Methods for cleaning endotracheal tubes
US8382908B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 5, 2010 |
| Grant date | Feb 26, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 24, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61M2209/10
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Systems, devices, and methods are disclosed for the cleaning of an endotracheal tube while a patient is being supported by a ventilator connected to the endotracheal tube for the purpose of increasing the available space for airflow or to prevent the build up of materials that may constrict airflow or be a potential nidus for infection. In one embodiment, a method for cleaning endotracheal tubes comprises inserting a cleaning device within an endotracheal tube while a cleaning member is in a compressed position, radially expanding the cleaning member to an expanded position within the endotracheal tube, and withdrawing the cleaning device from the endotracheal tube with the cleaning member in the expanded position.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.