Reliability-enhanced apparatus operation for re-breathing and methods of effecting same
US6575164B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 30, 1999 |
| Grant date | Jun 10, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 30, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T137/8326
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Methods and apparatus for enhancing reliability of, and monitoring the operation of airway valves to enhance patient safety. Pneumatic control line pressure (positive or negative) for actuation of the airway valve may be specified at a given magnitude or within a selected range and monitored continuously. Reduced or excessive pressure may be compensated by actuation of a pressure source or a bleed valve, and monitoring may be effected so as to warn the user of any deviation from the range, or deviations of selected magnitudes or frequencies or a combination thereof. The inspired volume of CO2 may be monitored using air flow and CO2 sensing, with detection of excessive CO2 volume triggering a warning. Similarly, measured end-tidal or end-inspired CO2 or other appropriate measures of CO2 concentration may be employed as a warning trigger. Other driving energy sources for airway valves, and monitoring thereof, are also disclosed. In addition, alternative devices and approaches for initiation of re-breathing, and their monitoring, are disclosed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.