Method and pump apparatus for combined gastro-intestinal feeding and aspiration
US6447472B1 · kind B1 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 19, 2000 |
| Grant date | Sep 10, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 17, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61M2210/1053
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
In accordance with the present invention, a pump apparatus for use in conjunction with the feeding and aspiration of a patient's gastro-intestinal tract is provided. In accordance with the present invention, an apparatus and method are provided in which the aspiration of excessive material and air from a patient's gastro-intestinal tract proceeds until the flow of aspirate ceases. A flow detector determines when aspirate flow has ceased. Aspirate removed from the gastro-intestinal tract is retained for subsequent return to the patient for absorption to prevent dehydration. After the aspiration is concluded, material aspirated from the intestine and additional nutrition or fluids are introduced into the gastro-intestinal tract for absorption by the intestine. After an optional delay to allow for the absorption of materials by the intestine, the aspiration cycle resumes. This frequent aspiration serves to prevent overfeeding and its associated risks of intestinal distention.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.