CA2182266C - Positive locking cannula - Google Patents
Positive locking cannula Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2182266C CA2182266C CA002182266A CA2182266A CA2182266C CA 2182266 C CA2182266 C CA 2182266C CA 002182266 A CA002182266 A CA 002182266A CA 2182266 A CA2182266 A CA 2182266A CA 2182266 C CA2182266 C CA 2182266C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- connector
- connector body
- connector head
- head
- outer cannula
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Lifetime
Links
Abstract
A positive locking device (10) for connecting an inner cannula (not shown) within an outer cannula (21) to form a tracheostomy tube device. The tracheostomy device is provided with a connector head (11) or connector body (12) having ribs (17) and or lips (31) with associated catches (36) disposed thereon. Cantilevered members (24) with latch receiving members corresponding to the catches are provided on the component (connector or connector head) not having the rib or lip. Alternatively, catches may be associated with cantilevered members and latch receiving members with lips or ribs. Catches and latch receiving surfaces interlock and a securing component is fixed over the connector and connector head to create a positive lock.
Description
WO 95/20419 ~ ? ~ ~ L ~ ~ PCTIL3S95J01221 This invention relates to a breathing apparatus connection assembly for a tracheostomy tube assembly that employs positive locking of the connection between a connector head and a connector body.
Tracheostomy tubes are used to assist a patient to breathe. The tube is inserted in a patient's throat through a puncture wound below an obstruction. When in place, the tube provides a direct connection between an oxygen or air source and the trachea.
A com~n type of-_ tracheostomy tube is equipped with inner and outer cannulae; the inner cannula fitting within the outer cannula. The inner cannula is provided with a connector body while the outer cannula is provided with a connector- head. The connector body and connector head interlock to secure the inner cannula within the outer cannula. A breathing apparatus connector slides aver this connection to provide a complete air circuit.
The inner cannula is removable if obstructed. When the inner cannula is removed, the outer cannula maintains the oxygen or air path to the trachea. To assist in its removal, and to avoid discomfort to the patient, the disposable cannula should be easily detached from the outer-cannula. Ease in detachment is particularly important where the patient is connected to a ventilator because it is likely that the patient is unable to breathe on his own while the changeover is accomplished.
Many tubes in the prior art employ manually clamping WO 95120419 218 2 2 6 6 P~~S95/01221 of the inner cannula to the outer cannula. Crandall, U.S.
Patent No. 4,009,720 employs a device with two clamps having short, cantilevered actuator arms attached to hooks.
The clamps are connected to the disposable cannula and the actuator arn~s are substantially in the same plane as the connection point for the clamps. The clamp is operated by pressing the cantilevered actuator arms, thereby causing the hooks to rotate to an open position against the torque from a flexible hinge. Once the disposable cannula is properly inserted into the outer cannula, pressure is released and the hooks secure the cannulae together. To prevent breakage from an over-extension of the hinge, stops are provided for the clamps. Similar devices are disclosed in Crandall, et al., U.S. Patent No. 3,639,624, Crandall et al., U.S. Patent No. 4,135,505, Eisele, U.S. Patent No.
5,067,496, and Abel, U.S. Patent No. 5,067,515.
Other tubes employ friction-fit locking devices. U.S.
Patent No. 4,052,990 to Dodgson discloses a typical tubing adaptor that is assembled with an endotracheal tube such as a tracheostomy tube. The device comprises a lt~lding having a cup shaped body portion with an internal stem. The stem has an outwardly flared lip. This lip is engaged by the tube to provide a friction fit without a positive locking connection. Consequently, this connector is subject to accidental disconnections.
While these clays adequately secure the ~nnAr Hula to the outer cannula, accidental disconnections have occurred because the patient is capable of unfastening the inner cannula while the tracheostomy tube is connected to a ventilator or other breathing apparatus. It is desirable for devices connecting tracheal tubes and breathing apparatus or otherox~rgen or air sources be able to avoid accidental disconnection, even when subjected to aggressive WO 95/20419 2 l 8 2 ~ ~ 6 PCTfUS95J01221 manipulation by an active patient. There is a need for a locking system that prevents detachment of the cannulae, while at the same time, allows easy detachment of the inner cannula by the care giver.
The Invention This invention relates to an improvement in tracheostomy tube assemblies that employs inner and outer cannulae linked by a locking device. The improvement is a locking device for the inner and outer cannulae that prevents the patient from accidentally separating the inner cannula from the outer cannula when it is connected to a breathing apparatus.
A tracheal tube, such as an outer cannula, with the typical proximal and distal ends is provided with a connector head circi.mmscribing its proximal end. The connector head provides an attaching surface for linkage to a readily detachable connector body. The connector body is locked to the connector head via interlocking catches, latch receiving surfaces, ribs and/or lips . A securing component such as a breathing apparatus connector is fitted over the interlocked connector body and connector head to provide a positive locking device wherein the locked connector and connector head are held together in a fixed position through the positive pressure imposed on them by the securing component.
The cormector body /connector head locking device comprises an interlocking male and female assembly. The connector body and connector head are locked together by joined catch and a latch receiving surface. T'he catch is located on either the connector head or connector body, and . the latch receiving surface is located on the other of the connector body or connector head, to form an interlocking a assembly. Either the connector bady or the connector head is provided with a rib and/or a lip and whichever of the.
connector body or connector head that does not have the rib and/or lip is provided with at least one flexible cantilevered member capable of mounting the rib or lip and , expanding the same sufficiently that the connector head and -the connector body can be separated.
To facilitate disconnection, the ribs and lips have camping surfaces such that when these elements are twisted or pulled along a vertical- axis, they slide under the flexible cantilevered member(s), causing the members) to flex by riding on the camped surface(s). Once the. members have flexed, the interlocking catches and latch receiving -surfaces are disengaged and no longer interlock by pulling the connector body from the connector head or vice versa.
The connector body and connector head are easily separated.
To ensure against accidental disconnection, a securing component such as a breathing apparatus connector is fitted over the connector body and connector head to frictionally engage and lock the rib or lip of the connector body by providing preseure to hold the cantilevered members in a fixed relationship to the rib or lip, thereby providing a positive lock.
Figure 1 is a perspective side view of a tracheostomy device embracing the connection device of the invention.
Figure 2 comprises Figures 2A, 2B and-2C, in which 2A ,-is a perspective side view of the connection device of the invention, 2B is a perspective side view of the securing , member and 2C is perspective side view of the locked WO 95/20419 218 2 2 6 ~ PCT~595J01221 connector body and connector head assembly. Figures 2B and 2C represent an exploded view of Figure 2A.
Figure 3 comprises Figures 3A, 3B and 3C, in which the connector assembly of Figure 2C is shown turned for 5 detachment, in the case of Figure 3A, and exploded in the case of Figures 3B and 3C, to show the component parts of-the.connector body and connector head.
Figure 4 comprises Figures 4A, 4B and 4C which show cross-sectional views along lines 4A-4A of Figure 2A, lines 4B-9:B of Figure 2C and lines 4C-4C of Figure 3A.
Figure 5 comprises Figures 5A, 5B and 5C, in which Figure 5A is a perspective side view of an alternative connector assembly, Figure 5B is the same view except that it contains a cutaway section showing a locking mechanism and the related unlocking ramped lip, and Figure 5C is a cross sectional view along line 5C-5C of Figure SB.
Figure 6 comprises Figures 6A and 6B, in which Figure 6A is a perspective, partial exploded view and Figure 6B is a side view of the connection device of the invention.
Reference is made to- the drawings as an aid to understanding the details of the invention. T'he numbers used in the drawings are consistently applied and where the same number is employed in more.than one figure, it has the same meaning. Figure 1 shows the relationship of a locking device 10 of the invention to a typical tracheostomy tube assembly. An outer cannula 21 is provided with a connector . head 11 circumscribing its end. An inner cannula (not shown) is provided with a connector body 12 circumscribing its end. These components are locked together via locking device 10. Not shown in-Figure 1 or the other drawings is the conventional tubing connecting the breathing apparatus mechanism to the connector head 11 and connector body 12.
Such breathing apparatus tubing is generally made of a flexible plastic such as plasticized polyvinylchloride.
The tubing is mechanically fitted to breathing apparatus connector 13. It is desirable that the tubing's inside diameter is not less than the largest outer diameter dimension of the connector body 12. Locking device 10 has an open passageway 19 that openly connects with the tubular opPntng of cannulae and the tubular opening of the breathing apparatus tubing (not shown) that is mechanically fitted to the breathing apparatus connector 13. Open passageway 19-defines a portion of the air passageway to the patient's trachea.
Figure 2 focuses on the locking device 10. Locking device l0 is composed of three main components: connector head 11, connector body 12 and rib engagement or breathing apparatus connector 13. Locking device 10 is connected to outer cannula 21 of the tracheostomy tube via connector head 11 and inner cannula via connector body 12 and connected to the breathing apparatus via attachment of the breathing apparatus tubing (not shown) to the junction of the two. Connector head 11 has an attachable and detachable relationship with connector body 12. When connector head 11 and connector body 12- are attached, the inner cannula is situated within the outer cannula 21 and a rib engagement or breathing apparatus connector 13, functioning as a collar, slides over the attached connector head 11 and connector body 12 to apply a positive pressure:
on their juncture, to assure that they are not separated.
This design ensures security against accidental disconnections while providing minimum discomfort to the WO 95120419 ~ ~ 8 2 2 6 6 PCT~595101221 patient when the breathing apparatus connector 13 is removed and the connector body 12 is detached from the connector head 11.
As depicted in Figures 2 and 3, connector head 11 and connector body 12 are cylindrical and when they are connected, a part of each is concentrically inter-aligned.
Connector body 12 has a cylindrical coupling surface or mating surface 14 and an exposed cylindrical base 16. Base 16 has a larger diameter than coupling surface 14 and the juncture of the two forms seating surface 15. Seating surface 15 circumscribes both exposed base 16 and coupling surface 14.
T'he shapes of the connector body 12 and connector head 11 may be reversed, e.g., the cylindrical coupling surface 14 and seating surface 15 could be part of connector head 11 and connector head 11 could adopt the shape and function of the remainder of connector body 12 except that it would still be attached to the outer- cannula 21, whereas connector body 12 could adopt the shape and function of connector head 11 except that it would still be connected to the inner cannula 20.
As shown in Figures 1-4, connector body 12 contains one or ire ribs 17. However, if the functions of connector body 12 and connector head 11 were reversed, then each rib 17 would be on connector head 11. The description set. forth below is equally applicable to a device wherein the connector head 11 is provided with one or more ribs 17.
~ One or-more ribs 17 extend from seating surface 15 and mating surface 14. Each rib 17 in this embodiment is generally mushroom-shaped, in this case an inverted mushroom shape, with a sloping stem41 connected to seating WO 95120419 218 2 2 6 b PCT~S95/01221 surface 15, and sidewalls 42 that mainly connect to surface 14, and a sloping cap 32, extending from'stem 41, mated to sidewalls 53 extending from surface 14. -The slopes of stem , 41 and cap 32 are inthe same direction andtheir variations in thiclazess, detP~~ned along imaginary lines , defined as normal to seating surface 15, are substantially the same except where cap 32 extends beyond the dimensions of stem 41. The distance from the top of stem 41 and cap 32 to the mating surface 14 varies depending on-the point of measurement so as to-form the slope. However, to ensure proper connection to the connector head 11, it is preferred that each rib 17 be no thicker than the distance across seating surface 15. _ Sidewalls 42 and 53 are-straight or sloping depending on a number of factors. If sidewalls 42 and 53 are intended to provide part of the ramping surface of stem 41 and cap 32, then it is desirable that they have a sloping surface. But if all of the camping will be pravidedby the surfaces of stem 41 and cap 32, then sidewalls 42 and 53 may be straight. Preferably, sidewalls 42 and 53 taper away from stem 41 and cap 32. The overall shape ofrib 17 may vary consistent with need for a secure connection between connector body 12 and connector head 11. By way of illustration but not limitation, oblong, triangular and fin shaped ribs 17 are contemplated.
Associated with rib 17 and part of cap 32 are two catches 36. catches 36 appear as the overhang portion of cap 32 and function as hooks. Each catch 36 has a thiclmess in keeping with the sloping characteristics of cap 32 and sidewalls 53. Where the slope of cap 32 is in one direction, then one catch 36 will be higher than the other catch 36. The lower catch 36 will be part of the camping surface used for detachment. -~'O 95I204I9 213 2 2 5 6 PCT~S95101221 As shown in Figures 3 and 4, ribs 17 contain sloping surfaces, illustrated in this case as stem 41. Cap 32 is equally sloping. These sloping surfaces provide a ramping surface by which the connector head 11, in this embodiment, can be detached from-connection to connector body 12.
In order to latch connector head 11 to connector body 12, there may be provided on connector-head 12 one or more latch receiver surfaces 29 within one or more cut-out portions 39 of a sleeve 24. Sleeve 24 emerges from base coupling collar 26. Base coupling collar 26 is bonded, preferably adhesively, to cannula 21. Cut-out portion 39 has the general shape of ribs 17 so that catch 36 may comfortably fit within latch receiving surfaces 29. Latch receiving surfaces 29 form part of the sidewall of sleeve 24. Catch 36 and latch receiving surface 29 form a latch 30 by which connector head 11 and connector body 12 are locked together.
Sleeve24 is made of a pliable material such as polyester, polycarbonate and polysulfone and expands when twisted so that its inner surface slides over rib 17. This cantilevered action separates catch 36 from latch receiving surfaces 29.
A special feature of rib 17 is the sloping surface which allows ramping of the flexible cantilevered sleeve 24 up -and on the uppermost surface of rib 17. T~lhen twisted sleeve 24 rides on the uppern~st surface of rib 17, catch 36 is fully detached from latch--receiving surfaces 29 allowing connector head 11 to be separated from connector body 12 by pulling them apart. Alternatively, as described below, a reed lip 31 may be provided upon which the cantilevered sleeve 24 slide to detach the catch 36 and latch receiving surfaces 29_ This action of the sleeve 24 ramping upvthe:~surface of the rib 17 is illustrated in Figure 4. Figure 4 characterizes the relationship of breathing apparatus connector 13 to connector head ll and connector body 12.
5 As can be seen in Figure 4, when supporting breathing apparatus connector 13 is slid over mated connector head 11 and connector body 12, connector head 11 is prevented from being twisted in any direction by ribs 17. In this position, receiving surface 29 is locked with catch 36 10 thereby preventing connector body 12 from being extracted from its position within connector head 11.
Rib 17 possesses a sloping surface which has a minim~n height at one edges) and a maximum height at about the opposite edge(s). This slope creates a ramping surface which connector head 11 can expand on. This is shown in Figure 4C. As connector head 11 is twisted to the left, from its position set forth in Figure 4B, the leading edge of latch receiving surface 29 is allowed to ride up on the minimum height section of the sloping surface of rib 17.
Of course, this movement can be done only when breathing apparatus~connector 13 has been removed from its position shown in Figure 4 about the connector head 11 and connector body 12. As illustrated in Figure 4C, as connector head 11 rides onto the sloping surface of cap 32 and stem 41, cantilevered sleeve 24 expands so that connector head 11 and connector body 12 can be pulled apart.
With respect to Figures 5, 5B and 5C, the locking device 10 has a rib 17 and sloping lip 31 around the circumference of mating surface 14. Slope may be gentle or steep. This slope creates a ramping surface which sleeve 24 can expand on as connector body 12 is pulled in a vertical direction away from the connector head 11. When the connector body 12 is pulled away from the connector head 11, catch 36 disengages from latch receiving surface 29 as sleeve 24 expands over lip 31. In this embodiment, rib 17 does not have a raring surface and functions to communicate with cut out portions 39 of sleeve 24.
As depicted in Figure 6, cantilevered sleeve 24 may be incorporated into a rigid connector body 12. Catches 36 lock to latch receiving surfaces 29 of connector head 11 to fozm latch 30 as depicted in Figures 6 and 6B. When breathing apparatus connector 13 is provided over connector body 12, sleeve 24 may not expand.
To facilitate securing of catch 36 to latch receiving edges 29, li.p 31 may be provided with ascending 67 and descending 68 romping surfaces upon which are located latch receiving surfaces 29. Catch locking surface 73 is shaped to articulate with ascending 67 and descending 68 romping surfaces. In locked position, catch locking surface 73 articulates with ascending 67 and descending 68 romping surfaces. If pressure is exerted such that connector body 12 and connector head 11 are pulled from each other along a vertical axis, catch locking surface 73 rides up ascending surface 67 and down descending surface 68, thereby expanding sleeve 24 and disconnecting catch 36 from latch receiving surfaces 29. However, if breathing apparatus connector 13 is affixed over connector body 12 and connector head 11 when latch 30 is in place, a positive pressure is fornied on the sleeve 24, preventing its expansion and ensuring a secure connection.
This device l0 may be constructed from a variety of materials. However, it is preferred that the connector head 11 constructed of polyester, polycarbonate or polysulfone to provide pliability and connector body 12 be WO 95120419 2 3 8 2 2 6 b PCTIUS95101221 constructed of a rigid material such as polypropylene.
Other materials, such as ABS° and DELRIN~ may be employed.
Although the description of the preferred embodiment has been quite specific, it is contemplated that various modifications may be made without deviating from the spirit of the present invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the scope of the present invention be dictated by the appended claims rather than by the description of the preferred embodiment.
Tracheostomy tubes are used to assist a patient to breathe. The tube is inserted in a patient's throat through a puncture wound below an obstruction. When in place, the tube provides a direct connection between an oxygen or air source and the trachea.
A com~n type of-_ tracheostomy tube is equipped with inner and outer cannulae; the inner cannula fitting within the outer cannula. The inner cannula is provided with a connector body while the outer cannula is provided with a connector- head. The connector body and connector head interlock to secure the inner cannula within the outer cannula. A breathing apparatus connector slides aver this connection to provide a complete air circuit.
The inner cannula is removable if obstructed. When the inner cannula is removed, the outer cannula maintains the oxygen or air path to the trachea. To assist in its removal, and to avoid discomfort to the patient, the disposable cannula should be easily detached from the outer-cannula. Ease in detachment is particularly important where the patient is connected to a ventilator because it is likely that the patient is unable to breathe on his own while the changeover is accomplished.
Many tubes in the prior art employ manually clamping WO 95120419 218 2 2 6 6 P~~S95/01221 of the inner cannula to the outer cannula. Crandall, U.S.
Patent No. 4,009,720 employs a device with two clamps having short, cantilevered actuator arms attached to hooks.
The clamps are connected to the disposable cannula and the actuator arn~s are substantially in the same plane as the connection point for the clamps. The clamp is operated by pressing the cantilevered actuator arms, thereby causing the hooks to rotate to an open position against the torque from a flexible hinge. Once the disposable cannula is properly inserted into the outer cannula, pressure is released and the hooks secure the cannulae together. To prevent breakage from an over-extension of the hinge, stops are provided for the clamps. Similar devices are disclosed in Crandall, et al., U.S. Patent No. 3,639,624, Crandall et al., U.S. Patent No. 4,135,505, Eisele, U.S. Patent No.
5,067,496, and Abel, U.S. Patent No. 5,067,515.
Other tubes employ friction-fit locking devices. U.S.
Patent No. 4,052,990 to Dodgson discloses a typical tubing adaptor that is assembled with an endotracheal tube such as a tracheostomy tube. The device comprises a lt~lding having a cup shaped body portion with an internal stem. The stem has an outwardly flared lip. This lip is engaged by the tube to provide a friction fit without a positive locking connection. Consequently, this connector is subject to accidental disconnections.
While these clays adequately secure the ~nnAr Hula to the outer cannula, accidental disconnections have occurred because the patient is capable of unfastening the inner cannula while the tracheostomy tube is connected to a ventilator or other breathing apparatus. It is desirable for devices connecting tracheal tubes and breathing apparatus or otherox~rgen or air sources be able to avoid accidental disconnection, even when subjected to aggressive WO 95/20419 2 l 8 2 ~ ~ 6 PCTfUS95J01221 manipulation by an active patient. There is a need for a locking system that prevents detachment of the cannulae, while at the same time, allows easy detachment of the inner cannula by the care giver.
The Invention This invention relates to an improvement in tracheostomy tube assemblies that employs inner and outer cannulae linked by a locking device. The improvement is a locking device for the inner and outer cannulae that prevents the patient from accidentally separating the inner cannula from the outer cannula when it is connected to a breathing apparatus.
A tracheal tube, such as an outer cannula, with the typical proximal and distal ends is provided with a connector head circi.mmscribing its proximal end. The connector head provides an attaching surface for linkage to a readily detachable connector body. The connector body is locked to the connector head via interlocking catches, latch receiving surfaces, ribs and/or lips . A securing component such as a breathing apparatus connector is fitted over the interlocked connector body and connector head to provide a positive locking device wherein the locked connector and connector head are held together in a fixed position through the positive pressure imposed on them by the securing component.
The cormector body /connector head locking device comprises an interlocking male and female assembly. The connector body and connector head are locked together by joined catch and a latch receiving surface. T'he catch is located on either the connector head or connector body, and . the latch receiving surface is located on the other of the connector body or connector head, to form an interlocking a assembly. Either the connector bady or the connector head is provided with a rib and/or a lip and whichever of the.
connector body or connector head that does not have the rib and/or lip is provided with at least one flexible cantilevered member capable of mounting the rib or lip and , expanding the same sufficiently that the connector head and -the connector body can be separated.
To facilitate disconnection, the ribs and lips have camping surfaces such that when these elements are twisted or pulled along a vertical- axis, they slide under the flexible cantilevered member(s), causing the members) to flex by riding on the camped surface(s). Once the. members have flexed, the interlocking catches and latch receiving -surfaces are disengaged and no longer interlock by pulling the connector body from the connector head or vice versa.
The connector body and connector head are easily separated.
To ensure against accidental disconnection, a securing component such as a breathing apparatus connector is fitted over the connector body and connector head to frictionally engage and lock the rib or lip of the connector body by providing preseure to hold the cantilevered members in a fixed relationship to the rib or lip, thereby providing a positive lock.
Figure 1 is a perspective side view of a tracheostomy device embracing the connection device of the invention.
Figure 2 comprises Figures 2A, 2B and-2C, in which 2A ,-is a perspective side view of the connection device of the invention, 2B is a perspective side view of the securing , member and 2C is perspective side view of the locked WO 95/20419 218 2 2 6 ~ PCT~595J01221 connector body and connector head assembly. Figures 2B and 2C represent an exploded view of Figure 2A.
Figure 3 comprises Figures 3A, 3B and 3C, in which the connector assembly of Figure 2C is shown turned for 5 detachment, in the case of Figure 3A, and exploded in the case of Figures 3B and 3C, to show the component parts of-the.connector body and connector head.
Figure 4 comprises Figures 4A, 4B and 4C which show cross-sectional views along lines 4A-4A of Figure 2A, lines 4B-9:B of Figure 2C and lines 4C-4C of Figure 3A.
Figure 5 comprises Figures 5A, 5B and 5C, in which Figure 5A is a perspective side view of an alternative connector assembly, Figure 5B is the same view except that it contains a cutaway section showing a locking mechanism and the related unlocking ramped lip, and Figure 5C is a cross sectional view along line 5C-5C of Figure SB.
Figure 6 comprises Figures 6A and 6B, in which Figure 6A is a perspective, partial exploded view and Figure 6B is a side view of the connection device of the invention.
Reference is made to- the drawings as an aid to understanding the details of the invention. T'he numbers used in the drawings are consistently applied and where the same number is employed in more.than one figure, it has the same meaning. Figure 1 shows the relationship of a locking device 10 of the invention to a typical tracheostomy tube assembly. An outer cannula 21 is provided with a connector . head 11 circumscribing its end. An inner cannula (not shown) is provided with a connector body 12 circumscribing its end. These components are locked together via locking device 10. Not shown in-Figure 1 or the other drawings is the conventional tubing connecting the breathing apparatus mechanism to the connector head 11 and connector body 12.
Such breathing apparatus tubing is generally made of a flexible plastic such as plasticized polyvinylchloride.
The tubing is mechanically fitted to breathing apparatus connector 13. It is desirable that the tubing's inside diameter is not less than the largest outer diameter dimension of the connector body 12. Locking device 10 has an open passageway 19 that openly connects with the tubular opPntng of cannulae and the tubular opening of the breathing apparatus tubing (not shown) that is mechanically fitted to the breathing apparatus connector 13. Open passageway 19-defines a portion of the air passageway to the patient's trachea.
Figure 2 focuses on the locking device 10. Locking device l0 is composed of three main components: connector head 11, connector body 12 and rib engagement or breathing apparatus connector 13. Locking device 10 is connected to outer cannula 21 of the tracheostomy tube via connector head 11 and inner cannula via connector body 12 and connected to the breathing apparatus via attachment of the breathing apparatus tubing (not shown) to the junction of the two. Connector head 11 has an attachable and detachable relationship with connector body 12. When connector head 11 and connector body 12- are attached, the inner cannula is situated within the outer cannula 21 and a rib engagement or breathing apparatus connector 13, functioning as a collar, slides over the attached connector head 11 and connector body 12 to apply a positive pressure:
on their juncture, to assure that they are not separated.
This design ensures security against accidental disconnections while providing minimum discomfort to the WO 95120419 ~ ~ 8 2 2 6 6 PCT~595101221 patient when the breathing apparatus connector 13 is removed and the connector body 12 is detached from the connector head 11.
As depicted in Figures 2 and 3, connector head 11 and connector body 12 are cylindrical and when they are connected, a part of each is concentrically inter-aligned.
Connector body 12 has a cylindrical coupling surface or mating surface 14 and an exposed cylindrical base 16. Base 16 has a larger diameter than coupling surface 14 and the juncture of the two forms seating surface 15. Seating surface 15 circumscribes both exposed base 16 and coupling surface 14.
T'he shapes of the connector body 12 and connector head 11 may be reversed, e.g., the cylindrical coupling surface 14 and seating surface 15 could be part of connector head 11 and connector head 11 could adopt the shape and function of the remainder of connector body 12 except that it would still be attached to the outer- cannula 21, whereas connector body 12 could adopt the shape and function of connector head 11 except that it would still be connected to the inner cannula 20.
As shown in Figures 1-4, connector body 12 contains one or ire ribs 17. However, if the functions of connector body 12 and connector head 11 were reversed, then each rib 17 would be on connector head 11. The description set. forth below is equally applicable to a device wherein the connector head 11 is provided with one or more ribs 17.
~ One or-more ribs 17 extend from seating surface 15 and mating surface 14. Each rib 17 in this embodiment is generally mushroom-shaped, in this case an inverted mushroom shape, with a sloping stem41 connected to seating WO 95120419 218 2 2 6 b PCT~S95/01221 surface 15, and sidewalls 42 that mainly connect to surface 14, and a sloping cap 32, extending from'stem 41, mated to sidewalls 53 extending from surface 14. -The slopes of stem , 41 and cap 32 are inthe same direction andtheir variations in thiclazess, detP~~ned along imaginary lines , defined as normal to seating surface 15, are substantially the same except where cap 32 extends beyond the dimensions of stem 41. The distance from the top of stem 41 and cap 32 to the mating surface 14 varies depending on-the point of measurement so as to-form the slope. However, to ensure proper connection to the connector head 11, it is preferred that each rib 17 be no thicker than the distance across seating surface 15. _ Sidewalls 42 and 53 are-straight or sloping depending on a number of factors. If sidewalls 42 and 53 are intended to provide part of the ramping surface of stem 41 and cap 32, then it is desirable that they have a sloping surface. But if all of the camping will be pravidedby the surfaces of stem 41 and cap 32, then sidewalls 42 and 53 may be straight. Preferably, sidewalls 42 and 53 taper away from stem 41 and cap 32. The overall shape ofrib 17 may vary consistent with need for a secure connection between connector body 12 and connector head 11. By way of illustration but not limitation, oblong, triangular and fin shaped ribs 17 are contemplated.
Associated with rib 17 and part of cap 32 are two catches 36. catches 36 appear as the overhang portion of cap 32 and function as hooks. Each catch 36 has a thiclmess in keeping with the sloping characteristics of cap 32 and sidewalls 53. Where the slope of cap 32 is in one direction, then one catch 36 will be higher than the other catch 36. The lower catch 36 will be part of the camping surface used for detachment. -~'O 95I204I9 213 2 2 5 6 PCT~S95101221 As shown in Figures 3 and 4, ribs 17 contain sloping surfaces, illustrated in this case as stem 41. Cap 32 is equally sloping. These sloping surfaces provide a ramping surface by which the connector head 11, in this embodiment, can be detached from-connection to connector body 12.
In order to latch connector head 11 to connector body 12, there may be provided on connector-head 12 one or more latch receiver surfaces 29 within one or more cut-out portions 39 of a sleeve 24. Sleeve 24 emerges from base coupling collar 26. Base coupling collar 26 is bonded, preferably adhesively, to cannula 21. Cut-out portion 39 has the general shape of ribs 17 so that catch 36 may comfortably fit within latch receiving surfaces 29. Latch receiving surfaces 29 form part of the sidewall of sleeve 24. Catch 36 and latch receiving surface 29 form a latch 30 by which connector head 11 and connector body 12 are locked together.
Sleeve24 is made of a pliable material such as polyester, polycarbonate and polysulfone and expands when twisted so that its inner surface slides over rib 17. This cantilevered action separates catch 36 from latch receiving surfaces 29.
A special feature of rib 17 is the sloping surface which allows ramping of the flexible cantilevered sleeve 24 up -and on the uppermost surface of rib 17. T~lhen twisted sleeve 24 rides on the uppern~st surface of rib 17, catch 36 is fully detached from latch--receiving surfaces 29 allowing connector head 11 to be separated from connector body 12 by pulling them apart. Alternatively, as described below, a reed lip 31 may be provided upon which the cantilevered sleeve 24 slide to detach the catch 36 and latch receiving surfaces 29_ This action of the sleeve 24 ramping upvthe:~surface of the rib 17 is illustrated in Figure 4. Figure 4 characterizes the relationship of breathing apparatus connector 13 to connector head ll and connector body 12.
5 As can be seen in Figure 4, when supporting breathing apparatus connector 13 is slid over mated connector head 11 and connector body 12, connector head 11 is prevented from being twisted in any direction by ribs 17. In this position, receiving surface 29 is locked with catch 36 10 thereby preventing connector body 12 from being extracted from its position within connector head 11.
Rib 17 possesses a sloping surface which has a minim~n height at one edges) and a maximum height at about the opposite edge(s). This slope creates a ramping surface which connector head 11 can expand on. This is shown in Figure 4C. As connector head 11 is twisted to the left, from its position set forth in Figure 4B, the leading edge of latch receiving surface 29 is allowed to ride up on the minimum height section of the sloping surface of rib 17.
Of course, this movement can be done only when breathing apparatus~connector 13 has been removed from its position shown in Figure 4 about the connector head 11 and connector body 12. As illustrated in Figure 4C, as connector head 11 rides onto the sloping surface of cap 32 and stem 41, cantilevered sleeve 24 expands so that connector head 11 and connector body 12 can be pulled apart.
With respect to Figures 5, 5B and 5C, the locking device 10 has a rib 17 and sloping lip 31 around the circumference of mating surface 14. Slope may be gentle or steep. This slope creates a ramping surface which sleeve 24 can expand on as connector body 12 is pulled in a vertical direction away from the connector head 11. When the connector body 12 is pulled away from the connector head 11, catch 36 disengages from latch receiving surface 29 as sleeve 24 expands over lip 31. In this embodiment, rib 17 does not have a raring surface and functions to communicate with cut out portions 39 of sleeve 24.
As depicted in Figure 6, cantilevered sleeve 24 may be incorporated into a rigid connector body 12. Catches 36 lock to latch receiving surfaces 29 of connector head 11 to fozm latch 30 as depicted in Figures 6 and 6B. When breathing apparatus connector 13 is provided over connector body 12, sleeve 24 may not expand.
To facilitate securing of catch 36 to latch receiving edges 29, li.p 31 may be provided with ascending 67 and descending 68 romping surfaces upon which are located latch receiving surfaces 29. Catch locking surface 73 is shaped to articulate with ascending 67 and descending 68 romping surfaces. In locked position, catch locking surface 73 articulates with ascending 67 and descending 68 romping surfaces. If pressure is exerted such that connector body 12 and connector head 11 are pulled from each other along a vertical axis, catch locking surface 73 rides up ascending surface 67 and down descending surface 68, thereby expanding sleeve 24 and disconnecting catch 36 from latch receiving surfaces 29. However, if breathing apparatus connector 13 is affixed over connector body 12 and connector head 11 when latch 30 is in place, a positive pressure is fornied on the sleeve 24, preventing its expansion and ensuring a secure connection.
This device l0 may be constructed from a variety of materials. However, it is preferred that the connector head 11 constructed of polyester, polycarbonate or polysulfone to provide pliability and connector body 12 be WO 95120419 2 3 8 2 2 6 b PCTIUS95101221 constructed of a rigid material such as polypropylene.
Other materials, such as ABS° and DELRIN~ may be employed.
Although the description of the preferred embodiment has been quite specific, it is contemplated that various modifications may be made without deviating from the spirit of the present invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the scope of the present invention be dictated by the appended claims rather than by the description of the preferred embodiment.
Claims (11)
1. A tracheostomy tube for insertion into the trachea of a patient to support breathing, comprising:
an outer cannula having a distal end for placement within the trachea and a proximal end for placement outside of the trachea;
a connector head attached to and circumscribing said proximal end of said outer cannula;
a removable inner cannula having a distal end for insertion into said outer cannula and a proximal end for extending outside of said outer cannula;
and a connector body attached to and circumscribing said proximal end of said outer cannula and which mates with said connector head when said inner cannula is fully inserted into said outer cannula;
wherein said tracheostomy tube includes a locking device comprising said connector body, said connector head, and a slidable securing means that fits over and about the mated connector body and connector head, in which said connector body and said connector head are locked together by joined catch and a latch receiving surface, said catch is located on one of said connector head or said connector body, and said latch receiving surface is located on the other of said connector head or connector body, to form an interlocking male and female assembly, either said connector body or said connector head is provided with a rib, and whichever of said connector head or said connector body that does not have said rib is provided with at least one flexible cantilevered member capable of mounting said rib and expanding sufficiently that said connector head and said connector body can be connected and separated.
an outer cannula having a distal end for placement within the trachea and a proximal end for placement outside of the trachea;
a connector head attached to and circumscribing said proximal end of said outer cannula;
a removable inner cannula having a distal end for insertion into said outer cannula and a proximal end for extending outside of said outer cannula;
and a connector body attached to and circumscribing said proximal end of said outer cannula and which mates with said connector head when said inner cannula is fully inserted into said outer cannula;
wherein said tracheostomy tube includes a locking device comprising said connector body, said connector head, and a slidable securing means that fits over and about the mated connector body and connector head, in which said connector body and said connector head are locked together by joined catch and a latch receiving surface, said catch is located on one of said connector head or said connector body, and said latch receiving surface is located on the other of said connector head or connector body, to form an interlocking male and female assembly, either said connector body or said connector head is provided with a rib, and whichever of said connector head or said connector body that does not have said rib is provided with at least one flexible cantilevered member capable of mounting said rib and expanding sufficiently that said connector head and said connector body can be connected and separated.
2. The tracheostomy tube of claim 1, wherein said rib has a sloping surface which forms a ramp.
3. The tracheostomy tube of claim 1, wherein said rib has two sides, each side having a slope.
4. A tracheostomy tube for insertion into the trachea of a patient to support breathing, comprising:
an outer cannula having a distal end for placement within the trachea and a proximal end for placement outside of the trachea;
a connector head attached to and circumscribing said proximal end of said outer cannula;
a removable inner cannula having a distal end for insertion into said outer cannula and a proximal end for extending outside of said outer cannula;
and a connector body attached to and circumscribing said proximal end of said outer cannula and which mates with said connector head when said inner cannula is fully inserted into said outer cannula;
wherein said tracheostomy tube includes a locking device comprising said connector body, said connector head, and a slidable securing means that fits over and about the mated connector body and connector head, in which said connector body and said connector head are locked together by joined catch and a latch receiving surface, said catch is located on one of said connector head or said connector body, and said latch receiving surface is located on the other of said connector head or connector body, to form an interlocking male and female assembly, said connector body or said connector head being provided with a rib having a cap wherein said catch is located on said rib and whichever of said connector body or said connector head that does not have said rib is provided with at least one flexible cantilevered member capable of mounting said rib and expanding the same sufficiently that said connector body and said connector head can be connected and separated.
an outer cannula having a distal end for placement within the trachea and a proximal end for placement outside of the trachea;
a connector head attached to and circumscribing said proximal end of said outer cannula;
a removable inner cannula having a distal end for insertion into said outer cannula and a proximal end for extending outside of said outer cannula;
and a connector body attached to and circumscribing said proximal end of said outer cannula and which mates with said connector head when said inner cannula is fully inserted into said outer cannula;
wherein said tracheostomy tube includes a locking device comprising said connector body, said connector head, and a slidable securing means that fits over and about the mated connector body and connector head, in which said connector body and said connector head are locked together by joined catch and a latch receiving surface, said catch is located on one of said connector head or said connector body, and said latch receiving surface is located on the other of said connector head or connector body, to form an interlocking male and female assembly, said connector body or said connector head being provided with a rib having a cap wherein said catch is located on said rib and whichever of said connector body or said connector head that does not have said rib is provided with at least one flexible cantilevered member capable of mounting said rib and expanding the same sufficiently that said connector body and said connector head can be connected and separated.
5. A tracheostomy tube for insertion into the trachea of a patient to support breathing, comprising:
an outer cannula having a distal end for placement within the trachea and a proximal end for placement outside of the trachea;
a connector head attached to and circumscribing said proximal end of said outer cannula;
a removable inner cannula having a distal end for insertion into said outer cannula and a proximal end for extending outside of said outer cannula;
and a connector body attached to and circumscribing said proximal end of said outer cannula and which mates with said connector head when said inner cannula is fully inserted into said outer cannula;
wherein said tracheostomy tube includes a locking device comprising said connector body, said connector head, and a slidable securing means that fits over and about the mated connector body and connector head, in which the connector body and connector head are locked together by joined catch and a latch receiving surface, said catch is located on said connector body and said latch receiving surface is located on said connector head to form an interlocking male and female assembly, said connector body is provided with a rib, and said connector head is provided with a flexible cantilevered member capable of mounting said rib and expanding sufficiently that said connector body and said connector head can be connected and separated.
an outer cannula having a distal end for placement within the trachea and a proximal end for placement outside of the trachea;
a connector head attached to and circumscribing said proximal end of said outer cannula;
a removable inner cannula having a distal end for insertion into said outer cannula and a proximal end for extending outside of said outer cannula;
and a connector body attached to and circumscribing said proximal end of said outer cannula and which mates with said connector head when said inner cannula is fully inserted into said outer cannula;
wherein said tracheostomy tube includes a locking device comprising said connector body, said connector head, and a slidable securing means that fits over and about the mated connector body and connector head, in which the connector body and connector head are locked together by joined catch and a latch receiving surface, said catch is located on said connector body and said latch receiving surface is located on said connector head to form an interlocking male and female assembly, said connector body is provided with a rib, and said connector head is provided with a flexible cantilevered member capable of mounting said rib and expanding sufficiently that said connector body and said connector head can be connected and separated.
6. The tracheostomy tube of claim 5 wherein said rib is ramped to facilitate expansion of said flexible cantilevered member when said connector body is rotated over said rib.
7. The tracheostomy tube of claim 6 wherein said rib has two sides, each side comprising a sloping edge.
8. A tracheostomy tube for insertion into the trachea of a patient to support breathing, comprising:
an outer cannula having a distal end for placement within the trachea and a proximal end for placement outside of the trachea;
a connector head attached to and circumscribing said proximal end of said outer cannula;
a removable inner cannula having a distal end for insertion into said outer cannula and a proximal end for extending outside of said outer cannula;
and a connector body attached to and circumscribing said proximal end of said outer cannula and which mates with said connector head when said inner cannula is fully inserted into said outer cannula;
wherein said tracheostomy tube includes a locking device comprising said connector body, said connector head, and a slidable securing means that fits over and about the mated connector body and connector head, in which the connector body and connector head are locked together by joined catch and a latch receiving surface, said catch is located one of said connector head or said connector body, and said latch receiving surface is located on the other of said connector head or said connector body, to form an interlocking male and female assembly, either said connector body or said connector head is provided with a lip, and whichever of said connector head or said connector body that does not have the lip is provided with at least one flexible cantilevered member capable of mounting said lip and expanding sufficiently that said connector head and said connector body can be connected and separated.
an outer cannula having a distal end for placement within the trachea and a proximal end for placement outside of the trachea;
a connector head attached to and circumscribing said proximal end of said outer cannula;
a removable inner cannula having a distal end for insertion into said outer cannula and a proximal end for extending outside of said outer cannula;
and a connector body attached to and circumscribing said proximal end of said outer cannula and which mates with said connector head when said inner cannula is fully inserted into said outer cannula;
wherein said tracheostomy tube includes a locking device comprising said connector body, said connector head, and a slidable securing means that fits over and about the mated connector body and connector head, in which the connector body and connector head are locked together by joined catch and a latch receiving surface, said catch is located one of said connector head or said connector body, and said latch receiving surface is located on the other of said connector head or said connector body, to form an interlocking male and female assembly, either said connector body or said connector head is provided with a lip, and whichever of said connector head or said connector body that does not have the lip is provided with at least one flexible cantilevered member capable of mounting said lip and expanding sufficiently that said connector head and said connector body can be connected and separated.
9. The tracheostomy tube of claim 8 wherein said lip spans the circumference of said connector head or said connector body.
10. The tracheostomy tube of claim 8 wherein said lip has a camped surface to facilitate expansion of said flexible cantilevered member over said lip when connecting and disconnecting said connector body to said connector head.
11. The tracheostomy tube of claim 8 wherein said lip has a descending and ascending camped surface to facilitate expansion of said flexible cantilevered member over said lip when connecting and disconnecting said connector body to said connector head.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US08/189,529 | 1994-01-31 | ||
| US08/189,529 US5460176A (en) | 1994-01-31 | 1994-01-31 | Positive locking cannula |
| PCT/US1995/001221 WO1995020419A1 (en) | 1994-01-31 | 1995-01-26 | Positive locking cannula |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2182266A1 CA2182266A1 (en) | 1995-08-03 |
| CA2182266C true CA2182266C (en) | 2006-04-25 |
Family
ID=36251923
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002182266A Expired - Lifetime CA2182266C (en) | 1994-01-31 | 1995-01-26 | Positive locking cannula |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2182266C (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN102596298A (en) * | 2009-10-22 | 2012-07-18 | 金伯利-克拉克环球有限公司 | Cam action detachment for tracheostomy tube |
-
1995
- 1995-01-26 CA CA002182266A patent/CA2182266C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN102596298A (en) * | 2009-10-22 | 2012-07-18 | 金伯利-克拉克环球有限公司 | Cam action detachment for tracheostomy tube |
| US8795360B2 (en) | 2009-10-22 | 2014-08-05 | Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. | Cam action detachment for tracheostomy tube |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2182266A1 (en) | 1995-08-03 |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| EP0742729B1 (en) | Positive locking cannula | |
| EP0713405B1 (en) | Connector for locking an inner cannula inside an outer cannula | |
| US6248099B1 (en) | Disposable tracheostomy inner cannula connector | |
| US5064433A (en) | Voice prosthesis insertion assemblies | |
| US4817598A (en) | Tracheostomy tube with ring pull removable inner cannula | |
| US8997745B2 (en) | Tracheostomy tube combination radial snap and bayonet cannula connector | |
| US9561340B2 (en) | Headgear connection assembly for a respiratory mask assembly | |
| CA2733839C (en) | Gas delivery connection assembly | |
| JP3876057B2 (en) | Tube assembly for tracheal opening | |
| EP1928530B1 (en) | Medical device tube having a flange with opposing support ears for improved alignment and retention of an inner cannula in an outer cannula | |
| EP0107779A1 (en) | Tracheostomy tube with disposable inner cannula | |
| EP1479405B1 (en) | One touch connector for tracheotomy tube | |
| CA2641516A1 (en) | Ventilator to tracheotomy tube coupling | |
| US20120103341A1 (en) | Tracheal tube with connector insert | |
| US20110290254A1 (en) | Tracheal tube with connector insert | |
| CA2182266C (en) | Positive locking cannula | |
| US20120048277A1 (en) | Tracheal tube with adjustable flanges | |
| JP3512808B6 (en) | Locked cannula | |
| US6655384B2 (en) | Method of retaining a gastric tube | |
| CA1289840C (en) | Tracheostomy tube with ring pull removable inner cannula | |
| CA2168213C (en) | Connector for locking an inner cannula inside an outer cannula | |
| CA1265967A (en) | Face mask assembly and pacifier | |
| AU2007202322B2 (en) | Improved closed suction catheter assembly adaptor and system containing the same | |
| EP0359880A1 (en) | Breathing circuit connector for use in anaesthesiology |
Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKEX | Expiry |
Effective date: 20150126 |
|
| MKEX | Expiry |
Effective date: 20150126 |