Positive Expiratory Pressure Device

Abstract

An improved oscillating positive expiratory pressure (“OPEP”) device, for respiratory therapy having a self sterilizing flow valve capable of insertion into the curved OPEP body without tools or aids. The flow valve is also tear resistant and incorporates a flared reinforced proximal end. To maximize the benefit to patients, the adjustable therapy selector is constrained from withdrawal and is dimensioned to accept commercially available, standardized respiratory fittings adaptors, mouthpieces and “Tees” that are capable of connection to multiple respiratory therapy devices or medicated aerosol delivery units. The aesthetics have been altered by the addition of an arced handle.

Description

COPYRIGHT STATEMENT[0001]A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.FIELD[0002]The present disclosure relates, in general, to medical devices and more particularly to devices for the removal of pulmonary secretions from the lungs of patients undergoing respiratory treatments.BACKGROUND[0003]When treating patients with respiratory secretions problems, such as Cystic Fibrosis, asthma, COPD and the like, it is advantageous to help clear the patient's lungs of the pulmonary secretions (bronchial mucus) thereon. These can be dislodged best by a series of two different therapies. First, a positive expiratory pressure (PEP) is exerted back into the lungs increasing air press...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent text describes a new device for patients who need respiratory therapy. The device has a special tool that allows patients to easily adjust the therapy to their needs. This tool is designed to prevent patients from minimizing the benefits of their therapy. Additionally, the device has a removable silicon end cap and an integrated handle, making it easy for patients to use.

Problems solved by technology

These therapy selectors are difficult to adjust, do not stay at the set therapy position, and the settings are difficult to visualize.

Partial withdrawal makes the therapy easier on the patient by reducing the amount of exhalation exertion they have to expend, but alters the physical characteristics of the device such that its efficacy is severely diminished.

The current devices lack handles and present an undesirable phallic-like aesthetics.

Being made of medical grade silicone, the flow valve is extremely hard to install and requires its own tool for replacement.

This is a poor design and lends itself to premature flow valve failure because of splitting and tearing.

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