Respiratory treatment system

Abstract

A respiratory therapy system (100) for delivering a flow of gas to a patient. A respiratory therapy system (100) has a flow generator (101) configured to generate a flow of gas and a catheter (122) configured to deliver the flow of gas from the flow generator (104) to a patient. The conduit (122) has a lumen and a heater wire configured to heat a flow of gas in the conduit. A respiratory therapy system (100) has a port configured to be in fluid communication with a catheter (122) and for receiving an aerosolized substance and introducing the aerosolized substance into a flow of gas flowing to a patient. The respiratory therapy system (100) has a controller configured to adjust the power delivered to at least the heater wire to adjust the average particle size of the aerosolized substance to a target or orientation adjustment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a respiratory therapy system for delivering a flow of gas to a patient. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a respiratory therapy system that regulates the average particle size of an aerosolized substance introduced into the system. Background Art

[0002] A respiratory therapy device or system for delivering a flow of gas can be used to improve ventilation of a patient. Such a device or system can be used to improve the patient's comfort and / or improve the patient's prognosis for a respiratory disease.

[0003] In some systems, the respiratory therapy system can be configured to receive an aerosolized substance, such as from a nebulizer. For example, a nebulizer can be used to deliver a medicinal substance to a patient's airway while simultaneously delivering breathing gases to the patient's airway. In some cases, the respiratory therapy system receives the aerosolized substance, which is then carried by the gas flow through the respiratory conduit and output to the patient's airway via a patient interface.

[0004] However, the efficiency of delivery of the aerosolized substance may not be as desired, for example when the aerosolized substance sticks to the inner wall of the catheter, settles along the inner wall of the catheter, or becomes stuck on the inner wall of the catheter and does not advance to the patient's airway, or when a sufficient amount of the substance does not advance as far into the patient's airway as desired.

[0005] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a respiratory therapy apparatus or system which overcomes or at least partially ameliorates some of the above-mentioned disadvantages, or which at least provides the public with a useful choice. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one embodiment disclosed herein, a respiratory therapy system for delivering a flow of gas to a patient is disclosed, the respiratory therapy system for delivering a flow of gas to a patient comprising:

[0007] a flow generator configured to deliver the flow of gas to the patient;

[0008] a catheter configured to deliver the flow of gas from the flow generator to the patient, the catheter comprising a lumen and a heater wire configured to heat the flow of gas in the catheter;

[0009] a port configured to be in fluid communication with the conduit for receiving aerosolized substance and introducing the aerosolized substance into a flow of gas to the patient; and

[0010] A controller is configured to adjust at least the power delivered to the heater wire to adjust the average particle size of the aerosolized material to a target.

[0011] In some configurations, power is delivered to the heater wire to achieve a target relative humidity.

[0012] In some configurations, the controller continuously controls the power delivered to the heater wire to maintain a target relative humidity.

[0013] In some configurations, the target relative humidity is the relative humidity of the flowing gas in the conduit.

[0014] In some configurations, the target relative humidity is the relative humidity of the flowing gas at the patient end of the catheter.

[0015] In some configurations, the target relative humidity is about 80%.

[0016] In some configurations, the target relative humidity is less than 80%.

[0017] In some configurations, the target relative humidity is about 60%.

[0018] In some configurations, the target relative humidity is less than 60%.

[0019] In some configurations, the target average particle size is based on an expected travel distance into the patient's airway.

[0020] In some configurations, the desired travel distance is for dispersion in or around the patient's upper airway.

[0021] In some configurations, the desired travel distance is for dispersion outside of the patient's upper airway.

[0022] In some configurations, the desired travel distance is for dispersion in or around the patient's lower airway.

[0023] In some configurations, the target average particle size is relatively larger when the desired travel distance is dispersed in or about the patient's upper airway than when the desired travel distance is dispersed in or about the patient's lower airway.

[0024] In some configurations, the target average particle size is a mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) of <1.0 μm.

[0025] In some configurations, the target average particle size is a mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) between 0.5 μm and <1.0 μm.

[0026] In some configurations, the target average particle size is a median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) of <0.5 μm.

[0027] In some configurations, the target average particle size is a mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) between 0.1 μm and 0.5 μm.

[0028] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system further includes a humidifier including a heating element.

[0029] In some configurations, the controller is configured to adjust the power delivered to the heating element to adjust the average particle size of the aerosolized substance to a target.

[0030] In some configurations, the controller controls the power delivered to the heater wire and the power delivered to the heating element to achieve a target average particle size.

[0031] In some configurations, the controller controls the power delivered to the heating wire independently of the power delivered to the heating element to adjust the average particle size.

[0032] In some configurations, the heating element is a heating plate.

[0033] In some configurations, the port for the nebulizer is located downstream of the flow generator.

[0034] In some configurations, a port for a nebulizer is located at the humidifier.

[0035] In some configurations, a port for the nebulizer is located at or toward the inlet or outlet of the humidifier.

[0036] In some configurations, the port for the nebulizer is located at or towards the outlet of the humidifier.

[0037] In some configurations, the port for the nebulizer is located upstream of the device end of the catheter.

[0038] In some configurations, a port for a nebulizer is located at or toward the device end of the catheter.

[0039] In some configurations, the port is configured to indirectly receive the nebulizer.

[0040] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system further includes a connector configured to connect to the port at one opening and to receive the nebulizer at another opening.

[0041] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system further includes a nebulizer configured to connect at the port, the nebulizer introducing the aerosolized substance into the gas flow.

[0042] In some configurations, the system includes a standard therapy mode and an aerosol therapy mode.

[0043] In some configurations, the nebulized therapy mode includes a target relative humidity that is lower than the target relative humidity in the standard therapy mode.

[0044] In some configurations, the power delivered to the heater wire in the aerosol therapy mode is higher than the power delivered in the standard therapy mode.

[0045] In some configurations, the standard therapy mode includes a target relative humidity of approximately 100%, and the nebulized therapy mode includes a target relative humidity of less than 100%.

[0046] In some configurations, the target relative humidity in the nebulization therapy mode is less than 80%.

[0047] In some configurations, the target relative humidity in the nebulized therapy mode is less than 60%.

[0048] In some configurations, a user can manually adjust between standard therapy mode and aerosol therapy mode.

[0049] In some configurations, after entering aerosol therapy mode, a feature for manually adjusting the target average particle size becomes available.

[0050] In some configurations, the system is configured to automatically control power to the heating wire to achieve a default target average particle size.

[0051] In some configurations, the system is configured to automatically control power to the heating element to achieve a default target average particle size.

[0052] In some configurations, the default target average particle size is <1.0 μm.

[0053] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system also includes a user control interface.

[0054] In some configurations, the user control interface includes a user control interface element for adjusting the target average particle size.

[0055] In some configurations, the user control interface includes a user control interface element for adjusting a target travel distance into the patient's airway.

[0056] In some configurations, the user control interface includes user control interface elements for selecting a standard therapy mode and an aerosol therapy mode.

[0057] In some configurations, the user control interface includes a touch screen interface.

[0058] In some configurations, the user control interface includes a mechanical interface having a physical element that is one of a slider, a dial, a button, or a combination thereof.

[0059] In some configurations, the conduit comprises a length greater than 0.5 meters.

[0060] In some configurations, the conduit comprises a length greater than 1 meter.

[0061] In some configurations, the conduit comprises a length greater than 1.5 meters.

[0062] According to certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one embodiment disclosed herein, a method for delivering a flow of gas to a patient is disclosed, the method for delivering a flow of gas to a patient comprising:

[0063] A respiratory therapy device is provided, comprising:

[0064] - a flow generator configured to deliver the flow of gas to the patient;

[0065] a catheter configured to deliver the flow of gas from the flow generator to the patient, the catheter comprising a lumen and a heating wire configured to heat the flow of gas in the catheter;

[0066] introducing the aerosolized substance into the patient's gas flow; and

[0067] The power delivered to the heating wire is adjusted to adjust the average particle size of the aerosolized material to the target.

[0068] In some configurations, the method further includes regulating power delivered to the heater wire to achieve the target relative humidity.

[0069] In some configurations, the method further includes continuously controlling power delivered to the heater wire to maintain the target relative humidity.

[0070] In some configurations, the target relative humidity is the relative humidity of the flowing gas in the conduit.

[0071] In some configurations, the target relative humidity is the relative humidity of the flowing gas at the patient end of the catheter.

[0072] In some configurations, the target relative humidity is about 80%.

[0073] In some configurations, the target relative humidity is less than 80%.

[0074] In some configurations, the target relative humidity is about 60%.

[0075] In some configurations, the target relative humidity is less than 60%.

[0076] In some configurations, the target average particle size is based on the expected travel distance into the patient's airway.

[0077] In some configurations, the desired travel distance is for dispersion in or around the patient's upper airway.

[0078] In some configurations, the desired travel distance is for dispersion outside of the patient's upper airway.

[0079] In some configurations, the desired travel distance is for dispersion in or around the patient's lower airway.

[0080] In some configurations, the target average particle size is relatively smaller when the desired travel distance is dispersed in or about the patient's upper airway than when the desired travel distance is dispersed in or about the patient's lower airway.

[0081] In some configurations, the target average particle size is a mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) of <1.0 μm.

[0082] In some configurations, the target average particle size is a mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) between 0.5 μm and 1.0 μm.

[0083] In some configurations, the target average particle size is a median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) of <0.5 μm.

[0084] In some configurations, the target average particle size is a mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) between 0.1 μm and 0.5 μm.

[0085] In some configurations, the method further includes providing a humidifier, the humidifier including a heating element.

[0086] In some configurations, the method further includes adjusting power delivered to the heating element to adjust the average particle size of the aerosolized substance to a target.

[0087] In some configurations, the method further includes controlling both the power delivered to the heater wire and the power delivered to the heating element to achieve the target average particle size.

[0088] In some configurations, the method further includes controlling the power delivered to the heating wire independently of the power delivered to the heating element to adjust the average particle size.

[0089] In some configurations, the method further includes connecting a nebulizer at the port, the nebulizer introducing the nebulized substance into the gas stream.

[0090] In some configurations, the method further includes indirectly connecting the nebulizer to the port via a mount / connector.

[0091] In some configurations, the system includes a standard therapy mode and an aerosol therapy mode.

[0092] In some configurations, the method further includes adjusting power to the heater wire so that the aerosol therapy mode achieves a target relative humidity that is lower than the target relative humidity in the standard therapy mode.

[0093] In some configurations, the method further includes delivering a higher power to the heater wire in the aerosol therapy mode than in the standard therapy mode.

[0094] In some configurations, the method further includes adjusting power to the heater wire to achieve a target relative humidity where the standard therapy mode includes a target relative humidity of approximately 100% and the aerosol therapy mode includes a target relative humidity of less than 100%.

[0095] In some configurations, the method further includes manually adjusting between the standard therapy mode and the nebulized therapy mode.

[0096] In some configurations, the method further includes automatically controlling power to the heating wire to achieve a default target average particle size.

[0097] In some configurations, the method further includes automatically controlling power to the heating element to achieve a default target average particle size.

[0098] In some configurations, the method further includes adjusting the target average particle size.

[0099] In some configurations, the method further includes adjusting a target travel distance of the aerosolized substance into the patient's airway.

[0100] In some configurations, the method further includes selecting a standard therapy mode and an aerosol therapy mode on a user control interface element.

[0101] In accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one embodiment disclosed herein, a respiratory therapy system for delivering a flow of gas to a patient is disclosed, the respiratory therapy system for delivering a flow of gas to a patient comprising:

[0102] a flow generator configured to deliver the flow of gas to the patient;

[0103] a humidifier including a heating element;

[0104] a port configured to be in fluid communication with the conduit for receiving aerosolized substance and introducing the aerosolized substance into a flow of gas to the patient; and

[0105] A controller is configured to adjust at least the power delivered to the heating element to adjust the average particle size of the aerosolized material to a target.

[0106] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system further includes a conduit configured to deliver the flow of gas from the flow generator to the patient, the conduit comprising a lumen and a heater wire configured to heat the flow of gas in the conduit.

[0107] In some configurations, the controller is configured to adjust the power delivered to the heater wire to adjust the average particle size of the aerosolized substance to a target.

[0108] In some configurations, the controller controls both the power delivered to the heater wire and the power delivered to the heating element to achieve a target average particle size.

[0109] In some configurations, the controller controls the power delivered to the heating wire independently of the power delivered to the heating element to adjust the average particle size.

[0110] In some configurations, the controller controls the power delivered to the heating element and / or heating wire to achieve a target relative humidity.

[0111] In some configurations, the controller continuously controls the power delivered to the heating element and / or heating wire to maintain a target relative humidity.

[0112] In some configurations, the target relative humidity is the relative humidity of the flowing gas in the conduit.

[0113] In some configurations, the target relative humidity is the relative humidity of the flowing gas at the patient end of the catheter.

[0114] In some configurations, the target relative humidity is about 80%.

[0115] In some configurations, the target relative humidity is less than 80%.

[0116] In some configurations, the target relative humidity is about 60%.

[0117] In some configurations, the target relative humidity is less than 60%.

[0118] In some configurations, the target average particle size is based on the expected travel distance into the patient's airway.

[0119] In some configurations, the desired travel distance is for dispersion in or around the patient's upper airway.

[0120] In some configurations, the desired travel distance is for dispersion outside of the patient's upper airway.

[0121] In some configurations, the desired travel distance is for dispersion in or around the patient's lower airway.

[0122] In some configurations, the target average particle size is relatively smaller when the desired travel distance is dispersed in or about the patient's upper airway than when the desired travel distance is dispersed in or about the patient's lower airway.

[0123] In some configurations, the target average particle size is a mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) of <1.0 μm.

[0124] In some configurations, the target average particle size is a mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) between 0.5 μm and 1.0 μm.

[0125] In some configurations, the target average particle size is a median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) of <0.5 μm.

[0126] In some configurations, the target average particle size is a mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) between 0.1 μm and 0.5 μm.

[0127] In some configurations, the heating element is a heating plate.

[0128] In some configurations, the port for the nebulizer is located downstream of the flow generator.

[0129] In some configurations, a port for a nebulizer is located at the humidifier.

[0130] In some configurations, a port for the nebulizer is located at or toward the inlet or outlet of the humidifier.

[0131] In some configurations, the port for the nebulizer is located at or towards the outlet of the humidifier.

[0132] In some configurations, the port for the nebulizer is located upstream of the device end of the catheter.

[0133] In some configurations, a port for a nebulizer is located at or toward the device end of the catheter.

[0134] In some configurations, the port is configured to indirectly receive the nebulizer.

[0135] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system further includes a mount / connector configured for connection to the port at one opening and for receiving the nebulizer at another opening.

[0136] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system further includes a nebulizer configured to connect at the port, the nebulizer introducing the aerosolized substance into the gas flow.

[0137] In some configurations, the system includes a standard therapy mode and an aerosol therapy mode.

[0138] In some configurations, the nebulized therapy mode includes a target relative humidity that is lower than the target relative humidity in the standard therapy mode.

[0139] In some configurations, the power delivered to the heater wire in the aerosol therapy mode is higher than the power delivered in the standard therapy mode.

[0140] In some configurations, the standard therapy mode includes a target relative humidity of approximately 100%, and the nebulized therapy mode includes a target relative humidity of less than 100%.

[0141] In some configurations, the target relative humidity in the nebulization therapy mode is less than 80%.

[0142] In some configurations, the target relative humidity in the nebulized therapy mode is less than 60%.

[0143] In some configurations, a user can manually adjust between standard therapy mode and aerosol therapy mode.

[0144] In some configurations, after entering aerosol therapy mode, a feature for manually adjusting the target average particle size becomes available.

[0145] In some configurations, the system is configured to automatically control power to the heating wire to achieve a default target average particle size.

[0146] In some configurations, the system is configured to automatically control power to the heating element to achieve a default target average particle size.

[0147] In some configurations, the default target average particle size is <1.0 μm.

[0148] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system also includes a user control interface.

[0149] In some configurations, the user control interface includes a user control interface element for adjusting the target average particle size.

[0150] In some configurations, the user control interface includes a user control interface element for adjusting a target travel distance into the patient's airway.

[0151] In some configurations, the user control interface includes user control interface elements for selecting a standard therapy mode and an aerosol therapy mode.

[0152] In some configurations, the user control interface includes a touch screen interface.

[0153] In some configurations, the user control interface includes a mechanical interface having a physical element that is one of a slider, a dial, a button, or a combination thereof.

[0154] In some configurations, the conduit comprises a length greater than 0.5 meters.

[0155] In some configurations, the conduit comprises a length greater than 1 meter.

[0156] In some configurations, the conduit comprises a length greater than 1.5 meters.

[0157] According to certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one embodiment disclosed herein, a method for delivering a flow of gas to a patient is disclosed, the method for delivering a flow of gas to a patient comprising:

[0158] A respiratory therapy device is provided, comprising:

[0159] - a flow generator configured to deliver the flow of gas to the patient;

[0160] - a humidifier comprising a heating element;

[0161] introducing the aerosolized substance into the patient's gas flow; and

[0162] The power delivered to the heating element is adjusted to adjust the average particle size of the aerosolized material to a target.

[0163] In accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one embodiment disclosed herein, a respiratory therapy system for delivering a flow of gas to a patient is disclosed, the respiratory therapy system for delivering a flow of gas to a patient comprising:

[0164] a flow generator configured to deliver the flow of gas to the patient;

[0165] a port configured to be in fluid communication with the conduit for receiving aerosolized substance and introducing the aerosolized substance into a flow of gas to the patient; and

[0166] a controller for regulating power delivered to components in the system to adjust the average particle size of the aerosolized material to a target;

[0167] The system includes standard treatment mode and atomization treatment mode; and

[0168] The aerosol therapy mode includes a target relative humidity that is lower than the target relative humidity in the standard therapy mode.

[0169] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system further comprises raising the temperature of the gas flow relative to the dew point such that the relative humidity is reduced in the nebulized therapy mode.

[0170] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system further includes a conduit configured to deliver the flow of gas from the flow generator to the patient, the conduit comprising a lumen and a heater wire configured to heat the flow of gas in the conduit.

[0171] In some configurations, the controller is configured to adjust the power delivered to the heater wire to adjust the average particle size of the aerosolized substance to a target.

[0172] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system further includes a humidifier including a heating element.

[0173] In some configurations, the controller is configured to adjust the power delivered to the heating element to adjust the average particle size of the aerosolized substance to a target.

[0174] In some configurations, the controller controls both the power delivered to the heater wire and the power delivered to the heating element to achieve a target average particle size.

[0175] In some configurations, the heating element is a heating plate.

[0176] In accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one embodiment disclosed herein, a respiratory therapy system for delivering a flow of gas to a patient is disclosed, the respiratory therapy system for delivering a flow of gas to a patient comprising:

[0177] a flow generator configured to deliver the flow of gas to the patient;

[0178] a port configured to be in fluid communication with the conduit for receiving aerosolized substance and introducing the aerosolized substance into a flow of gas to the patient; and

[0179] a controller for regulating power delivered to components in the system to adjust the average particle size of the aerosolized material to a target;

[0180] Wherein the target average particle size is a mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) of <1.0 μm.

[0181] In some configurations, the target average particle size is based on the expected travel distance into the patient's airway.

[0182] In some configurations, the desired travel distance is for dispersion outside the patient's upper airway.

[0183] In some configurations, the desired travel distance is for dispersion in or around the patient's lower airway.

[0184] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system further includes raising the temperature of the gas flow relative to the dew point such that the relative humidity is reduced to achieve the target average particle size.

[0185] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system further includes a conduit configured to deliver the flow of gas from the flow generator to the patient, the conduit comprising a lumen and a heater wire configured to heat the flow of gas in the conduit.

[0186] In some configurations, the controller is configured to adjust the power delivered to the heater wire to adjust the average particle size of the aerosolized substance to a target.

[0187] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system further includes a humidifier including a heating element.

[0188] In some configurations, the controller is configured to adjust the power delivered to the heating element to adjust the average particle size of the aerosolized substance to a target.

[0189] In some configurations, the controller controls the power delivered to the heater wire and the power delivered to the heating element to achieve a target average particle size.

[0190] In some configurations, the heating element is a heating plate.

[0191] In accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one embodiment disclosed herein, a respiratory therapy system for delivering a flow of gas to a patient is disclosed, the respiratory therapy system for delivering a flow of gas to a patient comprising:

[0192] a flow generator configured to deliver the flow of gas to the patient;

[0193] a catheter configured to deliver the flow of gas from the flow generator to the patient, the catheter comprising a lumen and a heater wire configured to heat the flow of gas in the catheter;

[0194] a nebulizer in fluid communication with the conduit for introducing aerosolized substance into the flow of gas to the patient; and

[0195] A controller is configured to regulate power delivered to components in the system to adjust the average particle size of the aerosolized material to a target.

[0196] In some configurations, the target average particle size is based on the expected travel distance into the patient's airway.

[0197] In some configurations, the desired travel distance is for dispersion outside the patient's upper airway.

[0198] In some configurations, the desired travel distance is for dispersion in or around the patient's lower airway.

[0199] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system further includes raising the temperature of the gas flow relative to the dew point such that the relative humidity is reduced to achieve the target average particle size.

[0200] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system further includes a conduit configured to deliver the flow of gas from the flow generator to the patient, the conduit comprising a lumen and a heater wire configured to heat the flow of gas in the conduit.

[0201] In some configurations, the controller is configured to adjust the power delivered to the heater wire to adjust the average particle size of the aerosolized substance to a target.

[0202] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system further includes a humidifier including a heating element.

[0203] In some configurations, the controller is configured to adjust the power delivered to the heating element to adjust the average particle size of the aerosolized substance to a target.

[0204] In some configurations, the controller controls both the power delivered to the heater wire and the power delivered to the heating element to achieve a target average particle size.

[0205] In some configurations, the heating element is a heating plate.

[0206] According to certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed but not claimed herein, a method for delivering a flow of gas to a patient is disclosed, the method for delivering a flow of gas to a patient comprising:

[0207] A respiratory therapy device is provided, comprising:

[0208] a flow generator configured to generate the gas flow;

[0209] a catheter configured to deliver the flow of gas from the flow generator to the patient, the catheter comprising a lumen and a heater wire configured to heat the flow of gas in the catheter;

[0210] introducing the aerosolized substance into a gas stream flowing to the patient; and

[0211] The power delivered to the heating wire is adjusted to adjust the average particle size of the aerosolized material to the target.

[0212] In some configurations, the method further includes regulating power delivered to the heater wire to achieve a target relative humidity of the gas flow.

[0213] In some configurations, the method further includes continuously controlling the power delivered to the heater wire to maintain a target relative humidity of the gas flow.

[0214] In accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed but not claimed herein, a respiratory therapy system for delivering a flow of gas to a patient is disclosed, the respiratory therapy system for delivering a flow of gas to a patient comprising:

[0215] a flow generator configured to generate the gas flow;

[0216] a humidifier including a heating element;

[0217] a port configured to be in fluid communication with the catheter, the port configured to receive the aerosolized substance and introduce the aerosolized substance into a flow of gas to the patient; and

[0218] A controller is configured to regulate power delivered to at least the heating element to adjust the average particle size of the aerosolized substance to or towards a target.

[0219] According to certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed but not claimed herein, there is disclosed a method for delivering a flow of gas to a patient, the method for delivering a flow of gas to a patient comprising:

[0220] A respiratory therapy device is provided, comprising:

[0221] a flow generator configured to generate the gas flow;

[0222] a humidifier including a heating element;

[0223] introducing the aerosolized substance into a gas stream flowing to the patient; and

[0224] The power delivered to the heating element is adjusted to adjust the average particle size of the aerosolized material to or towards a target.

[0225] In accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed but not claimed herein, a respiratory therapy system for delivering a flow of gas to a patient is disclosed, the respiratory therapy system for delivering a flow of gas to a patient comprising:

[0226] a flow generator configured to generate the gas flow;

[0227] a port configured to be in fluid communication for receiving aerosolized substance and introducing the aerosolized substance into a flow of gas to the patient; and

[0228] a controller for regulating power delivered to components in the system to adjust the average particle size of the aerosolized material to or toward a target;

[0229] The system includes a standard treatment mode and an aerosol treatment mode; and

[0230] The aerosol treatment mode includes a relative humidity lower than that in the standard treatment mode.

[0231] In accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed but not claimed herein, a respiratory therapy system for delivering a flow of gas to a patient is disclosed, the respiratory therapy system for delivering a flow of gas to a patient comprising:

[0232] a flow generator configured to generate the gas flow;

[0233] a port configured to be in fluid communication with or receive aerosolized substance and introduce the aerosolized substance into a flow of gas to the patient; and

[0234] a controller for regulating power delivered to components in the system to adjust the average particle size of the aerosolized material to or toward a target;

[0235] The target average particle size is a mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) of <1.0 micron.

[0236] According to certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed but not claimed herein, a respiratory therapy system for delivering a flow of gas to a patient, the respiratory therapy system for delivering a flow of gas to a patient comprising:

[0237] a flow generator configured to generate the gas flow;

[0238] a catheter configured to deliver the flow of gas from the flow generator to the patient, the catheter comprising a lumen and a heater wire configured to heat the flow of gas in the catheter;

[0239] a nebulizer in fluid communication with the conduit for introducing a nebulized substance into the flow of gas to the patient; and

[0240] A controller is configured to regulate power delivered to components in the system to adjust the average particle size of the aerosolized material to a target.

[0241] According to certain features, aspects, and advantages of at least one of the embodiments disclosed but not claimed herein, a respiratory therapy apparatus for delivering a flow of gas to a patient, the respiratory therapy apparatus for delivering a flow of gas to a patient comprising:

[0242] a flow generator configured to generate the gas flow;

[0243] a humidifier including a heating element;

[0244] a port configured for fluid communication with the catheter, the port configured to receive aerosolized substance and introduce the aerosolized substance into a flow of gas to the patient; and

[0245] A controller is configured to regulate power delivered to at least the heating element to adjust the average particle size of the aerosolized substance to or towards a target.

[0246] In some configurations, the device is configured to be fluidly connected to a catheter configured to deliver the flow of gas from the flow generator to the patient, the catheter comprising a lumen and a heater wire configured to heat the flow of gas in the catheter.

[0247] In some configurations, the controller is configured to adjust the power delivered to the heater wire to adjust the average particle size of the aerosolized substance to a target.

[0248] In some configurations, the port for the nebulizer is located upstream of the device end of the catheter.

[0249] In some configurations, a port for a nebulizer is located at or toward the device end of the catheter.

[0250] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy device further includes a mount / connector configured for connection to the port at one opening and for receiving the nebulizer at another opening.

[0251] In some configurations, the port is configured to connect to a nebulizer that introduces the nebulized substance into the gas stream.

[0252] In some configurations, the device includes a standard therapy mode and a nebulized therapy mode.

[0253] In some configurations, the apparatus is configured to automatically control power to the heating wire to achieve a default target average particle size.

[0254] In some configurations, the device is configured to automatically control power to the heating element to achieve a default target average particle size.

[0255] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy device also includes a user control interface.

[0256] The term "comprising" as used in this specification means "comprising at least in part." When interpreting each statement in this specification containing the term "comprising," features other than the one or those beginning with the term may also exist. Related terms such as "comprise" and "comprises" are to be interpreted in the same manner.

[0257] The invention may also be broadly described as including the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of this application, either individually or collectively, and any or all combinations of any two or more of said parts, elements or features, and where specific integers are referred to herein, those specific integers have known equivalents in the art to which the invention relates, those known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

[0258] The present invention includes the foregoing and also contemplates configurations of which the following are given merely as examples.

[0259] It should be understood that alternative embodiments may include any or all combinations of two or more of the parts, elements or features or configurations shown, described or mentioned in this specification. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0260] Certain embodiments of the present invention and modifications thereof will become apparent to those skilled in the art by referring to the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0261] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a respiratory therapy system is shown.

[0262] Figure 2 Another schematic diagram of a respiratory therapy system is shown.

[0263] Figure 3 A circuit sensing board that may be used in a respiratory therapy system is shown.

[0264] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a respiratory therapy system receiving aerosolized material from a nebulizer is shown.

[0265] Figure 5 A perspective view of a respiratory therapy device for use in a respiratory therapy system configured in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of some of the described configurations is shown.

[0266] Figure 6 A perspective view of a respiratory apparatus of a respiratory therapy system is shown.

[0267] Figure 7 A flow chart illustrating a method of using and controlling a respiratory therapy system is shown.

[0268] Figure 8A A graph showing test results illustrating the correlation between relative humidity of aerosolized material, air temperature, and MMAD in a respiratory therapy system at a flow rate of 20 L / min is shown.

[0269] Figure 8B A graph showing test results illustrating the correlation between relative humidity of aerosolized material, air temperature, and MMAD in a respiratory therapy system at a flow rate of 40 L / min is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0270] Although certain examples are described below, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the disclosure extends beyond the specifically disclosed examples and / or their uses and obvious modifications and equivalents. Therefore, the scope of the disclosure disclosed herein is intended not to be limited by any specific examples described below.

[0271] 1. General Description of Respiratory Therapy Systems

[0272] refer to Figure 1 , shows an exemplary configuration of a respiratory therapy system 100. The respiratory therapy system 100 delivers a flow of gas to a patient.

[0273] In a preferred configuration, respiratory therapy system 100 includes a flow generator 101 for generating a flow of gas to be delivered to a patient. Flow generator 101 is shown including a gas inlet 102 and a gas outlet 104.

[0274] In some configurations, the flow generator 101 may further include a blower 106. The blower 106 can inhale gas from the gas inlet 102. In some configurations, the flow generator 101 may include a source or container of compressed gas (e.g., air, oxygen, etc.). The container may include a valve that can be adjusted to control the gas flow leaving the container. In some configurations, the flow generator 101 may use this compressed gas source and / or another gas source to replace the blower 106. In some configurations, the blower 106 may be used in combination with another gas source. In some configurations, the blower 106 may include a motorized blower, or may include a bellows arrangement or some other structure capable of generating a gas flow. The blower 106 may operate at a motor speed greater than about 1,000RPM and less than about 8,000RPM, greater than about 2,000RPM and less than about 10,000RPM, or at a motor speed between any of the aforementioned values. Blower 106 can mix gases entering blower 106 through inlet ports (e.g., ambient air inlet port 102 and / or oxygen inlet port). Using blower 106 as a mixer can reduce pressure drop relative to a system with a separate mixer (e.g., a static mixer including baffles).

[0275] In some configurations, the flow generator 101 draws in atmospheric gas through the gas inlet 102. In some configurations, the flow generator 101 is adapted to draw in atmospheric gas through the gas inlet 102 and receive other gases (e.g., oxygen, nitric oxide, carbon dioxide, etc.) through the same gas inlet 102 or a different gas inlet. For example, the gas inlet 102 may be a supplemental oxygen inlet. The supplemental oxygen inlet may include a valve (e.g., a solenoid proportional valve, a binary valve, or other suitable valve type) capable of controlling the flow of oxygen into the flow generator 101. The valve may be in electrical communication with a controller 113 of the respiratory therapy system 100. Other configurations are also possible.

[0276] In some configurations, the flow generator 101 is controlled to provide high flow therapy. In some configurations, the flow generator 101 is controlled to provide continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. In some configurations, the flow generator 101 is a dual therapy device that is controlled to provide high flow and / or CPAP therapy. In some configurations, the flow generator 101 is controlled to provide one or more of the following: bi-level pressure therapy, CPAP therapy, or high flow therapy.

[0277] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system 100 measures and controls the oxygen content of the gas delivered to the patient, and therefore measures and controls the oxygen content of the gas inhaled by the patient. Oxygen can be measured by placing one or more gas composition sensors (e.g., ultrasonic transducer systems) after the oxygen and ambient air have been mixed. The measurement can be made within the respiratory therapy device 100, the conduit 122, the patient interface 124, or at any other suitable location.

[0278] The oxygen concentration measured in the device may be equal to the fraction of oxygen delivered (FdO2) and may be substantially the same as the oxygen concentration breathed by the patient, the fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2), and therefore these terms may be considered equivalent.

[0279] The oxygen concentration can also be measured by using flow rate sensors on at least two of the ambient air inlet conduit, the oxygen inlet conduit, and the patient's respiratory conduit to determine the flow rates of at least two gases. By determining the flow rates of the two inlet gases or one inlet gas and a total flow rate, and an assumed or measured oxygen concentration of the inlet gas (about 20.9% for ambient air and about 100% for oxygen), the oxygen concentration of the final gas composition can be calculated. Alternatively, flow rate sensors can be placed in all three of the ambient air inlet conduit, the oxygen inlet conduit, and the respiratory conduit to allow for redundancy and to test that each sensor is working correctly by checking the consistency of the readings. Other methods of measuring the oxygen concentration delivered by the respiratory therapy system 100 can also be used.

[0280] The respiratory therapy system 100 can provide high flow therapy, in which a high flow rate of delivered gas meets or exceeds the patient's peak inspiratory demands.

[0281] High flow therapy as discussed herein is intended to be given its typical ordinary meaning as understood by those skilled in the art, which generally refers to a respiratory assistance device that delivers a target flow of humidified respiratory gas via a deliberately unsealed patient interface at a flow rate that is generally intended to meet or exceed the patient's inspiratory flow rate. Typical patient interfaces include, but are not limited to, nasal or tracheal patient interfaces. Typical flow rates for adults are generally in the range of about 15 liters / minute to about 60 liters / minute or higher, but are not limited thereto. Typical flow rates for pediatric patients (e.g., neonates, infants, and children) are generally in the range of, but are not limited to, about 1 liter / minute / kg of patient weight to about 3 liters / minute / kg of patient weight or greater. High flow therapy can also optionally include a gas mixture composition that includes the administration of supplemental oxygen and / or therapeutic drugs. High flow therapy is commonly referred to as nasal high flow (NHF), humidified high flow nasal cannula (HHFNC), high flow nasal oxygen (HFNO), high flow therapy (HFT) or tracheal high flow (THF), as well as other common names.

[0282] For example, in some configurations, for an adult patient, "high flow therapy" can refer to delivering gas to the patient at a flow rate greater than or equal to about 10 liters per minute (10 LPM), such as between about 10 LPM and about 100 LPM, or between about 15 LPM and about 95 LPM, or between about 20 LPM and about 90 LPM, or between about 25 LPM and about 85 LPM, or between about 30 LPM and about 80 LPM, or between about 35 LPM and about 75 LPM, or between about 40 LPM and about 70 LPM, or between about 45 LPM and about 65 LPM, or between about 50 LPM and about 60 LPM. In some configurations, for a neonatal, infant, or pediatric patient, "high flow therapy" may refer to delivering gas to the patient at a flow rate greater than 1 LPM, such as between about 1 LPM and about 25 LPM, or between about 2 LPM and about 25 LPM, or between about 2 LPM and about 5 LPM, or between about 5 LPM and about 25 LPM, or between about 5 LPM and about 10 LPM, or between about 10 LPM and about 25 LPM, or between about 10 LPM and about 20 LPM, or between about 10 LPM and 15 LPM, or between about 20 LPM and 25 LPM. In some configurations, a high flow therapy device for an adult, neonatal, infant, or pediatric patient may deliver gas to the patient at a flow rate between about 1 LPM and about 100 LPM, or at a flow rate in any of the foregoing subranges. The delivered gas may include a percentage of oxygen. In some configurations, the percentage of oxygen in the delivered gas can be between about 20% and about 100%, or between about 30% and about 100%, or between about 40% and about 100%, or between about 50% and about 100%, or between about 60% and about 100%, or between about 70% and about 100%, or between about 80% and about 100%, or between about 90% and about 100%, or about 100%, or 100%.

[0283] High flow therapy can effectively match or exceed the patient's inspiratory flow, increase the patient's oxygenation, and / or reduce the work of breathing.

[0284] High-flow therapy can be given to the patient through the nose and / or mouth, or through a tracheostomy interface.

[0285] High flow therapy can produce a flushing effect in the nasopharynx so that the anatomical dead space of the upper airway is flushed by a high inlet gas flow. This can create a reservoir of fresh gas that can be used for each and every breath, while reducing the rebreathing of nitrogen and carbon dioxide. When trying to control the patient's FdO2, it is equally important to meet the inspiratory demand and flush the airway. High flow therapy can be delivered, for example, through a non-sealed patient interface (e.g., a nasal cannula). High flow therapy may slow the patient's respiratory rate. High flow therapy can provide expiratory resistance to the patient.

[0286] High flow therapy may be used to treat patients with obstructive lung disease (eg, COPD), bronchiectasis, dyspnea, cystic fibrosis, emphysema, and / or patients with respiratory distress or hypercapnia.

[0287] The term "non-sealed patient interface" as used herein (i.e., an unsealed patient interface) can refer to an interface that provides a pneumatic link between a patient's airway and a source of airflow (e.g., from a flow generator 101) that does not completely block the patient's airway. A non-sealed pneumatic link can include less than about 95% blockage of the patient's airway. A non-sealed pneumatic link can include less than about 90% blockage of the patient's airway. A non-sealed pneumatic link can include between about 40% and about 80% blockage of the patient's airway. The airway can include one or both of the patient's nostrils and / or their mouth. For a nasal cannula, the airway is through the nostrils.

[0288] In some configurations, respiratory therapy system 100 further includes conduit 122. Conduit 122 is configured to deliver the flow of gas from flow generator 101 to the patient. In a preferred configuration, conduit 122 is the patient's breathing tube.

[0289] The conduit 122 includes an internal lumen and may include one or more heating wires 123 configured to heat the gas flow in the conduit. The conduit 122 including the heating wires 123 can be used to add heat to the gas passing through the conduit. The heat can reduce or eliminate the possibility of water condensation entrained in the gas flow along the walls of the conduit 122. The conduit heater can include one or more resistive wires located in, on, around, or near the walls of the conduit 122. In one or more configurations, such one or more resistive wires can be located outside of any gas passages. In one or more configurations, such one or more resistive wires are not in direct contact with the gas passing through the conduit 122. In one or more configurations, the wall or surface of the conduit 122 is between the one or more resistive wires and the gas passing through the conduit 122. In a preferred configuration, the conduit 122 is a heated breathing tube.

[0290] See also Figure 6 , shows an exemplary respiratory therapy system 100 that can include an elbow 325 configured for connection to conduit 122 (and, for example, providing a gas outlet 103). Elbow 325 can include one or more sensors.

[0291] To deliver the flow of gas from conduit 122 to the patient, the gas passing through the conduit may be delivered to patient interface 124. Patient interface 124 may pneumatically connect respiratory therapy system 100 to the patient's respiratory tract / airway.

[0292] In the configuration shown, gas travels from the humidifier outlet 118 to the conduit 122 .

[0293] The patient interface 124 may include a sealing or non-sealing interface and may include a nasal mask, an oral mask, an oronasal mask, a full-face mask, a nasal pillow mask, a nasal cannula, an endotracheal tube, combinations of the above, or some other gas delivery system.

[0294] In some configurations, a short length of tubing connects the interface 124 to the conduit 122. In some configurations, the short length of tubing can have a smooth bore, as described elsewhere herein. For example, a short, flexible length of tubing can connect a nasal cannula or the like to the conduit 122. The short length of tubing connecting the interface to the conduit 122 can be breathable, allowing steam to be transmitted through the tube wall. In some configurations, the short length of tubing can incorporate one or more heating wires, as described elsewhere herein. A smooth bore, whether heated or not, can improve the efficiency of delivering the aerosolized substance, as described elsewhere herein. Any other suitable patient interface 124 can be used.

[0295] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system 100 includes a humidifier 112. The humidifier 112 is used to humidify the flow of gas flowing to the patient. The humidifier 112 is a gas humidifier that entrains moisture into the gas to provide a humidified gas flow. The illustrated gas humidifier 112 includes a humidifier inlet 116 and a humidifier outlet 118. The gas humidifier 112 can include, be configured to contain, or contain water or another humidifying or wetting agent (hereinafter referred to as water).

[0296] In some configurations, the gas humidifier 112 includes a heating element. The heating element can be used to heat water in the gas humidifier 112 to promote evaporation and / or entrainment of water in the gas flow and / or increase the temperature of the gas passing through the gas humidifier 112. In some configurations, the heating element can, for example, heat a resistive metal heating plate, i.e., the heating element is configured to heat a heating plate. However, other heating elements are also contemplated. For example, the heating element can include a plastic conductive heating plate or a chemical heating system with controllable heat output.

[0297] In some configurations, the flow generator 101 and the gas humidifier 112 may share a housing 126. In some configurations, the gas humidifier 112 may share only a portion of the housing 126 with the flow generator 101. Other configurations are also possible.

[0298] The flow generator 101 directs the gas to flow out through a gas outlet 104. In some configurations, the flow generator 101 directs the gas to flow out through a connecting conduit 110. In the configuration shown, the connecting conduit 110 directs the gas to a gas humidifier 112.

[0299] exist Figure 5In the illustrated configuration, the respiratory therapy device 200 includes a humidifier with an integrated flow generator. In other words, in the illustrated configuration, the housing 202 contains a flow generator (not shown) and at least a portion of a gas humidifier 204. In the illustrated configuration, the flow generator and the gas humidifier 204 together form an integrated unit 206. In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system 100 may be manufactured by Fisher & Paykel Healthcare under the brand name AIRVO. TM 2. For example, such a device or system is shown and described in U.S. Patent No. 7,111,624, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system 100 may be a device or system sold by Fisher & Paykel Healthcare under the name AIRVO TM 3 is a device or system marketed by the name . For example, such a device or system is shown and described in PCT Application No. PCT / IB2016 / 053761, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Any other suitable configurations described in these applications can be configured using any of the components or configurations described in this specification.

[0300] The gas humidifier 204 in the illustrated integrated unit 206 employs a chamber 210. The chamber 210 can have any suitable configuration, including any configuration shown and / or described in U.S. Patent No. 7,146,979 and / or U.S. Patent No. 6,349,722, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The chamber can contain or hold a volume of liquid, such as water, that is used to humidify the gas as it passes through the chamber. In some configurations, the chamber simply defines a location in the system where a liquid (e.g., water) is transferred into the gas stream or gas flow.

[0301] As described above, gas that has been conditioned (e.g., heated and / or humidified) within the system 100 can be delivered to a patient or other user. In some configurations, a tube or conduit 122 is used to deliver the gas to the patient or other user. Some examples of conduits or tubes that can be used with the integrated unit 206 include, but are not limited to, those shown and described in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014 / 0202462A1 (also disclosed as WO2012 / 164407A1) and WO2014 / 088430, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Any other suitable conduit or tube may also be used.

[0302] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system 100 may include one or more sensors for detecting various characteristics of the gas within the respiratory therapy system 100 (including pressure, flow rate, temperature, absolute humidity, relative humidity, enthalpy, gas composition, oxygen concentration, and / or carbon dioxide concentration), one or more sensors for detecting various characteristics of the patient or the patient's health (including heart rate, respiratory rate, EEG signals, EKG / ECG signals, blood oxygen concentration, blood CO2 concentration, and blood glucose), and / or one or more sensors for detecting various characteristics of the gas or other objects external to the respiratory therapy system 100 (including ambient temperature and / or ambient humidity). One or more of these sensors can be used to help control components of the respiratory therapy system 100 (including the gas humidifier 112) using a closed-loop or open-loop control system (which may be achieved using the controller described above).

[0303] refer to Figure 2 , operational sensors 3a, 3b, 3c (e.g., flow, temperature, humidity, and / or pressure sensors) can be placed in various locations in respiratory therapy system 100. Additional sensors (e.g., sensors 20, 25) can be placed in various locations on conduit 122 and / or patient interface 124 (e.g., there can be a temperature sensor 29 at or near the end of the inspiratory tube).

[0304] Additional references Figure 3 , illustrates a sensing circuit board 2200 that can be implemented in the respiratory therapy system 100. The sensing circuit board 2200 can be positioned in the sensor chamber such that the sensing circuit board 2200 is at least partially immersed in the gas flow. The gas flow can exit the flow generator through a conduit and enter the flow path in the sensor chamber. At least some of the sensors on the sensing circuit board 2200 can be positioned within the gas flow (as indicated by the direction of arrows 2203) to measure gas characteristics within the flow. After passing through the flow path in the sensor chamber, the gas can exit to the humidifier 112 described above.

[0305] The sensing circuit board 2200 may be a printed circuit board (PCB). Alternatively, the circuitry on the board 2200 may be constructed using wires connecting electronic components, rather than printed on a circuit board. At least a portion of the sensing circuit board 2200 may be mounted outside the gas flow. The gas flow may be generated by the flow generator 101 described above. The sensing circuit board 2200 may include an ultrasonic transducer 2204. The sensing circuit board 2200 may include one or more thermistors 2205. The thermistors 2205 may be configured to measure the temperature of the gas flow. The sensing circuit board 2200 may include a thermistor flow rate sensor 2206. The sensing circuit board 2200 may include other types of sensors, such as a humidity sensor (including a humidity-only sensor used with a separate temperature sensor and a combined humidity and temperature sensor), a sensor for measuring atmospheric pressure, a sensor for measuring differential pressure, and / or a sensor for measuring gauge pressure. The thermistor flow rate sensor 2206 can include a hot wire anemometer, such as a platinum wire, and / or a thermistor, such as a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) or positive temperature coefficient (PTC) thermistor. Other non-limiting examples of heated temperature sensing elements include glass or epoxy encapsulated or unencapsulated thermistors. The thermistor flow rate sensor 2206 can be configured to measure the flow rate of the gas by being supplied with constant power, or by being maintained at a constant temperature or a constant temperature difference between the sensor and the gas flow.

[0306] Positioning one or more of thermistor 2205 and / or thermistor flow rate sensor 2206 downstream of the combined flow generator and mixer means that sensor readings will depend on the amount of heat supplied to the gas flow by the flow generator. Furthermore, submerging at least a portion of the sensing circuit board and sensor in the flow path can increase measurement accuracy. Sensors immersed in the flow are more likely to experience the same conditions, such as temperature and pressure, as the gas flow, relative to unsubmerged sensors. Consequently, these submerged sensors can provide a better representation of gas flow characteristics.

[0307] The sensing circuit board 2200 may include an ultrasonic transducer, transceiver, or other sensor to measure characteristics of the gas flow, such as the gas composition or concentration of one or more gases within the gas flow. It will be appreciated that any suitable transducer, transceiver, or sensor may be mounted to the sensing circuit board 2200. In this configuration, the gas composition sensor is an ultrasonic transducer that uses ultrasonic or sound waves to determine gas concentration.

[0308] Some examples of flow therapy devices are disclosed in International Application No. PCT / NZ2016 / 050193, filed on December 2, 2016, entitled “Flow Path Sensing for Flow Therapy Apparatus,” and International Application No. PCT / IB2016 / 053761, filed on June 24, 2016, entitled “Breathing Assistance Apparatus,” which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0309] 2. Atomized substances

[0310] In a preferred configuration, the respiratory therapy system 100 is configured to receive the aerosolized substance and introduce it into the patient's gas flow. In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system 100 includes a port configured to be in fluid communication with a conduit for receiving the aerosolized substance and introducing it into the gas flow.

[0311] The aerosolized material is typically in the form of small aerosol / spray particles that can be carried by the gas stream to be delivered to the patient. The aerosolized material is mixed, combined, or otherwise carried with the gas stream delivered to the patient. The aerosolized material can be "particles" or "droplets," i.e., solids or liquids that are aerosolized, respectively, and the terms particles and droplets are used interchangeably to refer to the aerosolized material introduced into the system.

[0312] In the illustrated configuration, and as described above, the respiratory therapy system 100 can operate as follows. As the motor rotates the impeller of the blower 106, gas can be drawn into the flow generator 101 through the gas inlet 102. The gas is pushed out of the gas outlet 104 and through the connecting conduit 110. The gas enters the gas humidifier 112 through the humidifier inlet 116. Once in the gas humidifier 112, the gas picks up moisture when passing over or near the water in the gas humidifier 112. The water is heated by the heating element, which helps to humidify and / or heat the gas passing through the gas humidifier 112. The gas leaves the gas humidifier 112 through the humidifier outlet 118 and enters the conduit 122. Before entering the conduit 122, the gas flow receives (and entrains) one or more substances from the nebulizer 128. The gas flow is directed from the conduit 122 to the patient interface 124, where it is brought into the patient's airway to help treat respiratory disorders.

[0313] In some configurations, a sufficient amount of aerosolized material delivered to a patient via a gas stream travels to a desired target location in the patient's respiratory tract or airway. The particle size of the aerosolized material can affect the travel, dispersion, and / or deposition behavior of the material in the patient's respiratory tract or airway. "Particle size" can refer to the average size of the particles of the material, as quantified by various measurements or parameters (e.g., mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD)).

[0314] In some embodiments, the air flow of the aerosolized material of the present invention can be dispersed or deposited on the surface of the respiratory tract or airway. Generally, the gas flow carrying the aerosolized material with less average particle size may be able to travel a large distance to enter the patient's respiratory tract or airway before being dispersed or deposited on the surface of the respiratory tract or airway. The particle size of the aerosolized material may also affect the deposition and retention of the material in the respiratory tract (that is, how the particles of the material effectively keep dispersed or deposited in the respiratory tract or airway). However, if the particle size is too small, the delivery material of some ratios may not be deposited (or keep deposited) in the patient's airway, but is exhaled by the patient's breath. Depending on various factors-including the composition of the aerosolized material and the condition of the patient being treated-it may be desirable that: a) as much material as possible is deposited or dispersed in the patient's respiratory tract, or b) some materials are exhaled or partially exhaled from the patient's respiratory tract. Therefore, it is expected that the clinician can control the average size of the particles of the aerosolized material provided in the respiratory therapy system.

[0315] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system 100 controls at least one component to adjust the particle size of the aerosolized substance. The respiratory therapy system 100 controls system parameters by controlling specific components within the system, such as by adjusting the power supplied to the heater wire in the breathing tube and / or the blower fan speed (more examples are provided below). Controlling these internal or built-in components of the system can provide a more direct impact on the particle size of the aerosolized substance in the gas flow path, closer to being received by the patient. In these configurations, the particle size adjustment does not occur external to the system, such as by the nebulizer itself. Controlling, for example, the humidity within the system to adjust the particle size of the aerosolized substance is different from and can be in addition to any particle size adjustment that may occur upstream in the respiratory therapy system, such as before the chamber 210. The advantage of controlling the humidity of the aerosolized substance in the system and thereby controlling the particle size is that the substance can be controlled more directly, predictably, and / or measurably closer to delivery to the patient (i.e., the particle size control / adjustment occurs downstream of the chamber and closer to the end of the system's flow path / closer to the patient end of the system).

[0316] In one or more configurations, the controller 113 is configured to adjust the power provided to the components in the system to adjust the average particle size of the aerosolized material to a target. In some of these configurations, adjusting the power delivered to the components in the system in turn affects the amount of heat imparted to the gas flow in the system at various points in the flow path, for example, heat applied to the water in the chamber of a humidifier or heat applied to the gas flow in a conduit.

[0317] In some configurations, adjustment of the average particle size of the aerosolized material can also be achieved by a controller method that changes one or more built-in functions that will affect the relative humidity of the gas flow provided to the patient. The controller method can include controlling any number of dynamically controllable features, such as impeller or pump speed to change the air / gas flow rate, controlling the degree of opening of a valve, orifice or other restriction, controlling the air-water contact area and residence time in the humidifier chamber or other areas of the system (such as through baffles and / or features that otherwise create a tortuous flow path), controlling additional heating or cooling elements in the system, and / or the length of conduits within the system.

[0318] When the aerosolized material is introduced into the respiratory therapy system 100, the particles are suspended and / or carried in the gas stream. The average size of the particles can affect how far the material is carried into the patient's airway by the gas stream, thereby affecting the distance traveled. The relatively large particle sizes of these aerosolized materials (e.g., an average particle size of ≥1 μm MMAD) tend to be deposited in the upper respiratory tract (e.g., the oral and nasal passages), while the smaller droplet sizes in the humid gas stream (e.g., an average particle size <1 μm MMAD) can travel further into the airway. In a preferred configuration, the average particle size can be adjusted within the system 100 because the particle size is affected by factors within the system.

[0319] In some configurations, controlling the particle size of the aerosolized substance can be achieved, at least in part, by adjusting the relative humidity of the humidified gas delivered to the patient. In some respiratory therapy systems with humidification of respiratory gas, it may be desirable for the control system to aim to maintain the relative humidity at 100% (i.e., to fully saturate the gas flow, thereby mimicking the natural humidification performed by the patient's airways). However, at least at some flow rates, and for some aerosolized substances, at 100% relative humidity, the particle size will be higher than desired (e.g., >1.0 μm) to disperse or deposit the substance at a specific depth in the patient's airways. Therefore, in a preferred configuration, the respiratory therapy system 100 controls components of the system to influence the humidity so as to achieve a target relative humidity that is less than 100%.

[0320] It is expected that controlling the components of the respiratory therapy system 100 to affect the relative humidity of the gas stream in the manner described (i.e., affecting the average particle size of the aerosolized material) helps to increase the likelihood that a sufficient amount of the aerosolized material reaches the desired location for dispersion or deposition in the patient's airway. The control of the components in the respiratory therapy system 100 to achieve the target relative humidity will be described in more detail later.

[0321] In some configurations, the controller 113 is configured to adjust at least the power supplied to the heater wire 123 to adjust the average particle size of the aerosolized material to or toward a target, i.e., to adjust the power to achieve the target particle size. In some of these configurations, the target average particle size is based on a desired distance traveled into the patient's airway. If the desired location of dispersion or deposition of the aerosolized material is further or deeper into the airway, the desired distance traveled by the particles of the aerosolized material is greater than if the desired location is not as far into the patient's airway.

[0322] In some configurations, the desired travel distance may be such that dispersion or deposition occurs primarily in or around the patient's upper respiratory tract. In these configurations, the travel distance of the aerosolized material particles is shorter than if the desired travel distance is such that dispersion or deposition occurs primarily in the lower respiratory tract.

[0323] In other configurations, the expected travel distance is used to disperse or deposit mainly outside the upper respiratory tract of the patient. In these configurations, the travel distance of the aerosolized material particles is greater than the travel distance when the expected travel distance reaches the area in the upper respiratory tract. In order to achieve this (that is, in order to make a sufficient amount of aerosolized material particles travel a larger distance to reach the deeper areas of the patient's airway), the average particle size of the aerosolized material particles is smaller than if the expected travel distance is to the area in or around the patient's upper respiratory tract in some configurations. In short, in some configurations, the target average particle size when the expected travel distance is for dispersing or depositing in or around the upper respiratory tract of the patient is relatively larger than the target average particle size when the expected travel distance is for dispersing or depositing in or around the lower respiratory tract of the patient.

[0324] In some configurations, the desired travel distance is for dispersion or deposition in or around the patient's lower airway.

[0325] In some configurations, the target average particle size (of the aerosolized substance delivered to the patient via the gas stream) is a mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) of <1.0 μm (micrometer).

[0326] In some configurations, the target average particle size is a mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) between 0.5 μm and 1.0 μm.

[0327] In other configurations, the target average particle size is a mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) of <0.5 μm.

[0328] In other configurations, the target average particle size is a mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) between 0.1 μm and 0.5 μm.

[0329] Different target average particle sizes can be expected depending on the specific aerosolized substance being delivered. Therefore, the specific control of the system for delivering the aerosolized substance to the desired location in the patient's respiratory tract will vary. The hygroscopic properties of the substance, such as its hygroscopicity - how easily it will aggregate with water vapor suspended in the gas stream - can also affect how large the particle size becomes. Highly hygroscopic substances may tend to absorb more water vapor from the humidified gas stream, resulting in larger particle sizes, while weakly hygroscopic or even non-hygroscopic substances may have the opposite trend, with the particles not absorbing any or as much water vapor. Therefore, weakly hygroscopic or non-hygroscopic substances remain the same size or smaller than highly hygroscopic substances. In other words, when dispensed from the nebulizer, weakly hygroscopic or non-hygroscopic substances can remain roughly the same size. As another example, specific substances with different dew points, heat capacities, and evaporation characteristics may require their own specific settings or modes. Factors that may affect the desired control settings include, but are not limited to, varying concentrations of oxygen in the air stream, mixtures of different nebulizer substances (e.g., drugs or other medications) and concentrations (e.g., osmolality or osmotic pressure of a particular solution of the nebulized substance).

[0330] The aerosolized substance introduced into the gas stream can be a pharmaceutical substance. Other examples of aerosolized substances that can be introduced into the gas stream include mannitol, lactated Ringer's solution, 5.0% dextrose in water, Hartmann's solution, sodium lactate solution, and compound sodium lactate. The substance is introduced into the system 100 and can be carried by the gas stream and then delivered to the patient's airway or respiratory tract along with the respiratory gas.

[0331] In some configurations, introducing an aerosolized substance into the flow of gas delivered to a patient can improve treatment of a respiratory disease or condition.

[0332] Continue to see Figure 1 In some configurations, the nebulizer 128 can be used with the respiratory therapy system 100. The nebulizer 128 can be separate from the respiratory therapy system 100 or form a part of the respiratory therapy system 100.

[0333] The atomizer 128 produces a fine spray of liquid, ie, an aerosol of particles. The atomized substance is introduced into the regulated gas stream or pre-regulated gas stream. Any suitable atomizer 128 may be used.

[0334] In some configurations, a port for the nebulizer for dispensing the nebulized substance into the gas flow path is located downstream of the flow generator 101. In these configurations, the nebulized substance will be carried by the gas flow from the flow generator 101.

[0335] In some configurations, the port for the nebulizer is located at the humidifier 112. In these configurations, the nebulized substance is added to the humidified gas flow to be delivered to the patient. In some configurations, the port for the nebulizer is located at or toward the inlet 116 or outlet 118 of the humidifier 112. In some configurations, the port for the nebulizer is located at or toward the outlet of the humidifier. In some configurations, the port for the nebulizer is located downstream of the humidifier.

[0336] In some configurations, the port for the nebulizer is located upstream of the device end of the conduit 122 (patient breathing tube) of the respiratory therapy equipment. In other configurations, the port for the nebulizer is located at or towards the device end of the conduit. In these configurations, the atomized material introduced into the gas stream forms a part of the gas mixture flow when it enters the conduit, so that the adjustment of the power of the heater wire 123 in the conduit can have an impact on the particle size of the atomized material. In some configurations, the port for the nebulizer is located on or in the conduit. In other configurations, the port for the nebulizer is located at any position or different positions along the conduit. For example, the port for the nebulizer can be located on or in the conduit, about a distance of one-third from the device end, or a distance of half the distance from the device end, or a distance of two-thirds from the device end. In other configurations, the port for the nebulizer is located at or towards the device end of the conduit.

[0337] In some configurations, conduit 122 comprises a length greater than 0.5 meters. In some configurations, the conduit comprises a length greater than 1 meter. In some configurations, the conduit comprises a length greater than 1.5 meters. In some configurations, the length of conduit 122 is such that the residence time of the gas flow and the atomized material is sufficient to adjust the power of heater wire 123 to affect the relative humidity within the conduit and thereby adjust the average particle size of the atomized material to or toward the target particle size. In some configurations, the aforementioned control is sufficient to affect the relative humidity in the system to adjust the average particle size of the atomized material to the target particle size.

[0338] In some configurations, multiple components of the respiratory therapy system may be housed together. For example, two or more of the flow generator 101 , the gas humidifier 112 , and the nebulizer 128 may share a housing 126 .

[0339] In some configurations, the nebulizer 128 is separate from the housing 126. In these configurations, the nebulizer 128 can be connected to a portion of the gas passageway extending between the flow generator 101 (which may include the gas inlet 102) and the patient interface 124, although other arrangements for the nebulizer 128 or another nebulizer can be used.

[0340] In some configurations, the nebulizer 128 is not positioned in-line anywhere between the humidifier outlet 118 and the patient interface 124. Rather, the nebulizer 128 can be located upstream of the humidifier outlet 118 or upstream of the inlet of the conduit 122. In some configurations, the nebulizer 128 can be positioned upstream of the inlet into the humidifier. In some configurations, the nebulizer 128 can be positioned between the airflow source and the chamber of the humidifier.

[0341] In some configurations, the position or orientation of the nebulizer port defines a flow path for the nebulized substance. The flow path may include all or some portions of the device outlet, elbow, humidification chamber, conduit, and / or patient interface.

[0342] exist Figure 5 In the illustrated configuration, the outlet 129 of the nebulizer 128 is positioned to connect to the chamber 210 for introducing aerosolized material. In some configurations, the nebulizer 128 is configured and positioned to inject aerosolized material into the regulated gas flow downstream of the chamber 210 and upstream of the conduit 122 connecting the patient interface 124 to the integrated unit 206. In some configurations, the nebulizer 128 is configured and positioned to inject aerosolized material into the regulated gas flow downstream of the chamber 210 and upstream of the connection location of the detachable conduit 122 to the integrated unit 206. In some configurations, the nebulizer 128 is configured and positioned to inject aerosolized material into the gas flow before entering the chamber 210. In some configurations, the nebulizer 128 is configured and positioned to inject aerosolized material into the gas flow during entry into the chamber 210. In some configurations, the nebulizer 128 is configured and positioned to inject aerosolized material into the gas flow after entering the chamber 210. In some configurations, the nebulizer 128 is configured and positioned to inject the aerosolized substance into the gas stream prior to discharge from the chamber 210. In some configurations, the nebulizer 128 is configured and positioned to inject the aerosolized substance into the gas stream during discharge from the chamber 210. In some configurations, the nebulizer 128 is configured and positioned to inject the aerosolized substance into the gas stream after exiting from the chamber 210.

[0343] In some configurations, the port is configured to receive the nebulizer indirectly. The respiratory therapy system can have a connector configured to connect to the port at one opening and to receive the nebulizer at another opening. In these configurations, the nebulizer is not directly connected to the port because a connector or transmitter is present between the nebulizer and the port for connection.

[0344] The nebulizer 128 can be connected to the portion of the gas channel by a connector or transmitter 130, which can include a tube or adapter. Alternatively, the nebulizer 128 can be connected directly to the gas channel, which can make the transmitter 130 unnecessary.

[0345] 3. Controller

[0346] In some configurations, the operation of the flow generator 101, the gas humidifier 112, or other components or aspects of the respiratory therapy system 100 can be controlled by a controller 113. The controller can include a microprocessor, a dedicated circuit such as an ASIC or FPGA, or other suitable device. The controller can be located in or on the flow generator 101, the gas humidifier 112, or other components of the respiratory therapy system 100, or on a remote computing device that is in remote communication with the respiratory therapy system 100. In some configurations, multiple controllers can be used.

[0347] See also Figure 2 In such a configuration, the respiratory therapy system 100 can control the operation of the components of the system, including but not limited to: regulating the power delivered to the heater wire 123 of the heated respiratory tube (to regulate the temperature in the heated respiratory tube), and the power delivered to the heating element 25 of the humidifier (to regulate the heating of the water in the humidifier).

[0348] In some configurations, the controller 113 adjusts the power provided to the heater wire 123 of the conduit 122 to adjust the average particle size of the nebulized material toward a target. For example, in some configurations, the temperature within the conduit 122 downstream of the nebulizer 128 (when connected to the respiratory therapy system 100) can be controlled to or toward a target to adjust the relative humidity of the gas flow within the conduit toward a target.

[0349] The relative humidity of the humidified gas delivered to the patient can be dynamically controlled by the respiratory therapy system 100 by increasing or decreasing the temperature of the heated conduit 122 relative to the temperature at the humidifier's heating element 25 (e.g., by adjusting the power delivered to the heating wire). For example, increasing the temperature of the heated conduit 122 and / or decreasing the power supplied to the heating element 25 will reduce the relative humidity of the humidified gas delivered to the patient. A reduction in the relative humidity of the gas delivered to the patient can be achieved when there is a sufficient temperature difference between the temperature at the humidifier outlet and the temperature at the patient (e.g., as measured by a patient-end temperature sensor positioned in the conduit). A sufficient temperature difference can be approximately 5 degrees Celsius. Smaller or larger temperature differences are also suitable. It will be appreciated that adjusting the power delivered to the heating wire of the heated conduit 122 allows for faster changes in relative humidity, and therefore faster changes in the average particle size of the aerosolized material in the conduit 122. By adjusting the power delivered to the humidifier's heating element, the power delivered to the heated wire can be adjusted more quickly than when heating the water in the chamber. One or both of the controls on the power delivered to the heating wire or heating element 25 humidifier may be used to achieve the desired humidity.

[0350] When controlling a respiratory therapy system with humidification, it is generally preferred to control the power delivered to the series-connected heating wire and heating element to maintain 100% relative humidity and a certain absolute humidity (e.g., 44 mg / L). In contrast, in a preferred configuration of the present respiratory therapy system 100, the controller 113 can increase the power to the heating wire of the heating conduit 122 relative to the heating element 25 of the humidifier (i.e., not in series), thereby causing the relative humidity to decrease and the average particle size of the aerosolized material to decrease.

[0351] In some configurations, after the nebulizer 128 is installed and the nebulized substance is dispensed, the power delivered to the heater wire 123 of the heated conduit 122 can be controlled to achieve the relative humidity target. In some configurations, the power to the heater wire 123 in the conduit 122 can be controlled to achieve the relative humidity target before the nebulizer 128 begins nebulizing the substance into the gas stream.

[0352] In some configurations, the controller 113 adjusts the power supplied to the heating element 25 of the humidifier to adjust the average particle size of the atomized material toward a target. It should be understood that adjusting the power of the heating element 25 will have a slower effect on the temperature of the gas stream (due to the thermal inertia of the humidifier heater plate and the body of water stored in the humidification chamber), and therefore the relative humidity will change more gradually in response to the power adjustment. As noted, this is because of the thermal inertia of the heater plate and the water in the humidification chamber - cooling or heating a relatively large body of water may take a relatively long time.

[0353] In some configurations, a controller controls the power supplied to the heater wire and the power delivered to the heating element to achieve a target average particle size.

[0354] In some configurations, the temperature of the heating element 25 and / or the conduit 122 (or a temperature-related parameter, such as a duty cycle of a heating / control signal) can be maintained for a predetermined period of time (or, for example, a period of time that is a function of the flow rate). Such a configuration can help address thermal inertia in the system while protecting the aerosolized substance from overheating and / or possible thermal damage that could compromise the substance's efficacy.

[0355] In some configurations, the controller 113 can control the power supplied to the heater wire 123 of the conduit 122 independently of the power supplied to the humidifier's heating element 25 in order to adjust the average particle size. For example, there can be two separate control loops for each component. In some configurations, the heater wire 123 may not be controlled in strict coordination or synchronization with the heating element; the heating element itself can be controlled to achieve an absolute humidity target or set point. In some configurations, the heater wire 123 is controlled to heat the gas flow in the conduit 122 to achieve a relative humidity target or set point. That is, the control loop for the heater wire 123 can be independent of the control loop for the humidifier's heating element. In these configurations, the heater wire 123 can be controlled independently of the humidifier's heating element to achieve a specific relative humidity, thereby achieving a desired average particle size for the substance that is atomized into or added to the gas flow delivered to the patient.

[0356] The particle size of the aerosolized material may also be affected by other parameters of the gas flow in the system - for example, when the flow is turbulent (such as may occur once the flow reaches the patient, for example towards the nose), the particles may be more likely to coalesce or agglomerate, thereby increasing their size.

[0357] In some configurations, the system includes a standard therapy mode and a nebulized therapy mode. The standard therapy mode can be a mode in which the system operates when nebulized material is not added to the humidified gas flow or has not yet been introduced.

[0358] In some configurations, in the nebulization therapy mode, the controller 113 targets a lower relative humidity for the gas stream than in the standard therapy mode. In the nebulization therapy mode, depending on the desired average particle size, the power delivered to the components can be increased, resulting in a lower relative humidity. In some of these configurations, the standard therapy mode can target a relative humidity of approximately 100%, while the nebulization therapy mode can target a relative humidity of less than 100%.

[0359] In some configurations, the target relative humidity in the nebulized therapy mode is less than 80%. In some configurations, the target relative humidity in the nebulized therapy mode is less than 60%.

[0360] In some configurations, the power supplied to the heater wire in the mist therapy mode is higher than the power supplied in the standard therapy mode.

[0361] In some configurations, the user can manually adjust between the standard therapy mode and the aerosol therapy mode. These modes can be adjusted through a user interface on the device.

[0362] In some configurations, the target relative humidity can be configured by the user (e.g., a clinician) in aerosol therapy mode. This can be direct (e.g., the user selects a desired dew point temperature) or indirect, where the user selects a desired particle size and / or material composition (e.g., saline solution concentration). In some configurations, a user interface feature (e.g., a touch screen element) for manually adjusting the target average particle size becomes interactive after entering aerosol therapy mode.

[0363] In some configurations, the system is configured to automatically control the power delivered to the heater wire to achieve a default target average particle size (eg, when in aerosol therapy mode).

[0364] In some configurations, the system will automatically control the power delivered to the heating element to achieve a default target average particle size. In some configurations, the default target average particle size is <1.0 μm.

[0365] In some configurations, in the aerosol therapy mode, the flow rate range of the gas flow can be within a set flow rate range. The set flow rate range can be between about 30 L / min and about 50 L / min, but other flow rates may also be suitable. In some configurations, the controller is configured to adjust the speed of the blower. In some configurations, the speed of the blower is adjusted to provide a flow rate range of the gas flow within the set flow rate range. The speed of the blower is adjusted so that the flow rate of the gas flow is within the set flow rate range.

[0366] In some configurations, the flow rate of the gas stream can be higher or lower than a set flow rate range. When the aerosol therapy mode is activated, the speed of the blower can be adjusted to provide a flow rate range of the gas stream within the set flow rate range.

[0367] In some configurations, the flow rate range of the gas flow can be higher than the set flow rate range. When the nebulization therapy mode is activated, the controller is configured to reduce the speed of the blower to provide a flow rate range of the gas flow within the set flow rate range. Optionally, the controller is configured to reduce the speed of the blower so as to provide the flow rate range of the gas flow within the upper area of ​​the set flow rate range. For example, if the flow rate of the gas flow is 60 L / min and the set flow rate range is between about 30 L / min and about 50 L / min, then when the nebulization therapy mode is activated, the flow rate of the gas flow can be reduced to about 50 L / min.

[0368] In some configurations, the flow rate range of the gas flow may be lower than the set flow rate range. When the nebulization therapy mode is activated, the controller is configured to increase the speed of the blower to provide a flow rate range of the gas flow within the set flow rate range. Optionally, the controller is configured to increase the speed of the blower so as to provide a flow rate range of the gas flow within the upper region of the set flow rate range. For example, if the flow rate of the gas flow is 20 L / min and the set flow rate range is between about 30 L / min and 50 L / min, then when the nebulization therapy mode is activated, the flow rate of the gas flow may be increased to about 30 L / min.

[0369] The flow rate of the gas stream is limited to a set flow rate range to reduce the possibility of aerosolized material being deposited in the flow path and / or to reduce the volume of aerosolized material deposited in the flow path. For example, at a higher flow rate, a higher volume of aerosolized material can be deposited in the flow path, and less aerosolized material can reach the patient. In the aerosol therapy mode, it may be desirable to reduce the flow rate of the gas stream to a relatively low flow rate. Reducing the flow rate of the gas stream to a relatively low flow rate can promote the delivery of aerosolized material to the airway of the patient / user. For example, a relatively low flow rate can be between about 10 L / min and about 30 L / min, but other flow rates may also be suitable.

[0370] In some configurations, the humidification device is configured to cause or generate an alarm when the nebulizer therapy mode is activated and the gas flow is above or below a set flow rate range. In some configurations, the nebulizer therapy mode is activated for a set time period. In some configurations, the humidification device is configured to cause or generate an alarm when the nebulizer therapy mode is activated for a period of time longer than a set time period.

[0371] 4. Relative humidity

[0372] It should be appreciated that the particle size of the aerosolized substance is affected by many factors within respiratory therapy system 100 .

[0373] For example, the relative humidity in conduit 122 can affect the particle size (e.g., MMAD) of the aerosolized material. In this system, relative humidity can be considered as the amount of water vapor in the gas mixture as a percentage of the maximum amount that can be maintained at a specific temperature. Absolute humidity, on the other hand, is the actual or absolute amount (i.e., quantity) of water vapor carried in the gas stream in the system, regardless of the temperature of the gas stream (e.g., in milligrams of water per liter of gas, mg / L).

[0374] Adjusting the relative humidity in respiratory therapy system 100 can affect the particle size of the aerosolized substance because the aerosolized particles tend to absorb water (if the particles are relatively dry) and then absorb water (if the particles are relatively wet), becoming larger in the process.

[0375] In humidified respiratory therapy, it is generally desirable to control the relative humidity to be as close to 100% as possible in order to simulate the natural humidification performed by the upper respiratory tract. However, it has been found that water vapor particles can coalesce with particles of the nebulized substance to form larger particles, resulting in an increased MMAD (as described above), and thus the substance may not travel into the respiratory tract as desired and / or in sufficient quantities. Therefore, it may be desirable to reduce the saturation (i.e., relative humidity) of the humidified gas flow to a lower target in order to affect the particle size of the nebulized substance and thereby affect the distance that the nebulized substance travels into the patient's respiratory tract. In fact, reducing the relative humidity can cause an increase in the evaporation effect, resulting in desorption of water from the nebulized substance particles and thereby resulting in a decrease in MMAD.

[0376] In some configurations, the target relative humidity is about 80%. In other configurations, the target relative humidity is less than 80%. For some aerosolized substances, a relative humidity of about 80% or less will maintain the average particle size of the aerosolized substance at or below 1.0 μm. In some configurations, such parameters will be sufficient to allow the aerosolized substance to travel to at least the upper respiratory tract.

[0377] In some configurations, the target relative humidity is about 60%. In other configurations, the target relative humidity is less than 60%. For some aerosolized substances, a relative humidity of about 60% or less will maintain the average particle size of the aerosolized substance at or below 0.5 μm. In some configurations, such parameters will be sufficient to allow the aerosolized substance to travel to the lower respiratory tract.

[0378] It is expected that different relative humidity targets may be necessary for different aerosolized substances to be delivered. Therefore, the specific control parameters of the system selected for delivering the aerosolized substance to the desired location in the patient's respiratory tract will vary. For example, a clinician or other suitable person can specify the type and / or concentration of the active substance in the solution to be introduced into the system 100 as the aerosolized substance. The controller 113 can adjust the relative humidity of the gas stream carrying the aerosolized substance by maintaining or adjusting the settings for one or more components accordingly. Higher concentrations of active substance generally require a greater reduction in relative humidity in order to adjust the particle size to the desired target, such as MMAD<1.0 μm, in order to pass through the upper airway passages and the proximal airway passages, while lower concentrations may only require a smaller reduction in relative humidity.

[0379] In some configurations, where the aerosolized substance introduced into the respiratory therapy system 100 includes different solution compositions, adjustment of the relative humidity can be used to maintain a desired average particle size. If the substance composition changes during respiratory therapy—for example, due to a clinician increasing or decreasing the dosage of a medication—the system can adjust the target relative humidity to maintain the desired average particle size. If the change in substance composition is such that the current relative humidity would result in an undesirably large average particle size (at the current setting), the system can implement a reduction in the relative humidity, for example, after a clinician interacts with the system's controls (e.g., via a user interface), and vice versa.

[0380] It should be understood that in some of these configurations, the user does not need to wait for the absolute humidity of the gas stream to decrease or increase after adjustment of the aerosolized substance (by cooling or heating the water in the humidifier). The clinician or other user can specify to the system that the particle size needs to be reduced or increased, and the system can control components such as the heating wire accordingly to quickly adjust the relative humidity. Therefore, in these configurations, the workflow of the clinician or other user can be significantly more direct and / or faster.

[0381] refer to Figure 8A and Figure 8B The test results confirmed the correlation between the relative humidity of the atomized material, air temperature, and MMAD in the system. It can be seen that when the air temperature deviates from the dew point (and therefore the relative humidity decreases), the MMAD of the atomized particles suspended in the gas stream decreases. Figure 8A and Figure 8BThe MMAD of the atomized particles under a range of carrier gas conditions is shown at gas flow rates of 20 L / min and 40 L / min, respectively. The average size of the particles is largely unaffected by these flow rate differences. However, at much lower flow rates (e.g., 2-3 L / min), the atomized particles will spend significantly longer time in the humidified gas stream, which can promote and allow a greater growth in particle size, i.e., by adsorption of water vapor and other mechanisms. The figure also shows that the concentration of the saline solution (in this case, a representative of other atomized formulations) in the atomized solution can have a significant effect on the MMAD of the atomized particles suspended in the gas stream. As mentioned above, relative humidity is affected by increasing or decreasing the temperature of the gas stream. Alternatively, absolute humidity (AH) can be reduced, for example, by increasing the flow rate to reduce the residence time of the gas flowing through the chamber and / or reducing the power supplied to the heater plate to reduce the degree to which the water is heated. The opposite operation can be performed to increase absolute humidity, thereby increasing relative humidity. Higher flow rates will reduce the residence time of the gas in the heated breathing tube, which may reduce the temperature of the gas received by the patient (if the power to the heated breathing tube is not increased accordingly). In addition, the concentration of the substance in the solution being nebulized (e.g., how much NaCl or pharmaceutical agent is present relative to water) will have an impact on the MMAD of the particles, but this is selected externally to the system and generally depends on what the patient is believed to need. In summary, the key physical variables that may affect the MMAD of the particles are temperature, absolute humidity, and the pharmaceutical formulation being nebulized.

[0382] As shown in those graphs, when the substance is a 0.9% sodium chloride (NaCl) saline solution, a higher relative humidity may be suitable for a particular desired MMAD, while at a higher NaCl concentration (7.0%), the MMAD is much higher at the same relative humidity. As described above, a higher concentration of the aerosolized substance solution generally requires a greater reduction in relative humidity to adjust the particle size to the desired target compared to a lower concentration, at which only a smaller reduction in relative humidity may be required to achieve the desired target particle size.

[0383] In a preferred configuration, the controller 113 in the system adjusts settings based on the desired average particle size (e.g., MMAD), such as the power supplied to the heater wire 123 of the conduit, or the power to the heating element 25. Adjusting these settings can adjust and, in some configurations, reduce the relative humidity of the humidified air in the conduit 122, which will reduce the size of the particles in the gas stream to the desired average size, thereby allowing the aerosolized material particles to travel a desired distance into the patient's respiratory tract.

[0384] In a preferred configuration, the controller 113 controls the components of the system to achieve a target relative humidity (which adjusts the particle size of the aerosolized material, as discussed). The target relative humidity can be specific to a region in the system. In some configurations, the target relative humidity is the relative humidity of the flowing gas in the conduit 122. In some configurations, the target relative humidity is the relative humidity of the flowing gas at the patient end of the conduit. After the gas flow has been heated through the flow channel along the length of the conduit 122, the target relative humidity at the patient end can be adjusted and achieved.

[0385] In some configurations, the controller 113 controls the power supplied to the heater wire to achieve a target relative humidity. In some configurations, the controller continuously controls the power supplied to the heater wire to maintain the target relative humidity. The power supplied to the heater wire can be adjusted by varying the duty cycle of a pulse width modulation (PWM) signal supplied to the heater wire and / or varying the voltage amplitude of a DC voltage supplied to the heater wire.

[0386] 5. User Control Interface

[0387] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system 100 can include a user control interface. The user control interface 108 can include one or more buttons, knobs, dials, switches, levers, touch screens, speakers, displays, and / or other input or output modules that a user can use to input commands to the flow generator 101, view data, and / or control the operation of the flow generator 101, and / or control other aspects of the operation of the respiratory therapy system 100. In some configurations, the system can have multiple user control interfaces 108, 120 at different locations in the system 100, such as Figure 1 shown.

[0388] In some configurations, the user control interface includes a user control interface element for adjusting the target average particle size.

[0389] In some configurations, the user control interface includes a user control interface element for adjusting a target travel distance into the patient's airway.

[0390] In some configurations, the user control interface includes user control interface elements for selecting a standard therapy mode and an aerosol therapy mode.

[0391] In some configurations, the operation of the components of the respiratory therapy system 100 can be wirelessly controlled using a user control interface located on a remote computing device, which may be a tablet, mobile phone, personal digital assistant, or another computing device.

[0392] 6. How to use

[0393] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system 100 may be configured as follows: The steps may be performed in any suitable order, and thus, the following is merely an example of an order that may be used.

[0394] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system 100 can be used together with the nebulizer 128 and the conduit 122 to provide any desired treatment that can be performed using a combination of components. In some configurations, a nasal cannula (which is the patient interface 124) is connected to the conduit and provides nasal high flow therapy while distributing a substance (e.g., a saline solution or a drug) into the gas stream via the nebulizer. The advantage of using high flow therapy while distributing the substance is that the high flow rate of gas pushes the aerosolized particles in the gas into the patient's airway. The high flow rate can increase the likelihood and / or volume of the aerosolized substance being deposited in the patient's airway and / or further deposited into the airway. Other configurations and methods are also possible.

[0395] refer to Figure 7 , a flow chart showing the steps of using the method. Different configurations may include one or more of these steps.

[0396] In some configurations, the user selects the desired particle size of the aerosolized material on the user control interface. For example, the particle size is selected by actuating a physical element (e.g., a slider, a button, etc.) or a digital interface element (i.e., a touch screen). The selected particle size can be a particle size with a specific desired MMAD, or in other configurations, by selecting a specific particle size pattern (e.g., small, regular, large particle size pattern). Alternatively, the user can select a desired deposition or dispersion area. In some configurations, other patterns can be detected or selected, such as the type of connected patient interface. The pattern detected by the system or selected by the user can start a predetermined control (e.g., the power of the components delivered to the system) to adjust the relative humidity, which regulates the average particle size of the aerosolized material delivered, which then affects the delivery of the aerosolized material to the patient.

[0397] In a preferred configuration, once the input is provided, the power supplied to the heating wire of the conduit and the power delivered to the heating element of the humidifier and / or other components of the system 100 are adjusted based on the desired particle size, the desired deposition or dispersion area in the patient, the type of patient interface, or other parameters. For example, a clinician may want a different desired MMAD, desired dispersion or deposition area based on the type of patient interface used (e.g., nasal cannula, mask, oral interface, or tracheostomy interface). Lowering the relative humidity of the humidified air in the conduit 122 reduces the size of the liquid particles to the desired MMAD, thereby allowing the aerosolized material particles or droplets to travel the desired distance into the patient's airway (a greater distance than if the relative humidity were higher). Alternatively, increasing the relative humidity of the humidified air in the conduit 122 increases the size of the liquid particles to the desired MMAD, thereby allowing the aerosolized material particles or droplets to travel the desired distance into the patient's airway (a shorter distance than if the relative humidity were lower).

[0398] 7. General Description of Respiratory Therapy Equipment

[0399] In some configurations, a respiratory therapy device 200 for delivering a flow of gas to a patient is provided. The respiratory therapy device 200 includes a flow generator 101 configured to generate a flow of gas; a humidifier 112 including a heating element 25; a port configured to be in fluid communication with a conduit 122; and a controller 113. The port can be configured to receive aerosolized material and introduce the aerosolized material into a flow of gas directed to the patient. The controller 113 can be configured to adjust the power delivered to at least the heating element 25 to adjust the average particle size of the aerosolized material to or toward a target.

[0400] In some configurations, the device is configured to be fluidly connected to a conduit 122. The conduit 122 can be configured to deliver the flow of gas from the flow generator 101 to the patient. The conduit 122 can include a lumen and a heater wire 123 configured to heat the flow of gas in the conduit 122.

[0401] In some configurations, the controller 113 is configured to adjust the power delivered to the heater wire 123 to adjust the average particle size of the atomized material to a target. The controller 113 can control both the power delivered to the heater wire 123 and the power delivered to the heating element 25 to achieve the target average particle size. The controller 113 can control the power delivered to the heater wire 123 independently of the power delivered to the heating element 25 to adjust the average particle size. The controller 113 can control the power delivered to the heating element 25 and / or the heater wire 123 to achieve the target relative humidity. The controller 113 can continuously control the power delivered to the heating element 25 and / or the heater wire 123 to maintain the target relative humidity.

[0402] In some configurations, the target relative humidity is the relative humidity of the gas flowing in conduit 122. The target relative humidity may be the relative humidity of the gas flowing at the patient end of conduit 122. In some configurations, the target relative humidity may be approximately 80%. In other configurations, the target relative humidity may be less than 80%. In other configurations, the target relative humidity may be approximately 60%. In other configurations, the target relative humidity may be less than 60%. It should be understood that in some of these configurations, the target relative humidity percentages are examples, and other target relative humidities may be appropriate.

[0403] In some configurations, the target average particle size can be based on a desired travel distance into the patient's respiratory tract. In some configurations, the desired travel distance can be for dispersion in or around the patient's upper respiratory tract. In other configurations, the desired travel distance can be for dispersion outside the patient's upper respiratory tract. In other configurations, the desired travel distance can be for dispersion in or around the patient's lower respiratory tract.

[0404] In some configurations, the target average particle size when the desired travel distance is dispersed in or around the patient's upper respiratory tract is relatively smaller than the target average particle size when the desired travel distance is dispersed in or around the patient's lower respiratory tract. In some configurations, the target average particle size can be a mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) of <1.0 micron. In other configurations, the target average particle size is a mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) between 0.5 micron and 1.0 micron. In other configurations, the target average particle size is a median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) of <0.5 micron. In some configurations, the target average particle size can be a mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) between 0.1 micron and 0.5 micron. It should be understood that in some of these configurations, the mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) of the target average particle size is an example, and other diameters may be suitable.

[0405] In some configurations, the heating element 25 is a heating plate.

[0406] In some configurations, the port for the nebulizer 128 is located downstream of the flow generator 101. In other configurations, the port for the nebulizer 128 is located at the humidifier 112. In other configurations, the port for the nebulizer 128 is located at or toward the inlet or outlet of the humidifier 112. In other configurations, the port for the nebulizer 128 is located at or toward the outlet of the humidifier 112. In other configurations, the port for the nebulizer 128 is located upstream of the device end of the conduit 122. In other configurations, the port for the nebulizer 128 is located at or toward the device end of the conduit 122. It should be understood that in some of these configurations, the locations of the port for the nebulizer 128 are examples, and other locations for the port for the nebulizer 128 are also suitable.

[0407] In some configurations, the port is configured to indirectly receive the nebulizer 128. In other configurations, the respiratory therapy device 200 further includes a mount or connector configured to connect to the port at one opening. The mount or connector can be used to receive the nebulizer 128 at another opening. It should be understood that in some of these configurations, the target relative humidity is an example, and other target relative humidities may be appropriate. In other configurations, the port may be configured to connect to the nebulizer 128, which introduces aerosolized material into the gas flow.

[0408] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy device 200 includes a standard therapy mode and a nebulizer therapy mode. The nebulizer therapy mode can include a target relative humidity that is lower than the target relative humidity in the standard therapy mode. The power delivered to the heater wire 123 in the nebulizer therapy mode can be higher than the power delivered in the standard therapy mode.

[0409] In some configurations, the standard therapy mode may include a target relative humidity of approximately 100%, and the nebulized therapy mode may include a target relative humidity of less than 100%. In other configurations, the target relative humidity in the nebulized therapy mode is less than 80%. In other configurations, the target relative humidity in the nebulized therapy mode is less than 60%. It should be understood that in some of these configurations, the target relative humidity is an example, and other target relative humidities may be appropriate.

[0410] In some configurations, the user can manually adjust between standard therapy mode and aerosol therapy mode.After entering aerosol therapy mode, a feature for manually adjusting the target average particle size becomes available.

[0411] In some configurations, the apparatus is configured to automatically control power to the heating wire 123 to achieve a default target average particle size.

[0412] In some configurations, the apparatus is configured to automatically control power to the heating element 25 to achieve a default target average particle size. The default target average particle size may be <1.0 micron.

[0413] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy device 200 further comprises a user control interface. The user control interface comprises a user control interface element for adjusting a target average particle size. The user control interface may comprise a user control interface element for adjusting a target travel distance into the patient's airway. In other configurations, the user control interface may comprise a user control interface element for selecting a standard therapy mode and a nebulized therapy mode. In other configurations, the user control interface comprises a touch screen interface. In other configurations, the user control interface comprises a mechanical interface having physical elements, such as a slider, a dial, a button, or a combination thereof.

[0414] In some configurations, a respiratory therapy system 100 for delivering a flow of gas to a patient is provided, the respiratory therapy system comprising: a blower 106, a humidifier 112 including a heating element 25, and a conduit 122 in fluid communication with the humidifier 112. The humidifier 112 is in fluid communication with the blower 106 and is configured to humidify the gas. The conduit 122 is configured to direct the flowing gas from the humidifier 112 to the patient / user. The conduit 122 includes a heating wire 123 in the conduit 122. The respiratory therapy system 100 also includes a port fluidly coupled to the humidifier 112 and the conduit 122. The port is suitable for introducing a nebulized substance into the flow of gas. The respiratory therapy system 100 also includes a controller 113 operably coupled to the heating element 25, the heating wire 123, and the blower 106. The controller 113 is configured to adjust the speed of the blower 106 to provide a target gas flow rate, and adjust the power of the heating element 25 and / or the heating wire 123 to control the particle size of the atomized material within a target size range.

[0415] In some configurations, a respiratory therapy system 100 for delivering a flow of gas to a patient is provided, the respiratory therapy system comprising: a blower 106, a humidification device in fluid communication with the blower 106. The humidification device is configured to adjust the humidity of the flow of gas. The respiratory therapy system 100 also includes a gas path defined between the blower 106 and the patient. The gas path includes the humidification device and a port suitable for receiving a nebulized substance. The respiratory therapy system 100 also includes a controller 113 operably coupled to the blower 106 and the humidification device. The controller 113 is configured to: adjust the speed of the blower 106 to provide a gas flow at a set flow rate, and adjust the humidity output of the humidification device to control the particle size of the nebulized substance.

[0416] In some configurations, the humidification device includes a humidifier 112 having a heater plate.

[0417] In some configurations, the humidification device includes a conduit 122 having a heating wire 123 .

[0418] In some configurations, the system includes a nebulization therapy mode. In nebulization therapy mode, the humidity of the gas flow from the humidifier 112 can be reduced for a set period of time or while the system is in nebulization therapy mode. In some configurations, in nebulization therapy mode, the power supplied to the heater plate and / or the temperature set point of the heater plate is reduced to reduce the absolute humidity. In other configurations, the power supplied to the conduit 122 heater wire 123 is increased to reduce the relative humidity.

[0419] In some configurations, in the nebulization therapy mode, the humidification device is configured to generate an alarm when the humidity of the gas flow is greater than an allowed absolute or allowed relative humidity.

[0420] In some configurations, in the aerosol therapy mode, the flow rate range of the gas flow is within a set flow rate range. In some configurations, the set flow rate range can be between about 30 L / min and 50 L / min.

[0421] In some configurations, when the nebulization therapy mode is activated, the controller 113 is configured to adjust the speed of the blower 106 to provide a flow rate range of the gas flow within the set flow rate range. In other configurations, when the nebulization therapy mode is activated and the flow rate of the gas flow is above the set flow rate range, the controller 113 is configured to reduce the speed of the blower 106 to provide a flow rate range of the gas flow within the set flow rate range. Optionally, the speed of the blower 106 will be reduced to provide the flow rate range of the gas flow within the upper region of the set flow rate range. In other configurations, when the nebulization therapy mode is activated and the flow rate of the gas flow is below the set flow rate range, the controller 113 is configured to increase the speed of the blower 106 to provide a flow rate range of the gas flow within the set flow rate range. Optionally, the speed of the blower 106 will be increased to provide a flow rate range of the gas flow within the lower region of the set flow rate range.

[0422] In some configurations, the humidification device is configured to cause an alarm to sound when the nebulizer therapy mode is activated and the gas flow is above or below a set flow rate range. The nebulizer therapy mode can be activated for a set period of time. In other configurations, the humidification device is configured to cause an alarm to sound when the nebulizer therapy mode is activated for a period of time longer than a set period of time. When the nebulizer therapy mode is activated, the patient or user defines a particle size range.

[0423] In some configurations, the respiratory device is configured to change the relative humidity and / or absolute humidity to a specific range to control the particle size of the aerosolized substance. By adjusting the relative humidity and / or absolute humidity, the particle size of the aerosolized substance can be controlled to or toward a specific size range.

[0424] In some configurations, the respiratory therapy system 100 is configured to provide high flow therapy. In other configurations, the respiratory therapy system 100 is configured to provide nasal high flow therapy with aerosolized substances.

[0425] Respiratory therapy device 200 may have any one or more of the features and / or functionality described herein.

[0426] Respiratory therapy device 200 can be provided as a stand-alone device. Alternatively, respiratory therapy device 200 can be provided as part of or used in respiratory therapy system 100 having respiratory therapy device 200 and one or more of conduit 122, patient interface 124, nebulizer 128, or one or more other components described herein.

[0427] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the specification and claims, the words "comprise," "comprising," and the like should be construed in an inclusive sense, ie, in the sense of "including but not limited to," as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense.

[0428] Where in the foregoing description reference has been made to integers or components having known equivalents thereof, these integers or components are herein incorporated as if individually set forth.

[0429] The disclosed methods, apparatus, and systems may also be broadly said to include the parts, elements, and features mentioned or indicated in this disclosure, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of the parts, elements, or features.

[0430] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgment or any form of suggestion that this prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavor in any country in the world.

[0431] Recitation of ranges of values ​​herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the disclosure as if it were individually recited herein. Additionally, each subrange of values ​​within a range of values ​​is incorporated into the disclosure as if it were individually recited herein.

[0432] Although the present disclosure has been described with respect to certain embodiments, other embodiments apparent to those skilled in the art are also within the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. For example, various components may be repositioned as needed. Furthermore, not all features, aspects, and advantages are necessary to practice the present disclosure. Accordingly, the scope of the present disclosure is intended to be limited solely by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A respiratory therapy system for delivering a flow of gas to a patient, comprising: a flow generator configured to generate the gas flow; a catheter configured to deliver the flow of gas from the flow generator to the patient, the catheter comprising a lumen and a heater wire configured to heat the flow of gas in the catheter; a port configured to be in fluid communication with the conduit and for receiving aerosolized substance and introducing the aerosolized substance into a gas flow of the patient; as well as A controller is configured to adjust power delivered to at least the heater wire to adjust the average particle size of the aerosolized substance to or towards a target. 2 . The respiratory therapy system of claim 1 , wherein the controller controls power delivered to the heater wire to achieve a target relative humidity for the gas flow.

3. The respiratory therapy system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the controller continuously controls the power delivered to the heater wire to maintain a target relative humidity of the gas flow.

4. The respiratory therapy system of claim 2 or 3, wherein the target relative humidity is the relative humidity of the gas flow in the conduit.

5. The respiratory therapy system of any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the target relative humidity is the relative humidity of the gas flow at the patient end of the conduit.

6. The respiratory therapy system of any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the target relative humidity is approximately 80%.

7. The respiratory therapy system of any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the target relative humidity is less than 80%.

8. The respiratory therapy system of claim 7, wherein the target relative humidity is approximately 60%.

9. The respiratory therapy system of claim 7, wherein the target relative humidity is less than 60%.

10. The respiratory therapy system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein a target average particle size is based on an expected travel distance into the patient's airway.

11. The respiratory therapy system of claim 10, wherein the desired travel distance is for dispersion in or around the patient's upper airway.

12. The respiratory therapy system of claim 10 or 11, wherein the desired travel distance is for dispersion out of the patient's upper airway.

13. The respiratory therapy system of claim 10 or 11, wherein the desired travel distance is for dispersion in or around the patient's lower airway.

14. The respiratory therapy system of any of the preceding claims, wherein a target average particle size is relatively larger when the desired travel distance is dispersed in or around the patient's upper airway than when the desired travel distance is dispersed in or around the patient's lower airway.

15. The respiratory therapy system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the target average particle size is a mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) of <1.0 micron.

16. The respiratory therapy system of claim 15, wherein the target average particle size is a mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) between 0.5 microns and 1.0 microns.

17. The respiratory therapy system of claim 15, wherein the target average particle size is a median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) of <0.5 microns.

18. The respiratory therapy system of claim 17, wherein the target average particle size is a mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) between 0.1 microns and 0.5 microns.

19. The respiratory therapy system of any preceding claim, further comprising a humidifier including a heating element.

20. The respiratory therapy system of claim 19, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the power delivered to the heating element to adjust the average particle size of the aerosolized substance to or towards a target.

21. The respiratory therapy system of claim 19 or 20, wherein the controller controls both the power delivered to the heater wire and the power delivered to the heating element to achieve a target average particle size.

22. The respiratory therapy system of claim 21, wherein the controller controls the power delivered to the heater wire independently of the power delivered to the heating element to adjust the average particle size.

23. The respiratory therapy system of any one of claims 19 to 22, wherein the heating element is configured to heat a heating plate.

24. The respiratory therapy system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the port for the nebulizer is located downstream of the flow generator.

25. The respiratory therapy system of any preceding claim, wherein the port for the nebulizer is located at the humidifier.

26. The respiratory therapy system of claim 25, wherein the port for the nebulizer is located at or toward an inlet or outlet of the humidifier.

27. The respiratory therapy system of claim 26, wherein the port for the nebulizer is located at or toward an outlet of the humidifier.

28. The respiratory therapy system of any preceding claim, wherein the port for the nebulizer is located upstream of the device end of the conduit.

29. The respiratory therapy system of any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein the port for the nebulizer is located at or towards a device end of the conduit.

30. The respiratory therapy system of any preceding claim, wherein the port is configured to indirectly receive the nebulizer.

31. The respiratory therapy system of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a connector configured to connect to the port at one opening and to receive the nebulizer at another opening.

32. The respiratory therapy system of any preceding claim, further comprising a nebulizer configured to connect at the port, the nebulizer introducing the aerosolized substance into the gas flow.

33. The respiratory therapy system of any preceding claim, wherein the respiratory therapy system comprises a standard therapy mode and a nebulized therapy mode.

34. The respiratory therapy system of claim 33, wherein the nebulized therapy mode includes a target relative humidity that is lower than a target relative humidity in the standard therapy mode.

35. The respiratory therapy system of claim 33 or 34, wherein the power delivered to the heater wire in the nebulization therapy mode is higher than the power delivered in the standard therapy mode.

36. The respiratory therapy system of any one of claims 33 to 35, wherein the standard therapy mode includes a target relative humidity of approximately 100% and the nebulized therapy mode includes a target relative humidity of less than 100%.

37. The respiratory therapy system of claim 36, wherein the target relative humidity in the nebulization therapy mode is less than 80%.

38. The respiratory therapy system of claim 37, wherein the target relative humidity in the nebulization therapy mode is less than 60%.

39. The respiratory therapy system of any one of claims 33 to 38, wherein a user can manually adjust between the standard therapy mode and the nebulized therapy mode.

40. The respiratory therapy system of any one of claims 33 to 39, wherein after entering a nebulization therapy mode, a feature for manually adjusting the target mean particle size becomes available.

41. The respiratory therapy system of any of the preceding claims, wherein the respiratory therapy system is configured to automatically control power delivered to the heater wire to achieve a default target average particle size of aerosolized substance delivered to the patient via the gas flow.

42. The respiratory therapy system of any one of claims 19 to 41, wherein the respiratory therapy system is configured to automatically control the power delivered to the heating element to achieve a default target average particle size.

43. The respiratory therapy system of claim 41 or 42, wherein the default target average particle size is <1.0 micron.

44. The respiratory therapy system of any preceding claim, further comprising a user control interface.

45. The respiratory therapy system of claim 44, wherein the user control interface includes a user control interface element for adjusting a target average particle size.

46. ​​The respiratory therapy system of claims 44 or 45, wherein the user control interface comprises a user control interface element for adjusting a target travel distance into the patient's airway.

47. The respiratory therapy system of any one of claims 44 to 46, wherein the user control interface includes user control interface elements for selecting a standard therapy mode and a nebulized therapy mode.

48. The respiratory therapy system of any one of claims 44 to 47, wherein the user control interface comprises a touch screen interface.

49. The respiratory therapy system of any one of claims 44 to 48, wherein the user control interface comprises a mechanical interface having a physical element that is one of a slider, a dial, a button, or a combination thereof.

50. The respiratory therapy system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the conduit comprises a length greater than 0.5 meters.

51. The respiratory therapy system of claim 50, wherein the conduit comprises a length greater than 1 meter.

52. The respiratory therapy system of claim 51, wherein the conduit comprises a length greater than 1.5 meters.

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