U.S. patent number RE43,174 [Application Number 11/655,039] was granted by the patent office on 2012-02-14 for aerosol delivery apparatus.
This patent grant is currently assigned to Trudell Medical International. Invention is credited to Rick Blacker, Daniel Engelbreth, James N. Schmidt.
United States Patent |
RE43,174 |
Schmidt , et al. |
February 14, 2012 |
**Please see images for:
( Certificate of Correction ) ** |
Aerosol delivery apparatus
Abstract
An apparatus and method for performing positive pressure (PP)
therapy alone or in combination with an aerosol delivery apparatus.
The positive pressure apparatus includes a positive pressure valve
having a continuously variable respiratory window. The PP valve may
be associated with a patient respiratory system interface alone,
such as, but not limited to, a mask or mouthpiece, or in
combination with an aerosol delivery apparatus.
Inventors: |
Schmidt; James N. (London,
CA), Engelbreth; Daniel (London, CA),
Blacker; Rick (White Rock, CA) |
Assignee: |
Trudell Medical International
(London, CA)
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Family
ID: |
22725866 |
Appl.
No.: |
11/655,039 |
Filed: |
January 18, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
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09833019 |
Apr 11, 2001 |
6557549 |
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60196555 |
Apr 11, 2000 |
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Reissue of: |
10389257 |
Mar 14, 2003 |
6848443 |
Feb 1, 2005 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
128/200.23;
128/205.24; 128/203.15 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61M
15/0018 (20140204); A61M 16/208 (20130101); A63B
23/18 (20130101); A61M 15/0016 (20140204); A61M
16/0858 (20140204); A61M 15/0086 (20130101); A63B
2208/12 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
A61M
11/00 (20060101); B65D 83/06 (20060101); A62B
9/02 (20060101); B05D 7/14 (20060101) |
Field of
Search: |
;128/200.18,200.23,200.24,203.12,203.15,203.16,203.18,203.21,203.24,205.25,204.23,206.12,206.21,206.28,207.12,207.13
;600/538,540 ;482/13 |
References Cited
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Oct 2000 |
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WO 01/76671 |
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Oct 2001 |
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WO |
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Primary Examiner: Matter; Kristen C
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione
Parent Case Text
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.
09/833,019, filed Apr. 11, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,557,549, which
claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/196,555,
filed Apr. 11, 2000, wherein the entirety of each of the
aforementioned applications are incorporated herein by reference.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A positive respiratory pressure apparatus comprising: a patient
respiratory system interface; a one-way valve positionable in the
patient respiratory interface and configured to pass a fluid
traveling in a predetermined direction from a first side to a
second side of the one-way valve; and wherein the patient
respiratory system interface comprises a bypass window integral
with, and defined by, the patient respiratory interface, the bypass
window positioned adjacent the one-way valve, and wherein the
patient respiratory interface further comprises a window opening
adjustment mechanism movably disposed in the patient respiratory
system interface and operable to change a size of an opening
between the patient respiratory system interface and ambient air
outside of the patient respiratory system interface, whereby the
bypass window and window opening adjustment mechanism cooperate to
selectively create one of a plurality of fluid resistances.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the bypass window and window
opening adjustment mechanism are configured to cooperate with the
one-way valve to provide an inspiratory pressure at the patient
respiratory system interface.
3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the bypass window and window
opening adjustment mechanism are movable into a plurality of
overlapping positions.
4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the window opening adjustment
mechanism comprises a tapered portion, and wherein the size of the
opening is defined by an overlap position of the tapered portion
relative to the bypass window.
5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein an edge of the window opening
adjustment mechanism is movable to overlap an edge wall of the
bypass window at a non-perpendicular angle.
6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the fluid traveling in the
predetermined direction comprises inhaled gas and the one-way valve
comprises a one-way inhalation valve, and wherein the one-way
inhalation valve is configured to cooperate with the bypass window
and window opening adjustment mechanism to create a positive
expiratory pressure at the patient respiratory system
interface.
7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the window opening adjustment
mechanism is positioned over the bypass window.
8. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the window opening adjustment
mechanism is positioned beneath the bypass window.
9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the bypass window comprises an
opening in a curved wall formed in the patient respiratory
interface, and the window opening adjustment mechanism is movably
positioned adjacent the opening in the circular wall.
10. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the opening defined by the
bypass window and window opening adjustment mechanism is
continuously adjustable between a first exhalation resistance and a
second exhalation resistance.
11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the patient respiratory
system interface comprises a mouthpiece.
12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the patient respiratory
system interface comprises a mask.
13. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the patient respiratory
system interface is integrally formed with a metered dose
inhaler.
14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the patient respiratory
system interface defines a circular opening at a proximal end.
15. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the patient respiratory
system interface defines an oblong opening at a proximal end.
16. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the bypass window is
oriented perpendicular to the one-way valve.
17. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one-way valve comprises a
duck-bill valve.
18. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one-way valve comprises
an annular valve.
19. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising an aerosol
delivery apparatus in fluid communication with the patient
respiratory interface.
20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the aerosol delivery
apparatus comprises a nebulizer.
21. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the aerosol delivery
apparatus comprises an aerosol holding chamber.
.Iadd.22. A respiratory apparatus comprising: a holding chamber
extending in a longitudinal direction and comprising input and
output ends; a mouthpiece in fluid communication with and connected
to said output end, wherein said mouthpiece comprises: a first
annular wall arranged around and defining an inhalation passageway
and extending longitudinally away from an output end of said
mouthpiece and towards said holding chamber in said longitudinal
direction, said first annular wall having an inner side surface and
an outer side surface, wherein said first annular wall has a window
formed therein, wherein said window is formed by a notch defined in
an edge of said first annular wall, and wherein said inner side
surface of said annular wall defines an entirety of an exhaust
conduit upstream of said window; a second annular wall disposed
laterally outwardly of said first annular wall and forming a gap
between said first and second annular walls; a one-way inhalation
valve member disposed in said inhalation passageway; and a flow
control member extending in said longitudinal direction and
positioned in said gap between said first and second annular walls
immediately adjacent said outer side surface of said first annular
wall, wherein said flow control member is moveable between a first
position, wherein at least a portion of said window is open such
that exhaust gases can escape through said window during
exhalation, and a second position, wherein said flow control member
is positioned over and closes said window..Iaddend.
.Iadd.23. The apparatus of claim 22 wherein said one-way inhalation
valve member is configured as a duck-bill valve..Iaddend.
.Iadd.24. The apparatus of claim 22 wherein said mouthpiece
comprises a patient interface component and a connector component,
wherein said connector component is coupled to said output end of
said holding chamber. .Iaddend.
.Iadd.25. The apparatus of claim 24 wherein said one-way inhalation
valve comprises a base portion. .Iaddend.
.Iadd.26. The apparatus of claim 25 wherein said base portion is
secured between said patient interface component and said connector
component. .Iaddend.
.Iadd.27. The apparatus of claim 25 wherein said first annular wall
seals against said base portion of said one-way inhalation valve
member. .Iaddend.
.Iadd.28. The apparatus of claim 24 wherein said patient interface
component and said connector component are releasably connected.
.Iaddend.
.Iadd.29. The apparatus of claim 28 wherein said patient interface
component and said connector component are releasably connected
with a snap-fit. .Iaddend.
.Iadd.30. The apparatus of claim 22 wherein said mouthpiece
comprises a first opening mating with said holding chamber and a
second opening axially spaced from said first opening, wherein said
second opening is smaller than said first opening. .Iaddend.
.Iadd.31. The apparatus of claim 22 wherein a portion of said
mouthpiece has a dome- shaped interior surface. .Iaddend.
.Iadd.32. The apparatus of claim 22 wherein said mouthpiece
comprises a mask. .Iaddend.
.Iadd.33. The apparatus of claim 22 further comprising a backpiece
disposed at said input end, said backpiece having an opening shaped
and adapted to receive a metered dose inhaler. .Iaddend.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to an apparatus and method for performing
Positive Expiratory Pressure (PEP) therapy. More particularly, this
invention relates to a method and apparatus for performing PEP
therapy alone or in conjunction with an aerosol delivery
apparatus.
BACKGROUND
PEP therapy is used primarily in pulmonary secretion removal.
Devices used to perform PEP therapy provide positive pressure
during expiration. The patient or user exhales against a fixed
orifice resistor and generates a pressure ranging approximately
from 10-20 cm H.sub.2O. The resistance orifice is an important
consideration and frequently is initially set by a physician,
veterinarian, or a skilled practitioner in the art. An orifice that
is too large may result in a short exhalation that will not produce
proper expiratory pressure. An orifice that is too small may result
in a longer expiratory phase that raises the pressure above
approximately 20 cm H.sub.2O and ultimately increases the work of
breathing.
During the exhalation phase of PEP therapy, the airway is splinted
open by the pressure. This causes the movement of secretions from
the peripheral airways into the larger airways where they can be
expelled. PEP therapy usually lasts for about 10-20 minutes and is
performed as required, generally 1-4 times per day. Typically, the
patient performs 10-20 PEP breaths, removes the device from their
mouth and follows this with a forceful exhalation. This final
exhalation triggers a cough that loosens secretions.
Studies indicate that PEP therapy dilates the airways and improves
the distribution of ventilation, resulting in a better deposition
of an inhaled substance, such as, but not limited to, a medicine or
remedy. As used herein, the term "aerosol delivery apparatus" means
any apparatus capable of producing and/or delivering a substance,
such as, but not limited to, a medicine, in a form suitable for
inhalation by a patient and includes, without limitation, an
aerosol holding chamber, nebulizer, spacer with integrated
actuator, a dry powder inhaler, and a metered dose inhaler.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
One aspect of the present invention is directed to a positive
respiratory pressure apparatus including a patient respiratory
system interface and a valve assembly in fluid communication with
the patient respiratory system interface. The valve assembly has a
valve configured to pass a fluid traveling in a predetermined
direction from a first side to a second side of the valve, and a
variable resistance bypass window positioned adjacent the valve and
having a resistance to a fluid traveling in a direction opposed to
the predetermined direction, where the variable resistance bypass
window is continuously adjustable between a first fluid resistance
and a second fluid resistance.
According to another aspect of the invention an apparatus is
disclosed that is capable of performing positive expiratory
pressure (PEP) therapy alone or in combination with providing a
substance, generally in aerosol form. The apparatus includes a
positive pressure (PP) valve having a continuously variable
respiratory window. As used herein, the term respiratory is
intended to encompass both inhalation and exhalation. Whether
inhalation resistance or exhalation resistance is called for will
be known to one skilled in the art. The valve may be located at or
near the output end of an aerosol delivery apparatus. U.S.
application Ser. No. 08/938,686 filed Sep. 26, 1997 in the name of
Engelbreth et al. and Ser. No. 09/287,997 filed on Apr. 7, 1999 in
the name of Schmidt et al. describe exemplary embodiments of an
aerosol delivery apparatus and the disclosures of these references
are incorporated herein by reference. Further, U.S. Pat. No.
4,470,412 to Nowacki et al., describing a spacer or expansion
chamber, is additionally incorporated herein by reference. The
aerosol delivery apparatus with the PP apparatus may be used alone
or in combination with a mask or mouthpiece.
In one embodiment, the PP apparatus is associated with a mask. The
mask with the PP apparatus may be used alone or in combination with
an aerosol delivery apparatus. In another embodiment, the PP
apparatus is associated with a mouthpiece. The mouthpiece with the
PP apparatus may be used alone or in combination with an aerosol
delivery apparatus. In a further embodiment, the PP apparatus is
associated with a nebulizer. The nebulizer with the PP apparatus
may be used alone or in combination with a patient respiratory
system interface, such as a mask or mouthpiece. In yet another
embodiment, the PP apparatus is associated with a spacer chamber
with an integrated actuator. The spacer chamber with the integrated
actuator associated with the PP apparatus may be used alone or in
combination with a mouthpiece or mask.
In another embodiment, a pressurized metered dose inhaler canister
is capable of association with an aerosol holding chamber having a
PP valve associated therewith. In yet a further embodiment, a
pressurized metered dose inhaler canister is capable of association
with an aerosol holding chamber engageable with a mouthpiece or
mask having a PP valve associated therewith.
Another aspect of the invention is directed to a kit for performing
positive expiratory pressure including an aerosol delivery
apparatus, a mouthpiece and/or mask attachable to the output end of
the aerosol delivery apparatus, and a PP apparatus. The PP
apparatus may be located on the aerosol delivery apparatus or the
mouthpiece and/or mask. In alter- native embodiments, the PP
apparatus may be attached to the aerosol delivery apparatus or
integrally formed with the apparatus. The aerosol delivery
apparatus, mouthpiece, and PP valve can be combined so as to
accomplish positive expiratory therapy and administration of a
substance, such as, but not limited to, a medicine in aerosol form.
Any aerosol delivery apparatus may be used. In further embodiments
of the kit, a backpiece is included for association with an aerosol
delivery apparatus. A pressurized metered dose inhaler can engage
with the backpiece for delivery of a medicament.
One embodiment of a method of performing positive expiratory
pressure therapy includes providing a PP apparatus with a valve
that is capable of providing a continuously variable expiratory
window. The method further includes performing a series of breaths.
When exhalation is performed, the exhalant is directed through the
continuously variable expiratory window. Performance of a
therapeutic cough triggers the loosening of secretions. Upon
loosening of the secretions, a substance, such as a medicament, may
be provided for inhalation into the respiratory system. In an
alternative embodiment of method, the PP valve may be positioned so
as to provide positive inspiratory pressure upon inhalation into
the apparatus.
A further aspect of another embodiment includes association of a PP
apparatus associable with a mask or mouthpiece engageable with a
backpiece device. The backpiece device includes a plastic or an
elastomeric adapter suited to receive the mouthpiece of a
pressurized metered dose inhaler.
One embodiment of a method of performing positive expiratory
pressure therapy includes providing a positive expiratory pressure
apparatus having a valve capable of providing a continuously
variable resistance window, performing a series of breaths
including inhalation and exhalation; exhaling so that the exhalant
is directed through the continuously variable resistance window,
performing a therapeutic cough triggering the loosening of
secretions, and providing an inhaleable medicament.
Another embodiment of a method of performing positive expiratory
pressure therapy includes providing a positive respiratory pressure
apparatus having a valve capable of providing a continuously
adjustable resistance to exhalation, where the valve is located in
a mouthpiece attachable to a chamber. A patient then executes a
series of therapeutic breaths, including inhalation and exhalation,
wherein the exhalant is directed through the continuously
adjustable resistance window, the patient performs a therapeutic
cough triggering the loosening of secretions, and medicament is
provided via the chamber.
According to another aspect of the invention, a method of
performing positive expiratory pressure therapy in combination with
providing an aerosolized medicament includes providing a positive
expiratory pressure apparatus having a positive expiratory pressure
valve capable of providing a continuously variable resistance
window, where the valve is positionable in a mouthpiece and the
mouthpiece attachable to an aerosol holding chamber. A series of
therapeutic breaths, including inhalation and exhalation, are then
taken where the exhalant is directed through the continuously
variable resistance window. The continuously variable resistance
window is preferably capable of providing a variable back pressure
to the exhalant. A therapeutic cough capable of triggering the
loosening of sections is performed and aerosolized medicament from
the aerosol holding chamber is administered through inhalation.
One embodiment of an apparatus capable of performing positive
respiratory pressure therapy in combination with providing an
aerosolized medicament includes a positive respiratory pressure
valve having a continuously variable resistance window; and an
aerosol holding chamber having an output end, the positive
respiratory pressure valve locatable at the output end.
Another embodiment of an apparatus capable of performing positive
respiratory pressure therapy includes a positive respiratory
pressure valve having a slide control, the slide control providing
a continuously variable resistance window; and a mouthpiece, the
mouthpiece having a first and a second end, the second end capable
of association with the positive respiratory pressure valve.
Yet another embodiment of an apparatus capable of performing
positive respiratory pressure therapy in combination with providing
an aerosolized medicament includes a positive respiratory pressure
valve having a continuously variable resistance window; an aerosol
holding chamber having an input end and an output end, the positive
respiratory pressure valve locatable at the output end; and a
metered dose inhaler canister capable of association with the input
end of the aerosol holding chamber.
A still further embodiment of a kit for performing positive
expiratory pressure includes an aerosol holding chamber having an
inlet and an outlet. A backpiece is attachable to the inlet of the
aerosol holding chamber with a metered dose inhaler capable of
association with the backpiece. A mouthpiece is attachable to the
outlet of the aerosol holding chamber. A positive expiratory
pressure valve is generally locatable at the outlet end of the
aerosol holding chamber, wherein the aerosol holding chamber,
backpiece, mouthpiece, and positive expiratory pressure valve can
be combined so as to accomplish positive expiratory therapy and
administration of an aerosolized medicament.
An additional embodiment of an apparatus capable of performing
positive expiratory pressure therapy in combination with providing
an aerosolized medicament includes a positive expiratory pressure
valve having a continuously variable resistance window, a
mouthpiece, the positive expiratory pressure valve associable with
the mouthpiece, and a nebulizer having an input end and an output
end, the positive expiratory pressure valve associable with the
output end.
Further embodiments include a mouthpiece wherein the improvement
comprises a positive pressure valve. An additional embodiment
includes a nebulizer wherein the improvement comprises a positive
pressure valve. Moreover, an embodiment includes an aerosol holding
chamber wherein the improvement comprises a positive pressure
valve. A yet further embodiment includes a pressurized metered dose
inhaler wherein the improvement comprises a positive pressure
valve.
The invention will best be understood by reference to the following
detailed description of the preferred embodiment, taken in
conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The discussion below is
descriptive, illustrative and exemplary and is not to be taken as
limiting the scope defined by any appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a cross sectional view of a mouthpiece associable with a
chamber in conjunction with a PP apparatus.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a mouthpiece associable with a
chamber in conjunction with the PP apparatus.
FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the preferred embodiment.
FIG. 4a is a front view of one embodiment of the PP apparatus.
FIG. 4b is a cross section drawn along line A-A of FIG. 4a .
FIG. 4c is a back view of one embodiment of the PP apparatus.
FIG. 4d is a cross section drawn along line B-B of FIG. 4a.
FIG. 4e is a sectional cross section drawn along line C-C of FIG.
4a.
FIG. 4f is a rear perspective view of the embodiment of FIG.
4a.
FIG. 5 is a rear perspective of a mouthpiece according to a
preferred embodiment.
FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of a mouthpiece with one
embodiment of the PP apparatus.
FIG. 7a is a front view of the fitting and manometer port.
FIG. 7b is a cross section drawn along line A-A of FIG. 7a of the
fitting and port.
FIG. 8a is a top view of one embodiment of the slide control.
FIG. 8b is a side view of one embodiment of the slide control.
FIG. 8c is a perspective view of one embodiment of the slide
control.
FIG. 8d is a cross section drawn along line A-A of FIG. 8a.
FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of one embodiment of the slide
control.
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the
PP apparatus of FIGS. 1-3 showing detent notches in conjunction
with a mouthpiece.
FIG. 11 is an exploded view of one embodiment showing a slide
control having a port.
FIG. 12 is one embodiment of the slide control having a port.
FIG. 13 is one embodiment of the mouthpiece showing the annular
sealing ring.
FIG. 14 is one embodiment showing a plurality of detent
notches.
FIG. 15 is a side view of one embodiment of the control valve
showing the port.
FIG. 16 is a concave perspective view of the slide control showing
the port.
FIG. 17 is a concave bottom view of the slide control showing the
port.
FIG. 18 is an exploded view of an alternative embodiment of the PP
apparatus of FIGS. 8-10.
FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the PP apparatus of FIG.
18.
FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a duck-bill valve used in the PP
apparatus of FIGS. 18-19.
FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the duck-bill valve of FIG.
20.
FIG. 22a is a front exploded view of one embodiment of the PP
apparatus in conjunction with a mouthpiece and associable with a
spacer.
FIG. 22b is a rear exploded view of one embodiment of the PP
apparatus in conjunction with a mouthpiece and associable with a
spacer.
FIG. 22c is a front view of one embodiment of a valve showing the
baffle.
FIG. 23 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a PP apparatus
in association with a nebulizer.
FIG. 24 is an exploded view of one embodiment of the PP apparatus
and a mouthpiece.
FIG. 25 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the PP apparatus
in an open position and a mouthpiece.
FIG. 26 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the PP apparatus
in a semi-open position and a mouthpiece.
FIG. 27 is an exploded view of one embodiment of the PP apparatus
showing the disc and a mouthpiece.
FIG. 28a is a top view of one embodiment of the PP apparatus and a
mouthpiece.
FIG. 28b is a cross section of one embodiment of the PP apparatus
and a mouthpiece showing a plurality of prongs holding the PP
apparatus.
FIG. 29 is an exploded view of a PP apparatus associated with a
mouthpiece and having an inhalation valve.
FIG. 30 is an exploded view of a PP apparatus associated with a
mouthpiece and having an exhalation valve.
FIG. 31 is a further perspective view of one embodiment of the PP
apparatus in conjunction with a mask having an opening for
association with a chamber.
FIG. 32a is a close up of one embodiment of the PP apparatus in a
fully open position in conjunction with a mask.
FIG. 32b is a cross section of one embodiment of the PP apparatus
in a fully open position in conjunction with a mask.
FIG. 33a is a close up of one embodiment of the PP apparatus in a
partially open position in conjunction with a mask.
FIG. 33b is a cross section of one embodiment of the PP apparatus
in a partially open position in conjunction with a mask.
FIG. 34a is a close up of one embodiment of the PP apparatus having
a plurality of variable sized flow ports, in conjunction with a
mask.
FIG. 34b is a cross section of one embodiment of the PP apparatus
having a plurality of variable sized flow ports, in conjunction
with a mask.
FIG. 35a is a front exploded view of a close up of one embodiment
of the PP apparatus having a plurality of variable sized flow
ports, in conjunction with a mask.
FIG. 35b is a rear exploded view of a close up of one embodiment of
the PP apparatus having a plurality of variable sized flow ports,
in conjunction with a mask.
FIG. 36 is a front view of one embodiment of the PP apparatus
showing resistance setting indicia.
FIG. 37 shows a perspective view of a spacer for a pressurized
metered dose inhaler with one embodiment of the PP apparatus.
FIG. 38a is a perspective view of one embodiment of the resistance
window in the open position.
FIG. 38b is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 38a with
the resistance window in a closed position.
FIG. 39a is a perspective view of one embodiment of the resistance
window in the open position.
FIG. 39b is a perspective view of one embodiment of the resistance
window in the closed position.
FIG. 40 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the apparatus of
FIGS. 37-39.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENTLY PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
FIGS. 1-3 show one embodiment of an assembly 10 for performing
positive expiratory pressure (PEP) therapy where the assembly
incorporates a positive pressure (PP) device having a PP valve 12.
The assembly 10 includes an aerosol delivery apparatus, such as an
aerosol holding chamber 14, and a patient respiratory system
interface, such as a mouthpiece 16 and/or mask attachable to the
output end of the aerosol delivery apparatus. The PP valve 12 may
be located on the aerosol delivery apparatus or the patient
respiratory system interface. The assembly 10 combines the aerosol
delivery apparatus, mouthpiece, and PP valve into a tool for use in
both positive expiratory therapy and administration of a substance,
such as a medicament, in aerosol form. Any aerosol delivery
apparatus suitable for generating an aerosol of the desired
substance may be used.
In the embodiment of FIGS. 1-3, a backpiece 18 is attachable to the
inlet 20 of the aerosol holding chamber 14. A metered dose inhaler
(not shown) may be connected with the backpiece 18. The mouthpiece
16 is attachable to the outlet end 22 of the aerosol holding
chamber 14. The PP valve 12 is generally locatable at the outlet
end 22 of the aerosol holding chamber 14. FIG. 3 depicts an
exploded view of the PEP assembly showing an annular valve 24
positioned between the outlet end 22 and the mouthpiece 16. More
details on the aerosol holding chamber 14 disclosed in FIGS. 1-3
may be found in U.S. Pat. No. 4,470,412 and U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 09/287,997 incorporated above.
In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2, the aerosol holding
chamber 14 is provided with an annular valve 24 located at its
outlet end 22. The annular valve 24 allows the user to inhale
medicament from the chamber 14, but prevents exhalation back
through the chamber. As illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, and in more
detail in FIGS. 4a-4f, 5 and 6, a PP valve 12 may be formed in a
mouthpiece 16. The PP valve 12 includes a slide control 26 that is
movably positioned relative to a resistance window 28. The slide
control 26 is variably maneuverable to cover or uncover the
resistance window 28 in a continuous manner. Further, the movement
of the slide control 26 includes, but is not limited to, covering
or uncovering, and/or opening or closing, the resistance window 28
or any variations thereof.
The PP valve 12 may be located on or in conjunction with a
mouthpiece 16. An exemplary embodiment of the mouthpiece 16 shown
in FIGS. 4a-4f has a distal end 30 and a proximal end 32. Commonly,
the proximal end 32 of the mouthpiece is inserted or associated
with the mouth or nostrils of the user. Additionally, the distal
end 30 of a mouthpiece may or may not be associated with an aerosol
delivery apparatus and the mouthpiece alone may be configured to
constitute a PEP device.
Generally, in one exemplary embodiment, the PP valve 12 may be
located at or near the distal end 30 of the mouthpiece 16.
Although, it is understood that the PP valve 12 may be located
anywhere on the mouthpiece 1 and its location is not to be limited.
In an alternative embodiment, the PP valve 12 may be located at or
near the output end 20 of the aerosol delivery apparatus, such as,
but not limited to, the aerosol holding chamber 14 of FIGS. 1-3.
Generally, the direction of travel of any fluid, particularly an
aerosol or nebulizer medicament, is in the direction from the input
end 20, through the channel or chamber body, and to or out the
output end 22. This direction of travel from input end 20 to output
end 22 is referred to as travel from downstream to upstream.
In a preferred embodiment the mouthpiece 16 is formed of plastic.
The plastic may be either rigid or soft. Other materials that can
also be used for the mouthpiece 16 include metal or other materials
known to one in the art. In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1-3,
4a, 4b, 4c, and 4f, a tab 34 is provided allowing for the
connection of a cap 36, as shown in FIG. 2, to cover the proximal
end 32 of the mouthpiece 16. In a preferred embodiment, the
mouthpiece 16 may include indicia 35, or setting indications,
representing the resistance setting. The indicia 35 may be in the
form of numbers, bars, colors, a series of dots or the like.
In a further embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 7a and 7b, the PP
apparatus 10 may includes a fitting 39 sized for placement over the
proximal end of the mouthpiece. The fitting 39 includes a manometer
port 41 extending from the fitting over which a manometer can be
attached. In a preferred embodiment the fitting 39 is formed of a
plastic. The plastic may be either rigid or soft. Other materials
that can also be used to form the fitting include metal.
FIGS. 3, 8a-8d and 9 show an embodiment of the slide control 26 of
the PP apparatus 10. As shown in FIG. 9, in the illustrated
embodiment, the slide control 26 is of a semi-circular, quarter
moon shape. The slide control 26 has a first lateral side 38
concave in shape and a second lateral side 40 opposite the first
side 38. The slide control 26 also has a top 42 and a bottom 44
surface. From the top surface 42 of the slide control 26 extends a
tab setting 46.
In the illustrated embodiment, the tab setting 46 is a uniformly
molded projection from the slide control 26. In a preferred
embodiment, the tab setting 46 has smooth edges for easy engagement
with the finger, thumb or appendix of the user. The tab setting 46
may also have a serrated edge or any other edge known in the art.
When assembled with the mouthpiece 16, the tab setting 46 projects
through the mouthpiece from the tab window 48. The user of the
device manipulates the tab setting 46 in such a manner as to cause,
either directly or indirectly, the movement of the slide control 26
thereby varying the opening of the resistance window 28.
In the embodiment of FIGS. 1-3, 4a-4f, 5 and 6, the tab window 48
is arcuate in shape, parallel to the contour of the circumference
of the mouthpiece 16. Referring to FIG. 4f, the slide control 26 is
preferably seated in a channel 50 located on the mouthpiece 16. The
slide control 26 is held within the channel 50 by at least one
tooth 52. Located on one or both of the walls of the channel 50 is
a stepped surface 54 as shown in FIG. 5.
In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 8a and 6, the control arm 56 of
the slide control 26 is shown having a finger protection 58 from
one end of the slide control 26. In another embodiment, the slide
control 26 may have a control arm 56 located on both ends of the
slide control 26. The finger projection 58 is capable of engagement
with the stepped surface 54 inside the mouthpiece shown in FIGS. 4c
and 5. In the illustrated embodiment, the stepped surface 54
includes a series of ribs extending a variable length of the
internal diameter of the mouthpiece 16. In another embodiment, as
shown in FIG. 30, the stepped surface 54 may also be located along
the tab window 48. Therefore, the location of the stepped surface
54 may vary while remaining engageable by the control arm 56.
Additionally, the stepped surface 54 may be located on either or
both of the internal walls of the channel 46. In the embodiment of
FIGS. 4a-4f and 8a-8d, the slide control 26 is of a flexible
material so that the control arm 56 can slide across the uppermost
surface of the ribs projecting from the stepped surface 54. When
the desired opening of the resistance window 28 is obtained, the
control arm 56 engages in a semi-locked manner the ribs projecting
from the stepped surface 54.
The end of the slide control 26 opposite the control arm 56 may
either be provided with a finger projection 58 or may be smooth.
The length of the slide control 26 extending from the tab setting
46 to the end of the control arm 56 opposite the projection 58 is
generally the length of the resistance window 28. This resistance
control length 60 is at least the length that the resistance window
28 can be opened allowing for exhalant to exit the window 28. In a
preferred embodiment, the slide control 26 is manufactured of a
plastic. The plastic may be either rigid or soft. Other materials
that can also be used for the slide control 26 include metal or
other materials known in the art.
In general, as shown in FIG. 5, the resistance window 28 may be an
opening of any size or shape in the walls defining the channel 46
in the mouthpiece 16 which, in conjunction with the illustrated
embodiment of the slide control 26, provides an opening in the
mouthpiece 16 to produce sufficient pressure during exhalation of
the patient performing PEP therapy. For example, the resistance
window 28 may be formed with straight or slanted edges. If the
edges are slanted, this provides a steeped effect to the resistance
window 28. If the desired exhalation pressure is determined to
range from 10-20 cm H.sub.2O, then the resistance window 28 in
conjunction with the slide control 26, acting as a cover or closure
mechanism for the resistance window 28, are sized in such a manner
as to provide an appropriate opening for the desired exhalation
pressure to be produced. As one example, if the resistance window
28 is generally narrow, then the length of the window may be of a
longer length so as to provide a large enough opening through which
PEP therapy is performed. Interdependent in the relationship is the
resistance window length 60 of the control arm 26. In the above
example, the resistance window length 60 of the control arm 26 is
generally longer to cover the desired amount of the resistance
window 28. The control arm 26 may provide a continuously adjustable
variable resistance window between a first position where the
control arm completely blocks the window 28, to a second position
where the control arm leaves the window completely open.
An alternative embodiment of an assembly 100 for performing PEP
therapy is shown in FIGS. 10-17. This embodiment is similar to the
embodiment of FIGS. 11-13, but utilizes a variation of the
resistance window and slide control in the PP valve 112. In the
assembly 100 of FIGS. 10-17, the resistance window 128 and slide
control 126 are positioned in the mouthpiece 116. The tab setting
146 of the slide control 126 is of a flexible material. A detent
158 protrudes from the first tab setting face 156 located on the
concave side 125 of the slide control 126. As shown in FIG. 15, a
position indicating rib 159 is located on the tab setting 146
opposite the detent 158. In the illustrated embodiment, the rib 159
is shown as a generally rectangular protrusion from the surface of
the tab setting 146. Yet, the rib 159 may be any shape protrusion,
such as but not limited to circular, triangular. Further, the rib
159 may not be a protrusion at all but rather is a concave marking
on the surface of the tab setting 146. The rib 159 has at least the
function of indicating to the user the extent of the opening of the
resistance window 128. Therefore, one skilled in the art can
envision a variety of marking, shapes, indents or protrusions, or
colors which serve at least the function of indicating the extent
of the opening of the resistance window 28.
The detent 158 located on the tab setting 146 is associated with at
least one detent notch 154 as shown in FIGS. 10 and 14. The
flexible tab setting 146 is movable within the tab window 148. The
one or more detent notches 154 are preferably located along the
boundary of the tab window 148 and indicia 135, representative of
exhalation effort corresponding to the position of the slide
control 126, are arranged adjacent the respective detent positions.
FIGS. 10 and 14 show a plurality of detent notches 154. In
operation, the flexible tab setting 146 is moved along the tab
window 148. The detent 154 located on the first tab fitting face
125 of the tab setting 146 moves into and out of engagement with
the detent notches 154. Movement along the boundary and engagement
with the detent notches 154 removably fixes the slide control 126
in a variety of positions. Each varied position provides for a
further opening or closing of the resistance window 128. Further,
in operation, the detent 158 is not limited to being engaged with a
detent notch but may be engaged or seated at any point along the
boundary. Engagement with, or seating within, a detent notch 154 of
a detent 158 provides for a variable securely fixed opening of the
resistance window 128. Each detent notch 154 may correspond to a
particular size opening or pre-set opening of the resistance window
128. Therefore, by engagement of the detent 158 within the detent
notch 154, the user may be provided with a preset resistance window
opening 128. Yet, the detent notch 154 may also be positioned
anywhere along the boundary providing for a continuously variable
resistance window opening 128.
The slide control 126, as shown in FIGS. 15, 16 and 17 has located
therein a port 143. The port 143 may be of any size or shape and in
the illustrated embodiment is generally a rounded triangle having
an elongated point. The port 143 operates in conjunction with the
resistance window 128. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS.
10-17, the size of the opening through which the exhalant passes is
determined by how much of the port 143 is left uncovered or open
and aligned with the resistance window 128. The slide control 126
is provided with a closure area 145, as shown in FIG. 16. Further,
the slide control 126 is provided additionally with a port area
160. When the resistance window 128 is closed or not open and
thereby not allowing for the exiting of any exhalant, the closure
area 145 of the slide control 126 is congruent with or aligned with
the resistance window 128. As the slide control 126 is gradually
moved, the port area 160 containing the port 143 is brought into
alignment with the resistance window 128 in the mouthpiece 116. In
this manner, a continuously variable opening is provided. For
example, as the slide control 126 moves aligning a greater and
greater amount of the port 143 with the resistance window 128, a
greater opening or path for the exhalant is provided.
As described above, and similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 1-3, the
slide control 126 is seated in a channel 150 located on the
mouthpiece 116. The slide control 126 is slidably movable within
the channel 150 in the manner described above so as to continuously
variably align the port 160 with the resistance window 128. In the
embodiment of the slide control 126 illustrated in FIGS. 13, 16,
and 17, a retaining ridge 162 fits into the channel 150 thereby
holding the slide control 126 in its desired position throughout
its range of motion in the mouthpiece. The desired position of the
slide control 126 is as close as possible to the annular sealing
ring 164 shown in FIG. 13. One function of the annular sealing ring
164 is to prevent leakage of the exhalant to ensure that the
exhalant to the greatest extent exits from the resistance window
128. In a further embodiment, the PP valve 112 may optionally be
provided with at least one locating ring or post 166 to help
maintain the slide control 126 in alignment. As with the embodiment
of FIGS. 1-3, a patient's exhalation effort is controlled by
adjusting the slide control over the resistance window so that the
patient's exhaled air, which is prevented from entering the aerosol
chamber 114 by the annular valve 124 and a baffle (not shown), must
exit through the resistance window and provide a desired exhalation
resistance. More specifically, during inhalation the inner diameter
127 of the annular valve 124 (FIG. 11) unseats from the baffle (not
shown) on the output end 122 of the aerosol holding chamber and
permits passage of fluid. Substantially simultaneously, the
exhalation flange 186 of the valve 124 flexes to seal against the
outer ridge 188 (FIG. 13) formed inside the mouthpiece 116 to
prevent ambient air from entering the mouthpiece. During
exhalation, the process is reversed and the inner diameter 127
prevents exhalant from entering the aerosol holding chamber while
the exhalation flange 186 flexes away from the outer ridge 188.
Thus, the exhalant preferably passes through the resistance window
128 and may escape to the outside between the exhalation flange and
the mouthpiece, and then through the gap between the mouthpiece and
aerosol holding chamber.
Referring to FIGS. 18-21, an alternative embodiment of an assembly
210 for PEP therapy combined with an aerosol delivery apparatus is
shown. The aerosol delivery apparatus includes a chamber housing
214 having an input end 220 and an output end 222. The chamber
housing 214, input end 220, and output end 222 define an interior
space 223. The apparatus may also include an elastomeric backpiece
which may be similar to the backpiece in the embodiment shown in
FIGS. 1-3. The output end 222 of the chamber housing 214 is shaped
to receive the mouthpiece 216 and includes locking tabs 281 and a
protrusion 283. The protrusion 283 is preferably annular in shape.
The locking tabs 281 are spaced apart around the outside of the
output end 222.
Referring to FIGS. 18-19, the mouthpiece assembly 216 is preferably
substantially similar to that illustrated in FIGS. 10-15. The
mouthpiece assembly includes an annular sealing ring 224, and a
resistance window defined by a gap 225 in the sealing ring. A slide
control 226 is slidably seated in a channel 250 between the annular
sealing ring and support posts or a support ring. The tab setting
246 protrudes from the tab window 248 in the mouthpiece 216. The
continuously variable resistance function is achieved as described
above, using either embodiment of slide control and nozzle
described above.
The mouthpiece assembly 216 is connected to the output end 222 of
the chamber housing 214 by placing the apertures 284 over the
locking tabs 281. As with the embodiment of FIGS. 1-3 and 10-17, in
the embodiment of FIGS. 18-21 a containment baffle 275 may be
integrally formed with the chamber housing 214 from a single piece
of material and located near the outlet end 222. As shown in FIG.
18, the containment baffle 275 includes connecting members 276 that
extend from the edge of the containment baffle to the inner
diameter of the output end 222 in the chamber housing. Vents 277
are defined between the outer perimeter of the containment baffle
and the inner diameter of the outlet end of the chamber housing and
are separated by the connecting members. The vents 277 are arcuate
in shape and conform to the outer perimeter of the containment
baffle 275. In a preferred embodiment, the containment baffle is
dome-shaped where the concave end points towards the chamber 223.
In alternative embodiments, the containment baffle may be any of a
number of geometric shapes.
A valve 278 having a valve member 279 and a valve seat 280 is
shown. The valve seat 280 preferably comprises the rim of the valve
and the corresponding raised lip 283 on the outlet end 222 of the
chamber housing 214. The valve member has a sealing surface that
preferably forms between two parallel portions, or lips, of the
valve. In a preferred embodiment, the valve material seals against
itself when fluid flows against a predetermined flow direction of
the valve. In the embodiment shown, the valve is a duck-bill valve
where the valve seat 280 is positioned axially away from the valve
opening. The valve 278 defines a central open area toward the end
having the valve seat. The valve member 279, shown as parallel
sealing lips in FIGS. 18-21, acts to allow passage of fluid on
inhalation, but upon exhalation, the lips of the valve member are
held together by the force of fluid (e.g. exhaled air) pressing
against the walls 285 of the valve member and collapsing the lips
of the valve member 279 against each other in a closed position.
The valve seat 280 also provides a seal against the chamber housing
214 during exhalation so that exhalant from a patient must be
directed through the continuously variable resistance window in the
mouthpiece.
In one preferred embodiment, the duck-bill valve 278 has a central
open area 274 at its base that has a diameter of approximately
26.09 millimeters (mm). The width of the lips that form the valve
member 279 is approximately 21.35 mm and the angle at which the
walls 285 converge is approximately 72 degrees. Also, the height of
the duck-bill valve 278 measured from the upper portion 282 of the
valve seat to the valve member 279 is approximately 18.8 mm. The
mouthpiece 216 for containing this valve 278 preferably includes a
resistance widow gap 225 having a length of 59 degrees of arcuate
cut in the annular sealing ring 224, where the annular sealing ring
is approximately 31.4 mm in diameter and has a height of 4.5
mm.
The operation of the apparatus will now be discussed generally with
reference to the embodiments of FIGS. 1-3, 10-17 and 18-21. At
rest, the valve is adjacent to the output end of the chamber
housing. In the annular valve embodiment of FIGS. 1-3 and 10-17 the
inner portion of the valve covers the vents at the outlet end of
the chamber housing. In the duck-bill embodiment of FIGS. 18-21,
the entire outlet end is covered by the valve. For either valve
embodiment, the mouthpiece and outlet end of the chamber housing
traps the valve in place. Inhalation by the patient causes the
sealing portion of the annular valve to move, or alternatively the
lips of the duckbill valve to separate, and permit fluid to pass.
Fluid from the chamber housing may be inhaled into the patient's
respiratory system through the mouthpiece. The patient may then
exhale into the mouthpiece.
Exhalation by the patient results in air traveling through the
mouthpiece in a direction opposite the predetermined inhalation
flow path of the valve. This air, which is blocked from passage
through the valve along the inhalation path, then passes along a
second path through the resistance window in the mouthpiece. Also,
the force of the exhaled air causes the outer portion of the valve
to move away from the mouthpiece in a direction towards the chamber
housing. As a result, an exhalation pathway is created between the
outer portion of the valve and the mouthpiece through which the
exhaled air passes out to the atmosphere or some other
predetermined location. As described above, the amount of effort
that exhalation requires is set by the slide control, which may be
set to block the appropriate amount of the resistance window to
achieve the desired resistance.
Referring specifically to the duck-bill valve embodiment of FIGS.
18-21, the duck-bill valve 278 assists both in preventing
inhalation of ambient air through the resistance window 225 and
providing an exhalation path for exhalant. When the apparatus 210
is assembled (FIG. 19), the upper portion 282 of the valve seat
seals against the annular sealing ring 224 except for the gap in
the annular sealing ring 224 defining the resistance window 225.
During inhalation, fluid flows through the central opening 274 and
out the lips of the valve member 279. Also, the exhalation flange
286 flexes toward the proximal end of the mouthpiece and provides a
secondary seal against the outer ridge 288 inside the mouthpiece.
The outer ridge 288 is preferably continuous around the inner
circumference of the mouthpiece. Upon exhalation, the lips of the
valve member 279 close, the exhalant passes through the resistance
window under the upper portion 282 of the valve seat positioned
adjacent the resistance window opening, and the exhalation flange
flexes away from the outer ridge 288 and out between the aerosol
holding chamber 214 and mouthpiece 216.
As shown in FIGS. 22a-22c, an embodiment of an apparatus 310 for
performing PEP therapy is disclosed that may be used with or
without an aerosol delivery apparatus. In contrast to the
embodiments discussed above, the PEP apparatus of FIGS. 22a-22c is
a standalone PEP device in a mouthpiece incorporating the
previously discussed continuous variable resistance window with
slide control, and variations thereof, along with a self contained
valve 378 that may be similar to that disclosed in the previous
embodiments. Thus, the valve 378 need not be found on the outlet
end of a separate chamber extension 314 but may be positioned on
the distal end 330 of the mouthpiece. As best shown in FIGS.
22b-22c, the valve 378 may be an annular valve. The 378 is
preferably retained toward the distal end 330 of the apparatus by a
central baffle 385 supported by radial spokes 386. In one
embodiment, the PEP apparatus 310 is formed of an attachable
mouthpiece section 316 and a baffle section 317. The mouthpiece and
baffle sections 316, 317 may be removably joined using snap-fit,
threaded or other known attachment schemes. In another alternative
embodiment, the mouthpiece and baffle sections 316, 317 may be
integrally molded or welded shut to form a non-removable, unitary
piece. An extended inlet 314, without any valves, may be used with
the stand-alone PEP device 310 to enhance delivery of any medicine
to the patient's respiratory system. One function of the extended
inlet is to provide a chamber for the dispensed particles from the
pressurized metered dose inhaler. When desired, a pressurized
metered dose inhaler may be coupled to the extended inlet with a
backpiece and medicament supplied from the pressurized metered dose
inhaler can be delivered directly to the user.
Although the embodiments of FIGS. 1-22 illustrate annular and
duck-bill valves 24, 124, 278, 378, any of a number of other valve
configurations may be used. A preferred valve is capable of passing
a fluid moving in a first direction along a first path and also
capable of passing a fluid moving in an opposite direction along a
second path. In the example valves discussed above, inhalation
draws fluid through a central opening in the valve while the
perimeter of the valve prevents fluid flow. In the above examples,
exhalation closes the path through the central opening and directs
fluid along a second path around the perimeter of the valve. Other
paths may also be used.
FIGS. 23-28 illustrate another embodiment of a PEP apparatus 410.
As best shown in FIG. 23, the PEP apparatus 410 has a patient
respiratory system interface, such as a mouthpiece 416, on a
proximal end 432 and may be connected with an aerosol delivery
apparatus, in this example a nebulizer 414, at a distal end 430.
The PEP apparatus includes a PP valve 412 positioned on top of the
mouthpiece 416. The PP valve 412 preferably consists of a cover 417
that may be removably attached to a receiving area 419 (FIG. 24) on
the mouthpiece 416. The cover has a resistance window 428 and a tab
window 448 extending through a top surface. A slide control 426 in
the form of a disk with vents 460 extending through the thickness
of the disk is movably positioned under the cover 417. A one-way
valve 423 is positioned between the slide control 426 and the top
of the mouthpiece 416 to allow air exhaled into the proximal end
432 to escape through the resistance window 428 while preventing
any air from entering through the resistance widow during
inhalation.
In FIGS. 23-28, the resistance window 428 is shown generally as a
pie-slice shaped cut-out with the point of the pie-slice removed so
as to form a concave edge. The resistance window 428 may be any
shape and should not be limited by the illustrated embodiment.
Further, a plurality of resistance windows 428 may form the PP
valve 412. The number of windows 428 is not intended to be limited
by the illustrated embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment of
FIGS. 23-28, and particularly FIG. 27, the slide control 426 is
shown as a circular disc having a pie-slice shaped cut-outs with
the point of the pie-slice openings therein which correspond to the
openings of the resistance window 428. In operation, aligning the
openings 460 of the disc with the resistance window 428 controls
the opening of the continuously variable resistance window 428.
When the resistance windows 428 are aligned with the disc openings
460, the resistance windows 428 are opened to their fullest extent
allowing the resistance of the exhalant exiting the PP valve 412 to
be lower. When only a small amount of the resistance windows 428
are aligned with the disc openings 460, the resistance of the
exhalant exiting the PEP apparatus 410 is increased. By moving the
tab setting 446 in the tab window 448, the vents may be adjusted in
the disk 417 to any of a number of positions, thereby providing a
continuously adjustable resistance. In this manner, positive
expiratory pressure is controlled.
Referring again to FIG. 23, where the PEP apparatus 410 is
connected at its distal end to the nebulizer 414, the operation of
this embodiment will be described. Upon inhalation, the nebulizer
will provide an aerosol to the inhaling patient via the mouthpiece.
A suitable nebulizer for use with the PEP apparatus 410 is a
breath-actuated nebulizer such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
6,044,841 issued Apr. 4, 2000 and entitled "Breath Actuated
Nebulizer with Valve Assembly Having Relief Piston", the entirety
of which is incorporated herein by reference. During inhalation
from the nebulizer 414, a piston 452 is drawn down by negative
pressure created by the inhalation in the nebulizer and ambient air
is drawn through openings 454 in the lid 456 of the nebulizer 414.
The one-way valve 459 in the PP valve assembly 412 remains shut
during inhalation.
Upon exhalation into the proximal end 430 of the mouthpiece 416, a
positive pressure builds in the nebulizer 414 and the piston acts
as a one-way valve to close off the flow of air out of the
nebulizer. Now, the exhalant must travel through the one-way valve
in the PP valve assembly 412, through the slide control and out the
resistance window. Preferably the slide control 426 under the
resistance window 428 has been set to the appropriate position for
the patient so that effective PEP therapy may be provided. Although
the PEP apparatus of FIGS. 23-27 uses an aerosol delivery apparatus
such as the nebulizer 414 to restrict air flow through any opening
other than the PP valve assembly 412, other embodiments, such as
shown in FIG. 29 discussed below, are contemplated where a second
one-way valve is associated with the distal end 432 of the PEP
apparatus 410 so that the PEP apparatus may be used in a standalone
fashion for PEP therapy. The illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 23-28
show an improved nebulizer 414 associated with a PEP apparatus 410
having a PP valve 412. The nebulizer may be used alone or in
combination with a mouthpiece mounted PP valve 412 or mask mounted
version of the PP valve discussed below.
FIG. 29 shows an alternative embodiment of the PEP apparatus 410 of
FIGS. 23-28 that may be used alone or coupled to a nebulizer or
other aerosol delivery apparatus. As shown in FIG. 29, the
mouthpiece 462 is provided with a one-way inhalation valve assembly
463 having a membrane 464 captured in an outlet cover 465 attached
to the distal end 466 of the mouthpiece. The flexible membrane
preferably covers vents in the outlet cover 465 during exhalation
and flexes to allow fluid flow during inhalation. As with the
embodiment of FIGS. 23-28, a PP valve assembly 467 is positioned on
top of the mouthpiece. The PP valve assembly 467 differs from the
PP valve assembly 412 in FIGS. 23-28 in that the slide control 468
contains a circular opening 469 that is moved by the tab setting
469 under a tear-drop shaped resistance window 471 in the cover
472. The inhalation valve 463 allows for fluid to enter the
mouthpiece 462 but prevents fluid from exiting the mouthpiece. The
exhalation valve 473 allows for exhalation through the resistance
window 471 but prevents inhalation of particles or fluid. When
assembled, a gap is present between the exhalation valve 473 and
the slide control 468 in order to allow the exhalation valve 473 to
open upon exhalation. In this manner, the mouthpiece 462 is adapted
to be used alone and not in conjunction with a nebulizer or other
aerosol delivery apparatus.
Although positive expiratory devices have been shown in detail,
embodiments of positive inspiratory devices are also contemplated.
FIG. 30 shows one embodiment, similar in concept to the embodiment
of FIG. 29, but with the PP valve 475 attached in series with the
one-way inhalation valve 476, rather than in series with the
one-way exhalation valve, to provide for resistance upon inhalation
only. The arrows drawn in FIG. 30 depict the direction of travel
from the downstream end of the mouthpiece 478 to the upstream end
of the mouthpiece showing that all inhalation must pass through the
continuous variable resistance window 480 and the port 482 of the
slide control 484. If desired, in other embodiments PP valves may
be placed in series with both the one-way input and one-way output
valves to allow for simultaneous control of positive inspiratory
and expiratory pressures at the same or different levels.
As discussed above, embodiments of patient respiratory system
interfaces aside from the mouthpiece configurations already
disclosed are contemplated. A PP apparatus 510 utilizing a mask 512
as the interface is illustrated in FIGS. 31-35. The mask may be a
standard mask sized for adults or children and constructed of any
of a number of materials such as silicon rubber. The mask 512 may
have a frusto-conical shaped main section 514 sized to cover the
patient's mouth and a nosepiece section 516 sized to cover a
patient's nose. A central opening 518 in the mask 512 may be used
to attach with an aerosol delivery apparatus such as the aerosol
holding chamber 14 shown in FIGS. 1-3, and other aerosol delivery
apparatus. Alternatively, the mask 512 may be fitted with a one-way
valve in the central opening 518 for use as either a positive
expiratory pressure device or a positive inspiratory pressure
device. As with the embodiment of FIGS. 23-28 and 29-30, a PP valve
assembly 520 is positioned on the device so that inspiration and
exhalation paths travel off-axis from one another. The PP valve
assembly 520 has an adjustable valve assembly cover 534 with tab
window 522 and resistance window 528 openings positioned on it. The
resistance window 528 is generally an oblong, tear-drop shape and
the tab window 522 defines an arcuate opening in the PP valve cover
534. The tab window and resistance window may alternatively be
rectangular, oval or any other shape. Although the above
embodiments illustrate a tab window 522 located approximately on a
top surface of a mouthpiece or on top of a mask positioned
approximately adjacent the nose, the tab window 522 may be located
anywhere on the mouthpiece or mask.
Referring to FIGS. 35a and 35b, the PP valve assembly 520 has a
fixed opening 530 and a set of detents 532 positioned on a
disk-shaped platform 526 that connects to the nosepiece section of
the mask through complementary tab 542 and slot 544 connectors. As
best shown in FIG. 35b, the PP valve cover 534 has a protrusion 536
sized to cooperate with the detents 532 on the platform 526 so that
the valve cover may be moved to predetermined spots when the valve
cover is rotated against the platform. An axle 538 on the valve
cover fits into a central opening 540 in the platform 526 so that
the resistance window 528 is rotatably positionable over the
exhalation port 530 and the tab window 522 lines up with the tab
extending from the platform 526.
This embodiment depicts the resistance window 528 as a curved
tear-drop like shape. The platform 526 is shown as a circular disc
having at least one port opening 530. The port opening 530 may vary
in size and shape. The opening formed for the exhalant to pass
through is related to the alignment of the resistance window 528
with the port opening 530. In this embodiment, the resistance
window is moveably mounted relative to a fixed slide control
portion attached to the mask. Tabs 542 on the platform 526
preferably mate with tab receiving regions 544 on the end of the
nosepiece section 516 to retain the platform in a fixed position
relative to the mask. Moving the tear-drop shaped resistance window
528 past the part opening 530 vanes the exhalant path. In other
embodiments, a plurality of resistance window openings 528 may be
moved past the port 530. Alternatively, there may be a plurality of
ports in the slide control 526.
As shown in FIGS. 31 and 32a, one end of the tear-drop shaped
resistance window 528 matches the size of the largest port opening
530 at a maximum flow position thereby providing a maximum flow and
least resistance in that position. When the valve cover is rotated
so that the resistance window 528 covers a greater portion of the
port, as shown in FIGS. 33a-33b, a smaller exhalant path is created
providing greater resistance. As shown in FIGS. 34a-34b, moving the
valve cover until the tab reaches the opposite end of the tab
window results in the smallest amount of the port being open, the
highest airflow resistance and the least flow. It is envisioned
that a plurality of size and shape port openings and resistance
windows may be used and the disclosure is not to be limited to that
depicted in the drawings. Referring to FIG. 36, an embodiment is
shown of a valve cover 550 having indicia 552 representative of a
resistance setting. The indicia 552 are arranged to cooperate with
the tab extension 554 on the platform to indicate the current
resistance setting.
In alternative embodiments, PEP therapy maybe performed with a
mouthpiece or mask having the PP valve associated with a backpiece.
The mask or mouthpiece may have an extended inlet for association
with the backpiece.
Asthmatic medications are commonly supplied in metered dose
inhalers, frequently referred to as pressurized metered dose
inhalers. Pressurized metered dose inhalers are generally
cylindrical canisters with axially extending vent tubes from
internal valves. When the external tube or stem of a pressurized
metered dose inhaler canister is depressed it operates the internal
valve to dispense a measured dose of medicine from the stem. The
medicine is commonly packed in the canister with a suitable
compressed gas to propel the medicine and gas from the stem or tube
when the later is depressed. The medicine may be in gas, liquid, or
solid form. The manufacturer or distributor of the pressurized
metered dose inhaler canister generally supplies it with a
substantially L-shaped adapter which receives the canister in a
substantially upright position, and has a substantial horizontal
outlet portion for reception in the mouth of an asthmatic patient
for inhalation of the medicine.
In order to address the problem of coordination and other problems
known in the art with regard to pressurized metered dose inhalers,
a spacer chamber with an integrated actuator, or an aerosol holding
chamber, have been used in attempts to overcome inappropriate
particle size. The aerosol holding chamber is generally provided at
the upstream or entering end with a flexible, resilient adapter or
backpiece made of rubber or the like material. A central aperture
is provided for receipt of the horizontal outlet portion of the
pressurized metered dose inhaler adapter.
One embodiment provides for an improved pressurized metered dose
inhaler or pressurized metered dose inhaler with an aerosol holding
chamber. As shown in FIG. 37, a PP apparatus 600 may be associated
with the pressurized metered dose inhaler or the pressurized
metered dose inhaler with an aerosol holding chamber. In the PP
apparatus 600 of FIGS. 37-39, an L-shaped adapter portion 602 holds
the pressurized canister and a horizontal outlet section 604
receives the medicament released in aerosol form. A one-way valve
606, which may be a flexible membrane, a rigid membrane, hinged
door, or other commonly known valve mechanism is positioned at the
proximal end 608 of the horizontal outlet section 604. To provide
the positive expiratory pressure, the one-way valve 606 permits
inhalation and blocks exhalation so that substantially all
exhalation is routed through the variable resistance window 610
adjacent the one-way valve 606. A slide control 612 is movable in
the resistance window 610 by a tab 614 to close off or open up as
much of the resistance window as necessary to provide the desired
expiratory pressure. FIGS. 38a and 39a illustrate the slide control
in a completely open position and FIGS. 38b and 39b illustrate the
slide control closing off the resistance window. The slide control
may maintain its position in the resistance window through
friction, detents or other known mechanisms for mechanically
retaining one of multiple desired positions. The proximal end 608
of the metered dose inhaler 600 with PP functionality may be used
by a patient directly or fitted to an adapter on an aerosol chamber
such as shown in FIG. 3. FIG. 40 illustrates another embodiment of
a pressurized metered does inhaler 620 with a round proximal end
628 that may be used without the need for special mouthpieces or
aerosol holding chambers. As with the embodiment of FIGS. 37-39,
the alternative PEP enabled pressurized metered dose inhaler 620
has a one-way valve 626 that shunts exhalant through a resistance
window 622 that is continuously adjustable with a slide control 624
that can adjust the aperture of the resistance window.
Generally, a mouthpiece or mask may be associated the PP apparatus.
In one configuration, an aerosol holding chamber may be attached to
the mouthpiece or mask end and a metered dose inhaler may be
positioned on a generally opposite end of the chamber via a
backpiece. The user of the device may insert the mouthpiece into
the mouth to obtain a dose of medicament. Further, the user may
place the mask over the mouth and/or nose to inspire a dose of the
medicament. In either situation, the mask or mouthpiece aids in the
delivery of the medicament to the user.
As has been described, a method and apparatus from providing
positive expiration or inhalation therapy, with or without separate
aerosol generating devices, has been disclosed. In the embodiment
where the positive expiratory pressure valve is located at or near
the output end of the aerosol delivery apparatus, a one way
inhalation valve can be located further downstream from the
positive expiratory pressure valve. A mouthpiece and or mask can be
affixed at or near the output end of the aerosol delivery
apparatus. The positioning of the inhalation valve either upstream
or downstream in respect to the positive expiratory pressure valve
is well known to one skilled in the art. Further, it is envisioned
that PEP therapy may be performed nasally with the positive
expiratory pressure apparatus.
When the mouthpiece having the PP apparatus associated therewith is
used alone to perform PEP therapy, and not in conjunction with a
mechanism for the delivery of a substance, a one way inhalation
valve is engageable with the mouthpiece. The inhalation valve
functions so as to allow for inhalation by the patient into the
mouthpiece. The exhalant of the patient is prevented from exiting
via the inhalation valve and is directed to exit through the PP
valve. Generally, an inhalation valve opens upon inhalation to
allow a fluid, such as an aerosol, to enter a chamber or channel or
the like but that closes upon exhalation to prevent exhaled fluids
to enter into the chamber of the like. The drawings depict an
exemplary embodiment of the one-way inhalation valve but are not to
be limiting to the embodiments shown.
One aspect of the method of use of the PP apparatus can be
understood by the following disclosure and reference to FIGS. 1-3,
5 and 9. Particularly, the arrow 2 in FIG. 1 indicates the
direction of flow of the exhalant. The one-way valve shunts
exhalant out between the mouthpiece and the aerosol chamber via the
continuously variable resistance window. In carrying out the
method, a physician may initially determine the proper resistance
setting of the PP apparatus according to the patient's
requirements. One manner in which the PP apparatus may be properly
set is by attaching a fitting 39 to the mouthpiece. A manometer is
then attached to the fitting port 41 and serves to measure the
expiratory pressure. A patient will exhale into the mouthpiece and
the pressure can be read from the manometer. The physician can the
move the tab to one of the desired settings indicated on the
mouthpiece. Once the proper resistance has been determined the
fitting 39 can be removed from the mouthpiece. This fitting 39 will
not be used again unless it is determined that the resistance
should be adjusted.
The method of performing PEP therapy using the PP apparatus
includes performing a series of breaths. When exhalation is
performed, the exhalant is directed through the continuously
variable expiratory window. Performance of a therapeutic cough
triggers the loosening of secretions. Upon loosening of the
secretions, a medicament may be provided for inhalation into the
respiratory system. In one embodiment of PEP therapy, the user will
exhale into the mouthpiece and/or mask, against the desired
resistance. This is done either prior to or in combination with
inhalation of the medicament. The exhaled gases exit through the
resistance window. This process may be repeated as many times as
prescribed by the patient's physician.
As has been described, a method and apparatus for providing
positive expiration, or inhalation, pressure therapy, with or
without separate aerosol generating devices, has been disclosed.
The aerosol delivery apparatus with the PP apparatus may be used
alone or in combination with a mask or mouthpiece. Also, an
improved aerosol delivery apparatus with an integrated actuator has
been shown, wherein the improvement comprises a PP valve. The
discussion above is descriptive, illustrative and exemplary and is
not to be taken as limiting the scope defined by any appended
claims.
* * * * *
References