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Methods for tracheostomy visualization

  • US 8,534,287 B2
  • Filed: 08/04/2010
  • Issued: 09/17/2013
  • Est. Priority Date: 02/06/2009
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
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1. A method for facilitating the conversion from an endotracheal tube to a tracheostomy tube, the method comprising:

  • providing a T-connector having an in-line inlet port, a side inlet port, and an outlet port;

    coupling the outlet port of the T-connector to a proximal end of an indwelling endotracheal tube;

    coupling a side inlet port of the T-connector to an external ventilator, said external ventilator configured to deliver air through the outlet port of the T-connector;

    inserting an endotracheal tube cleaning device comprising a visualization lumen having a window at a sealed distal end into the in-line inlet port of the T-connector;

    inserting a visualization scope within the visualization lumen;

    withdrawing the endotracheal tube to a position such that the distal end of the endotracheal tube is adjacent to a larynx within a trachea of a patient;

    performing a percutaneous tracheostomy while visualizing the trachea beyond the distal tip of the endotracheal tube using the visualization scope;

    inserting a tracheostomy tube within the trachea;

    confirming the proper positioning of the tracheostomy tube; and

    removing the endotracheal tube from the patient.

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