Video-assisted laryngeal mask airway devices

Abstract

A laryngeal mask airway device is provided that incorporates a video sensor, such as a CCD, CMOS or NMOS imaging chip, arranged to provide an image of the laryngeal inlet or other airway structures. The video sensor is electrically coupled to a reusable processing unit that receives the signals generated by the video sensor and generates a digital image of the interior of the patient's airway, thereby enabling the clinician to have immediate optical confirmation of the position of the mask aperture relative to the laryngeal inlet from the moment of insertion of the device.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates to a laryngeal mask airway device for administering anesthesia, such as a laryngeal mask airway and an intubated laryngeal mask, having one or more video sensors mounted in the bowl portion of the device to aid in placement of the device or insertion Endotracheal tube. Background technique [0002] A laryngeal mask airway ("LMA") is known to administer anesthesia in place of or in conjunction with an endotracheal tube. The LMA allows the patient to ventilate without inserting an endotracheal tube into the trachea, but does not prevent the risk of reflux and aspiration. Commercially available LMAs are designed to reduce the risk encountered with endotracheal tubes of incorrect placement of the tube into the esophagus instead of into the trachea and are now used in more than 1 / 3 of all anesthesia procedures. Such devices typically include a flexible conduit connected to and in communication with a mask portion that include...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

However, all these devices suffer from the aforementioned disadvantages

Specifically, none of these devices provide an adequate degree of ventilation for the patient while the intubation procedure is in progress

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