Visual sputum suction tube

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of sputum suction tubes, in particular to a visual sputum suction tube which comprises a catheter, the tail end of the catheter is fixedly connected with a connector, the sputum suction end of the catheter is fixedly connected with a camera module, the side of the camera module is fixedly connected with a cable, and the end of the cable is fixedly connected with a control module. Visual equipment can be connected in a wireless or wired mode; the problem that a traditional sputum suction tube cannot clearly distinguish the position and the amount of sputum to achieve blind suction is effectively solved. Whether the sputum is contacted or not is roughly distinguished only according to the sound of the sputum suction tube in contact with the sputum in the sputum suction process. And the remaining condition of sputum in the airway cannot be distinguished. Blind insertion of an airway of a patient causes strong stimulation to the airway, and many patients are intolerant to sputum suction operation clinically, so that sputum suction complications are greatly increased, and the like.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of suction catheter technology, specifically a visual suction catheter. Background Technology

[0002] Clinically, all patients with tracheostomies and disposable tracheostomy tubes require suctioning because their sputum is too thick to cough up. Comatose patients and those unable to cough up sputum experience difficulty expectorating due to decreased coughing and swallowing function. Increased sputum production, obstructed expectoration, and sputum retention can easily lead to respiratory distress, worsening of infections, and in severe cases, suffocation and death. This is common in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and those who have undergone major surgery under anesthesia; therefore, they also require negative pressure suctioning to manage sputum.

[0003] Traditional suctioning catheters are used blindly when the location and volume of sputum cannot be clearly identified. Contact with sputum is roughly determined by the sound of the catheter touching the sputum. The presence of sputum in the airway cannot be assessed. Blind insertion into the patient's airway causes significant irritation, leading to intolerance in many patients and increasing the risk of complications.

[0004] Therefore, a visual suction tube is proposed to address the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To overcome the shortcomings of existing technologies, this invention provides a visual suction catheter with better adaptability and ease of use. It solves the problem of blind suctioning when the location and volume of sputum cannot be clearly identified using traditional suction catheters. Traditional catheters rely solely on the sound of the catheter contacting sputum for a rough assessment of whether sputum has been reached. They cannot determine the amount of sputum remaining in the airway. Blind insertion into the patient's airway causes strong irritation, leading to intolerance in many patients and increasing the risk of complications.

[0006] The technical solution adopted by the present invention to solve its technical problem is: a visual suction tube, including a catheter, a connector fixedly connected to the tail end of the catheter, a camera module fixedly connected to the suction end of the catheter, a cable fixedly connected to the side of the camera module, a control module fixedly connected to the end of the cable, a waterproof shell fixedly connected to the outside of the control module, and a waterproof shell provided on the side of the waterproof shell.

[0007] Preferably, the camera module and the cable form a snap-fit ​​structure, and the connection method between the camera module and the cable includes, but is not limited to, using soldering, thermoforming, laser welding, bonding, plugging, and other connection processes to achieve rapid connection and rapid manufacturing, reduce manufacturing costs, and reduce the difficulty and equipment investment in the processing process. The cable material includes, but is not limited to, medical enameled wire, metal wire coated with polymer insulation material, flexible flat cable, etc., and includes, but is not limited to, straight, multi-strand stranded wire, micro-helical (spring) wire, corrugated wire, etc.

[0008] Preferably, the camera module includes a camera and a light source, and the camera is installed on one side of the suction end of the catheter.

[0009] Preferably, the camera module further includes a light source, which can automatically adjust the illumination intensity and zoned illumination according to the airway environment and the reflective characteristics of sputum, so as to reduce the interference of reflected light on the visual system and improve the accuracy and reliability of sputum recognition.

[0010] Preferably, the catheter is made of medical polymer material, and the outer and inner walls of the catheter are coated with an antibacterial coating that can effectively inhibit bacterial growth.

[0011] Preferably, the waterproof outer shell is made of medical-grade polymer material, including but not limited to medical-grade silicone, rubber, metal, glass, etc.

[0012] Preferably, the connector and the catheter are integrated, and the outer surface of the connector is provided with anti-slip texture to facilitate operation by medical staff.

[0013] Preferably, the catheter is provided with a hydrophobic coating or a physically water-repellent microstructure, so that sputum is not easily contaminated on the suction tube, and even if a small amount of contaminants are stuck, they can be quickly removed with the help of the coating and microstructure.

[0014] Preferably, the visualization device includes a display screen and an operation panel. The display screen is used to display images within the airway in real time, and the visualization device is also equipped with a data storage module for storing image data during the suctioning process. As needed, the audio-visual data can be uploaded to the cloud for backup via the hospital's intranet, serving as primary data for teaching, training, research, and other purposes. The device can also be used to make preliminary judgments and observations on potential lesions, bleeding points, and other conditions.

[0015] Preferably, the control module is equipped with a signal amplifier to enhance the signal strength transmitted by the camera module and improve the stability and clarity of image transmission; the control module is also equipped with a filter to filter out interference factors in the signal and further improve image quality.

[0016] Preferably, the catheter cross-section is elliptical, which makes it easier for medical staff to clearly identify the location and orientation of the suction port while improving the maneuverability of the suction catheter during the suctioning process.

[0017] The advantages of this invention are:

[0018] 1. From the perspective of the core carrier catheter, it is made of medical-grade polymer materials, which not only possesses excellent flexibility and biocompatibility, reducing mechanical irritation to the respiratory mucosa, but also has antibacterial coatings on both the inner and outer walls, effectively inhibiting bacterial growth and reproduction on the catheter surface, thus reducing the risk of infection for patients during suctioning. Simultaneously, the hydrophobic coating or physically water-repellent microstructures inside the catheter significantly reduce the adhesion of sputum to the catheter wall. Even if a small amount of sputum remains, it can be quickly cleared by the coating and microstructures, ensuring unobstructed lumen, reducing the occurrence of blockages, and ensuring the continuity and efficiency of the suctioning process. The illumination and camera module fixedly connected to the suction end of the catheter is a key structure for realizing the visualization function. Its camera is installed on one side of the suction end of the catheter, a position that allows for more accurate identification of sputum accumulation areas and mucosal conditions within the airway, improving the targeting of image acquisition. The light source automatically adjusts its intensity and zoned illumination based on the airway environment and the reflective properties of sputum, effectively preventing interference from reflected light on the visual system. This results in clearer images captured by the camera, providing medical staff with accurate judgment and significantly improving the accuracy of sputum identification. Furthermore, the snap-fit ​​structure between the lighting and camera module and the cable enables rapid connection. This design simplifies the production process, reduces manufacturing costs and processing difficulty, minimizes equipment investment, and enhances the product's economy and practicality. The signal amplifier enhances the signal strength transmitted by the lighting and camera module, effectively improving the stability and clarity of image transmission. Simultaneously, the included filter removes interference from the signal, further optimizing image quality and ensuring clear and stable real-time images received by medical staff through the visualization device, providing strong support for precise operation. The visualization device, which interacts with the control module, is fully functional. Its display screen shows real-time images within the airway, allowing medical staff to intuitively observe the specific situation during suctioning. The control panel facilitates adjustments and other operations by medical staff according to actual needs. Furthermore, the data storage module of the visualization device can completely save the image data during the suctioning process. This data can not only be used for later review of the operation process and analysis of the patient's condition, but also provide valuable case materials for medical teaching and research, which has important clinical value. The outer shell of the visualization device is waterproof, shockproof, and dustproof. The materials include, but are not limited to, medical-grade polymer materials, medical-grade silicone, rubber, metal, and glass, which can effectively prevent external factors such as liquid splashes from affecting the internal components of the device, protect the visualization device from damage, and ensure its stable operation in complex medical environments. The connector at the end of the catheter is fixedly connected to the catheter in an integrated design. This structure enhances the firmness of the connection between the connector and the catheter, avoiding problems such as insufficient negative pressure or failure due to loose connection during suctioning.The anti-slip texture on the outer surface of the connector increases the friction when medical staff hold it, making the operation of connecting to external negative pressure suction equipment more stable and reliable, and improving the convenience of operation. Attached Figure Description

[0019] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0020] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of the overall front view of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 2 For the present invention Figure 1 Enlarged structural diagram at point A;

[0022] Figure 3 This is a top-down three-dimensional structural diagram of the present invention.

[0023] In the diagram: 1. Conduit; 2. Camera module; 3. Cable; 4. Control module; 5. Waterproof housing; 6. Connector; 7. Visualization device. Detailed Implementation

[0024] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0025] Example 1

[0026] like Figure 1 The illustrated visualization suction tube includes a catheter 1, a camera module 2, a cable 3, a control module 4, a waterproof housing 5, a connector 6, and a visualization device 7.

[0027] Please see Figures 1 to 3The diagram illustrates a visual suction catheter, comprising a catheter 1, with a connector 6 fixedly connected to the tail end of the catheter 1, and a camera module 2 fixedly connected to the suction end of the catheter 1. A cable 3 is fixedly connected to the side of the camera module 2. The connection methods between the camera module 2 and the signal transmission cable 3 include, but are not limited to, soldering, thermoforming, laser welding, bonding, and snap-fit ​​connection processes. A control module 4 is fixedly connected to the end of the cable 3. The control module 4 includes a power supply, an external connector, a circuit board, a wireless transmission unit, and a switch. The control module 4 is externally encased in a waterproof shell 5. The snap-fit ​​structure between the camera module 2 and the cable 3 enables rapid connection and disassembly, facilitating rapid manufacturing, reducing manufacturing costs, and minimizing processing difficulties and equipment investment. The camera module 2 includes a camera and a light source, with the camera mounted on the suction end side of the catheter 1. The camera module 2 also includes a light source capable of automatically adjusting the illumination intensity and zoned illumination based on the airway environment and the reflective characteristics of sputum, reducing interference from reflected light on the visual system and improving the accuracy and reliability of sputum recognition. The catheter 1 utilizes medical-grade materials. Made of polymer materials, the outer and inner walls of catheter 1 are coated with an antibacterial coating, which effectively inhibits bacterial growth and reduces the risk of infection. The waterproof shell 5 is made of medical-grade silicone material. The materials of the visualization device shell include, but are not limited to, medical-grade silicone, medical polymer materials, metal, and glass. The connector 6 is integrated with catheter 1, and the outer surface of connector 6 has anti-slip textures for easy operation by medical staff. The inside of catheter 1 has a hydrophobic coating or a physically water-repellent microstructure, which makes it difficult for sputum and other contaminants to adhere to the suction tube. Even if there is a small amount of adhesion, it can be quickly removed with the help of the coating and microstructure. The visualization device 7 includes a display screen and an operation panel. The display screen is used to display images in the airway in real time, and the visualization device 7 also has a data storage module for storing image data during the suctioning process. The control module 4 has a signal amplifier to enhance the signal strength transmitted by the camera module 2 and improve the stability and clarity of image transmission. The control module 4 also has a filter to filter out interference components in the signal and further improve image quality.

[0028] Working Principle: The system is primarily composed of catheter 1 and connector 6, with key components such as camera module 2, cable 3, control module 4, and visualization device 7 working together to achieve real-time visual monitoring and precise sputum suction. Before use, medical staff connect catheter 1 to the external negative pressure suction device via connector 6. The anti-slip texture on the outer surface of connector 6 increases grip stability and ensures a secure and reliable connection. Simultaneously, control module 4 establishes a signal connection with camera module 2 at the suction end of catheter 1 via cable 3, and control module 4 interacts with visualization device 7, laying the foundation for the visualization function of the entire working process.

[0029] When suctioning begins, catheter 1 is inserted into the patient's airway under the guidance of medical staff, at which point camera module 2 activates. Its light source automatically adjusts the illumination intensity and provides zoned illumination based on the airway environment and the reflective properties of sputum, effectively reducing interference from reflected light on the visual system and providing a clear shooting environment for the camera. The camera, mounted on one side of catheter 1, accurately captures real-time images within the airway, including key information such as sputum location, volume, and color. These image signals are transmitted to control module 4 via cable 3. Signal amplifiers on control module 4 amplify the transmitted signal strength, while filters remove interference components. The processed, high-quality image signal is transmitted in real-time to visualization device 7 and displayed visually on a screen. Medical staff can clearly observe the specific situation within the airway through the display, thereby accurately determining the suction location and sputum condition.

[0030] During suctioning, the external negative pressure suction device generates negative pressure inside catheter 1 through connector 6, using this negative pressure to expel sputum through catheter 1. Because catheter 1 has a hydrophobic coating or physically water-repellent microstructures inside, sputum is less likely to adhere to the catheter wall during flow. Even if a small amount of sputum adheres, it can be quickly cleared by the coating and microstructures, ensuring unobstructed flow and reducing the risk of blockage. Simultaneously, catheter 1 is made of medical-grade polymer materials and has an antibacterial coating on its outer wall, which inhibits bacterial and viral activity.

[0031] Throughout the operation, the control module 4 continuously optimizes the signal, ensuring that the image on the visualization device 7 remains clear and stable. Medical staff adjust the insertion depth and angle of the catheter 1 based on the real-time image, precisely targeting the sputum for suction. This avoids the risk of repeated blind insertions during traditional suctioning, which can cause repeated irritation of the respiratory tract and damage to the respiratory mucosa. Furthermore, the data storage module of the visualization device 7 simultaneously stores the image data during the suctioning process, facilitating subsequent review of the procedure, analysis of the patient's condition, or medical record keeping. The snap-fit ​​design between the camera module 2 and the cable 3 ensures stable signal transmission and facilitates device assembly, indirectly guaranteeing the smoothness of the entire workflow. Additionally, the waterproof casing 5 and the casing of the visualization device 7 are made of materials including, but not limited to, medical-grade silicone, medical polymer materials, metal, and glass, providing excellent protection against liquid splashes during medical procedures that could affect the normal operation of the device. This ensures that the entire visualization suction catheter can stably and efficiently complete suctioning in complex medical environments.

[0032] The foregoing has shown and described the basic principles, main features, and advantages of the present invention. Those skilled in the art should understand that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. The embodiments and descriptions in the specification are merely illustrative of the principles of the invention. Various changes and modifications can be made to the invention without departing from its spirit and scope, and all such changes and modifications fall within the scope of the claimed invention.

Claims

1. A visual suction catheter, characterized in that: The device includes a catheter (1), the tail end of which is fixedly connected to a connector (6), and the suction end of the catheter (1) is fixedly connected to a camera module (2). A cable (3) is fixedly connected to the side of the camera module (2), and a control module (4) is fixedly connected to the end of the cable (3). A waterproof shell (5) is fixedly connected to the outside of the control module (4), and a waterproof shell (5) is provided on the side of the waterproof shell (5).

2. The visual suction catheter according to claim 1, characterized in that: The camera module (2) and the cable (3) form a snap-fit ​​structure, and the connection method between the camera module (2) and the cable (3) includes, but is not limited to, using soldering, hot-press welding, laser welding, bonding, plugging, and other connection processes to achieve rapid connection and rapid manufacturing, reduce manufacturing costs, and reduce the difficulty and equipment investment in the processing process. The cable (3) material includes, but is not limited to, medical enameled wire, metal wire coated with polymer insulation material, soft flat wire, and other materials, and includes, but is not limited to, straight, multi-strand stranded wire, micro-helical (spring) wire, corrugated wire, and other structures.

3. The visual suction catheter according to claim 1, characterized in that: The camera module (2) includes a camera and a light source, and the camera is installed on the suction end of the catheter (1).

4. The visual suction catheter according to claim 1, characterized in that: The camera module (2) also includes a light source, which can automatically adjust the illumination intensity and zoned illumination according to the airway environment and the reflection characteristics of sputum, so as to reduce the interference of reflected light on the visual system and improve the accuracy and reliability of sputum recognition.

5. A visual suction catheter according to claim 1, characterized in that: The catheter (1) is made of medical polymer material, and the outer and inner walls of the catheter (1) are coated with an antibacterial coating, which can effectively inhibit bacterial growth.

6. A visual suction catheter according to claim 1, characterized in that: The waterproof outer shell (5) is made of medical polymer materials, including but not limited to medical-grade silicone, rubber, metal, glass, etc.

7. A visual suction catheter according to claim 1, characterized in that: The connector (6) and the catheter (1) are integrated, and the outer surface of the connector (6) is provided with anti-slip texture to facilitate operation by medical staff.

8. A visual suction catheter according to claim 1, characterized in that: The catheter (1) is equipped with a hydrophobic coating or a physically water-repellent microstructure, which makes it difficult for sputum to stick to the suction tube. Even if a small amount of contaminants stick, they can be quickly removed with the help of the coating and microstructure.

9. A visual suction catheter according to claim 1, characterized in that: The visualization device (7) includes a display screen and an operation panel. The display screen is used to display images in the airway in real time. The visualization device (7) is also equipped with a data storage module for storing image data during the suctioning process. As needed, the audio-visual data can be uploaded to the cloud for backup via the hospital network. This data can be used as primary data for teaching, training, scientific research, and other purposes. The device can also be used to make preliminary judgments and observations on possible lesions, bleeding points, etc.

10. A visual suction catheter according to claim 9, characterized in that: The control module (4) is equipped with a signal amplifier to enhance the signal strength transmitted by the camera module (2) and improve the stability and clarity of image transmission; the control module (4) is also equipped with a filter to filter out interference factors in the signal and further improve image quality.

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