of said
clamshell having diametrically opposite fingers for resiliently
snapping over said lugs when said clamshell is closed.
16. A coupling according to claim 15, said means for disengaging
comprising means on said fingers for spreading said fingers to
release said lugs in response to inward radial pressure on said
spreading means.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention relates generally to medical equipment and
more particularly concerns devices used to connect ventilators to
tracheotomy tubes.
[0002] For adult patients, two-piece tracheotomy tubes having inner
and outer cannulas are presently in common use. The outer cannula
is inserted into the patient's windpipe and the inner cannula is
inserted into or removed from the outer cannula for use or for
replacement, cleaning or disinfecting, respectively. The outer
cannula of these two-piece devices has a collar on its trailing end
which is configured to be positively engaged with a collar on the
leading end of the inner cannula. The cannulas cannot be disengaged
from each other affirmative release of their positive engagement.
The trailing end of the combined cannulas has a tapered tubular
extension which plugs into or into which is plugged, depending on
the diameter of the tubular extension of the particular tracheotomy
tube, the leading end of a flexible connector. The trailing end of
the flexible connector is connected to a tube extending from the
ventilator or other external equipment. The present tapered tubular
extension connection to the ventilator is dependent on mere
insertion of a tapered tube into a constant diameter tube in the
hope of achieving a snug fit. To assist in making this connection,
the flexible connectors have annular flanges with significantly
wider diameters than the tubular portions of the connectors so as
to facilitate manipulation of the connectors with the thumb and
forefinger.
[0003] For children, a smaller, one piece tracheotomy tube is made
from a very soft, pliant material. The entire tracheotomy tube must
be frequently removed, at least once a week, from the child's
trachea, cleaned and disinfected and reinserted into the trachea.
The same flanged flexible connector used with the adult devices is
also used with the children's devices. The tapered tubular
extension of the children's tracheotomy tube is integral with the
pliant tracheotomy tube and has a hard plastic outer sleeve which
is inserted directly into the flexible connector. An annular flange
on the trailing end of the tubular extension of the child's
tracheotomy tube holds the hard plastic sleeve in place on the
extension.
[0004] Because of their structural configuration and operational
steps, there are some problems inherent in the known one or two
piece tracheotomy tubes, in the known flexible connectors and in
their combination.
[0005] One set of problems is related to the comfort of the
patient. The profile of the flanged flexible connectors, falling
generally between the underside of the patient's chin and the
patient's chest, fosters a breakdown of skin and tissue on the chin
or chest, depending on the head movements of the patient. This is
especially true for children, their chin-to-chest cavity being
comparatively small. This concern is sometimes addressed by
after-market removal of all or a portion of the flange, but this
solution generally results in a damaged connector, increasing the
likelihood of infection-causing secretions and also becomes less
secure due to removal of the firm portion of the connector. Also,
the manipulation of the flange to connect or disconnect the
connector to or from the tubular extension can cause considerable
discomfort to the patient, since this often requires the
application of manual pressure to the patient's neck, chin or
chest. It is common practice to extend rubber bands from one side
of a neck plate on the tracheotomy tube collar to the flexible
connector and back to the other side of the neck plate in an effort
to hold the flexible connector in place, but the rubber bands are
likely either too elastic or too inelastic to properly accomplish
this purpose. While a child's tracheotomy tube is smaller than an
adult's, the available space between the chin and chest is
significantly smaller and the flexible connector flange is the same
size as used for adults, so the smaller device affords no relief
for the connector flange related comfort problems. And, since the
child's tracheotomy tubes are of one piece construction, the force
necessary to disconnect the flexible connector may be directly
applied to the patient's neck or windpipe.
[0006] A second set of problems is related directly to the ability,
or inability, of the system to accomplish its primary purpose of
keeping the patient's trachea connected to the ventilator. To begin
with, tapered connections tend to easily separate in the best of
circumstances, there being minimal surface contact between the
tapered and constant diameter components. Moreover, the connector
and tracheotomy tube parts are always wet and slippery due to the
very nature of their application and are not very tightly mated
because of the neck pressure problems. The end result is a
connection so tenuous that a mere sneeze, cough or turn or tip of
the head can cause the connector and the tapered tubular extension
to separate, defeating the operation of the system. Even without a
sneeze, cough, turn or tip, the flange itself functions as a lever
against the chin or chest in response to the patient's head
movements, and the reciprocal levering by the flange will
eventually cause the connector and the tubular extension to
disconnect.
[0007] A third set of problems concerns the performance of the
medical staff as a result of these other problems. The inherent
comfort issues result in more pains-taking, time-consuming effort
by the staff in an effort to reduce the impact of these discomforts
on the patient. And, because of the ease of inadvertent
disconnection of the system, the staff unnecessarily spends
valuable time monitoring and reconnecting the connectors to the
tubular extensions of the tracheotomy tubes.
[0008] It is, therefore, a primary object of this invention to
provide an improved tracheotomy tube coupling. Another object of
this invention is to provide a tracheotomy tube coupling which
reduces a likelihood of associated patient discomfort. It is also
an object of this invention to provide a tracheotomy tube coupling
which is more suitably profiled for positioning between a patient's
chin and chest. Still another object of this invention is to
provide a tracheotomy tube coupling which is profiled to reduce a
likelihood of skin or tissue breakdown on a patient's chin and
chest. A further object of this invention is to provide a
tracheotomy tube coupling which simplifies manipulation of the
coupling in relation to the patient. Yet another object of this
invention to provide a tracheotomy tube coupling which reduces a
likelihood of exertion of discomforting pressure on the chin, neck,
chest or windpipe of a patient during connection or disconnection
of the coupling from the tracheotomy tube. An additional object of
this invention is to provide a tracheotomy tube coupling which
makes inadvertent disconnection of the tracheotomy tube from the
connected medical equipment less likely. Another object of this
invention is to provide a tracheotomy tube coupling which does not
rely on tapered to constant diameter connections to maintain
connection between the tracheotomy tube and its related equipment.
It is also an object of this invention to provide a tracheotomy
tube coupling which is profiled to reduce a likelihood that the
coupling will operate as a self-disconnecting lever. Still another
object of this invention to provide a tracheotomy tube coupling
which can be easily connected and disconnected from the tracheotomy
tube by the medical staff. A further object of this invention is to
provide a tracheotomy tube coupling which can reduce the time
expended by the medical staff to monitor and maintain the coupling
connections. Yet another object of this invention is to provide a
tracheotomy tube coupling which facilitates more rapid disassembly
and reassembly of associated components from the tracheotomy tube
for cleaning and disinfecting purposes.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] In accordance with the invention, a coupling is provided for
connecting a ventilator tube to a tracheotomy tube. The ventilator
tube has a connector at its leading end and the tracheotomy tube
has a tapered tubular extension on its trailing end. The coupling
is a preferably expandable, flexible tubular member with a first
adapter on its trailing end for connecting its trailing end in a
pneumatic flow path to the ventilator tube leading end connector
and a second adapter on its leading end for mating its leading end
in a pneumatic flow path with the trailing end of the tracheotomy
tube. The second adapter has a latching mechanism for engaging the
leading end of the coupling to the tracheotomy tube to prevent the
leading end of the tubular member from axially displacing from the
trailing end of the tracheotomy tube after they have been mated in
the pneumatic flow path. An unlatching mechanism is provided for
disengaging the latching mechanism from the tracheotomy tube so as
to permit the leading end of the tubular member to axially displace
from the trailing end of the tracheotomy tube. The unlatching
mechanism is operated by non-axial forces so that the coupling can
be disengaged from the tracheotomy tube without exertion of
excessive axial force on the patient's neck.
[0010] Some known adult tracheotomy tubes have an inner cannula
inserted into a trailing end of an outer cannula with the tubular
extension on the trailing end of the inner cannula. For such
tracheotomy tubes, the coupling tubular member has a first means on
its leading end for mating the tubular member in the pneumatic flow
path with the tubular extension of the inner cannula which is
operable by motion of the mating means in a generally axial
direction relative, to the tubular extension. A second means is
provided on the mating means for engaging with the outer cannula
during mating to prevent the leading end of the tubular member from
axially displacing from the tubular extension after mating. A third
means is provided on the inner cannula for disengaging the engaging
means from the outer cannula by application of force to the mating
means in other than the generally axial direction to permit the
leading end of the tubular member to axially displace from the
tubular extension of the inner cannula. Typically, the trailing end
of the outer cannula has opposed annular flanges and the engaging
means consists of opposed means for resiliently snapping over the
flanges. The disengaging means consists of means on the inner
cannula for spreading the opposed flanges during rotational motion
of the mating means about a longitudinal axis of the tubular
member.
[0011] Other known adult tracheotomy tubes have an inner cannula
inserted into a trailing end of an outer cannula with the tubular
extension on the trailing end of the inner cannula. For such
tracheotomy tubes, the coupling tubular member has a first means on
a leading end of the tubular member for mating the tubular member
in the pneumatic flow path with the tubular extension of the outer
cannula by motion of the mating means in a generally axial
direction relative to the tubular extension. A second means is
provided on the mating means for engaging with the outer cannula
during mating to prevent the tubular member from axially displacing
from the tubular extension after mating. A third means is provided
on the outer cannula which is operable by application of force on
the mating means in a direction other than the generally axial
direction for disengaging the engaging means from the outer cannula
to permit the tubular member to axially displace from the tubular
extension of the outer cannula. Typically, the trailing end of the
outer cannula has annularly opposed flat notches. The disengaging
means consists of means on the outer cannula for spreading the
opposed flanges during rotational motion of the mating means about
a longitudinal axis of the tubular member.
[0012] Known child tracheotomy tubes have a tubular extension on
their trailing end. For such tracheotomy tubes, the coupling
tubular member has a first means for mating the leading end of the
tubular member in the pneumatic flow path with the tubular
extension of the tracheotomy tube by motion of the mating means in
a generally axial direction relative to the tubular extension. A
second means is provided on the mating means for engaging with the
tracheotomy tube to prevent the leading end of the tubular member
from axially displacing from the tubular extension after mating. A
third means is provided on the mating means which is operable by
application of force on the mating means in other than the
generally axial direction for disengaging the engaging means from
the tracheotomy tube to permit the tubular member to axially
displace from the tubular extension of the tracheotomy tube. The
mating means consists of a nozzle insertable into the tubular
extension. The engaging means consists of a clamshell, the
clamshell and the tubular extension having complementary
three-dimensional surfaces which prevent axial displacement of the
clamshell from the tubular extension gripped therein. Half of the
clamshell has diametrically opposite lugs and another half of the
clamshell has diametrically opposite fingers which resiliently snap
over the lugs when the clamshell is closed. The disengaging means
consists of means on the fingers for spreading the fingers in
response to inward radial pressure on the spreading means to
release the lugs.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] Other objects and advantages of the invention will become
apparent upon reading the following detailed description and upon
reference to the drawings in which:
[0014] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first type of known
tracheotomy tube outer cannula;
[0015] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of an
inner cannula for use with the outer cannula of FIG. 1;
[0016] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a
coupling connected to the inner cannula of FIG. 2;
[0017] FIG. 4 is a side elevation assembly view of the coupling and
cannulas of FIGS. 1-3;
[0018] FIG. 5 is a top plan assembly view from the line 5-5 of FIG.
4;
[0019] FIG. 6 is a side elevation view of the assembled coupling
and cannulas of FIGS. 1-3;
[0020] FIG. 7 is a perspective assembly view of the leading end
adapter of the coupling of FIG. 3 and the outer cannula of FIG.
1;
[0021] FIG. 8 is a side elevation view of the assembled leading end
adapter of the coupling of FIG. 3 and inner cannula of FIG. 2;
[0022] FIG. 9 is a trailing end elevation view of the assembly of
FIG. 8;
[0023] FIG. 10 is a top plan view of the assembly of FIG. 8;
[0024] FIG. 11 is a leading end elevation view of the assembly of
FIG. 8;
[0025] FIG. 12 is a leading end perspective view of the leading end
adapter of the coupling of FIG. 3;
[0026] FIG. 13 is a trailing end perspective view of the leading
end adapter of the coupling of FIG. 3;
[0027] FIG. 14 is a side elevation view of the leading end adapter
of the coupling of FIG. 3;
[0028] FIG. 15 is a trailing end elevation view of the trailing end
adapter of the coupling of FIG. 3;
[0029] FIG. 16 is a top plan view of the leading end adapter of the
coupling of FIG. 1;
[0030] FIG. 17 is a leading end perspective view of the inner
cannula of FIG. 2 and leading end adapter of the coupling of FIG. 3
in an operatively assembled condition;
[0031] FIG. 18 is a leading end perspective view of the inner
cannula of FIG. 2 and leading end adapter of the coupling of FIG. 3
in a ready-to-disconnect condition;
[0032] FIG. 19 is a perspective assembly view of a second
embodiment of the coupling and inner cannula in relationship to a
second type of known tracheotomy tube outer cannula;
[0033] FIG. 20 is a top plan assembly view of the coupling and
cannulas of FIG. 19;
[0034] FIG. 21 is a trailing end view of the leading end of the
coupling of FIG. 19;
[0035] FIG. 22 is a leading end view of the leading end of the
coupling of FIG. 19;
[0036] FIG. 23 is a side elevation view of the leading end of the
coupling of FIG. 19;
[0037] FIG. 24 is a top plan view of the leading end of the
coupling of FIG. 19;
[0038] FIG. 25 is a side elevation assembly view of the cannulas
and coupling of FIG. 19;
[0039] FIG. 26 is a side elevation view of the assembled cannulas
and coupling of FIG. 19;
[0040] FIG. 27 is a perspective assembly view of a third embodiment
of the coupling in relationship to a third type of known
tracheotomy tube;
[0041] FIG. 28 is a top plan assembly view of the coupling and
tracheotomy tube of FIG. 27;
[0042] FIG. 29 is a leading end perspective view of the coupling of
FIG. 27 in an open condition;
[0043] FIG. 30 is a leading end elevation view of the coupling of
FIG. 27 in the open condition;
[0044] FIG. 31 is a top plan view of the leading end of the
coupling of FIG. 27 in the open condition;
[0045] FIG. 32 is a side elevation view of the leading end of the
coupling of FIG. 27 in the open condition;
[0046] FIG. 33 is a side elevation assembly view of the coupling
and tracheotomy tube of FIG. 27;
[0047] FIG. 34 is a side elevation view of the coupling and
tracheotomy tube of FIG. 27 with the leading end of the coupling in
the open condition; and
[0048] FIG. 35 is a side elevation view of the assembled coupling
and tracheotomy tube of FIG. 27.
[0049] While the invention will be described in connection with
preferred embodiments thereof, it will be understood that it is not
intended to limit the invention to those embodiments or to the
details of the construction or arrangement of parts illustrated in
the accompanying drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0050] Tracheal Inserts: Adult tracheotomy tubes are illustrated in
FIGS. 1-18, showing a tracheotomy tube with outer and inner
cannulas 100 and 130 and a tapered tubular extension 139 on the
trailing end of the inner cannula 130 and FIGS. 19-26, showing a
tracheotomy tube with outer and inner cannulas 200 and 230 and a
tapered tubular extension 223 on the trailing end of the outer
cannula 200. A child's tracheotomy tube is illustrated in FIGS.
27-35. A child's tracheotomy tube has only one cannula which, for
purposes of explanation of the invention is identified as an outer
cannula 300.
[0051] All three known outer cannulas 100, 200 and 300 are, in some
respects, substantially similar, being arced tubes 101, 201 or 301
of approximately a quarter circle extending from a leading end 103,
203 or 303 to a collar 105, 205 or 305 at the trailing end 107, 207
or 307 of the arced tube 101, 201 or 301. A cuff 109, 209 or 309 on
the leading half of the arced tube 101, 201 or 301 is inflatable
via an air supply line 111, 211 or 311. The arced tube 101, 201 or
301 is the tracheal insert portion of the tracheotomy tube and,
once inserted, the cuff 109, 209 or 309 is inflated to hold and
seal the tube 101, 201 or 301 in position in the trachea. Each of
the outer cannulas 100, 200 or 300 has a neck plate 115, 215 or 315
which positions the outer cannulas 100, 200 or 300 against the
patient's neck and is adapted to maximize its manipulability
relative to the collar 105, 205 or 305 by connecting hinges 117 or
by openings 217 or contours 317 in its body. Each of the neck
plates 115, 215 or 315 also has openings 119, 219 or 319 for
connection of an adjustable strap to pass around and secure the
neck plates 115, 215 or 315 against the patient's neck. The adult
outer cannulas 100 and 200 are comparatively hard and the child's
outer cannula 300 is very soft. From the collars 105, 205 and 305
on the trailing ends of the arced tubes 101, 201 and 301 toward the
trailing ends of the outer cannulas 100, 200 and 300, the
configurations of the outer cannulas 100, 200 and 300 are quite
different.
[0052] Both inner cannulas 130 and 230 are also, in some respects,
substantially similar, being arced tubes 131 or 231 of
approximately a quarter circle extending from a leading end 133 or
233 to a collar 135 or 235 on a trailing end 137 or 237 of the
arced tube 131 or 231. The inner cannulas 130 and 230 are inserted
at their leading ends 131 and 231 into the trailing ends of their
outer cannulas 100 and 200 until their trailing ends mate. From the
collars 135 and 235 toward the trailing ends of the inner cannulas
130 and 230, the inner cannulas 130 and 230 are quite
different.
[0053] The outer cannulas 100, 200 and 300 and their associated
known inner cannulas have mechanisms which positively engage them
against separation in their mated condition. They all present
tapered tubular extensions for connection with known flexible
connectors. The connection to known flexible connectors is
universally accomplished by mere insertion of a tapered end of a
tube into a constant diameter tube. The following illustrated
embodiments of the outer cannulas 100, 200 and 300 are
substantially the same as the known outer cannulas. The illustrated
embodiments of the inner cannulas 130 and 230 and the flexible
connectors or couplings 160, 260 and 360 are substantially
different from the known inner cannulas and connectors so as to
permit a positive engagement of the outer cannulas with their
flexible connectors. However, they have been configured to work
with the known outer cannulas 100, 200 and 300. The principles of
the invention, however, are fully applicable to the connection of
flexible connectors to outer cannulas other than those herein
illustrated.
[0054] First Adult Tracheotomy Tube Embodiment: Looking now at
FIGS. 1-18, the first, type of adult tracheotomy tube is
illustrated. As best seen in FIG. 1, the collar 105 on the outer
cannula 100 has an annular ring 121 which is concentric about the
trailing end 107 of the outer cannula tube 101 and has top and
bottom quarter arcs 123 which extend concentrically on and in a
trailing direction from the ring 121. A concentric groove 125 is
also provided in the face of the trailing end 107 of the outer
cannula tube 101.
[0055] Looking at FIGS. 1-3 and 8-11, the inner cannula 130 applies
the principles of the invention to the outer cannula 100. A soft
arced tube 131 extends upwardly and rearwardly from its leading end
133 to a hard collar 135 on its trailing end 137. The collar 135
tapers outwardly to a wider, concentric, hard, tapered tubular
extension 139 which extends in a trailing direction from the collar
135. The extension 139 tapers toward its trailing end face 141. The
collar 135 has a pair of diametrically opposed latches 143, as
shown appearing at approximately the 2 and 8 o'clock orientations
when looking at the trailing end face 141 of the inner cannula 130.
The latches 143 have fingers 145 which extend radially inwardly
therefrom for engagement against the trailing face of the annular
ring 121 on the trailing end 103 of the outer cannula 100. The
fingers 145 extend in the leading end direction from resiliently
flexible supports 147 on the collar 135. Squeeze plates 149 extend
in the trailing end direction from the fingers 145. The leading
faces 151 of the fingers 145 are beveled so that, as the inner
cannula 130 is inserted into the outer cannula 100 and the beveled
faces contact the annular ring 121, the supports 147 flex to widen
the distance between the fingers 145. Once the fingers 145 pass
over the annular ring 121, the supports return to their unbiased
condition in which the trailing faces of the fingers 145 engage the
leading face of the ring 121, thus locking the inner cannula 130 in
place on the outer cannula 100. The squeeze plates 149 provide
suitable surfaces and leverage for the thumb and forefinger to
apply pressure to flex the support 147 and spread the fingers 145
so that the fingers 145 can be disengaged from the annular ring
121. The squeeze plates 149 have alignment indicia such as arrows
153, as shown diametrically opposed and pointing in the trailing
end direction. As best seen in FIGS. 6, 8, 9, 11, 17 and 18, the
collar 135 also has diametrically opposed rotational and
longitudinal ramps 155 and 157 and longitudinal beads 159 for
reasons hereinafter explained.
[0056] Looking at FIGS. 1-16, the flexible connector 160 for use
with the above outer and inner cannulas 100 and 130 has a leading
end adapter 161, best seen in FIGS. 5, 7 and 12-15. The leading end
adapter 161 has a hard outer sleeve 167 with a soft tube liner 169.
The trailing end 171 of the sleeve 167 is of narrower diameter so
as to provide a connecting ring 173 for reasons hereinafter
explained. The outer sleeve 167 has diametrically opposed posts 175
on its wide circumference at the leading end of the connecting ring
173. A pair of diametrically opposed resiliently flexible arms 177
extend longitudinally from the sleeve 167 to radially inwardly
extending fingers 179. The sleeve 167 also has alignment indicia
such as arrows 181 pointing in the leading end direction. The
flexible connector 160 is in proper rotational orientation for
connection to the outer and inner cannulas 100 and 130 when the
arrows 153 on the inner cannula 130 are aligned with the arrows 181
on the connector sleeve 167. As best seen in FIG. 6, when the
arrows 153 and 181 are aligned, the connector arms 177 can pass
under the squeeze plates 149 of the inner cannula latches 143 with
the flexible connector fingers 179 at approximately the 4 and 10
o'clock orientations. This positions the connector fingers 179 on
the clockwise side of the rotational and longitudinal ramps 155 and
157 when the connector 160 is connected to the outer and inner
cannulas 100 and 130. The leading faces 183 of the connector
fingers 179 are beveled so that, as the flexible connector 160 is
moved longitudinally into the tapered tubular extension 139 of the
inner cannula 130, the fingers 179 will be spread apart by and
slide across the ring 121, on the outer cannula 100. Once the
fingers 179 pass the ring 121 they resiliently close to secure the
flexible connector 160 to the outer cannula 100. The inner cannula
collar 135 is sandwiched between them.
[0057] As best seen in FIG. 12, the interior surfaces of the
connector arms 177 are provided with longitudinal grooves 185 and
the counterclockwise inside edges of the connector arms 177 are
provided with longitudinal bevels 187. To remove the flexible
connector 160 from the outer and inner cannulas 100 and 130, the
connector 160 is rotated counterclockwise, as indicated by the
rotational arrows 189, using the thumb and forefinger on the posts
175. As the connector 160 rotates, the longitudinal bevels 187 on
the connector arms 177 ride on the rotational ramps 155 on the
inner cannula collar 135 to unlatch the connector fingers 179 from
the collar 135. The rotation is limited to the point of abutment of
the inner cannula and connector fingers 145 and 179, whereupon
longitudinal beads 159 on the inner cannula collar 135 and grooves
185 on the connector arms 177 engage to provide an audible click
indicating that the connector 160 can be longitudinally displaced
and disconnected from the outer and inner cannulas 100 and 130. As
the connector 160 is withdrawn in the trailing direction, the
connector fingers 179 ride on the longitudinal ramp 157 of the
inner cannula collar 135 to assure that the connector fingers 179
cannot relatch during the process.
[0058] Second Adult Tracheotomy Tube Embodiment: Turning to FIGS.
19-26, the other type of adult tracheotomy tube is illustrated. The
collar 205 of the outer cannula 200 has a hard annular ring 221
which is concentric about the trailing end 207 of the outer cannula
tube 201. The hard tapered tubular extension 223 of the ring 221
narrows toward the trailing end 225. Top and bottom approximately
quarter notches 227 are provided in the outer circumference of the
tapered tubular extension 223 at the trailing end of the ring
221.
[0059] The inner cannula 230 applies the principles of the
invention to the outer cannula 200. A soft arced tube 231 extends
upwardly and rearwardly from its leading end 223 to a concentric
collar 235 on its trailing end 237. A tapered tubular extension 239
extends in a trailing direction from the collar 235 to a trailing
end face 241 of an annular ring 243 on the extension 239. The
outside wall of the extension 239 has annular ridges 245 which
complement the annular grooves 229 in the inside wall of the outer
cannula tapered extension 223 to secure the inner cannula 230 in
place in the outer cannula 200. A pair of vertically aligned studs
247 are provided on the trailing end face 241 of the inner cannula
extension 239 for reasons hereinafter explained. A concentric pull
ring 249 is hinged 251 to the bottom of the end face 241 of the
extensions 239 to facilitate removal of the inner cannula 230 from
the outer cannula 200. An annular outer flange 253 on the
midportion of the inner cannula arced tube 231 helps to hold the
inner cannula tube 231 concentrically within the outer cannula tube
201.
[0060] The flexible connector 260 for use with the above outer and
inner cannulas 200 and 230 has a leading end adapter 261, best seen
in FIGS. 21-24. The leading end adapter 261 has a hard outer sleeve
267 with a soft tube liner 269. The trailing end 271 of the sleeve
267 is of narrower diameter so as to provide a connecting ring 273
for reasons hereinafter explained. The outer sleeve 267 has a
corrugated surface 275 to facilitate manipulation of the flexible
connector 260. Diametrically vertically opposed arms 277 with
radially inwardly extending fingers 279 at their leading ends are
defined by longitudinal slots 281 in the sleeve 267. The fingers
279 are contoured to engage in the opposed notches 227 in the outer
cannula tapered tubular extension 223. As best seen in FIG. 23,
valleys 283 in the inner and outer surfaces of the arms 277 at
their trailing ends permit the arms 277 to flex easily. As best
seen in FIGS. 21 and 22, the leading face of the connecting ring
273 of the leading end adapter 261 has notches 285 which receive
the studs 247 on the trailing end face 241 of the inner cannula
230. The notches 285 extend clockwise from the point of
longitudinal insertion of the studs 247 to stops 287.
Counterclockwise rotation of the leading end adapter 261 of the
connector 260, indicated by the rotational arrows 289 on the sleeve
267, is terminated by the studs 247 striking the stops 287. At this
point, the connector arms 277 will have flexed sufficiently to
disengage the connector fingers 279 from the notches 227 in the
outer cannula extension 223 so that the connector 260 can be
longitudinally withdrawn from the outer and inner cannulas 200 and
230.
[0061] Child Tracheotomy Tube Embodiment: Turning to FIGS. 27-35,
the child's tracheotomy tube is illustrated. As best seen in FIG.
27, the collar 305 on the soft tube 301 has a concentric annular
ring 321 extending in a trailing direction with a soft tapered
extension 323 extending in a trailing direction from the ring 321.
The extension 323 has annular ridges 325 in its circumference and a
beveled flange 327 with an annular groove 329 in its trailing end
face. A hard sleeve 331 is tapered to concentrically cover the
tapered extension 323. The hard sleeve 331 has a pair of annular
flanges 333 at its leading end defining an annular groove 335
therebetween. When the sleeve 331 is mounted on the soft tapered
extension 323, the leading face 337 of the sleeve 331 abuts the
trailing end face of the ring 321 on the collar 305 and the
trailing end face 341 of the sleeve 331 abuts the leading end face
of the beveled flange 327 on the tapered extension 323, locking the
hard sleeve 331 in place on the soft extension 323.
[0062] Looking at FIGS. 27-35, the flexible connector 360 for use
with the cannula 300 has a leading end adapter 361, best seen in
FIGS. 29-32. The leading end adapter 361 is a clamshell-type grip
with bottom and top shells 367 and 369. The shells 367 and 369
extend from a trailing end face 371 on a trailing connecting ring
373 to a leading connecting ring 375 separated by a narrower body
377. As best seen in FIG. 35, the shells 367 and 369 are defined by
a radial cut 379 splitting the top half of the trailing connecting
ring 373 and a horizontal diametric cut 381 extending from the
radial cut 379 through the leading connecting ring 375. The shells
367 and 369 are hinged 383 at the top of the radial cut 379. The
leading connecting ring 375 has grooves 385 defining a ridge 387
which will engage in the groove 335 on the leading end of the hard
sleeve 331 mounted on the soft tapered tubular extension 323 of the
cannula 300. A tapered nozzle 397 extends in a leading direction
from the leading face of the trailing connecting ring 373. The
nozzle 397 has an annular bead 399 on the perimeter of its leading
face. A concentric bead 401 is provided on the leading face of the
trailing connecting ring 373 around the nozzle 397. The annular
bead 399 on the nozzle 397 abuts the inside wall of the soft
tapered tubular extension 323 of the cannula 300 and the concentric
bead 401 on the leading connecting ring 375 seats in the groove 329
on the leading face on the beaded flange 327 of the soft tapered
tubular extension 323 of the cannula 300 when the soft extension
323 with the hard sleeve 331 are longitudinally inserted into the
clamshell of the connector 360. As best seen in FIGS. 29-32,
flexibly resilient supports 403 extend radially outwardly from the
top shell portion of the body 377 at the diametric cut 381. Arms
405 extend downwardly, considering the clamshell in the closed
condition of FIG. 35, from each of the supports 403 to fingers 407
which extend diametrically inwardly from the arms 405. The fingers
40 have beads 409 on their upper inside edges. The arms 405 also
extend upwardly from the supports 403 to corrugated squeeze plates
411 which aid in manually flexing the arms 405 between the thumb
and forefinger. To cooperate with the fingers 407, L-shaped lugs
413 extend upwardly, again considering the clamshell in the closed
condition of FIG. 35, from the bottom shell portion of the body 377
at the diametric cut 381. When the top shell 369 is closed on the
bottom shell 367, the fingers 407 snap under the lugs 413 and the
beads 409 engage the inside edges of the lugs 413 to assure a
stable engagement.
[0063] Common Connector Components: Each of the flexible connectors
160, 260 and 360 has its own unique leading end adapter 161, 261
and 361 as above described. The trailing end adapters 163, 263 and
363 and intermediate tubes 165, 265 and 365 are substantially the
same. Each of the intermediate tubes 165, 265 and 365 has a hard
annular seat 191, 291 and 391 at its leading end. The connecting
ring 173, 273 and 373 at the trailing end of each leading end
adapter 161, 261 and 361 fits in and is fixed to the seat 191, 291
and 391 of the leading end of the intermediate tube 165, 265 and
365, as by ultrasonic welding. The trailing end adapters 163, 263
and 363 have hard tubular extensions 193, 293 and 393 with annular
flanges 195, 295 and 395 to facilitate manipulation of the
connectors 160, 260 and 360 during attachment to the ventilator.
The trailing end adapters 161, 261 and 361 are fixed to the
trailing ends of their intermediate tubes 165, 265 and 365, also as
by ultrasonic welding.
[0064] Common Operational Features of the Embodiments: For each of
the different tracheotomy tube outer cannulas 100, 200 and 300, the
corresponding coupling 160, 260 and 360 has a leading end adapter
161, 261 and 361 which interlocks with its respective tracheotomy
tube outer cannulas 100, 200 and 300 preventing them from
inadvertently axially displacing from each other. However,
non-axial force applied to the unlatching mechanisms disengage the
associated adapters 161, 261 and 361 from its tracheotomy tube
outer cannula 100, 200 and 300 so that the coupling 160, 260 and
360 can be axially displaced without exertion of excessive axial
force on the system and the patient.
[0065] Thus, it is apparent that there has been provided, in
accordance with the invention, a ventilator to tracheotomy tube
coupling that fully satisfies the objects, aims and advantages set
forth above. While the invention has been described in conjunction
with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many
alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to
those skilled in the art and in light of the foregoing description.
Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives,
modifications and variations as fall within the spirit of the
appended claims.
* * * * *