Integration of medical device with anaesthesia machine

Abstract

An anaesthesia machine integrates the presence and state of charge of another medical device, such as a video laryngoscope, into operation. The anaesthesia machine communicates with the medical device to determine the presence and state of charge and present this information to a user as part of an examination procedure. A medical device mount is associated with the anesthesia machine to receive and charge the medical device. The medical device mount may include both a medical device charging mount and a battery charging mount that receives and charges a replacement battery. The medical device mount may communicate with the anesthesia machine to provide the charging and presence state of the medical device. During the examination procedure of the anaesthesia machine, presence and battery status information may be presented to the user, or the user may be prompted to manually enter this information into the anaesthesia machine.

Description

BACKGROUND

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to an anesthesia machine that can be integrated with other medical equipment such as a video laryngoscope. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to the integration of a video laryngoscope with an anesthesia machine so that functional characteristics of the video laryngoscope can be detected from the anesthesia machine.

[0002] Currently available anesthesia machines can include a movable cart that includes a main body and various equipment for administering anesthesia to a patient and for monitoring the patient’s vital signs during a procedure. One example of an anesthesia machine is the Carestation® anesthesia machine available from GE HealthCare. The Carestation® anesthesia machine includes a main body that includes a main display screen that allows a clinician to control the operation of the delivery components while monitoring the patient’s vital signs visually. Other anesthesia systems exist that can include wall-mounted or suspended equipment. TM Anesthesia delivery systems. This anesthesia machine includes one or more display screens that allow a clinician to control the operating parameters of the delivery components while monitoring the patient’s vital signs visually during a procedure. Other anesthesia systems exist that can include wall-mounted or suspended equipment.

[0003] Currently, the use of video laryngoscopes (VL) is becoming the standard practice for intubating a patient prior to ventilating and providing anesthetics to the patient. Video laryngoscopes have many benefits during the intubation process and create a new workflow in the anesthesia process. Currently available video laryngoscopes, such as the McGrath® MAC video laryngoscope available from Medtronic, include a disposable blade connected to a flexible handle and a visual display that allows a clinician to view the procedure. TM The McGrath® MAC video laryngoscope is a wireless device that includes a rechargeable battery and one or more replacement batteries. The video laryngoscope includes a battery indicator that can be viewed from the device. In some clinical environments, the video laryngoscope is stored in a wall-mounted stand / charger that can be located in an operating room or within a procedure room. In other cases, the video laryngoscope is mounted to a movable cart and can be moved from one location to another. Additionally, video laryngoscopes are available that are cart-based and include a wired connection between the cart and the laryngoscope. As wireless devices become more popular, the utilization of cart-based units becomes less and less.

[0004] Prior to starting a procedure using an anesthesia machine, a clinician must often find the video laryngoscope from another room or location. This can result in a delay in the anesthesia procedure or, if the video laryngoscope cannot be located, performing the procedure with an available laryngoscope that does not include a video display.

[0005] In other cases, even if the video laryngoscope is located, the clinician does not know the charge status of the internal battery until the video laryngoscope is obtained. In this case, the clinician will need to recharge the battery installed in the equipment or find a replacement battery and hope that the replacement battery has enough charge.

[0006] In addition to video laryngoscopes, other medical devices can be used during procedures performed with an anesthesia machine. For example, portable ultrasound devices and portable patient monitoring devices can be used in conjunction with an anesthesia machine. These medical devices also include rechargeable batteries that need to be charged, and medical devices that are positioned prior to an anesthetic procedure, similar to the problems that can occur when using a video laryngoscope.

[0007] The present inventors recognized the need for a better method and system to position medical devices such as video laryngoscopes and integrate them with anesthesia machines. According to the present disclosure, medical devices are in communication with anesthesia machines so that information about battery status and presence of the medical device can be part of the check procedure and process of the anesthesia machine. SUMMARY

[0008] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts that are further described below in the DETAILED DESCRIPTION. This Summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0009] In one embodiment, an anesthesia machine is provided that is capable of delivering anesthesia to a patient and is usable in conjunction with medical devices such as, but not limited to, video laryngoscopes, ultrasound probes, and portable patient monitors. The anesthesia machine is capable of coordinating the operation of the medical devices with the operation of the anesthesia machine and including the medical devices in the check procedure of the anesthesia machine.

[0010] The anesthesia machine includes a main body and a display screen for presenting information to a clinician or user. In one contemplated embodiment, the anesthesia machine includes a medical device holder associated with the main body of the machine. The medical device holder is configured to receive a medical device and to charge the medical device when it is received in the medical device holder. In one embodiment, the medical device is in communication with the anesthesia machine so that the anesthesia machine can display status information about the medical device. The status information can include the presence of the medical device, the charge status of the medical device, and functional information about the device. The functional information received from the medical device can include the results of a self-test procedure that confirms that all systems of the medical device are operating properly. Additional functional information from the medical device can be received and displayed.

[0011] In one exemplary embodiment, the medical device holder may be an insert received within a drawer that is removable into and out of the body of an anesthesia machine. The insert within the drawer is connected to the power management board of the anesthesia machine, allowing the insert to receive power from the anesthesia machine. The insert may include a device charging holder designed to receive a specific medical device used with the anesthesia machine. As an example, if the medical device is a video laryngoscope, the medical device holder will be physically configured to receive and hold the video laryngoscope. The medical device holder may also be configured to charge the medical device when it is received in the medical device holder. This charging may be performed using inductive charging or by establishing a wired connection between the insert and the medical device. When the medical device is received in the medical device holder, the medical device holder can transmit both the presence and charging status of the medical device to the control unit of the anesthesia machine.

[0012] In addition to the medical device support, the insert may also include one or more battery sockets, each designed to receive a replacement battery for the medical device. When a replacement battery is received in the battery socket, it is charged, and the presence of the replacement battery is communicated to the anesthesia machine's control unit.

[0013] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a medical device holder for use with an anesthesia machine is provided, the anesthesia machine including a main body and a display screen. The medical device holder includes a power connector for receiving power from the anesthesia machine. The medical device holder also includes a device charging holder specifically configured to receive and charge the medical device when received by the charging holder. In a contemplated exemplary embodiment, the medical device holder may further include one or more battery charging sockets configured to receive and charge a replacement battery for the medical device. The charging device holder and battery charging socket may be configured to charge the battery and replacement battery of the medical device using inductive coupling or a plug connection.

[0014] The medical device mount is configured to provide the anesthesia machine with status information about the medical device. This status information may include the charging status of the medical device and its presence in the mount. The status information received by the anesthesia machine can be displayed and incorporated into the anesthesia machine's inspection procedures. Furthermore, the status information can also be displayed on a remotely located dashboard, allowing the biomedical department / anesthesia director to view and monitor the status of all anesthesia machines and video laryngoscopes in the hospital or healthcare facility.

[0015] In one exemplary embodiment, the medical device holder is configured as an insert received in a drawer of the body of an anesthesia machine. The insert received in the drawer includes a charging device holder and a battery socket, each coupled to a power board of the anesthesia machine.

[0016] This disclosure also provides a method for operating an anesthesia machine in conjunction with a medical device during anesthesia surgery. The method includes the step of determining the charging state of the medical device. The charging state can be determined via wired or wireless communication from the medical device or via communication from a medical device mount associated with the anesthesia machine. In addition to the charging state, the method also determines the presence of the medical device as part of an inspection procedure for the anesthesia machine. The presence of the medical device can be determined by a physical switching element included in the medical device mount or through some other interaction between the medical device mounts, such as the charging of the medical device.

[0017] Once the charging and presence status is determined, this status is displayed on the anesthesia machine for clinicians to view and interact with. Presenting the status is part of the anesthesia machine's inspection procedure and is another step taken by the clinician before starting surgery.

[0018] In one exemplary implementation, the charging status and presence status are automatically determined via wired or wireless communication between the anesthesia machine and the medical device. Alternatively, a manual prompt may be presented to the clinician, prompting the clinician to respond and input status information. The manual prompt requires the clinician to take action and ensure that the medical device is present and ready to be used as part of the anesthesia procedure.

[0019] Various other features, objects, and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0020] This disclosure is described with reference to the following figures.

[0021] Figure 1 This is a front perspective view of an anesthesia machine with a movable trolley, which includes a main body, a series of devices, and a display screen;

[0022] Figure 2 It is a front perspective view of an anesthesia machine, in which one of the drawers is open, revealing the insert that receives and charges the medical equipment and one or more replacement batteries;

[0023] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A magnified view of the open drawer and inserts;

[0024] Figure 4 Is it possible to... Figure 1 A video laryngoscope view used in conjunction with an anesthesia machine;

[0025] Figure 5 This is an example inspection screen for an anesthesia machine;

[0026] Figure 6This is an example dashboard screen for an anesthesia machine that includes status information for medical equipment;

[0027] Figure 7 This is an enlarged view of an alternative implementation scheme for placing a medical device support;

[0028] Figure 8 This is a view of an ultrasound probe that can be used with an anesthesia machine;

[0029] Figure 9 This is a view of a portable patient monitoring device that can be used with an anesthesia machine;

[0030] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a type of communication architecture between anesthesia machines and medical equipment;

[0031] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the first alternative type of communication architecture between anesthesia machines and medical equipment;

[0032] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of a second alternative type of communication architecture between anesthesia machines and medical equipment;

[0033] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of a third alternative type of communication architecture between anesthesia machines and medical equipment; and

[0034] Figure 14 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for operating an anesthesia control system equipped with medical devices. Detailed Implementation

[0035] The inventors have recognized several problems with currently available anesthesia machines when used in conjunction with other medical devices, such as video laryngoscopes, during surgeries that integrate both anesthesia and medical equipment. Currently, clinicians do not receive any information about the location and status of the auxiliary medical equipment when completing the anesthesia machine check-in procedure. Therefore, clinicians must remember to locate the medical equipment and check its charging status, which is separate from the anesthesia machine check-in procedure. This disclosure was developed by the inventors to integrate the anesthesia machine check-in procedure with the presence and charging status of the medical equipment, thereby simplifying the procedure and enhancing the functionality of the anesthesia machine.

[0036] Figure 1An anesthesia machine 10 constructed according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. The anesthesia machine 10 is in the form of a mobile trolley comprising a body 12 supported on a base 14, the base including a plurality of wheels 16 allowing the entire anesthesia machine 10 to move around within a care environment. The body 12 supports a series of operating components for delivering anesthetic to the patient and ventilating the patient as needed. An exemplary example of the anesthesia machine 10 is the Care Station, available from GE Healthcare. TM 600. It should be understood that various other types of anesthesia machines 10 may be used when operating within the scope of this disclosure. The anesthesia machine 10 may be a mobile unit, a ceiling-mounted or wall-mounted device, depending on the hospital or healthcare facility.

[0037] The anesthesia machine 10 includes at least one display screen 18 for presenting information to clinicians. Furthermore, the display screen 18 may include a touchscreen that allows clinicians to input information, modify operating parameters, and otherwise control the overall operation of the anesthesia machine 10. The operational details of the anesthesia machine 10 are well known to those skilled in the art.

[0038] exist Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the anesthesia machine 10 includes a storage cabinet 20 mounted to the front of the main body 12. The storage cabinet 20 provides areas for storing different types of components needed during surgery. Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the locker 20 includes three separate drawers 22, each of which can be opened independently to access the open interior of the drawer 22.

[0039] As previously mentioned, it is becoming increasingly common to use the anesthesia machine 10 in conjunction with other types of medical devices to enhance its operation during patient surgery. As an example, the anesthesia machine 10 can be used with a variety of different types of medical devices, such as, but not limited to, video laryngoscopes (VL), portable ultrasound probes, portable patient monitoring devices, or any other type of medical device that is both portable and standalone and can be used during surgery utilizing the anesthesia machine 10 in other ways. When preparing to perform surgery using the anesthesia machine 10 and auxiliary medical devices, the clinician must first locate the medical devices before starting the surgery. In many cases, the clinician may not remember locating the medical devices before starting the surgery and will need to find them before beginning the medical procedure using the anesthesia machine. Furthermore, even when the medical devices are located, the clinician must remember to check their charging status and obtain additional replacement batteries if the surgery will be prolonged.

[0040] Now for reference Figure 2 and Figure 3According to this disclosure, one or more drawers in drawer 22 are configured to include a medical device holder 24, which serves not only to store medical devices but also to provide charging for the medical devices when stored within the medical device holder 24 during periods of non-use. In the illustrated embodiment, the medical device holder 24 is shaped like an insert 26, sized to be received within the open interior of drawer 22. The insert 26 includes a device charging holder 28, sized specifically to receive a medical device, such as a video laryngoscope 30. In the illustrated embodiment, the medical device will be shown as a video laryngoscope 30, but other medical devices are contemplated.

[0041] When the video laryngoscope 30 is received within the device charging bracket 28, the insert 26 both recognizes the presence of the video laryngoscope 30 and charges the internal battery of the video laryngoscope 30 via inductive charging. Although Figure 2 The illustrated embodiment includes an insert 26 designed to receive one type of medical device (such as a video laryngoscope 30), but it should be understood that the insert 26 can be designed to receive various types of medical devices, such as ultrasound probes or patient monitoring devices. Since the video laryngoscope 30 is increasingly used with the anesthesia machine 10 during the execution of anesthesia procedures, therefore... Figure 2 and Figure 3 The insert 26 shown is specifically designed to receive a video laryngoscope 30. In addition to the device charging bracket 28, the insert 26 includes a pair of battery charging sockets 32, each specifically designed to receive a replacement battery 34. Each battery charging socket 32 ​​is designed to allow inductive coupling and charging of the replacement battery 34 when it is inserted into the battery charging socket 32.

[0042] In addition to the device charging stand 28 and battery charging socket 32, the insert 26 also includes a storage area 36 designed to receive and hold various supplies 38 required for using the medical device. In the illustrated embodiment, supplies 38 may be replaceable disposable blades designed to be incorporated into the flexible handle of the video laryngoscope 30. Replaceable blades 40 and other supplies are stored within the storage area 36, ​​allowing clinicians to expect to have all the supplies needed to use the video laryngoscope 30 during anesthesia.

[0043] It is anticipated that the entire drawer 22 or only the drawer insert 26 may communicate with the power management board (PMB) of the anesthesia machine, enabling the entire drawer 22 or the drawer insert 26 to receive power from the anesthesia machine and to transmit information back to the PMB via a power / communication cable (not shown). The power communication between the drawer insert 26 and the anesthesia machine's PMB will allow charging of the video laryngoscope 30 and the replacement battery 34. The power / communication cable will also provide a wired communication path for forwarding information from the device charging bracket 28 and the battery charging socket 32 ​​back to the anesthesia machine's control unit. Specifically, the communication between the drawer insert 26 and the anesthesia machine is expected to provide information regarding: the current charging status of the battery in the video laryngoscope 30, confirmation of the presence of the video laryngoscope 30 within the device charging bracket 28, the presence of the replacement battery 34, and the charge level of each replacement battery 34 received within the battery charging socket 32. The presence of one or more replacement batteries 34 may also be forwarded to the anesthesia device.

[0044] The device charging support 28 is intended to detect the presence of the video laryngoscope via physical switch contacts or via the charging power flow from the insert 26 to the video laryngoscope 30. Similarly, when the replacement battery 34 is received within the battery charging socket 32, its presence can be detected via physical switch contacts or via current flowing to one or both replacement batteries. In either case, the control unit of the anesthesia machine 10 will be able to detect the presence of the medical device and one or more replacement batteries, and determine the current charging state of the medical device and one or more replacement batteries 34.

[0045] Since the insert 26 in the exemplary embodiment receives power to charge both the video laryngoscope 30 and the replacement battery 34, status information regarding the presence and charging status of the video laryngoscope 30 is preferably forwarded to the anesthesia machine's operation control unit via a wired connection. However, it is contemplated that battery status information from the video laryngoscope 30 and the replacement battery 34 can be forwarded to the anesthesia machine's controls using various types of wired or wireless communication methods, such as, but not limited to, NFC, Bluetooth, IR, physical USB connection, or any other type of wireless or wired communication between the anesthesia machine's control unit and the video laryngoscope 30 and the battery charging socket 32.

[0046] Now for reference Figure 4 An exemplary embodiment of a video laryngoscope 30 is illustrated. The video laryngoscope 30 includes a replaceable blade from a replaceable blade 40 attached to a flexible handle 42, which is used by a clinician to intubate a patient. The video laryngoscope 30 also includes a display screen 44 that presents an image to the clinician showing the intubation status as the clinician intubates the patient. An exemplary embodiment of the video laryngoscope is the McGrath, available from Medtronic.TM MAC video laryngoscope. However, it should be understood that various other different types of video laryngoscopes 30 can be used when operating within the scope of this disclosure. The video laryngoscope 30 includes an internal controller and components for controlling the operation of the medical device and providing wireless communication with the device. The video laryngoscope 30 includes inductive charging capability, allowing batteries currently included in medical devices to be inductively charged without any physical connection.

[0047] As in Figure 3 As can be seen in the view, the device charging stand 28 is specifically designed to receive the replaceable blade 40, flexible handle 42, and display screen 44 of the video laryngoscope 30. If different types of video laryngoscopes 30 are used, the specific configuration of the device charging stand 28 can be modified to not only provide safe and reliable storage of the video laryngoscope 30, but also to provide proper charging of the device when it is received in drawer 22. In medical devices that do not support inductive charging, other types of charging interfaces can be incorporated into the device charging stand 28. In some cases, a physical plug connection may be required to support charging in the device charging stand 28.

[0048] As described above, when the video laryngoscope 30 is received in the insert 26 located within the drawer 22, the insert 26 is able to determine the presence of the video laryngoscope 30 and forward the charging status to the control unit of the anesthesia machine. During the initial examination process of the anesthesia machine 10, a similar procedure is presented to the clinician. Figure 5 The screen shown is a check screen 46. Check screen 46 provides automated prompts that require the clinician to interact with the anesthesia machine to ensure that all operating parts of the anesthesia machine 10 are functioning correctly and that the machine is ready for use during anesthesia surgery. According to this disclosure, check screen 46 has been modified to include additional visual cues for the clinician regarding the presence and charging status of the medical device. As previously indicated, in the illustrated embodiment, the medical device is a video laryngoscope.

[0049] exist Figure 5 On the examination screen 46 shown, a VL status window 48 is presented to the clinician. The VL status window 48 includes a charging status 50 and an operational status 52 for the video laryngoscope. The charging status 50 also indicates that the video laryngoscope is present within the insert or adjacent to the anesthesia machine. The VL status window 48 includes an accept button 54, which prompts the clinician to press the accept button 54 to confirm both the current charging status 50 and operational status 52 of the video laryngoscope. Therefore, the accept button 54 creates another step in the examination process specifically concerning the presence and status of a medical device, such as the video laryngoscope 30.

[0050] Figure 6An inspection dashboard 56 for an anesthesia machine is illustrated. Inspection dashboard 56 is currently included in many available anesthesia machines, such as those available from GE Healthcare. Inspection dashboard 56 may be associated with an anesthesia machine or located elsewhere in a hospital / healthcare facility, such as in the biomedical department or the anesthesia director's office. Inspection dashboard 56 provides the current status of various components of the anesthesia machine and the various tests performed, as well as whether the system has passed inspection and when the next inspection is required. Inspection dashboard 56 can be used to view the status of all anesthesia machines and video laryngoscopes in the hospital. The first column is for exhaust and gas checks, as indicated by reference numeral 58. The second column 60 is for testing any loop leaks, the third column 62 is for detecting low-pressure leaks, and the fourth column 64 is for testing anesthetic delivery. Column 66 has been added to inspection dashboard 56 and includes VL status. VL status provides the current status of medical devices used with the anesthesia machine. As previously indicated, VL status column 66 provides the status of the video laryngoscope used with the anesthesia machine. The VL status column 66 in the illustrated implementation shows the status of the video laryngoscope to be used with the anesthesia machine, which is determined by the clinician at the anesthesia machine as part of the examination. Including the VL status column 66 provides the clinician with a convenient location to confirm the operational status of the medical device as part of the anesthesia machine's inspection procedure.

[0051] Now for reference Figure 7 An example of a possible alternative configuration for the medical device holder 24 is illustrated. In this embodiment, the medical device holder 24 takes the form of a charging base 68 mounted to the side wall 70 of the storage cabinet 20. The charging base 68 can be connected to the internal power supply of the anesthesia machine via a power management board, so that charging power can be provided to the charging base 68 to charge the medical device when it is received in the charging base 68. In the illustrated embodiment, the same video laryngoscope 30 is shown being received and held in the charging base 68. The charging base 68 may also include a communication cable that forwards status information to the control unit of the anesthesia machine, including the presence of the video laryngoscope 30 and the current charging status of the internal battery contained in the flexible handle 42. Alternatively, the video laryngoscope 30 may communicate using a wireless communication protocol to forward information to the control unit of the anesthesia machine to provide both presence information and the current charging status of the battery contained in the flexible handle 42.

[0052] Figure 8Another type of medical device that can be used within the scope of this disclosure is illustrated. In the illustrated embodiment, the medical device is an ultrasound probe 72, shown mounted on a charging pad 74. The charging pad 74 can be mounted at any location on the body of an anesthesia machine. The charging pad 74 includes a power cord 76 that provides charging power for charging the ultrasound probe 72 when it is not in use. The power cord 76 may also include a communication line that relays both the charging status and the presence status of the ultrasound probe 72 on the charging pad 74. In this type of embodiment, the charging pad 74 will serve as a medical device support 24, which can be located at any location on the body of the anesthesia machine. Again, it is contemplated that the ultrasound probe 72 can communicate with the anesthesia machine using a wireless communication protocol.

[0053] Figure 9 Another type of medical device that can be used with the anesthesia machine of this disclosure is illustrated. Figure 9 In the illustrated embodiment, the medical device is a portable patient monitoring device 78, shown supported on a charging base 80. The charging base 80 is connected to the power supply of the anesthesia machine via a power management board, such that when the charging base 80 is mounted on the anesthesia machine, the charging power can be used not only to charge the portable patient monitoring device 78 but also to charge a series of rechargeable sensor battery packs 82. The rechargeable sensor battery packs 82 can be used with various types of portable sensors (not shown) that can detect a variety of vital signs from the patient. The portable sensors forward the sensed vital sign information to the patient monitoring device 78 for review and analysis by the clinician. Information received by the portable patient monitoring device can be forwarded to the anesthesia machine and displayed on the anesthesia machine's monitor. This embodiment provides another source of information presented during anesthesia for review and analysis by the clinician.

[0054] Although various types of medical devices, such as video laryngographs, ultrasound probes and portable patient monitoring devices, are shown and described in accordance with this disclosure, it should be understood that other types of medical devices may be used in conjunction with the operation of the anesthesia machine 10 when operating within the scope of this disclosure.

[0055] See now Figure 10 This illustrates a first exemplary embodiment of a possible communication architecture that can be utilized between anesthesia control systems 84, which are included in anesthesia machines and used to operate anesthesia equipment and communicate with one or more medical devices. The anesthesia control system 84 is schematically shown as including previously... Figure 5Anesthesia examination screen 46 is shown and described in the image. Anesthesia examination screen 46 receives information from a connection module 86, which provides an interface between the display of examination screen 46 and both the medical device and examination dashboard 56. Examination dashboard 56 has been previously referenced. Figure 6 It has been described.

[0056] exist Figure 10 In the illustrated embodiment, the connection module 86 is capable of communicating with a medical device (shown as a video laryngoscope 30) using wired or wireless communication technology. Wired or wireless communication technology will be used for, for example... Figure 7 In the illustrated embodiment, the charging dock 68 is mounted on the storage compartment 20. In an embodiment where a communication cable extends between the charging dock 68 and the anesthesia machine, wired communication will be transmitted from the medical device 24 to the connectivity module 86. As previously described, this communication may include at least the presence status of the medical device and the charging status of the battery installed in the medical device. In an embodiment where no communication cable is present, the medical device will be able to communicate with the control system 84 of the anesthesia machine using a wireless protocol such as NFC, Bluetooth, IR, or any other type of available wireless communication technology.

[0057] like Figure 10 As shown, the connection module 86 is also capable of communicating with an external display 88, which may include a previously referenced... Figure 6 The described inspection dashboard 56. Similarly, communication from the connection module 86 to the external display 88 may include a wired communication cable or a wireless communication protocol. In this way, the connection module 86 will be able to receive information from the medical device and forward this information to the external display 88, in order to... Figure 6 The status is displayed in VL status column 66 as shown in the inspection dashboard 56. The inspection dashboard 56 can display the inspection status of multiple anesthesia machines and multiple medical devices, and can be located in a remote location, such as in the biomedical department or an anesthesia-focused office of a hospital or healthcare facility.

[0058] Figure 11 A second anticipated communication protocol is illustrated for communication between anesthesia control system 84, medical devices, one or more replacement batteries 34, and an external display 88 including an inspection dashboard 56. Figure 11In a second embodiment of the communication technology shown, the anesthesia display examination screen 46 communicates with a power management board 90, which provides a power connection to the medical device holder 24. As previously described, the medical device holder 24 may be a drawer insert, an external bracket, or any other type of charging and / or communication device connected to the power management board 90 to receive power for charging medical devices housed within the medical device holder 24. A charging and communication line 92 is expected to extend between the power management board 90 and the medical device holder 24. In the illustrated embodiment, a wired connection 93 exists between the medical device holder 24 and the medical device (video laryngoscope 30) and a replacement battery 34 to provide charging capability for both the video laryngoscope 30 and the replacement battery 34. In addition to providing power to charge each of these two components, the wired connection 93 also receives information on the charging status and presence status of the video laryngoscope 30 and one or more replacement batteries 34. As in other embodiments, the medical device may also communicate with the control system 84 of the anesthesia machine using a wireless communication protocol.

[0059] Figure 12 This illustrates another alternative type of communication protocol between the anesthesia control system 84 and a medical device, schematically shown as a video laryngoscope 30. In this embodiment, the medical device mount 24 may be a docking base or a mount (see...). Figure 7 to Figure 9 This includes some type of miniature switch or other physical sensing mechanism capable of detecting the presence of a medical device, such as a video laryngoscope 30. In this embodiment, the medical device holder 24 will include some type of physical switch device that can detect the presence of the medical device and forward this information to the anesthesia display examination screen 46. In the illustrated embodiment, the video laryngoscope 30 can communicate with the anesthesia control system 84 using wireless communication technology 94. This communication can be achieved through a connection module 86. This wireless communication 94 will forward information about the operating status of the medical device, such as the current battery level. Because the medical device holder 24 includes a physical switch for detecting the presence of the medical device, Figure 12 The system utilizes both physical switch connections and wireless communication technology to detect the presence of medical devices and determine their charging status. As in the previously described embodiment, the connection module 86 is also capable of communicating with an external display 88, which may include a previously referenced... Figure 6 The described inspection dashboard 56. Similarly, communication from the connection module 86 to the external display 88 may include a wired communication cable or a wireless communication protocol. In this way, the connection module 86 will be able to receive information from the medical device and medical device mount 24 and forward this information to the external display 88 for... Figure 6 The VL status is shown in the inspection dashboard 56 in column 66.

[0060] Figure 13 This illustrates yet another alternative anticipated communication protocol between the anesthesia control system 84 and the medical device shown by the video laryngoscope 30. Figure 13 In the illustrated implementation, the examination screen 46 has been modified to include four separate prompts that require the clinician to manually enter information related to the medical device. This modification to the examination screen 46 is designed for situations where there is no communication between the medical device and the anesthesia machine, and the system relies on manual data entry by the clinician during the initial examination procedure of the anesthesia machine.

[0061] like Figure 13 As shown, the first prompt 96 presented prompts the clinician to enter a decision regarding the presence of medical equipment, such as a video laryngoscope, in the area surrounding the anesthesia machine. The clinician can select either the Yes button 98 or the No button 100 to provide an indication of whether the video laryngoscope is in the surrounding area. Therefore, this prompt requires the clinician to locate and confirm the presence of the medical equipment before the anesthesia procedure begins. Then, a prompt 102 is presented to the clinician asking whether the video laryngoscope is functioning correctly. This prompt requires the clinician to review the operation of the medical equipment and confirm that it is operating correctly. Similarly, this requires the clinician to take steps before starting the procedure to ensure that the medical equipment being used is operating correctly. The clinician can choose between the Yes prompt 104 and the No prompt 106. If the video laryngoscope is functioning, the anesthesia control system 84 will allow the system to proceed to prompt 108. If the video laryngoscope is not functioning or is not present, the clinician can continue the procedure using a conventional laryngoscope. In prompt 108, the clinician is asked to determine the charging level of the video laryngoscope 30 and indicate whether the charging status is acceptable, as indicated by button 110. It is also anticipated that if clinicians can obtain the charge percentage from the medical device, the charging prompt could be modified to allow clinicians to input this information.

[0062] The final prompt is prompt 112, which asks the clinician to indicate whether an additional battery is available. The clinician can choose to confirm with prompt 114 or deny with prompt 116. This prompt reminds the clinician to look for an additional replacement battery as part of the initial inspection procedure for the anesthesia machine.

[0063] exist Figure 13 In the communication technology shown, the video laryngoscope 30 does not need to communicate directly with the connection module 86. Figure 13 The communication technology allows the anesthesia control system to work with older medical devices (such as the video laryngoscope 30) that may not have communication capabilities or may include a charging location located remotely from the anesthesia machine. Furthermore, this technology can be used with anesthesia machines that do not have the capability to add a medical device support that communicates with and charges the medical device. Figure 13The technology illustrated utilizes visual cues presented to the clinician during the examination procedure, requiring the clinician to manually enter all information. The use of a manual examination procedure ensures that the clinician has searched for and obtained the video laryngoscope 30 before surgery and has determined the operational status of this video laryngoscope 30.

[0064] See now Figure 14 An exemplary method for operating the anesthesia machine shown and described in the previous figures will now be discussed. As previously indicated, the first step 120 in this method is the anesthesia control system initially determining the presence of the medical device. Figure 10 to Figure 13 As discussed in the illustrated implementation, the anesthesia control system may utilize physical switches, wireless communication protocols with medical devices, or respond to... Figure 13 The prompt shown in 96 indicates that the clinician receives a manual input to confirm the presence of the medical device.

[0065] In step 122, the anesthesia control system determines the charging status of the medical device. Again, this can be achieved using a wired connection to the medical device, a wireless connection to the medical device, or based on a response from the clinician. Figure 13 In the manual implementation, prompt 108 inputs information to determine the charging status of the medical device. Once the anesthesia control system determines the charging status and the presence of the medical device, it proceeds to step 124. In step 124, the anesthesia control system... Figure 6 The dashboard 56 shown presents both the charging status and the availability status to the clinician. Based on the displayed status, the clinician can determine whether medical devices, such as video laryngoscopes, are adequately charged and located near anesthesia equipment, and whether anesthesia can begin. In alternative step 126, the anesthesia control system determines whether a replacement battery is available and its charging status. Although a battery replacement is not required to begin anesthesia, step 126 provides an additional step for the clinician to perform before initiating anesthesia.

[0066] In addition to receiving presence and charging status from the medical device, it is also expected to receive other operational or functional status information. This functional status information can be information received from the medical device related to the operational status of various systems within the medical device. This information can be used to generate the results of an automatically or manually initiated self-test procedure.

[0067] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also enables those skilled in the art to perform and use the invention. Certain terms are used for the purpose of brevity, clarity, and ease of understanding. Unnecessary limitations should not be inferred from this description beyond the requirements of the prior art, as such terms are used for descriptive purposes only and are intended to be understood broadly. The patent scope of this invention is defined by the claims and may include other examples that would occur to those skilled in the art. These other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have features or structural elements that are not different from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent features or structural elements that are not substantially different from the literal language of the claims.

[0068] Unless otherwise stated or limited, the terms “mounting,” “connection,” “link,” “support,” and “coupling,” and their variations, are used extensively and cover both direct and indirect mounting, connection, support, and coupling. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated or limited, “connection” and “coupling” are not limited to physical or mechanical connections or couplings. As used herein, unless otherwise limited or specified, discussions of a particular orientation are provided by way of example only for a particular embodiment or related illustration. For example, discussions of features such as “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “rear,” “left,” or “right” are generally intended only as descriptions of the orientation of these features relative to a particular example or illustration. Accordingly, for example, a “top” feature may sometimes be positioned below a “bottom” feature (etc.), depending on the location of the element and the frame of reference. Additionally, the use of the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., is not intended to imply priority or importance, but merely to distinguish one of several similar elements or machines from another.

Claims

1. An anesthesia machine operable to deliver anesthesia to a patient and cooperable with a medical device, the anesthesia machine comprising: a main body; a display screen mounted to the main body for presenting information to a user; and a medical device holder associated with the main body for receiving and charging the medical device, wherein status information related to the medical device is displayed on the display screen.

2. The anesthesia machine of claim 1, wherein the status information includes at least a battery charge status and a presence of the medical device at the anesthesia machine.

3. The anesthesia machine of claim 2, wherein the medical device is a video laryngoscope.

4. The anesthesia machine of claim 1, wherein the main body includes at least one drawer movable into and out of the main body, and the medical device holder is included within the at least one drawer.

5. The anesthesia machine of claim 4, wherein the medical device holder is an insert received within the at least one drawer, wherein the insert receives a power supply from the anesthesia machine.

6. The anesthesia machine of claim 5, wherein the insert includes a device charging holder for the medical device and at least one battery charging receptacle for receiving a replacement battery for the medical device.

7. The anesthesia machine of claim 6, wherein the anesthesia machine further includes a connection module for receiving the status information from the insert, wherein the status information includes a charge status of the medical device, a presence of the medical device, and a charge status of the replacement battery.

8. A medical device holder for use with an anesthesia machine having a main body and a display screen, the medical device holder comprising: a power connection to receive power from the anesthesia machine; and a device charging holder configured to receive a medical device and charge the medical device when received by the device charging holder.

9. The medical device holder of claim 8, further comprising at least one battery charging receptacle configured to receive and charge a replacement battery for the medical device.

10. The medical device holder of claim 8, wherein the medical device holder communicates with the anesthesia machine to communicate status information for display on the display screen.

11. A method of operating an anesthesia machine in cooperation with a medical device, the method comprising the steps of: determining a charge status of the medical device; determining a presence status of the medical device relative to the anesthesia machine; and displaying the charge status of the medical device and the presence status of the medical device relative to the anesthesia machine.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising the steps of: providing a medical device holder on or in a main body of the anesthesia machine, the medical device holder configured to receive and charge the medical device; and ​ ​ ​ communicating the charge status and the presence status from the medical device holder to the anesthesia machine.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the medical device holder comprises a device charging holder and at least one battery charging receptacle configured to receive and charge a replacement battery.

14. The method of claim 11, wherein the charge status and the presence status are automatically determined.

15. The method of claim 11, further comprising the step of prompting a user to input the presence status and the charge status as part of a check procedure for the anesthesia machine.

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