U.S. patent application number 12/583256 was filed with the patent office on 2009-12-17 for apparatus and methods for delivery of medicament to a respiratory system.
This patent application is currently assigned to NOVARTIS PHARMA AG. Invention is credited to Declan Moran, John Power, Desmond Regan.
Application Number | 20090308384 12/583256 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 27670569 |
Filed Date | 2009-12-17 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090308384 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Power; John ; et
al. |
December 17, 2009 |
Apparatus and methods for delivery of medicament to a respiratory
system
Abstract
Apparatus and methods are provided for delivery of a medicament
to a respiratory system. A reservoir is provided for a liquid
medicament with the reservoir having a liquid medicament inlet port
and a medicament outlet. An aerosol generator is provided at the
medicament outlet of the reservoir for aerosolizing the liquid
medicament. A connector entrains the aerosolized medicament from
the aerosol generator with a gas.
Inventors: |
Power; John; (County Galway,
IE) ; Regan; Desmond; (County Galway, IE) ;
Moran; Declan; (County Galway, IE) |
Correspondence
Address: |
NOVARTIS;CORPORATE INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
ONE HEALTH PLAZA 104/3
EAST HANOVER
NJ
07936-1080
US
|
Assignee: |
NOVARTIS PHARMA AG
Basel
CH
|
Family ID: |
27670569 |
Appl. No.: |
12/583256 |
Filed: |
August 17, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10284068 |
Oct 30, 2002 |
7600511 |
|
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12583256 |
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60381830 |
May 20, 2002 |
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60344484 |
Nov 1, 2001 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
128/200.14 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61M 16/04 20130101;
A61M 16/08 20130101; A61M 16/049 20140204; A61M 2205/8262 20130101;
A61M 2209/082 20130101; A61M 16/06 20130101; A61M 15/0085 20130101;
A61M 2205/8206 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
128/200.14 |
International
Class: |
A61M 11/00 20060101
A61M011/00 |
Claims
1-44. (canceled)
45. A method of delivering a medicament to a respiratory system,
the method comprising: providing a reservoir for a liquid
medicament to be delivered to the respiratory system; delivering a
volume of the liquid medicament into the reservoir; providing an
aerosol generator for aerosolizing the liquid medicament; arranging
the aerosol generator beneath the reservoir for gravitational flow
of the liquid medicament from the reservoir to the aerosol
generator; aerosolizing the liquid medicament; and delivering the
aerosolized medicament to the respiratory system.
46. The method of claim 45, further comprising entraining the
aerosolized medicament with a gas before delivering the aerosolized
medicament to the respiratory system.
47. The method of claim 45, further comprising vibrating at least
part of the aerosol generator to aerosolize the liquid
medicament.
48. The method of claim 45, further comprising delivering a further
volume of the liquid medicament into the reservoir.
49. The method of claim 48, wherein the further volume of the
liquid medicament is delivered into the reservoir after all of the
liquid medicament in the reservoir is aerosolized.
50. The method of claim 48, wherein the further volume of the
liquid medicament is delivered into the reservoir before all of the
liquid medicament in the reservoir is aerosolized.
51. The method of claim 45, further comprising opening a port to
deliver the volume of the liquid medicament through the port into
the reservoir.
52. The method of claim 51, further comprising sealing the port
after delivering the volume of the liquid medicament into the
reservoir.
53. The method of claim 52, wherein the port is sealed before
aerosolizing the liquid medicament.
54. The method of claim 45, wherein the reservoir has an interior
surface; the interior surface of the reservoir is configured to
promote flow of the liquid medicament towards the aerosol
generator.
55. The method of claim 54, wherein the interior surface of the
reservoir is inclined towards the aerosol generator.
56. The method of claim 45, further comprising a housing to house
the aerosol generator.
57. The method of claim 45, wherein the aerosol generator further
comprises a vibratable member.
58. The method of claim 57, wherein the vibratable member is
dome-shaped.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority the following U.S.
Provisional Patent Applications, the entire disclosures of both of
which are herein incorporated by reference in their entireties for
all purposes: U.S. Prov. Pat. Appl. No. 60/344,484, entitled
"APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR DELIVERY OF MEDICAMENTS TO A RESPIRATORY
SYSTEM," filed Nov. 1, 2001 by John S. Power et al.; and U.S. Prov.
Pat. Appl. No. 60/381,830, entitled "APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR
DELIVERY OF MEDICAMENT TO A RESPIRATORY SYSTEM," filed on May 20,
2002 by John Power et al.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates to apparatus and methods for delivery
of medicament to the respiratory system of a patient. In
particular, the invention relates to apparatus and methods for use
with a nebulizer.
[0003] It is known to use a nebulizer to create an aerosol of
medication for delivery into the respiratory system of a patient.
Typically the medication is placed in a cup which is held over a
reservoir of buffer water. A piezoelectric element is vibrated
ultrasonically under the buffer water transferring energy to the
water, thus causing an aerosol to be formed in the medication cup.
Baffles are provided between the medication cup and the airway in
an attempt to ensure large particles of medication rain out on the
baffles and drip back down into the medication cup.
[0004] However, these nebulizers suffer from a number of
disadvantages. In particular, medications have a range of different
viscosities, but particle generation is not consistent across the
range. Thus the medication particle size is not accurately
controlled and a broad range of particles pass into the patient
airway. Impaction filters/baffles are often used to attempt to
"rain-out" larger particles due to impact of the larger particles
with the filters/baffles. Nebulized medication which rains out
drips back into the cup only to be nebulized again. This impaction
of the nebulized medication may degrade or destroy the medication,
and this is particularly the case for long molecular structures,
such as proteins.
[0005] The medication in the cup is directly exposed to the airway.
Therefore the nebulizer must be maintained substantially horizontal
at all times to prevent medication spilling out into the patient
airway. Also the ventilator pressure may be lost when the
medication cup is removed to refill it.
[0006] This method of aerosol generation requires a relatively
large amount of energy. The response time of aerosol generation is
therefore large. A considerable amount of heat is generated during
use of the nebulizer, therefore to prevent patient discomfort or
injury the nebulizer must be placed away from the patient. This
necessitates a long inhalation tube between the nebulizer and the
patient, which increases drug loss through rain out along the
inhalation tube, and further increases the response time to patient
inspiration. Furthermore the generated heat degenerates the
medication, which can be particularly harmful to protein based
drugs.
[0007] This invention is related to apparatus and methods for
delivery of medicament to the respiratory system of a patient which
overcome at least some of these disadvantages.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] According to the invention, there is provided an apparatus
for delivery of a medicament to a respiratory system, the apparatus
comprising a reservoir for a liquid medicament for delivery to a
respiratory system, the reservoir having a liquid medicament inlet
port and a medicament outlet; an aerosol generator at the
medicament outlet of the reservoir for aerosolizing a liquid
medicament; and a connector for entraining an aerosolized
medicament from the aerosol generator with a gas.
[0009] In one embodiment of the invention the inlet port is an
upper inlet port and the outlet is a lower outlet for gravitational
flow of a liquid medicament from the reservoir to the aerosol
generator. In one case the apparatus comprises a plug for
selectively sealing the inlet port. The plug may be attached to the
reservoir for movement between a sealed position and an open
position. Ideally the plug is attached to the reservoir by an arm.
The arm may be biased towards the open position.
[0010] In one embodiment the arm defines a hinge for pivoting of
the plug between the sealed position and the open position. The
hinge may be a live hinge.
[0011] In another embodiment the plug is integral with the arm.
Ideally the arm is integral with at least part of the
reservoir.
[0012] In another embodiment of the invention the reservoir defines
an access opening in a wall of the reservoir to facilitate access
to an interior of the reservoir, and the reservoir comprises a cap
for mounting at the access opening. The inlet port may be small
relative to the access opening. In one case the inlet port is
provided through the cap. Ideally the plug is integral with the
cap. In one case the cap is mountable at the access opening in a
snap-fit arrangement.
[0013] In one embodiment the plug seals the inlet port in a
snap-fit arrangement.
[0014] An interior surface of the reservoir may be configured to
promote flow of a liquid medicament towards the aerosol generator.
Ideally the interior surface of the reservoir is inclined towards
the aerosol generator. The reservoir may define a substantially
conical shape at least in the region adjacent the aerosol
generator.
[0015] In another embodiment of the invention the connector
comprises a gas conduit having an inlet and an outlet, and an
aerosol supply conduit for delivering an aerosolized medicament
from the aerosol generator into the gas conduit to entrain the
aerosolized medicament with a gas. The aerosol supply conduit may
subtend an angle of less than 90.degree. with the inlet of the gas
conduit. In one case the aerosol supply conduit subtends an angle
of less than 80.degree. with the inlet of the gas conduit. Ideally
the aerosol supply conduit subtends an angle of about 75.degree.
with the inlet of the gas conduit.
[0016] In another embodiment the aerosol supply conduit is co-axial
with the inlet of the gas conduit.
[0017] The inlet of the gas conduit may extend co-axially around
the aerosol supply conduit.
[0018] In another embodiment of the invention, the aerosol supply
conduit subtends an angle of 90.degree. with the inlet of the gas
conduit.
[0019] In one embodiment of the invention the apparatus comprises a
respiratory conduit for connecting the outlet of the gas conduit to
a respiratory system. The respiratory conduit may be mounted to the
connector at the outlet of the gas conduit. In one case the
respiratory conduit is releasably mounted to the connector at the
outlet of the gas conduit. The respiratory conduit may be mounted
to the connector by an interference fit between the respiratory
conduit and the outlet of the gas conduit.
[0020] In another embodiment of the invention the apparatus
comprises an intermediate connector mounted between the respiratory
conduit and the outlet of the gas conduit. The intermediate
connector may have a lumen extending therethrough, and the
cross-sectional area of the lumen may vary along the length of the
lumen. Preferably the cross-sectional area of the lumen varies in a
discontinuous manner along the length of the lumen.
[0021] In one case the respiratory conduit is mounted to the
intermediate connector by an interference fit between the
respiratory conduit and the intermediate connector. In another case
the intermediate connector is mounted to the outlet of the gas
conduit by an interference fit between the intermediate connector
and the outlet of the gas conduit.
[0022] Ideally the intermediate connector comprises handle means
for gripping the intermediate connector. The handle means may
comprise one or more formations on the intermediate connector.
Preferably the formation comprises a protruding flange. Most
preferably the handle means comprises two substantially
diametrically opposed protruding flanges.
[0023] In one embodiment the respiratory conduit is moveable
relative to the gas conduit. Ideally the respiratory conduit is
rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the outlet of the gas
conduit.
[0024] In one case the respiratory conduit is selected from a group
consisting of a mouthpiece, a face mask, and an inter-tracheal
tube. The respiratory conduit may comprise an intermediate portion
between the outlet of the gas conduit and the mouthpiece, or the
face mask, or the inter-tracheal tube, the intermediate portion
being moveable relative to the mouthpiece, or the face mask, or the
inter-tracheal tube. In one embodiment the respiratory conduit
defines a delivery path to a respiratory system, the delivery path
being defined by a distance between the aerosol generator and the
respiratory system, the delivery path having a length of less than
about 500 mm. The respiratory conduit may have a delivery path of
less than about 300 mm.
[0025] In one case the delivery path is substantially free of
baffles and/or flow disrupters.
[0026] In another embodiment the respiratory conduit includes a
Y-shaped section which separates into a first arm for inhalation to
a respiratory system and a second arm for exhalation from a
respiratory system.
[0027] The apparatus may comprise a ventilator conduit for
connecting the inlet of the gas conduit to a ventilator. In one
case the ventilator conduit is mounted to the connector at the
inlet of the gas conduit. Ideally the ventilator conduit is
releasably mounted to the connector at the inlet of the gas
conduit. The ventilator conduit may be mounted to the connector by
an interference fit between the ventilator conduit and the inlet of
the gas conduit.
[0028] In another embodiment of the invention the apparatus
comprises an intermediate connector mounted between the ventilator
conduit and the inlet of the gas conduit. The intermediate
connector may have a lumen extending therethrough, and the
cross-sectional area of the lumen may vary along the length of the
lumen. Preferably the cross-sectional area of the lumen varies in a
discontinuous manner along the length of the lumen.
[0029] In one case the ventilator conduit is mounted to the
intermediate connector by an interference fit between the
ventilator conduit and the intermediate connector. In another case
the intermediate connector is mounted to the inlet of the gas
conduit by an interference fit between the intermediate connector
and the inlet of the gas conduit.
[0030] Ideally the intermediate connector comprises handle means
for gripping the intermediate connector. The handle means may
comprise one or more formations on the intermediate connector.
Preferably the formation comprises a protruding flange. Most
preferably the handle means comprises two substantially
diametrically opposed protruding flanges.
[0031] In one embodiment of the invention the apparatus comprises
an aerosol generator housing in which the aerosol generator is
held, and the connector is mounted to the aerosol generator
housing. The connector may be releasably mounted to the aerosol
generator housing. Ideally the connector is mounted to the aerosol
generator housing by an interference fit between the aerosol
generator housing and the aerosol supply conduit. The connector may
be mounted to the aerosol generator housing by an interference fit
between the aerosol generator housing and the inlet of the gas
conduit.
[0032] In one case the aerosol generator housing is fixed to the
reservoir.
[0033] The aerosol generator housing may be integral with the
reservoir.
[0034] In another case the apparatus comprises a signal interface
to receive a control signal to control operation of the aerosol
generator. The apparatus may comprise a controller to control
operation of the aerosol generator, the controller being
connectable to the signal interface. In one embodiment the
controller has an on-board power source. The controller may
comprise a power connector, the power connector being connectable
to a remote power source.
[0035] In another embodiment the controller comprises a timer to
automatically switch the aerosol generator between an active state
and a rest state. The timer may be selectively programmable.
[0036] The controller ideally comprises a user interface to
selectively control operation of the aerosol generator. The user
interface may be remote from the aerosol generator housing.
[0037] In another embodiment the controller comprises status
indication means to indicate the operational state of the aerosol
generator. The status indication means comprises at least one
visual indicator.
[0038] Ideally the controller comprises a housing having a support
to receive a mounting device. The support may comprise a recess in
the housing for receiving a mounting device. In one case the
support comprises at least one ledge overhanging the recess for
engagement of a mounting device in the recess. The support may
comprise two ledges on opposite sides of the recess.
[0039] In another case the apparatus comprises a mounting device to
support the controller. The mounting device may comprise means for
attaching the mounting device to a support; and hook means for
supporting the housing, the hook means being configured to define a
plurality of support surfaces for supporting the housing in an
upright configuration. In one embodiment the support surfaces each
comprise a lip protruding from a main body of the mounting device.
The lip may be engagable in the recess in the housing to support
the controller. Ideally the hook means defines four support
surfaces. Each support surface may be substantially perpendicular
to an adjacent support surface.
[0040] In one case the attachment means is releasable. Ideally the
attachment means comprises a clamp.
[0041] In another embodiment the hook means is movable relative to
the attachment means to selectively disassociate the hook means
from the attachment means. The attachment means may define a groove
in which the hook means is slidable to selectively disassociate the
hook means from the attachment means.
[0042] In another case the aerosol generator comprises a vibratable
member having a plurality of apertures extending between a first
surface and a second surface thereof. The first surface may be
adapted to receive a liquid medicament from the reservoir. Ideally
the aerosol generator is configured to generate an aerosol at the
second surface. In one case the vibratable member is dome shaped in
geometry. The vibratable member may comprise a piezoelectric
element.
[0043] In another embodiment the apertures in the vibratable member
are sized to aerosolize the medicament by ejecting droplets of
medicament such that about 70% or more of the droplets by weight
have a size in the range from about 1 to about 5 micrometers.
[0044] In another aspect of the invention, there is provided a kit
for delivery of a medicament to a respiratory system, the kit
comprising an apparatus of the invention; and a supply container
for delivering a liquid medicament through the inlet port into the
reservoir.
[0045] In one embodiment of the invention the supply container
defines a delivery tip configured to mate with the inlet port of
the reservoir for delivering a liquid medicament through the inlet
port into the reservoir. The delivery tip may be configured for
insertion at least partially through the inlet port.
[0046] In another embodiment the supply container has indication
means to indicate the volume of liquid medicament delivered into
the reservoir. The indication means may be provided by at least one
marking on the supply container.
[0047] In one case the supply container comprises a nebule. In
another case the supply container comprises a syringe.
[0048] According to another aspect, the invention provides a
connector for entraining an aerosolized medicament with a gas to
deliver the medicament to a respiratory system, the connector
comprising a gas conduit having an inlet and an outlet; and an
aerosol supply conduit for delivering an aerosolized medicament
into the gas conduit to entrain the aerosolized medicament with a
gas, the connector comprising a cap to selectively seal the aerosol
supply conduit to maintain the pressure in the gas conduit when the
connector is not in use.
[0049] In one case the cap is attached to the gas conduit.
[0050] In a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a
method of delivering a medicament to a respiratory system, the
method comprising the steps of providing a reservoir for a liquid
medicament to be delivered to a respiratory system; delivering a
volume of the liquid medicament into the reservoir; providing an
aerosol generator for aerosolizing the liquid medicament; arranging
the aerosol generator beneath the reservoir for gravitational flow
of the liquid medicament from the reservoir to the aerosol
generator; aerosolizing the liquid medicament; delivering the
aerosolized medicament to the respiratory system.
[0051] In one embodiment of the invention the method comprises the
step of entraining the aerosolized medicament with a gas before
delivering the aerosolized medicament to the respiratory
system.
[0052] The aerosol generator may be mounted to the reservoir
beneath the reservoir.
[0053] In another case the method comprises the step of vibrating
at least part of the aerosol generator to aerosolize the liquid
medicament.
[0054] Ideally the method comprises the step of delivering a
further volume of the liquid medicament into the reservoir. The
further volume of the liquid medicament may be delivered into the
reservoir after all of the liquid medicament in the reservoir has
been aerosolized. Alternatively the further volume of the liquid
medicament may be delivered into the reservoir before all of the
liquid medicament in the reservoir has been aerosolized.
[0055] In another embodiment the method comprises the step of
opening a port to deliver the volume of the liquid medicament
through the port into the reservoir. The method may comprise the
step of sealing the port after delivering the volume of the liquid
medicament into the reservoir. Ideally the port is sealed before
the step of aerosolizing the liquid medicament.
[0056] The inlet port to the reservoir is distanced from the
aerosol generator to create a sterile barrier between the carrier
delivering the liquid medicament into the reservoir and the
respiratory system of the patient.
[0057] The liquid medicament flows by gravitational action from the
reservoir to the aerosol generator. This arrangement provides a
simple, consistent means of delivering liquid medicament to the
aerosol generator, regardless of the viscosity of the liquid
medicament.
[0058] The reservoir is configured to promote flow of the liquid
medicament towards the aerosol generator. This arrangement
minimizes the residual volume of the liquid medicament remaining in
the reservoir after use, and also enables the volume of the liquid
medicament delivered to the respiratory system of the patient to be
accurately controlled.
[0059] The reservoir may be quickly and easily filled or refilled
without requiring dismounting of any parts of the assembled
apparatus.
[0060] The apparatus of the invention may be quickly and easily
cleaned, for example by autoclaving. In particular, the cap may be
removed from the relatively large access opening to facilitate
cleaning of the interior of the reservoir through the access
opening, and also to facilitate egress of material and/or cleaning
fluids out of the reservoir through the access opening.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0061] The invention will be more clearly understood from the
following description of some embodiments thereof, given by way of
example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in
which
[0062] FIG. 1 is a side, cross-sectional view of an apparatus for
delivery of a medicament to a respiratory system according to the
invention;
[0063] FIG. 2 is an exploded, perspective view of the apparatus of
FIG. 1;
[0064] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a cap of the apparatus of
FIGS. 1 and 2;
[0065] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the cap of FIG. 3 mounted to
a reservoir of the apparatus of FIGS. 1 and 2;
[0066] FIGS. 5 and 6 are perspective views illustrating filling of
the reservoir of FIG. 4 through the cap;
[0067] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a controller of the
apparatus of FIGS. 1 and 2;
[0068] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an alternative connector of
the apparatus of FIGS. 1 and 2;
[0069] FIG. 9 is a perspective view from beneath of the connector
of FIG. 8 mounted to an aerosol generator housing of the apparatus
of FIGS. 1 and 2;
[0070] FIG. 10 is a side view of the apparatus of FIG. 9 in use
mounted to a face mask;
[0071] FIG. 11 is a side view of the apparatus of FIG. 9 in use
mounted to a mouthpiece;
[0072] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the mouthpiece of FIG.
11;
[0073] FIG. 13 is a side view of the apparatus of FIG. 9 in use
mounted to an inter-tracheal tube;
[0074] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 9 in
use in a breathing circuit;
[0075] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the connector of FIG. 8
with a cap sealing an aerosol supply conduit of the connector;
[0076] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the cap of FIG. 15;
[0077] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the connector of the
apparatus of FIGS. 1 and 2 with the cap of FIG. 16 sealing an
aerosol supply conduit of the connector;
[0078] FIG. 17(a) is a perspective view of another alternative
connector of the apparatus of FIGS. 1 and 2;
[0079] FIG. 17(b) is a cross-sectional view along line XVII-XVII in
FIG. 17(a);
[0080] FIG. 17(c) is a perspective view of the connector of FIG.
17(a) in a breathing circuit;
[0081] FIG. 17(d) is a perspective view of an upstream intermediate
connector of the apparatus of the invention;
[0082] FIG. 17(e) is a cross-sectional view along line XVIII-XVIII
in FIG. 17(d);
[0083] FIG. 17(f) is a perspective view of a downstream
intermediate connector of the apparatus of the invention;
[0084] FIG. 17(g) is a cross-sectional view along line XIX-XIX in
FIG. 17(f);
[0085] FIG. 17(h) is a perspective view illustrating mounting of
the intermediate connectors of FIGS. 17(d) to 17(g) to the
connector of FIG. 17(a);
[0086] FIG. 17(i) is a perspective view of the intermediate
connectors of FIGS. 17(d) to 17(g) and the connector of FIG. 17(a)
in a breathing circuit;
[0087] FIG. 17(j) is a perspective view of another upstream
intermediate connector of the apparatus of the invention;
[0088] FIG. 17(k) is a perspective view of another downstream
intermediate connector of the apparatus of the invention;
[0089] FIG. 17(m) is a perspective view illustrating mounting of
the intermediate connectors of FIGS. 17(j) and 17(k) to the
connector of FIG. 17(a);
[0090] FIGS. 18 to 20 are flow diagrams illustrating operational
arrangements for using the apparatus;
[0091] FIG. 21 is a plan view of a rear side of the controller of
FIG. 7;
[0092] FIG. 22 is a perspective view along the rear side of the
controller of FIG. 21;
[0093] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a mounting device;
[0094] FIGS. 24 and 25 are perspective views of the mounting device
of FIG. 23 supporting the controller of FIG. 21;
[0095] FIG. 26 is an exploded, perspective view of another mounting
device in use with the controller of FIG. 21; and
[0096] FIG. 27 is a side view of the apparatus of FIG. 9 in use
with the controller of FIG. 21 and the mounting device of FIG.
26.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0097] Referring to the drawings and initially to FIGS. 1 to 7
thereof, there is illustrated an apparatus 1 according to the
invention for delivering a medicament to a respiratory system.
[0098] The apparatus 1 comprises a reservoir 2 for a liquid
medicament for delivery to a respiratory system, an aerosol
generator 3 for aerosolizing the liquid medicament, and a connector
6 for entraining the aerosolized medicament from the aerosol
generator 3 with a gas.
[0099] The reservoir 2 comprises a lower portion 7 and an upper
portion 8, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the two portions 7, 8
being fixed together. The two portions 7, 8 are injection moulded
separately, and are then ultrasonically welded together to form the
reservoir 2. Alternatively the portions 7, 8 could be integrally
manufactured, such as by a CNC machining process.
[0100] An access opening 9 is defined in a wall of the upper
portion 8 of the reservoir 2 (FIG. 2), the opening 9 facilitating
access to the interior of the reservoir 2, for example for cleaning
the interior of the reservoir 2. The reservoir 2 comprises a cap 10
for mounting at the access opening 9 to close the opening 9 when
the apparatus 1 is in use (FIG. 1). The cap 10 may define a
suitable projecting annular lip 15 for snap-fit mounting of the cap
10 at the opening 9.
[0101] The reservoir 2 has an upper liquid medicament inlet port 11
for delivering the liquid medicament into the reservoir 2. The
inlet port 11, which is small relative to the access opening 9, is
provided through the cap 10, as illustrated in FIG. 1.
[0102] A plug 12 is provided to seal the inlet port 11, the plug 12
being attached to the cap 10 by an arm 13 for movement of the plug
12 between a sealed position (FIG. 6) and an open position (FIG.
5). The arm 13 includes a hinge for pivoting of the plug 12 between
the sealed position and the open position, preferably the hinge is
a live hinge to bias the arm 13 towards the open position. A
suitable projecting annular shoulder 14 may be provided on the plug
12 for snap-fit sealing of the inlet port 11 by the plug 12.
[0103] The cap 10, arm 13 and plug 12 may be integrally formed of a
polymeric material in a molding process. One suitable material is a
silicone material with a Shore A hardness of between 60 and 80.
[0104] The reservoir 2 has a lower medicament outlet 16, and the
aerosol generator 3 is positioned, when the apparatus 1 is
assembled, at the outlet 16 (FIG. 1). In use, the liquid medicament
flows by gravitational action from the reservoir 2 to the aerosol
generator 3.
[0105] The lower portion 7 of the reservoir 2 is substantially
conical shaped, sloping towards the aerosol generator 3 to promote
flow of the liquid medicament towards the aerosol generator 3 at
the outlet 16 (Flow G), as illustrated in FIG. 1. In this manner,
the residual volume of the liquid medicament that remains in the
reservoir 2 after use is minimised, and thus the volume of the
liquid medicament which is delivered to the respiratory system of
the patient is accurately controlled.
[0106] A typical volume of liquid medicament that can be held in
the reservoir is 10 mL, or 6 mL.
[0107] The aerosol generator 3 comprises a vibratable member 40 and
a piezoelectric element 42. The vibratable member 40 has a
plurality of tapered apertures extending between a first surface
and a second surface thereof, as described in U.S. Pat. No.
5,164,740, U.S. Pat. No. 5,586,550, U.S. Pat. No. 5,758,637, U.S.
Pat. No. 6,085,740, the entire contents of which are incorporated
herein by reference.
[0108] The first surface of the vibratable member 40, which in use
faces upwardly, receives the liquid medicament from the reservoir
2, and the aerosolised medicament is generated at the second
surface of the vibratable member 40 by ejecting droplets of
medicament upon vibration of the member 40. In use the second
surface faces downwardly. In one case, the apertures in the
vibratable member 40 may be sized to produce an aerosol in which
about 70% or more of the droplets by weight have a size in the
range from about 1 to 5 micrometers.
[0109] The vibratable member 40 is non-planar, and is preferably
dome-shaped in geometry.
[0110] The apparatus 1 comprises an aerosol generator housing 4
fixed to the lower portion 7 of the reservoir 2, for example by
integrally manufacturing the housing 4 and the lower portion 7.
[0111] In the assembled apparatus of FIG. 1, the aerosol generator
3 is held within the aerosol generator housing 4 between an upper
shield 41 and a lower retainer 44. The shield 41, the piezoelectric
element 42, and the retainer 44 have central apertures aligned to
facilitate flow of the liquid medicament from the reservoir 2 to
the aerosol generator 3, and to facilitate passage of the
aerosolized medicament from the aerosol generator 3 into a neck 30
of the aerosol generator housing 4.
[0112] An O-ring seal 46 and a sleeve 45 are provided between the
retainer 44 and the wall of the aerosol generator housing 4 and the
shield 41 is fixed to the lower portion 7 of the reservoir 2. An
anti-bacterial coating may be applied to the vibratable member 40
to ensure a sterile flow of aerosolized medicament into the neck
30.
[0113] The connector 6 comprises a gas conduit having an inlet 61
and an outlet 62, and an aerosol supply conduit 60 for delivering
the aerosolised medicament from the aerosol generator 3 into the
gas conduit to entrain the aerosolised medicament with a gas, such
as air, passing through the gas conduit. The entrained aerosolised
medicament/gas mixture passes out of the gas conduit through the
outlet 62.
[0114] The connector 6 is of a general T-shape, the aerosol supply
conduit 60 subtending an angle of about 75.degree. with the inlet
61 of the gas conduit (FIG. 1). The longitudinal axis of the inlet
61 of the gas conduit is co-axial with the longitudinal axis of the
outlet 62 of the gas conduit, and the gas conduit tapers slightly
outwardly between the inlet 61 and the outlet 62.
[0115] It will be appreciated that the angle subtended between the
aerosol supply conduit 60 and the inlet 61 of the gas conduit may
be any suitable angle in the range of from 60.degree. to
90.degree., but preferably less than 90.degree., and most
preferably from 60.degree. to 80.degree., to induce the entrained
aerosolized medicament/gas mixture to pass out of the gas conduit
through the outlet 62, in particular when the apparatus 1 is used
in a floor use non-ventilator application.
[0116] The aerosol supply conduit 60 and the gas conduit meet at a
junction 63 (FIG. 1). In the assembled apparatus 1, the aerosol
supply conduit 60 of the connector 6 is releasably mounted to the
neck 30 of the aerosol generator housing 4 by means of a push-fit
arrangement. This enables the connector 6 to be easily dismounted
from the aerosol generator housing 4, for example for cleaning. The
neck 30 at least partially lines the interior of the aerosol supply
conduit 60, as illustrated in FIG. 1.
[0117] The inlet 61 of the gas conduit may be connected to a
ventilator 70 which pumps a gas, such as air, into the gas conduit,
alternatively the apparatus 1 may be employed during manual
breathing with the inlet 61 of the gas conduit being open to
atmosphere.
[0118] The apparatus 1 also includes a controller 50 as illustrated
in FIG. 7, to control operation of and to supply power to the
aerosol generator 3. The reservoir 2 has a signal interface port 38
fixed to the lower portion 7 of the reservoir 2 to receive a
control signal from the controller 50. The controller 50 may be
connected to the signal interface port 38 by means of a control
lead 52 which has a docking member 51 for mating with the port 38.
A control signal and power may be passed from the controller 50
through the lead 52 and the port 38 to the aerosol generator 3 to
control the operation of the aerosol generator 3 and to supply
power to the aerosol generator 3 respectively.
[0119] The power source for the controller 50 may be an on-board
power source, such as a rechargeable battery, or a remote power
source, such as a mains power source, or a ventilator power source.
When the remote power source is an AC mains power source, an AC-DC
converter may be connected between the AC power source and the
controller 50. A power connection lead may be provided to connect a
power socket 53 of the controller 50 with the remote power
source.
[0120] The controller 50 has a housing 57, and a user interface to
selectively control operation of the aerosol generator 3.
Preferably the user interface is provided on the housing 57 which,
in use, is located remote from the aerosol generator housing 4. The
user interface may be in the form of, for example, an on-off button
54, or a reset button.
[0121] A selectively programmable timer may be provided by the
controller 50 to automatically switch the aerosol generator 3
between an active state and a rest state. For example, the timer
may be configured to switch the aerosol generator 3 from an active
state to a rest state after 15 minutes of aerosol generation. The
timer may alternatively be configured to activate generation of the
aerosol a short period after commencement of an inhalation cycle,
for example within 20 milliseconds, and to cease generation of the
aerosol a short period after commencement of an exhalation cycle,
for example within 20 milliseconds.
[0122] Status indication means are also provided on the housing 57
to indicate the operational state of the aerosol generator 3. For
example, the status indication means may be in the form of two
visible LED's, with one LED 55 being used to indicate a 15 minute
timer cycle, and the other LED 56 being used to indicate a 30
minute timer cycle. Alternatively one LED 55 may be used to
indicate an operational state of the aerosol generator 3, and the
other LED 56 may be used to indicate a rest state of the aerosol
generator 3.
[0123] A fault indicator 58 is also provided in the form of an LED
on the housing 57. A battery charge indicator 59 in the form of an
LED is provided at the side of the housing 57.
[0124] In use, the cap 10 is mounted at the access opening 9 in a
snap-fit manner to close the opening 9. The plug 12 is then moved
from the sealed position (FIG. 6) to the open position (FIG. 5) by
hinging the arm 13 to the open position, and a volume of liquid
medicament is delivered through the inlet port 11 into the
reservoir 2.
[0125] Typically a supply container, such as a nebule 20 (FIG. 5)
or a syringe, is used to deliver the liquid medicament through the
inlet port 11 into the reservoir 2. In the case of nebule 20, a
delivery tip 21 is defined at an end of nebule 20 for mating with
the inlet port 11 by inserting the delivery tip 21 at least
partially through the inlet port 11. In this way, the volume of
liquid medicament may be easily and quickly delivered into the
reservoir 2. In particular, it is not necessary to dismount any
parts of the assembled apparatus 1 to deliver the liquid medicament
into the reservoir 2.
[0126] When the desired volume of liquid medicament has been
delivered into the reservoir 2, the arm 13 is hinged to the closed
position and the inlet port 11 is sealed by the plug 12 (FIG.
6).
[0127] The nebule 20 preferably includes markings to indicate the
volume of liquid medicament delivered into the reservoir 2. This
provides an accurate means of measuring the volume of liquid
medicament being delivered to the respiratory system of a
patient.
[0128] By distancing the inlet port 11 to the reservoir 2 from the
aerosol generator 3 at the outlet 16, this arrangement creates a
sterile barrier between the carrier delivering the liquid
medicament into the reservoir 2 and the respiratory system of the
patient.
[0129] The liquid medicament in the reservoir 2 flows by
gravitational action towards the aerosol generator 3 at the lower
medicament outlet 16 (Flow G).
[0130] The connector 6 is then releasably mounted to the aerosol
generator housing 4 at the aerosol supply conduit 60 by means of an
interference fit between the neck 30 of the aerosol generator
housing 4 and the aerosol supply conduit 60 of the connector 6
(FIG. 1).
[0131] The docking member 51 of the control lead 52 is mated with
the signal interface port 38 on the reservoir 2 to connect the
controller 50 to the aerosol generator 3. The controller 50 may
then be activated to supply power and a control signal to the
aerosol generator 3, which causes the piezoelectric element 42 to
vibrate the non-planar member 40. This vibration of the non-planar
member 40 causes the liquid medicament at the top surface of the
member 40 to pass through the apertures to the lower surface where
the medicament is aerosolized by the ejection of small droplets of
medicament.
[0132] The aerosolized medicament passes from the aerosol generator
3 into the neck 30 of the aerosol generator housing 4 (Flow A),
which is mounted within the aerosol supply conduit 60 of the
connector 6, and into the gas conduit of the connector 6 (Flow B).
The aerosolized medicament is entrained in the gas conduit with a
gas, such as air, which passes into the gas conduit through the
inlet 61 (Flow C). The entrained mixture of the aerosolized
medicament and the gas then passes out of the gas conduit through
the outlet 62 (Flow D) and on to the respiratory system of the
patient.
[0133] As the aerosolized medicament is continuously delivered to
the respiratory system of the patient, the volume of liquid
medicament in the reservoir 2 gradually decreases. The reservoir 2
may be quickly and easily refilled by opening the seal at the inlet
port 11 and delivering liquid medicament through the inlet port 11
into the reservoir 2, as described previously with reference to
FIGS. 5 and 6. It is not necessary to dismount any parts of the
apparatus 1 during refilling of the reservoir 2.
[0134] The generation of aerosolized medicament at the aerosol
generator 3 may continue during refilling, or alternatively the
generation may be temporarily stopped during refilling.
[0135] The refill arrangement of the reservoir 2 enables the
apparatus 1 to be reused many times.
[0136] A suitable material for the connector 6, and for the
integral reservoir 2 and aerosol generator housing 4 is
polysulphone. By manufacturing these components of the apparatus
from polysulphone, this enables these components to be autoclaved
for multiple use of the same apparatus. Preferably the connector 6,
the reservoir 2 and the aerosol generator housing 4 are suitable to
be autoclaved up to 100 times.
[0137] An alternative material for the connector 6, and for the
integral reservoir 2 and aerosol generator housing 4 is
polycarbonate. This reduces the component cost, however the number
of times these components can be autoclaved and re-used is also
reduced by using polycarbonate.
[0138] Referring now to FIGS. 8 and 9, there is illustrated another
connector 64, which is similar to the connector 6 of FIGS. 1 and 2,
and similar elements in FIGS. 8 and 9 are assigned the same
reference numerals.
[0139] The connector 64 may be substituted for the connector 6, and
thereafter operation of the apparatus 1 of the invention using the
connector 64 proceeds in a manner similar to that described
previously with reference to FIGS. 1 to 7. The gas conduit of the
connector 64 has a smaller diameter and is longer than the gas
conduit of the connector 6 of FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0140] A respiratory conduit, such as a face mask 50 to assist
breathing of a patient (FIG. 10), or a mouthpiece 51 (FIGS. 11 and
12), or an inter-tracheal tube 52 (FIG. 13) may be provided to
connect the outlet 62 of the gas conduit with the respiratory
system of the patient. The respiratory conduit 50, 51, 52 may be
mounted to the connector 64 at the outlet 62 of the gas conduit in
a releasable manner, for example by means of an interference fit
between the respiratory conduit 50, 51, 52 and the outlet 62 of the
gas conduit (FIGS. 10, 11, 13).
[0141] The apparatus 1 is lightweight. By mounting the apparatus 1
to the face mask 50 which may be worn by a patient, the apparatus 1
may be used during movement of the patient. During such movement,
the apparatus 1 is supported by the face mask 50 due to the
interference fit between the face mask 50 and the outlet 62 of the
gas conduit, the face mask 50 being in turn held in place on the
patient by means of straps.
[0142] The delivery path between the aerosol generator 3 and the
respiratory system of the patient may be 500 mm or shorter, for
example approximately 300 mm. No baffles or flow disrupters are
provided along the delivery path.
[0143] A ventilator conduit 53 (FIG. 14) may be provided to connect
a ventilator to the inlet 61 of the gas conduit. The ventilator
conduit 53 may be mounted to the connector 64 at the inlet 61 of
the gas conduit in a releasable manner, for example by means of an
interference fit between the ventilator conduit 53 and the inlet 61
of the gas conduit (FIG. 14). The ventilator can be used to pump
air, or oxygen, or any other suitable gas or gas mixture into the
inlet 61 of the gas conduit.
[0144] FIG. 14 illustrates the assembled apparatus 1 of the
invention with the ventilator conduit 53 mounted to the inlet 61 of
the gas conduit, and the respiratory conduit mounted to the outlet
62 of the gas conduit. The respiratory conduit includes a Y-shaped
section 54 which separates into a first arm 55 for inhalation to
the respiratory system of the patient (Flow E) and a second arm 56
for exhalation from the respiratory system (Flow F).
[0145] It will be appreciated that any of the face mask 50, or the
mouthpiece 51, or the inter-tracheal tube 52 may be provided
between the first arm 55 and the respiratory system.
[0146] In use, a ventilator pumps a gas, such as air, through the
ventilator conduit 53 into the inlet 61 of the gas conduit (Flow
E). The generated aerosol of medicament passes from the aerosol
generator 3 through the neck 30 of the aerosol generator housing 4,
which lines the aerosol supply conduit 60 of the connector 64, and
into the gas conduit of the connector 64. The aerosolized
medicament is entrained with the air in the gas conduit, and the
entrained mixture passes out of the gas conduit through the outlet
62 and into an inlet tube 157 of the Y-shaped section 54. The
entrained mixture then passes through the first arm 55 to the
respiratory system of the patient (Flow E). Upon exhalation, the
exhaled gases pass from the respiratory system through the first
arm 55, on through the second arm 56 to the atmosphere (Flow
F).
[0147] It will further be appreciated that the Y-shaped section 54
may be provided upstream of the apparatus 1 in the ventilator
circuit.
[0148] A capping device 70 may be provided for the connector 64 to
selectively seal the aerosol supply conduit 60, as illustrated in
FIGS. 15 and 16. In this case, the capping device 70 comprises an
insertion plug 71 connected to a mounting ring 73 by an arm 72. The
ring 73 is usually mounted around the gas conduit (FIG. 15).
[0149] The capping device 70 may be used to seal the aerosol supply
conduit 60 by inserting the plug 71 into the aerosol supply conduit
60 when the aerosol generator housing 4 is dismounted from the
connector 64, as illustrated in FIG. 15. By sealing the aerosol
supply conduit 60, this ensures that the pressure in the gas
conduit is maintained when the aerosol generator housing 4 has been
dismounted. This is particularly advantageous when the connector 64
is connected in position in a ventilator circuit, as illustrated in
FIG. 14, in which case the pressure in the ventilator circuit will
be maintained by the capping device 70 when the aerosol generator
housing 4 has been dismounted from the connector 64.
[0150] A tab 74 on the plug 71 enables ease of removal of the plug
71 from within the aerosol supply conduit 60.
[0151] When not in use, the capping device 70 may simply hang from
the ring 73 mounted around the gas conduit.
[0152] The capping device 70 is also suitable for use with the
connector 6, as illustrated in FIG. 17.
[0153] It will further be appreciated that the capping device 70
may be used to seal any suitable part of a pressure circuit.
[0154] Referring now to FIGS. 17(a) to 17(c), there is illustrated
another connector 300, which is similar to the connector 6 of FIGS.
1 and 2, and similar elements in FIGS. 17(a) and 17(b) are assigned
the same reference numerals.
[0155] In this case, the aerosol supply conduit 60 is substantially
perpendicular to the gas conduit, the aerosol supply conduit 60
subtending an angle of approximately 90.degree. with the inlet 61
of the gas conduit (FIG. 17(b)).
[0156] In addition, the gas conduit of the connector 300 has a
substantially smaller diameter, for example approximately 15 mm,
than the gas conduit of the connector 6 of FIGS. 1 and 2. The
connector 300 is thus particularly suitable for use in a pediatric
care application. The diameter of the aerosol supply conduit 60 is
the same for both the connector 300 and the connector 6 of FIGS. 1
and 2. A suitable diameter for the aerosol supply conduit 60 may
be, as an example, approximately 22 mm.
[0157] FIG. 17(c) illustrates the apparatus of the invention with a
small diameter pediatric ventilator conduit 353 releasably mounted
to the connector 300 at the inlet 61 of the gas conduit by means of
an interference fit between the male ventilator conduit 353 and the
female inlet part 61. A small diameter pediatric Y-shaped
respiratory section 354 is releasably mounted to the connector 300
at the outlet 62 of the gas conduit by means of an interference fit
between the female inlet tube 157 of the Y-shaped section 354 and
the male outlet part 62. The Y-shaped section 354 separates into a
first arm 55 for inhalation to the respiratory system of the
patient (Flow E) and a second arm 56 for exhalation from the
respiratory system (Flow F).
[0158] The pediatric apparatus of FIG. 17(c) operates in a manner
similar to that described previously with reference to FIG. 14.
[0159] FIGS. 17(d) and 17(e) illustrate an upstream intermediate
connector 400 having an upstream end 402 and a downstream end 403.
A lumen 406 extends through the intermediate connector 400 from the
upstream end 402 to the downstream end 403. As illustrated in FIG.
17(e), the cross-sectional area of the lumen 406 increases along
the length of the intermediate connector 400 from the upstream end
402 to the downstream end 403 in a discontinuous fashion at an
elbow 408.
[0160] In FIGS. 17(f) and 17(g) there is illustrated a downstream
intermediate connector 401 having an upstream end 404 and a
downstream end 405. A lumen 407 extends through the intermediate
connector 401 from the upstream end 404 to the downstream end 405.
As illustrated in FIG. 17(g), the cross-sectional area of the lumen
407 decreases along the length of the intermediate connector 401
from the upstream end 404 to the downstream end 405 in a
discontinuous fashion at two elbows 409, 410.
[0161] The upstream intermediate connector 400 may be releasably
mounted to the inlet 61 of the gas conduit of the connector 300 by
means of an interference fit between the female inlet part 61 and
the male downstream end 403 of the intermediate connector 400 (FIG.
17(h)). Similarly the downstream intermediate connector 401 may be
releasably mounted to the outlet 62 of the gas conduit of the
connector 300 by means of an interference fit between the female
upstream end 404 of the intermediate connector 401 and the male
outlet part 62 (FIG. 17(h)).
[0162] As illustrated in FIG. 17(i), a very small diameter, for
example approximately 7.5 mm, neo-natal ventilator conduit 420 may
then be releasably mounted to the upstream end 402 of the upstream
intermediate connector 400 by means of an interference fit between
the female upstream end 402 of the upstream intermediate connector
400 and the male ventilator conduit 420. Similarly a very small
diameter, for example approximately 7.5 mm, neo-natal bifurcated,
i.e. Y-shaped, respiratory section 421 may be releasably mounted to
the downstream end 405 of the downstream intermediate connector 401
by means of an interference fit between the male inlet tube 157 of
the Y-shaped section 421 and the female downstream end 405 of the
downstream intermediate connector 401.
[0163] In this manner, the intermediate connectors 400, 401 may be
used to facilitate assembly of the connector 300 within a neo-natal
breathing circuit, as illustrated in FIG. 17(i). In particular, the
upstream intermediate connector 400 provides a step-up in the
cross-sectional area of the flow from the smaller diameter
neo-natal ventilator conduit 420 to the larger diameter gas conduit
of the connector 300. Also the downstream intermediate connector
401 provides a step-down in the cross-sectional area of the flow
from the larger diameter gas conduit of the connector 300 to the
smaller diameter neo-natal Y-shaped respiratory section 421.
[0164] The Y-shaped section 421 separates into a first arm 55 for
inhalation to the respiratory system of the patient (Flow E) and a
second arm 56 for exhalation from the respiratory system (Flow F).
Operation of the neo-natal apparatus of FIG. 17(i) operates in a
manner similar to that described previously with reference to FIG.
14.
[0165] It is to be noted that the intermediate connectors 400, 401
provide a bridging means between the connector 300 and the
ventilator conduit 420 and the Y-shaped section 421, so that a
single connector 300 may be used for both pediatric care
applications (FIG. 17(c)) and neo-natal care applications (FIG.
17(i)).
[0166] The upstream intermediate connector 430 of FIG. 17(j) has
two diametrically opposed protruding flanges 431 on the elbow 408
of the intermediate connector 430. Similarly the downstream
intermediate connector 432 of FIG. 17(k) has two diametrically
opposed protruding flanges 431 on the elbow 409 of the intermediate
connector 432.
[0167] The flanges 431 provide a handle means for gripping the
intermediate connectors 430, 432 to assist mounting and demounting
of the intermediate connectors 430, 432 to the connector 300, as
illustrated in FIG. 17(m). This feature may be applied to any of
the connectors.
[0168] Referring now to FIGS. 18 to 20, there are illustrated some
possible arrangements for using the apparatus 1, according to the
invention, for delivering medicament to a respiratory system 203 of
a patient.
[0169] In the arrangement of FIG. 18, gas is pumped from a
ventilator 200 into the inlet 61 of the gas conduit (line G). The
power source for the controller 50 which controls operation of the
apparatus 1 is provided by the ventilator 200 (line P).
[0170] In the arrangement of FIG. 19, gas is pumped from the
ventilator 200 into the inlet 61 of the gas conduit (line G). The
power source for the controller 50 is provided by a battery 201
and/or a mains power source 202 (lines P).
[0171] In the arrangement of FIG. 20, gas is drawn into the inlet
61 of the gas conduit directly from the atmosphere 204 (line G).
The power source for the controller 50 is provided by the battery
201 and/or the mains power source 202 and/or the ventilator 200
(lines P).
[0172] In the case where the power source is provided by the
battery 201, and the inlet 61 is open to the atmosphere 204, the
apparatus 1 is highly mobile. In particular, the apparatus 1 may be
worn or held by the patient as the patient takes exercise.
[0173] FIG. 21 illustrates a rear side of the controller housing
57. The housing 57 defines a recess 260 in the rear side of the
housing 57, and two opposed ledges 261, 262 which overhang
partially over recess 260, as illustrated most clearly in FIG.
22.
[0174] Referring now to FIG. 23, there is illustrated a mounting
device 250. The mounting device 250 comprises means for attaching
the device 250 to a support, such as an intravenous (IV) pole or a
medi-rail, and hook means for supporting a medical device, such as
the controller housing 57.
[0175] The attachment means is provided, in this case, by a
releasable clamp 251. The attachment means may alternatively be
provided by a clip, such as a belt-clip.
[0176] The hook means is configured to define a plurality of, in
this case four, support surfaces 252 for supporting the housing 57
in an upright configuration. The support surfaces 252 are provided
by a lip 253 which protrudes from a main body 254 of the mounting
device 250. The lip 253 is spaced from the main body 254 by two
legs 255 (FIG. 23).
[0177] In this case, the mounting device 250 is used to support the
controller housing 57, as illustrated in FIGS. 24 and 25. The lip
253 of the mounting device 250 may be inserted into the wider end
of the recess 260 in the rear side of the controller housing 57 and
then slid along the recess 260 until the lip 253 is partially
enclosed behind the ledges 261, 262. In this configuration, the
controller housing 57 is releasably supported by the mounting
device 250 (FIGS. 24 and 25).
[0178] The lip 253 comprises a plurality of support surfaces 252.
This arrangement enables the controller housing 57, or any other
suitable medical device, to be supported in an upright orientation
when the mounting device 250 is clamped to a horizontal support,
such as a medi-rail (FIG. 24), or when the mounting device 250 is
clamped to a vertical support, such as an IV pole (FIG. 25).
[0179] It will be appreciated that the support surfaces 252 may be
arranged at angles other than 90.degree. relative to one
another.
[0180] Referring now to FIGS. 26 and 27 there is illustrated
another mounting device which is similar to the mounting device 250
of FIGS. 23 to 25, and similar elements in FIGS. 26 and 27 are
assigned the same reference numerals.
[0181] In this case, the attachment means is provided by a sleeve
270 and the hook means may be moved relative to the sleeve 270 to
selectively disassociate the hook means from the attachment means.
The sleeve 270 defines a groove 271 in which the main body 254 may
be slidably received (FIG. 26).
[0182] The sleeve 270 may be permanently or temporarily attached to
a support, such as a medi-rail, or an IV pole, or a ventilator 200,
as illustrated in FIG. 27, by means of fixing pins inserted through
apertures 272 in sleeve 270.
[0183] Referring to FIGS. 28 to 30, there is illustrated another
apparatus 100 according to the invention, which is similar to the
apparatus 1 of FIGS. 1 to 27, and similar elements in FIGS. 28 and
29 are assigned the same reference numerals.
[0184] In this case, the connector 101 is of a general L-shape. The
aerosol supply conduit is defined by the neck 30 of the aerosol
generator housing 4, and the inlet 102 of the gas conduit extends
co-axially around the neck 30.
[0185] A plurality of inward protrusions 103 are provided on the
inlet 102 of the gas conduit, spaced radially around the
circumference of the inlet 102 (FIG. 28). The connector 101 is
releasably mounted to the aerosol generator housing 4 by means of
an interference fit between the protrusions 103 and the neck 30 of
the aerosol generator housing 4.
[0186] This arrangement facilitates passage of air into the inlet
102 of the gas conduit between the protrusions 103.
[0187] An intermediate elbow portion 104 is provided to connect the
face mask 50 to the outlet 105 of the gas conduit. The elbow 104 is
mounted to the face mask 50 in such a manner that movement of the
face mask 50 relative to the elbow 104 is possible, in particular
the face mask 50 is rotatable about the elbow 104. The elbow 104 is
also mounted to the outlet 105 of the gas conduit in a moveable
manner, in particular rotation of the elbow 104 and the face mask
50 about the longitudinal axis of the outlet 105 of the gas conduit
is possible, as illustrated in FIG. 28. This arrangement
facilitates use of the face mask 50 with a patient in a
sitting/standing position, or in a lying position, or in any
inclined position, while maintaining the reservoir 2 and the
aerosol generator housing 4 assembly in a suitable orientation that
enables gravitational flow of the liquid medicament from the
reservoir 2 to the aerosol generator 3.
[0188] The apparatus 100 is also suitable for use with the
mouthpiece 51, as illustrated in FIG. 30, or with any other
suitable respiratory conduit, such as the inter-tracheal tube
52.
[0189] The power usage of the apparatus 1 is relatively low, in
this case approximately 1.5 W, thus the associated heat generated
during use is negligible. The apparatus 1 may therefore be placed
as close to the patient as desired, even touching the patient for
long periods of use without causing discomfort to the patient, or
without burning the patient.
[0190] The cap 10 is mounted to the reservoir 2. Therefore, there
are no loose parts which could be contaminated, broken or lost
during filling or refilling of the reservoir 2.
[0191] The aerosol generator 3 produces an aerosol of medication
with consistent mono-dispersed particles within a controlled range
of aerosol particle sizes. No filters/baffles or flow disrupters
are required between the aerosol generator and the respiratory
system of the patient, and no degradation of the medication occurs
as a result of the aerosol generation process.
[0192] The invention is not limited to the embodiments hereinbefore
described, with reference to the accompanying drawings, which may
be varied in construction and detail.
* * * * *