JPWO2019032459A5 - - Google Patents

Description

(field)
The present disclosure generally relates to laryngoscopes.

(Related technology)
Advanced airway management is one of the most important medical procedures practiced in operating rooms, emergency departments, intensive care units, emergency medical centers, in the field, and on the battlefield in both adult and pediatric patients. The ability to create an open pathway to a patient's lungs in a safe, reliable, and efficient manner is an important skill that can be improved through the creation of quality airway intubation and visualization devices.

Laryngoscopes were introduced in the 1940's and are widely used today for airway management. Approximately 21 million laryngoscopy procedures are performed in the United States each year. However, currently available laryngoscopes have many limitations and are prone to failure by multiple unpredictable means. Since these devices are typically used in emergency situations, failure is unacceptable.

One of the drawbacks of existing laryngoscopes is the varying degree of contamination. Incomplete disinfection and cross-contamination are serious hospital problems that have been demonstrated to occur with reusable laryngoscope handles and blades. Although some laryngoscopes are claimed to be "disposable," they are not truly disposable in their entirety. That is, only the blade portion of the device is disposable, while the handle portion is reusable and must be carefully maintained.

Since most conventional laryngoscopes use an electrical light source to provide adequate visualization of the airway during the procedure, there are additional risks associated with handling electrical devices. Electrical light sources (eg, batteries) are heavy and can pose reliability and safety issues when used within the human body.

Another common problem with conventional laryngoscopes is their large size and heavy weight due to the design and materials (eg, metal) used for the device. The bulky size of some conventional laryngoscopes is cumbersome, obscures adequate visualization of the airway entrance, and hinders manipulation of the tracheal tracheal tube.

Another problem associated with currently available laryngoscopes is tooth trauma and prolapse. This occurs because of the difficulty in placement and visualization, the weight associated with the metal blade, and the entire device pressing on the dentition.

Additional risks of current laryngoscopes exist for soldiers on the battlefield. When detectable light sources are used in combat triage, white light can indicate the location of troops and endanger them.

The present disclosure generally relates to laryngoscopes. According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a laryngoscope includes a curved blade having a proximal end, a distal end and a first channel. The laryngoscope also includes a handle and a second channel. The handle contains a non-electrical light source, including a chemiluminescent light source. A catalyst within the chemiluminescent light source is activated by pressure on the chemiluminescent light source to generate light that travels along the first channel. A second channel is disposed proximate to and through the blade and is configured to provide at least oxygen, suction or instrumentation into the proximal end of the blade and out of the distal end of the blade.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a laryngoscope handle includes a non-electrical light source and a connector. Non-electrical light sources may include chemiluminescent light sources. A catalyst within the chemiluminescent source is activated by pressure on the catalyst within the chemiluminescent source to generate light. The connector is configured to removably attach the blade to the handle. The connector includes an optical interface configured to couple light generated by the chemiluminescent light source to light channels within the blade.

According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a laryngoscope blade includes a curved body and a first channel. A curved body extends from the proximal end to the distal end. The first channel is configured to transmit light. At least a portion of the body is configured to reflect light.
The present invention provides, for example, the following.
(Item 1)
a laryngoscope,
a curved blade having a proximal end, a distal end and a first channel;
A handle comprising a non-electrical light source comprising a chemiluminescent light source, wherein a catalyst within said chemiluminescent light source is activated by pressure on said chemiluminescent light source to generate light for transmission along said first channel. let the handle and
A second channel disposed adjacent to and through the blade, the second channel channeling at least one of oxygen, suction, and instrumentation into the proximal end of the blade. and a second channel configured to feed out from a distal end of said blade.
(Item 2)
2. A laryngoscope according to item 1, wherein at least a portion of said blade reflects said light.
(Item 3)
2. A laryngoscope according to item 1, wherein the blade extends from the proximal end to the distal end.
(Item 4)
2. The laryngoscope of item 1, wherein the blade comprises lateral ridges configured to facilitate tongue capture and orientation.
(Item 5)
A laryngoscope according to item 1, wherein the first channel comprises an optical fiber or waveguide.
(Item 6)
A laryngoscope according to item 1, wherein the handle comprises an enclosure in which the chemiluminescent light source resides.
(Item 7)
7. A laryngoscope according to item 6, wherein the enclosure comprises an opening through which the chemiluminescent light source is inserted into the enclosure.
(Item 8)
The handle is
2. The laryngoscope of item 1, further comprising: a rotating portion configured to apply torsional pressure via a rotating cam to crack the vial of catalyst within the chemiluminescent light source.
(Item 9)
The handle is
2. The laryngoscope of item 1, further comprising: a pressure-activated device configured to crack the vial of catalyst within the chemiluminescent light source when pressed.
(Item 10)
The handle is
2. The laryngoscope of claim 1, further comprising a horizontal trigger configured to apply pressure via a cam when sliding to crack the vial of catalyst within the chemiluminescent light source.
(Item 11)
2. The laryngoscope of item 1, wherein the catalyst within the chemiluminescent source is activated prior to inserting the chemiluminescent source into the handle.
(Item 12)
A laryngoscope according to item 1, wherein the wavelength of the light is in the range from infrared light to visible light.
(Item 13)
2. The laryngoscope of item 1, wherein the handle comprises at least one connector configured to removably attach the blade to the handle.
(Item 14)
14. The laryngoscope of item 13, wherein the at least one connector comprises an optical interface configured to couple the light generated by the chemiluminescent light source to the first channel.
(Item 15)
14. Clause 14, wherein the at least one connector comprises an adapter, the adapter configured to couple at least one of an oxygen source, a suction source, and the instrumentation to the second channel. laryngoscope.
(Item 16)
2. A laryngoscope according to item 1, wherein the second channel traverses the length of the blade.
(Item 17)
A laryngoscope according to item 1, wherein the second channel is proximate to the first channel. (Item 18)
The larynx of item 1, wherein the instrumentation includes wires, ablation devices, lasers, optical fibers, biopsy forceps, radiotherapy marker and material placement tools, wire-guided scalpels, and local drug treatment and therapy placement tools. mirror.
(Item 19)
a laryngoscope handle,
a non-electrical light source comprising a chemiluminescent light source, wherein a catalyst within said chemiluminescent light source is activated by pressure onto said chemiluminescent light source to generate light;
a connector configured to removably attach a blade to the handle, the connector configured to couple the light generated by the chemiluminescent light source to a light channel on the blade; a connector;
with a handle.
(Item 20)
20. The handle of item 19, further comprising an enclosure in which said chemiluminescent light source resides.
(Item 21)
21. The handle of item 20, wherein the enclosure comprises an opening through which the chemiluminescent light source is inserted into the enclosure.
(Item 22)
20. The handle of item 19, further comprising a rotating portion configured to apply torsional pressure via a rotating cam to crack the vial of catalyst within the chemiluminescent light source.
(Item 23)
20. The handle of item 19, further comprising a pressure-activated device configured to crack the vial of catalyst within the chemiluminescent light source when pressed.
(Item 24)
20. The handle of item 19, further comprising a horizontal trigger configured to apply pressure via a cam when sliding to crack the vial of catalyst in the chemiluminescent light source.
(Item 25)
20. The handle of item 19, wherein the catalyst in the chemiluminescent cartridge is activated prior to inserting the chemiluminescent light source into the handle.
(Item 26)
A laryngoscope blade,
a curved body extending from a proximal end to a distal end;
a first channel configured to transmit light;
A blade, wherein at least a portion of the body reflects the light.
(Item 27)
Further comprising a second channel disposed proximate to and through the body, the second channel channeling at least one of oxygen, suction, and instrumentation through the proximal end of the body. 27. The blade of item 26, configured to provide in and out of the distal end of the body.
(Item 28)
27. The blade of item 26, further comprising lateral ridges configured to facilitate tongue capture and orientation.
(Item 29)
27. Blade according to item 26, wherein the body is made of plastic material, carbon fiber material, composite material or metallic material.
(Item 30)
28. The blade of item 27, wherein the instrumentation includes wires, ablation devices, lasers, fiber optics, biopsy forceps, radiotherapy marker and material placement tools, wire-guided scalpels, and local drug treatment and therapy placement tools. .

This summary of the present invention is provided only for the purpose of exemplifying some embodiments to provide an understanding of the subject matter described herein. Therefore, the features described above are examples only and should not be construed to narrow the scope or spirit of the subject matter in this disclosure. Other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description, drawings, and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of the specification, illustrate the disclosure presented and, together with the description, further explain the principles of the disclosure and will enable those skilled in the art to make and use the disclosure. play an enabling role.

1 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of a laryngoscope, according to an embodiment; FIG.

2 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of the laryngoscope of FIG. 1 with the blade removed from the handle, according to an embodiment;

3 is a schematic front view of the laryngoscope in FIG. 1, according to an embodiment; FIG.

4 is a schematic side view of the blade of the laryngoscope of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment; FIG.

FIG. 5 is a schematic bottom view of the blade of the laryngoscope in FIG. 1 with a reflective surface, according to an embodiment;

6 is a schematic perspective view of the blade and connector of the laryngoscope in FIG. 1 with an optical path, according to an embodiment; FIG.

7 is a schematic perspective view of a connector attached to the blade of the laryngoscope of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment; FIG.

8 is a schematic perspective view of an adapter connecting an oxygen tube to the channel of the laryngoscope in FIG. 1, according to an embodiment; FIG.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the example laryngoscope of FIGS. 1-8, according to an embodiment;

10 is an exploded perspective view of the laryngoscope of FIG. 9, according to an embodiment; FIG.

FIG. 11 is a side cross-sectional view of the laryngoscope in FIG. 9 along line AA, according to an embodiment;

12 is a front view of the laryngoscope of FIG. 9, according to an embodiment; FIG.

13 is a front cross-sectional view of the laryngoscope of FIG. 9 along line BB, according to an embodiment;

14 is a perspective view of the blade of the laryngoscope of FIG. 9, according to an embodiment; FIG.

15 is another perspective view of the blade of the laryngoscope in FIG. 9, according to an embodiment; FIG.

16 is a perspective view of the blade and connector of the laryngoscope of FIG. 9, according to an embodiment; FIG.

17 is a side cross-sectional view of the blade and connector of the laryngoscope of FIG. 9, according to an embodiment; FIG.

FIG. 18 is a depiction of an example of activation of a chemiluminescent light source within the handle of a laryngoscope, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram of an example of rotational activation of a chemiluminescent light source within a laryngoscope handle by a cam, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 20 is a depiction of an example cam for rotational activation of a laryngoscope chemiluminescent light source, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 21 is a schematic diagram of an example of horizontal activation of a chemiluminescent light source in the handle of a laryngoscope by a cam, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 22 is a depiction of an example of a horizontal trigger for horizontal activation of a chemiluminescent light source of a laryngoscope, according to certain embodiments;

FIG. 23 is a schematic illustration of an example of pressure activation of a chemiluminescent light source within the handle of a laryngoscope, according to certain embodiments.

FIG. 24 is a depiction of an example of intraoral laryngoscope intubation, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 25 is a depiction of an example of wire insertion through a channel of a laryngoscope, according to certain embodiments.

The presented disclosure is described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, like reference numbers generally indicate identical or functionally similar elements. Additionally, generally the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the drawing in which the reference number first appears.

As explained above, there is an unmet medical need for a high quality, reliable, and cost effective laryngoscope that overcomes the deficiencies of products available on the market today. The advantages of a disposable, lightweight laryngoscope with a reliable, self-contained, non-electrical light source, as disclosed in the present disclosure, provide distinct advantages over conventional laryngoscopes and their illumination methods.

According to some embodiments, the laryngoscope may include a non-electrical light source (eg, a chemiluminescent light source) capable of producing light through a chemical reaction occurring inside the chemiluminescent cartridge. The cartridge may be activated while in the handle or may be activated prior to insertion into the handle. Non-electrical light sources may provide light at different wavelengths (eg, selected based on circumstances). Wavelengths can range from visible to infrared light. Compared to conventional laryngoscopes that use electrical light sources, the laryngoscope of the present disclosure is more reliable and safe during procedures.

According to some embodiments, an optical fiber or waveguide may extend through the blade that conducts light generated by the cartridge through the blade and illuminates the patient's oral cavity and airway entrance. The blade may be transparent except for the bottom (eg, ventral side) of the blade which may be at least partially reflective to improve light intensity. Therefore, the field of view for the operator at the airway entrance can be optimized with the laryngoscope within the present disclosure.

According to some embodiments, the laryngoscope is non-flexible with an integrated design for curved or straight blades and an ergonomic handle in which a non-electrical light source (e.g., a chemiluminescent cartridge) resides. It may also be made from a metallic material (eg plastic). The blade may be thin and curved along its length to match the oral and laryngeal anatomy, or it may be straight. The blade may also have small lateral ridges to facilitate tongue capture. Through the use of plastic, both the weight and size of the device can be reduced, thereby reducing the risk of tooth and mouth fractures, bleeding and injury, as well as making the device easier to handle and transport. .

According to some embodiments, the laryngoscope is capable of providing oxygen at various flow rates and concentrations, suction, or into the larynx and airway through channels running the length of the blade. and may be attached to an oxygen or suction source through a connector in the back of the device. For example, this can be done to allow the laryngoscope to be used even when swollen or traumatized vocal cords are present. Therefore, the operator can continue to provide a flow of lifesaving oxygen if there is any difficulty in identifying the vocal cords. Alternatively, if the airway is contaminated with blood, mucus, vomit, etc., suction may be applied as well. This can be accomplished without removing the laryngoscope, unlike the conventional situation, leaving one or both hands of the operator free.

According to some embodiments, the laryngoscope can have an opening in the enclosure of the handle so that the chemiluminescent light source can be inserted into or removed from the enclosure through the opening. can be

According to some embodiments, the chemiluminescent light source is activated by various means (e.g., torsional pressure via a rotating cam, or compression) prior to or after being inserted into the handle. good too. Therefore, replacement and activation of the chemiluminescent light source is easy to operate by the operator in either selective or emergency situations.

According to some embodiments, laryngoscopes to be used in different environments, including, for example, battlefields, may be impervious to sand and moisture.

According to some embodiments, the entire laryngoscope may be disposable or may be used repeatedly on a single patient under the same circumstances to avoid cross-contamination.

FIG. 1 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of a laryngoscope 100, according to an embodiment. Laryngoscope 100 includes blade 102 , handle 104 and auxiliary channel 106 .

In some embodiments, the blade 102 is curved longitudinally between a distal end 108 (eg, the tip of the blade 102) and a proximal end 110 (eg, the end facing the operator during a laryngoscope procedure). You may have The curvature of the blade 102 may be set (eg, 20-60 degrees) to match the anatomy of the patient's mouth and larynx. In some embodiments, the thickness of blade 102 may be uniform (eg, 3-24 millimeters (mm)). In some embodiments, the thickness of blade 102 may vary longitudinally, eg, gradually increasing from distal end 108 to proximal end 110 . In some embodiments, the thickness of the blade 102 may vary across the width, eg, gradually decreasing from the center to the edges, or vice versa.

In the present disclosure, the top of the blade (e.g., dorsal) toward the patient's tongue and mandible during a laryngoscope procedure and the bottom of the blade (e.g., ventral) toward the patient's upper jaw during a laryngoscope procedure. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that a blade (eg, blade 102) has two major surfaces, including:

In some embodiments, the body of the blade 102 is made of, for example, a plastic material (eg, polycarbonate (PC), poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyphenylsulfone (PPSU)) and carbon. It is made from non-metallic materials including fibers and composite materials such as fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) or ceramic composites. Non-metallic materials may optimize the weight reduction of the blade 102 and overcome the problem of conventional blades being heavy and cumbersome. Non-metallic materials may also reduce the risk of injury to the patient during use, for example to the patient's teeth. It is understood that in some embodiments, a metal material, metal alloy material, or metal composite material (eg, aluminum, titanium, or alloys thereof) with low weight may be used as the body material of the blade 102. want to be

In some embodiments, blade 102 also includes optical channel 112 and lateral ridges 114 . The optical channel 112 is one (i.e., the first channel) of two conduit structures on or within the blade 102 operable to transmit light therethrough (i.e., the optical path). may A lateral ridge 114 is located on the top of the blade 102 and near or at the distal end 108 . In some embodiments, the lateral ridges 114 are located on the upper outer edge of the blade 102 . Lateral ridges 114 are configured to facilitate tongue capture and orientation during the procedure. For example, the lateral ridges 114 allow the operator to capture the patient's tongue and manually move the patient's tongue out of the field of view to optimize visualization of the patient's airway for the operator. can be This may be useful, for example, after an allergic reaction or trauma to the tongue. In some embodiments, the lateral ridges 114 are sized such that damage to the teeth or tongue caused by movement of the blade 102 may be reduced.

In one embodiment, optical channel 112 is secured to the top of blade 102 along its length. In some embodiments, optical channel 112 may traverse the entire length of blade 102 between distal end 108 and proximal end 110 . In some embodiments, optical channel 112 may traverse a portion of the overall length of blade 102 , starting at proximal end 110 but not reaching distal end 108 , for example. In this embodiment, light channel 112 is configured to transmit light through blade 102 to illuminate the patient's oral cavity and airway entrance (eg, larynx) during a laryngoscope procedure. Optical channel 112 may include any structure capable of conducting light (eg, an optical fiber or waveguide). As explained above, depending on the light generated from the handle 104, the light channel 112 can transmit light at corresponding wavelengths (eg, in the infrared to visible light range). The different wavelengths of light that can be transmitted by the optical channel 112 accommodate different clinical situations in which the laryngoscope 100 is used, for example, when the laryngoscope 100 is used on the battlefield, to a night vision detector. It uses infrared light, which is "invisible" to

In one embodiment, handle 104 includes an enclosure 116 and a non-electrical light source 118 residing within enclosure 116 . Enclosure 116 may be any suitable structure within handle 104 (eg, a wall forming a cavity in which non-electrical light source 118 is positioned and retained by the enclosure). Non-electrical light source 118 is configured to generate light at a wavelength that travels along optical channel 112 . Non-electrical light source 118 can be, for example, a chemiluminescent light source, by which light is generated from a chemical reaction as described below. In some embodiments, other non-electrical light sources (such as, but not limited to, bioluminescent, crystalline luminescent, thermoluminescent, photoluminescent, etc.) can also be used as non-electrical light source 118. Please understand. By replacing a battery-requiring electric light source with a non-electric light source 118, lighter weight, higher reliability, and increased safety can be achieved for the laryngoscope 100. The light generated by the non-electrical light source 118 may last for several hours, providing sufficient time to intubate the patient in either elective or emergency situations.

In one embodiment, handle 104 is an ergonomic handle for ease of use by the operator. The enclosure 116 of the handle 104 can include an opening 120 at the bottom through which the non-electrical light source 118 can be inserted into or removed from the handle 104, eg, for replacement. . Opening 120 may be, for example, a lockable hatch with a pivot, snap fit, screw cap, or trapdoor. With opening 120 unlocked, a non-electrical light source 118 (eg, a chemiluminescent cartridge) can be inserted into or removed from enclosure 116 of handle 104 . It should be appreciated that in other embodiments, openings 120 may be on different portions (eg, sides) of enclosure 116 .

In some embodiments, the body of handle 104 is made from non-metallic materials including plastic materials (eg, PC, PMMA, PEEK, PPSU), carbon fiber, or composite materials (eg, FRP or ceramic composites). Non-metallic materials may optimize weight reduction of the handle 104 and overcome the problem of heavy and cumbersome conventional handles. It is understood that in some embodiments, a metal material, metal alloy material, or metal composite material (eg, aluminum, titanium, or alloys thereof) with light weight may be used as the body material of the handle 104. want to be The materials from which blade 102 and handle 104 are made may be the same or different.

In some embodiments, auxiliary channel 106 is positioned proximate to and through blade 102 . Auxiliary channel 106 is one of two conduit structures on or within blade 102 (i.e., a second channel) that is operable to provide additional functions as described in detail below. ). The inlet of the auxiliary channel 106 may be near or at the proximal end 110 and the outlet of the auxiliary channel 106 may be near or at the distal end 108 . Auxiliary channel 106 traverses the length of blade 102 and is adjacent optical channel 112 . In some embodiments, auxiliary channel 106 may be parallel to optical channel 112 along the length of blade 102 . In this embodiment, auxiliary channel 106 is configured to provide oxygen, suction, instrumentation, etc. into proximal end 110 of blade 102 and out of distal end 108 of blade 102 . Auxiliary channel 106 behaves as a suction device when connected to an external suction device for suction of debris (e.g., blood, mucus, vomit, etc.) that can obscure airway visualization and thereby hinder successful intubation. can do. Auxiliary channel 106 may also provide a means of delivering oxygen to the patient when connected to an external oxygen source. This can be accomplished without removing the laryngoscope 100, unlike in conventional situations, leaving one or both hands of the operator free. Additionally or alternatively, various types of instrumentation can be inserted through the auxiliary channel 106 and into the patient's vocal cords or airway during the procedure. Instrumentation includes, for example, but is not limited to, wires, ablation devices, lasers, fiber optics, biopsy forceps, radiotherapy marker and material placement devices, wire guide scalpels, local drug therapy and therapy placement devices, and the like. .

FIG. 2 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of laryngoscope 100 in FIG. 1 with blade 102 removed from handle 104, according to an embodiment. In this embodiment, blade 102 is removably attached to handle 104 via connector 222 on blade 102 and connector 224 on handle 104 . Connectors 222 and 224 allow blade 102 to be attached to and detached from handle 104 through various mechanisms (eg, pivot, snap fit, threaded, etc.). They may mesh with each other as much as possible. In addition to providing a mechanical attachment between blade 102 and handle 104 , connectors 222 and 224 also direct light generated by non-electrical light source 118 in handle 104 to light channel 112 in blade 102 . An optical interface is also provided that is configured to couple to a. Because the blade 102 can be easily removed from the handle 104, the blade 102 can be replaced after each single use or after several uses on the same patient under the same circumstances, avoiding cross-contamination. good too. It should be appreciated that in some embodiments, blade 102 may be secured to handle 104 by mechanical fasteners, adhesives, or any suitable securing means. In some embodiments, blade 102 and handle 104 may be integrally formed from the same material.

FIG. 3 is a schematic front view of laryngoscope 100 in FIG. 1, according to an embodiment. Proximal end 110 to distal end 108 are the two longitudinal ends of blade 102 (shown as LL in FIG. 3). The width direction (shown as WW in FIG. 3) is perpendicular to the length direction LL. In this embodiment, the body of blade 102 extends from proximal end 110 to distal end 108 . That is, the width of blade 102 gradually increases from proximal end 110 to distal end 108 . In some embodiments, the width of blades 102 at distal end 108 may be up to 20% greater than the width of blades 102 at proximal end 110 . Such a design of the blade 102, along with the lateral ridges 114, can facilitate tongue capture and optimize the field of view for the operator during the procedure.

As shown in FIG. 3, in this embodiment auxiliary channel 106 and optical channel 112 are adjacent to each other at one edge of blade 102 . In some embodiments, auxiliary channel 106 and optical channel 112 may be positioned away from each other, for example, at two edges of blade 102, respectively. Alternatively, one of the auxiliary channel 106 and the optical channel 112 may be located in the center of the blade 102 in the width direction, and the other of the auxiliary channel 106 and the optical channel 112 is located at one edge of the blade 102. may be In some embodiments, auxiliary channel 106 and optical channel 112 may be close to each other at the center of blade 102 in the width direction (shown as WW in FIG. 3). Also, as shown in FIG. 3, in this embodiment the auxiliary channel 106 and the optical channel 112 each extend from the proximal end 110 of the blade 102 to the distal end 108 of the blade 102, i.e. the entire length of the blade 102. extends across the As explained above, in some embodiments, one or both of auxiliary channel 106 and optical channel 112 may traverse only a portion of the overall length of blade 102 .

FIG. 4 is a schematic side view of blade 102 of laryngoscope 100 in FIG. 1, according to an embodiment. In this embodiment, the blades 102 are positioned so that light transmitted along the light channels 112 can pass through the blades 102 and illuminate the patient's oral cavity and airway entrance. It may be made from a material that is transparent to wavelengths.

FIG. 5 is a schematic bottom view of blade 102 of laryngoscope 100 in FIG. 1 with reflective surface 526, according to an embodiment. In this embodiment, blade 102 has a reflective surface 526 on the bottom of the body. Reflective surface 526 is made of a material that is reflective to light at wavelengths generated by non-electrical light source 118 and transmitted along light channel 112 . As a result, the intensity of light can be enhanced by the reflective surface 526 of the blade 102 during the procedure. Reflective surface 526 may be formed by applying a light reflective coating (eg, mirror coating) (eg, aluminum coating, silver coating, gold coating, etc.) on the bottom of the body of blade 102 . In this embodiment, the remainder of blade 102 is made from a plastic material that is transparent to visible light. In some embodiments, reflective surface 526 may cover the entire bottom surface of blade 102 .

6 and 7 are schematic perspective views of blade 102 of laryngoscope 100 in FIG. 1 and connector 222 attached to blade 102 with an optical path, according to an embodiment. In this embodiment, connector 222 of blade 102 includes an optical interface 628 configured to couple light from non-electrical light source 118 in handle 104 to optical channel 112 in blade 102 . . Thus, an optical path 630 (dotted area) is formed along the length of blade 102 through which light passes from optical interface 628 in connector 222 to optical channel 112 at distal end 108 of blade 102 . transmitted to the end. Depending on the structure of the optical channel 112 (eg, optical fiber or waveguide), an optical interface 628 with suitable optical properties (eg, refractive index) may be formed within connector 222 . In some embodiments, when optical channel 112 includes optical fiber, optical interface 628 may include a fiber optic connector. In some embodiments, when optical channel 112 includes a waveguide, optical interface 628 may include a waveguide flange.

FIG. 8 is a schematic perspective view of an adapter 832 of connector 222 connecting oxygen tube 834 to auxiliary channel 106 of laryngoscope 100 in FIG. 1, according to an embodiment. In this embodiment, connector 222 of blade 102 includes an adapter 832 configured to couple oxygen tube 834 to auxiliary channel 106 . The other end of oxygen tube 834 is connected to an oxygen source (e.g., medical gas supply) so that oxygen can be provided to the patient through laryngoscope 100 during a laryngoscope procedure without removing laryngoscope 100 . part). It should be appreciated that in some embodiments, adapter 832 may be configured to couple an external suction tube to auxiliary channel 106 . The other end of the external suction tube may be connected to a suction machine so that debris and fluids can be removed during the laryngoscope procedure. In some embodiments, adapter 832 may be configured to couple instrumentation such that the instrumentation can be inserted into the patient's mouth and/or larynx via auxiliary channel 106. good. As described above, the instrumentation may include wires, ablation devices, lasers, fiber optics, biopsy forceps, radiation therapy marker and material placement tools, wire guide scalpels, local drug treatment and therapy placement tools, and the like. may Adapter 832 may be a corresponding adapter, depending on the type of instrumentation. It should also be appreciated that in some embodiments, the adapter 832 can reside within the connector 224 of the handle 104 . It should also be appreciated that in some embodiments, adapter 832 may be configured to couple more than one source of oxygen or suction and/or instrumentation.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an example laryngoscope 900, according to an embodiment. In this embodiment, laryngoscope 900 includes curved blade 902 , ergonomic handle 904 and auxiliary channel 906 . Blade 902 longitudinally includes a distal end 908 and a proximal end 910 . Blade 902 also includes an optical channel 912 that extends from proximal end 910 to distal end 908 of blade 902 . Blade 902 further includes lateral ridges 914 at the upper (dorsal) side of the body of blade 902 .

In this example, handle 904 includes an enclosure 916 within which resides a non-electrical light source (eg, a chemiluminescent light source) (not shown). Handle 904 also includes connector 922 at the top of enclosure 916 . Connector 922 is configured to attach blade 902 to handle 904 . Connector 922 includes an adapter 932 that is configured to connect to auxiliary channel 906 inside blade 902 and couple an oxygen source, a suction source, and/or instrumentation to auxiliary channel 906 . Auxiliary channel 906 extends from adapter 932 to proximal end 910 and terminates at outlet 936 at distal end 908 of blade 902 . For example, oxygen, suction, instrumentation, etc. may be provided to the patient via outlet 936 during the procedure. It should be understood that the functions and structures of similar components within laryngoscope 100 may be used within laryngoscope 900 and so they are not repeated in the description of laryngoscope 900 .

FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of laryngoscope 900 in FIG. 9, according to an embodiment. In this embodiment, blade 902 includes connector 1024 at proximal end 910 as well as inlet 1038 for auxiliary channel 906 . Connector 1024 of blade 902 can be snapped into connector 922 of handle 904 such that blade 902 is removably attached to handle 904 . Inlet 1038 of auxiliary channel 906 is coupled to the end of adapter 932 when blade 902 is attached to handle 904 such that a path is formed from adapter 932 to outlet 936 of auxiliary channel 906 .

Handle 904 includes a non-electrical light source (eg, chemiluminescent light source 1018) with a non-electrical light source (eg, chemiluminescent cartridge 1040) made from, for example, a flexible plastic material. Chemiluminescent reagents are stored in chemiluminescent cartridge 1040 . The chemiluminescence cartridge 1040 also contains a vial 1042 of catalyst. Chemiluminescent reagents and catalysts can be any suitable chemical for the chemiluminescent reaction depending on the desired wavelength of light to be generated. In one example, the chemiluminescent reagents can be luminol and hydrogen peroxide, and the catalysts can be iron, copper, or a co-oxidizing agent that, when mixed, can produce different colors of light within visible wavelengths. may be In another example, light in infrared wavelengths can be generated by any of the known infrared chemiluminescent reactions of chemiluminescent reagents and catalysts. Although one vial 1042 is shown in FIG. 10, it should be understood that any number of vials can be installed inside the chemiluminescence cartridge 1040 depending on the desired wavelength and/or intensity of light. For example, different types of catalyst may be contained within different vials, or different amounts of the same type of catalyst may be contained within varying numbers of vials. Chemiluminescent light source 1018 further includes interface 1028 , which can be mechanically coupled into connector 1024 of blade 902 to transmit light generated from chemiluminescent cartridge 1040 to light channel 912 .

In this embodiment, handle 904 includes opening 1020 in the bottom surface of enclosure 916 . A chemiluminescent light source 1018 can be replaced by removing a used one from opening 1020 and inserting a new one from opening 1020 . Handle 904 also includes a door 1044 that can lock chemiluminescent light source 1018 within enclosure 916 when door 1044 is closed. Handle 904 also includes an opening 1046 on the side of enclosure 916 and a pressure activation device 1048 .

In one embodiment, pressure-activated device 1048 includes an inner surface 1050 , an outer surface 1052 and a rim 1054 . Inner surface 1050 includes bulges 1056 . When assembled, pressure-activated device 1048 is partially inserted through opening 1046 from the inside of handle 904 . A rim 1054 of pressure-activated device 1048 sits inside handle 904 adjacent opening 1046 . Bulges 1056 on inner surface 1050 can transmit pressure applied to outer surface 1052 of pressure-activated device 1048 to chemiluminescent cartridge 1040 . As explained above, the chemiluminescence cartridge 1040 is made of a flexible plastic material so that the pressure applied thereon by the bulge 1056 of the pressure-activated device 1048 causes a Catalyst vial 1042 may be cracked. Catalyst released from vial 1042 then reacts with chemiluminescent reagents in chemiluminescent cartridge 1040, which in turn generates light at any desired wavelength. Mechanisms other than pressure activation device 1048 may be similarly applied to activate the chemiluminescent reaction, as described below.

FIG. 11 is a side cross-sectional view of laryngoscope 900 in FIG. 9 along line AA, according to an embodiment. When inserted through opening 1020, chemiluminescent light source 1018 resides within enclosure 916 of handle 904, as shown in FIG. When connector 1024 of blade 902 is snapped into connector 922 of handle 904 , interface 1028 of chemiluminescent light source 1018 is coupled to one end of light channel 912 of blade 902 to transmit light from chemiluminescent light source 1018 . Form an optical path for transmission .

FIG. 12 is a front view of laryngoscope 900 in FIG. 9, according to an embodiment. FIG. 13 is a front cross-sectional view of laryngoscope 900 in FIG. 9 along line BB, according to an embodiment. In this embodiment, optical channel 912 is located in the center of blade 902 in the width direction and auxiliary channel 906 is located at the edge of blade 902 . An optical fiber or waveguide 1358 is inserted into optical channel 912 as a medium for light transmission . Auxiliary channel 906 is used as an oxygen channel or negative pressure channel for suction. In some embodiments, instrumentation (eg, wires) may be inserted into auxiliary channel 906 .

14 and 15 are perspective views of blade 902 of laryngoscope 900 in FIG. 9, according to an embodiment. In this embodiment, the reflective surface 1426 at the bottom of blade 902 is formed with a highly reflective coating to improve light intensity. Auxiliary channels 906 in blade 902 extend from inlet 1038 to outlet 936 along the length of blade 902 . Auxiliary channel 906 is adjacent to optical channel 912 in blade 902 .

16 and 17 are perspective and side cross-sectional views, respectively, of blade 902 and connector 922 and connector 1024 of laryngoscope 900 in FIGS. 9 and 10, according to an embodiment. In this embodiment, connector 922 and connector 1024 are configured to removably attach blade 902 to handle 904 . As a result, light channel 912 in blade 902 can be coupled to chemiluminescent light source 1018 (shown in FIG. 10) in handle 904 and auxiliary channel 906 in blade 902 can be coupled to adapter 932 on handle 904. can be combined with

FIG. 18 is a depiction of an example activation of a non-electrical (eg, chemiluminescent) light source 1818 within the handle of a laryngoscope, according to an embodiment. Chemiluminescent light source 1818 in this embodiment is an example of non-electrical light source 118 in FIG. In this embodiment, the chemiluminescent source 1818 includes a chemiluminescent cartridge 1860 containing vials 1862 of chemiluminescent reagents and catalyst. The chemiluminescent light source 1818 is activated prior to insertion into the handle of the laryngoscope, for example by bending the chemiluminescent cartridge 1860 and breaking the vial 1862 . The catalyst released from the ruptured vial 1862 reacts with the chemiluminescent reagents in the chemiluminescent cartridge 1860 to generate light at any desired wavelength, as explained above. Once activated, the chemiluminescent light source 1818 can be inserted into the handle of the laryngoscope.

19 and 20 are schematic diagrams of an example of rotational activation of a chemiluminescent light source within handle 1904 of a laryngoscope by cam 1964, according to an embodiment. Handle 1904 in this embodiment is an example of handle 104 in FIG. In this embodiment, after receiving the chemiluminescent light source, the base 1970 of the handle 1904 of the laryngoscope can be rotated relative to the chemiluminescent cartridge 1966 inside the handle 1904 . Rotation of the base 1970 can similarly cause rotation of the cam 1964 relative to the chemiluminescence cartridge 1966, which slides against the chemiluminescence cartridge 1966 until the catalyst vial 1968 within the chemiluminescence cartridge 1966 cracks. . That is, a torsional pressure can be applied by rotating the base 1970 of the handle 1904 via the cam 1964 to crack the catalyst vial 1968 within the chemiluminescence cartridge 1966 . As a result, the catalyst released from cracked vial 1968 reacts with the chemiluminescent reagents in chemiluminescent cartridge 1966 to generate light at any desired wavelength, as explained above. In this embodiment, cam 1964 has a "comma" shape in plan view as shown in FIG. The “comma” shape of cam 1964 may increase the torsional pressure applied by cam 1964 and cause vial 1968 to crack more easily. It is understood, however, that the shape of cam 1964 is not limited to a "comma" shape, but may be any suitable shape (eg, but not limited to rounded, semi-circular, elliptical, etc.). want to be It should be appreciated that in some embodiments, a rotating mechanism other than the base 1970 of the handle 1904 can be used to apply torsional pressure. Accordingly, the chemiluminescent light source can be activated prior to being inserted into the handle 1904 of the laryngoscope.

21 and 22 are schematic diagrams of an example of horizontal activation of a chemiluminescent light source within a laryngoscope handle 2104 by a cam 2164 in conjunction with a horizontal trigger 2172, according to an embodiment. Handle 2104 in this embodiment is an example of handle 104 in FIG. In this embodiment, after receiving the chemiluminescent light source, the horizontal trigger 2172 on the enclosure 2106 of the laryngoscope handle 2104 slides (i.e., moves horizontally relative to the chemiluminescent cartridge 2166 inside the handle 2104). )be able to. Movement of the horizontal trigger 2172 can cause movement of the cam 2164 relative to the chemiluminescence cartridge 2166, which slides against the chemiluminescence cartridge 2166 until the catalyst vial 2168 within the chemiluminescence cartridge 2166 cracks. That is, pressure may be applied by sliding horizontal trigger 2172 through cam 2164 to crack vial 2168 of catalyst within chemiluminescence cartridge 2166 . As a result, the catalyst released from cracked vial 2168 reacts with the chemiluminescent reagents in chemiluminescent cartridge 2166 to generate light at any desired wavelength, as explained above. It is understood that the shape of cam 2164 is not limited to the shape shown in FIG. 21, but may be any suitable shape (eg, but not limited to rounded, semi-circular, elliptical, etc.). want to be

FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram of an example of pressure activation of a chemiluminescent light source within a laryngoscope handle 2304 by a pressure activation device 2374, according to an embodiment. Handle 2304 in this embodiment is an example of handle 104 in FIG. In this embodiment, after receiving the chemiluminescent light source comprising the chemiluminescent cartridge 2366, the pressure activation device 2374 on the enclosure 2306 of the handle 2304 of the laryngoscope can be pressed against the chemiluminescent cartridge 2366. Movement of the pressure-activated device 2374 can crack the catalyst vial 2368 within the chemiluminescence cartridge 2366 . As a result, the catalyst released from cracked vial 2368 reacts with the chemiluminescent reagents in chemiluminescent cartridge 2366 as described above to generate light at any desired wavelength. Pressure activation device 2374 in this example is similar to pressure activation device 1048 described above in the embodiment of FIGS. 9-17.

FIG. 24 is a depiction of an example of intubation of laryngoscope 100 within mouth 2476, according to an embodiment. In operation, an operator may hold the handle 104 (as shown in FIG. 1) and insert at least a portion of the blade 102 into the patient's mouth 2476 at the desired location. The operator can also use the lateral ridges 114 of the blade 102 to capture the patient's tongue 2478 and move the tongue 2478 to optimize the field of view. To obtain better visualization of the mouth 2476 and larynx, the operator can activate a non-electrical light source to generate light at a certain wavelength that propagates along the light channel 112, which is the patient's mouth. 2476 and larynx. The blade 102 may be transparent except for the bottom which is reflective to improve light intensity. The reaction time of the non-electrical light source 118 can last for several hours, providing sufficient time to intubate the patient in either elective or emergency situations. Materials used within non-electrical light source 118 are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as being non-toxic if any material can be inhaled or ingested by a patient.

FIG. 25 is a depiction of an example of insertion of wire 2580 through auxiliary channel 106 of laryngoscope 100, according to an embodiment. In this embodiment, the operator may insert the wire 2580 through the auxiliary channel 106 and beyond the patient's vocal cords 2582 during the procedure. As described above, the operator may attach wire 2580 to any suitable instrumentation (e.g., ablation devices, lasers, fiber optics, biopsy forceps, radiotherapy markers and material placement tools, as desired). wire-guided scalpels, topical medications as well as therapy installations, etc.). If there is any difficulty in identifying the vocal cords 2582, the operator may continue to provide a flow of lifesaving oxygen through the auxiliary channel 106 during the procedure. Additionally or alternatively, suction may be applied through auxiliary channel 106 if the patient's mouth or larynx is contaminated with blood, mucus, or the like. This can be accomplished without removing the laryngoscope 100, keeping the operator's hands free.

It is to be understood that the Detailed Description section, and not the Summary and Abstract sections, is intended to be used to interpret the claims. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION and SUMMARY sections may set forth one or more but not all exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure as contemplated by the inventors and thus may refer to the present disclosure or the appended claims as such. It is not intended to be so limiting.

Although the disclosure is described herein with reference to exemplary embodiments for exemplary fields and applications, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited thereto. . Other embodiments and modifications thereto are possible and within the scope and spirit of the disclosure. For example, without limiting the generality of this paragraph, embodiments are not limited to the software, hardware, firmware, and/or entities illustrated in the figures and/or described herein. Moreover, embodiments (whether explicitly described herein or not) have significant utility in fields and applications beyond the examples described herein.

Embodiments are described herein with the aid of functional building blocks that illustrate the implementation of defined functions and their relationships. The boundaries of these functional building blocks have been arbitrarily defined herein for convenience of description. Alternate boundaries may be defined so long as the defined functions and relationships (or equivalents thereof) are appropriately performed. In addition, alternate embodiments may implement the functional blocks, steps, acts, methods, etc. using different orders than those set forth herein.

References herein to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "exemplary embodiment," or similar phrases may indicate that the described embodiment may include particular features, structures, or characteristics. indicates that all embodiments do not necessarily include that particular feature, structure, or property. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, when particular features, structures, or characteristics are described in the context of certain embodiments, such features, structures, Or, it is within the knowledge of the person skilled in the art to incorporate the features into other embodiments.

The scope and scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims (13)

a laryngoscope,
a curved blade having a proximal end, a distal end and a first channel;
A handle comprising a non- electrical light source and a rotating portion , wherein the non-electrical light source includes a chemiluminescent light source, and wherein the rotating portion applies a torsional pressure via a rotating cam to move the chemiluminescent light source within the chemiluminescent light source. a handle configured to crack a vial of catalyst , wherein the catalyst in the chemiluminescent light source is activated by the rotating portion to produce light that travels along the first channel;
a second channel disposed proximate to and through the blade, the second channel delivering at least one of oxygen and suction and instrumentation to the proximal portion of the blade; a second channel configured to provide into an end and to provide at least one of oxygen and suction and instrumentation out from the distal end of the blade. ,
The distal end comprises a first channel end portion and a second channel end portion spaced from the first channel end portion, and at least a portion of the curved blade is illuminated by the chemiluminescent light source. A laryngoscope that reflects the generated light . (a) the width of the distal end of the blade is greater than the width of the proximal end of the blade; or
2. The laryngoscope of claim 1, wherein (b) the blade comprises lateral ridges configured to facilitate tongue capture and orientation. 2. A laryngoscope according to claim 1, wherein the first channel comprises an optical fiber or waveguide. 2. A laryngoscope according to claim 1 , wherein the handle comprises an enclosure in which the chemiluminescent light source resides. 2. The laryngoscope of claim 1, wherein the catalyst within the chemiluminescent source is activated prior to inserting the chemiluminescent source into the handle. 2. A laryngoscope according to claim 1, wherein the wavelength of light is in the range from infrared to visible light. 2. A laryngoscope according to claim 1 , wherein the handle comprises at least one connector configured to removably attach the blade to the handle . 2. A laryngoscope according to claim 1, wherein the second channel traverses the length of the blade or the second channel is adjacent to the first channel. The instrumentation includes wires , ablation devices , lasers , optical fibers , biopsy forceps , radiotherapy marker and material placement tools , wire-guided scalpels , and local medication and therapy placement tools. , a laryngoscope according to claim 1. a laryngoscope handle,
a non-electrical light source, including a chemiluminescent light source ;
a rotating portion configured to crack a vial of catalyst within the chemiluminescent source by applying torsional pressure via a rotating cam, wherein the catalyst within the chemiluminescent source is pressed against the rotating portion; a rotating portion activated by to generate light that travels along the first channel;
A connector configured to removably attach a blade to the handle, the connector configured to couple the light generated by the chemiluminescent light source to a light channel on the blade. and at least a portion of said blade reflects said light generated by said chemiluminescent light source.
with a handle. (a) further comprising an enclosure in which said chemiluminescent light source resides , or
11. The handle of claim 10 , wherein ( b ) the catalyst within the chemiluminescent source is activated prior to inserting the chemiluminescent source into the handle. A laryngoscope blade,
a curved body having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the width of the distal end of the body is greater than the width of the proximal end of the body;
a first channel configured to transmit light;
at least a portion of the body reflects the light;
The blade, wherein the distal end comprises a first channel end portion and a second channel end portion spaced from the first channel end portion. (a) further comprising a second channel disposed proximate to and through said body, said second channel channeling at least one of oxygen and suction and instrumentation to said body; configured to provide into the proximal end and to provide at least one of oxygen and suction and instrumentation out of the distal end of the body ; or
(b) further comprising lateral ridges configured to facilitate tongue capture and orientation, or
13. A blade according to claim 12 , wherein (c) said body is made of plastic material or carbon fiber material or composite material or metal material.