Nasal cannula system

Abstract

A nasal cannula system, a nasal cannula assembly, a nasal cannula, and components thereof suitable for use in a respiratory support system configured to deliver a flow of breathing gas to an upper airway of a patient are described. The nasal cannula assembly may include a coupling member arranged to receive the flow of breathing gas; a frame coupled with the coupling member; and one or more nasal insertion column modules, wherein the one or more nasal insertion column modules are detachably connected with the frame. The coupling member may be rotatable relative to the frame to vary the side from which the flow of breathing gas is received. A number of different nasal stud modules may have different nasal stud geometries, which may include at least one asymmetric nasal stud geometry.

Description

Background Technology Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to respiratory support systems, nasal intubation systems, nasal intubation assemblies, nasal cannulas, nasal intubation components (e.g., nasal intubation column modules and frames), and methods of using them. Specifically, but not exclusively, this disclosure relates to a modular nasal cannulas.

[0002] Related technologies

[0003] High-flow pulmonary artery therapy (HFT) is a form of respiratory support. It can be used, for example, to treat patients with respiratory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, coronavirus, or congestive heart failure. Symptoms of these respiratory conditions may include one or more of the following: high respiratory rate, dyspnea, high work of breathing, low oxygen saturation (SpO2), or high partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2).

[0004] During HFT, a breathing gas stream or mixture (hereinafter collectively referred to as breathing gas stream) is delivered to the patient. This is typically at a relatively constant flow rate, exceeding the patient's peak inspiratory requirement. The breathing gas stream may include any or more of air, oxygen, and a helium-oxygen mixture (a mixture of helium and oxygen). The breathing gas stream may be heated and / or humidified.

[0005] The respiratory gas flow is delivered to the patient's upper airway through a patient interface, which may be a nasal cannula.

[0006] Selecting, maintaining stock, and / or fabricating nasal cannulas for specific patients can present a variety of challenges. Different patients may benefit from different and / or multiple types of nasal cannulas. Furthermore, different patients may require different sizes of the same type of nasal cannula. Healthcare professionals or patients may need to fabricate or reconstruct the selected nasal cannula to suit the treatment environment and / or patient preferences.

[0007] Some patients may find their existing nasal cannula uncomfortable. For example, the continuous flow of heated and humidified gas through the nasal cannula may cause heat to build up in the philtrum and / or nasolabial fold area, making the patient feel uncomfortable.

[0008] The design of nasal cannulas involves balancing various design requirements to meet the evolving needs of manufacturers, healthcare professionals, patients, and / or health insurance companies. These design requirements may include one or more of the following: efficacy, usability, comfort, logistics, aesthetics, and manufacturing cost. Summary of the Invention

[0009] In a first aspect, a nasal intubation system is provided for use in a respiratory support system arranged to deliver a flow of respiratory gases to a patient's upper airway. The nasal intubation system may include: a frame; a first nasal column module having a first nasal column geometry; and a second nasal column module having a second nasal column geometry different from the first nasal column geometry, wherein the frame is arranged to be selectively and detachably coupled to either the first nasal column module or the second nasal column module.

[0010] The first nasal insertion module may include any one or both of the following: a first nasal insertion arranged to form a first left nasal insertion; and a second nasal insertion arranged to form a first right nasal insertion, and the second nasal insertion module may include any one or both of the following: a first nasal insertion arranged to form a second left nasal insertion; and a second nasal insertion arranged to form a second right nasal insertion.

[0011] The first nasal insertion of the first nasal insertion module and the second nasal insertion module can be arranged to extend into the patient's left nostril; and the second nasal insertion of the first nasal insertion module and the second nasal insertion module can be arranged to extend into the patient's right nostril.

[0012] The first nasal insertion module may include the first left nasal insertion and the first right nasal insertion; and the second nasal insertion module may include the second left nasal insertion and the second right nasal insertion.

[0013] The geometry of the first nasal prong can be or can form an asymmetric nasal prong geometry, such that: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal prong is different from the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal prong; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal prong is different from the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal prong.

[0014] The geometry of the first nasal prong can be, or can be, a left-asymmetric nasal prong geometry, such that: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal prong is greater than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal prong; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal prong is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal prong. The first left nasal prong can be arranged to provide a greater volumetric flow rate than the first right nasal prong.

[0015] The geometry of the first nasal prong can be, or can be, a right-asymmetric nasal prong geometry, such that: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal prong is greater than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal prong; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal prong is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal prong. The first right nasal prong can be arranged to provide a greater volumetric flow rate than the first left nasal prong.

[0016] The geometry of the second nasal prong can be or can form an asymmetric nasal prong geometry, such that: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal prong is different from the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal prong; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal prong is different from the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal prong.

[0017] The geometry of the second nasal prong can be, or can form, a left-asymmetric nasal prong geometry, such that: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal prong is greater than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal prong; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal prong is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal prong. The second left nasal prong can be arranged to provide a larger volumetric flow rate than the second right nasal prong.

[0018] The geometry of the second nasal prong can be, or can be, a right-asymmetric nasal prong geometry, such that: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal prong is greater than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal prong; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal prong is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal prong. The second right nasal prong can be arranged to provide a larger volumetric flow rate than the second left nasal prong.

[0019] The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post may be greater than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post may be greater than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post.

[0020] The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal insertion post may be greater than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal insertion post; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal insertion post may be greater than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal insertion post.

[0021] The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal insertion post may be greater than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal insertion post; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal insertion post may be greater than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal insertion post.

[0022] The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post may be greater than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post may be greater than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post.

[0023] The geometry of the first nasal post can be or can be a mirror image of the geometry of the second nasal post.

[0024] The geometry of the first nasal prong and the geometry of the second nasal prong may be, or both may form, a symmetrical nasal prong geometry, such that: the first left nasal prong may be, or form, a mirror image of the first right nasal prong; and / or the second left nasal prong may be, or form, a mirror image of the second right nasal prong. The first left nasal prong and the first right nasal prong may be arranged to provide substantially the same volumetric flow rate. The second left nasal prong and the second right nasal prong may be arranged to provide substantially the same volumetric flow rate.

[0025] The geometry of the first nasal prong can be or forms an asymmetrical nasal prong geometry, such that: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal prong is different from the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal prong; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal prong is different from the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal prong, and the geometry of the second nasal prong can be or forms a symmetrical nasal prong geometry, such that the second left nasal prong is or forms a mirror image of the second right nasal prong.

[0026] The nasal cannula system may include: a third nasal cannula module having a third nasal cannula geometry, wherein the third nasal cannula geometry is different from the first nasal cannula geometry and the second nasal cannula geometry, wherein the frame is arranged to be selectively and detachably connected to any one of the first nasal cannula module, the second nasal cannula module and the third nasal cannula module.

[0027] The third nasal insertion module may include any one or both of the following: a first nasal insertion arranged to form a third left nasal insertion; and a second nasal insertion arranged to form a third right nasal insertion.

[0028] The first nasal insertion of the third nasal insertion module can be arranged to extend into the patient's left nostril; and the second nasal insertion of the third nasal insertion module can be arranged to extend into the patient's right nostril.

[0029] The geometry of the third nasal insertion post can be, or can be, a left-asymmetric nasal insertion post geometry, such that: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third left nasal insertion post is greater than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third right nasal insertion post; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third left nasal insertion post is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third right nasal insertion post. The third left nasal insertion post can be arranged to provide a larger volumetric flow rate than the third right nasal insertion post.

[0030] The geometry of the third nasal insertion post can be, or can be, a right-asymmetric nasal insertion post geometry, such that: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third right nasal insertion post is greater than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third left nasal insertion post; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third right nasal insertion post is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third left nasal insertion post. The third right nasal insertion post can be arranged to provide a larger volumetric flow rate than the third left nasal insertion post.

[0031] The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post may be larger than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post may be larger than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post. The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post may be larger than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third left nasal insertion post; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post may be larger than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third left nasal insertion post.

[0032] The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nostril post may be larger than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nostril post; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nostril post may be larger than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nostril post. The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nostril post may be larger than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third right nostril post; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nostril post may be larger than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third right nostril post.

[0033] The first nasal connector geometry can be, or can be, a left-asymmetric nasal connector geometry, such that: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal connector is greater than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal connector; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal connector is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal connector. The first left nasal connector can be arranged to provide a larger volumetric flow rate than the first right nasal connector. The second nasal connector geometry can be, or can be, a right-asymmetric nasal connector geometry, such that: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal connector is greater than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal connector; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal connector is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal connector. The second right nasal connector can be arranged to provide a larger volumetric flow rate than the second left nasal connector. The geometry of the third nasal prongs includes the third left nasal prong and the third right nasal prong, and the geometry of the third nasal prongs may be or form a symmetrical nasal prong geometry, such that the third left nasal prong is or forms a mirror image of the third right nasal prong. The third left nasal prong and the third right nasal prong may be arranged to provide substantially the same volumetric flow rate.

[0034] The nasal cannula system may include: a fourth nasal cannula module having a fourth nasal cannula geometry, wherein the fourth nasal cannula geometry differs from the first nasal cannula geometry, the second nasal cannula geometry, and the third nasal cannula geometry, wherein the frame is arranged to be selectively and detachably connected to any one of the first nasal cannula module, the second nasal cannula module, the third nasal cannula module, and the fourth nasal cannula module.

[0035] The fourth nasal insertion module may include any one or both of the following: a first nasal insertion arranged to form a fourth left nasal insertion; and a second nasal insertion arranged to form a fourth right nasal insertion.

[0036] The first nasal insertion of the fourth nasal insertion module can be arranged to extend into the patient's left nostril; and the second nasal insertion of the fourth nasal insertion module can be arranged to extend into the patient's right nostril.

[0037] The geometry of the fourth nasal prong can be or form a symmetrical nasal prong geometry, wherein the fourth left nasal prong is a mirror image of the fourth right nasal prong.

[0038] The internal lateral dimensions or cross-sectional areas of the third left and third right nasal prongs may be different from the corresponding internal lateral dimensions or cross-sectional areas of the fourth left and fourth right nasal prongs, respectively; and / or the external lateral dimensions or cross-sectional areas of the third left and third right nasal prongs may be different from the corresponding external lateral dimensions or cross-sectional areas of the fourth left and fourth right nasal prongs, respectively.

[0039] The first nasal column module may be arranged to interact with the respiratory gas flow received by the first nasal column module to provide the patient with a first high-flow nasal therapy, and the second nasal column module may be arranged to interact with the respiratory gas flow received by the second nasal column module to provide the patient with a second high-flow nasal therapy, wherein the second high-flow nasal therapy is different from the first high-flow nasal therapy.

[0040] The provision of the first or second high-flow nasal therapy by the respiratory support system can be determined, at least in part, by selecting the first or second nasal stump module and connecting it to the frame, for example, without changing any other configuration and / or settings of the respiratory support system.

[0041] The first high-flow nasal therapy can be either an asymmetric high-flow nasal therapy or a symmetric high-flow nasal therapy; and the second high-flow nasal therapy can be either the asymmetric high-flow nasal therapy or the symmetric high-flow nasal therapy.

[0042] The first high-flow nasal therapy can be a left asymmetric high-flow nasal therapy; and the second high-flow nasal therapy can be a right asymmetric high-flow nasal therapy.

[0043] Either or both of the first nasal insertion module and the second nasal insertion module may be arranged to partially obscure at least one of the patient's left nostril and right nostril.

[0044] The first nasal prong module may include a first color scheme associated with the geometry of the first nasal prong, and the second nasal prong module may include a second color scheme associated with the geometry of the second nasal prong, wherein the second color scheme is different from the first color scheme.

[0045] The geometry of the first nasal prong can be: an asymmetrical nasal prong geometry, wherein the first color scheme may include two colors, wherein the two colors of the first color scheme are respectively associated with the geometry of the first left nasal prong and the first right nasal prong; or a symmetrical nasal prong geometry, wherein the first color scheme may include a single color, wherein the single color of the first color scheme is associated with the geometry of the first left nasal prong and the first right nasal prong.

[0046] The geometry of the second nasal prong can be: an asymmetrical nasal prong geometry, wherein the second color scheme includes two colors, wherein the two colors of the second color scheme are respectively associated with the geometry of the second left nasal prong and the second right nasal prong; or a symmetrical nasal prong geometry, wherein the second color scheme includes a single color, wherein the single color of the second color scheme is associated with the geometry of the second left nasal prong and the second right nasal prong.

[0047] The first nasal prong module may include a first color scheme associated with the geometry of the first nasal prong; the second nasal prong module may include a second color scheme associated with the geometry of the second nasal prong; the third nasal prong module may include a third color scheme associated with the geometry of the third nasal prong; and the first color scheme, the second color scheme, and the third color scheme are different from each other.

[0048] The geometry of the third nasal prong can be or can be: an asymmetrical nasal prong geometry, wherein the third color scheme includes two colors, wherein the two colors of the third color scheme are respectively associated with the geometry of the third left nasal prong and the third right nasal prong; or a symmetrical nasal prong geometry, wherein the third color scheme includes a single color, wherein the single color of the third color scheme is associated with the geometry of the third left nasal prong and the third right nasal prong.

[0049] The first nasal prong module may include a first color scheme associated with the geometry of the first nasal prong; the second nasal prong module may include a second color scheme associated with the geometry of the second nasal prong; the third nasal prong module may include a third color scheme associated with the geometry of the third nasal prong; the fourth nasal prong module may include a fourth color scheme associated with the geometry of the fourth nasal prong; and the first color scheme, the second color scheme, the third color scheme, and the fourth color scheme are different from each other.

[0050] The geometry of the fourth nasal prong can be: an asymmetrical nasal prong geometry, wherein the fourth color scheme includes two colors, wherein the two colors of the fourth color scheme are respectively associated with the geometry of the fourth left nasal prong and the fourth right nasal prong; or a symmetrical nasal prong geometry, wherein the fourth color scheme includes a single color, wherein the single color of the fourth color scheme is associated with the geometry of the fourth left nasal prong and the fourth right nasal prong.

[0051] In a second aspect, a nasal intubation system is provided for use in a respiratory support system arranged to deliver a flow of breathing gases to a patient's upper airway. The nasal intubation system may include: a frame; a first nasal column module having a first nasal column geometry; and a second nasal column module having a second nasal column geometry, wherein: the frame is arranged to selectively connect to either the first nasal column module or the second nasal column module; and the first nasal column geometry and the second nasal column geometry are at least substantially the same or identical.

[0052] The first nasal insertion module may include any one or both of the following: a first nasal insertion arranged to form a first left nasal insertion; and a second nasal insertion arranged to form a first right nasal insertion, and the second nasal insertion module may include any one or both of the following: a first nasal insertion arranged to form a second left nasal insertion; and a second nasal insertion arranged to form a second right nasal insertion.

[0053] The first nasal insertion of each of the first and second nasal insertion modules may be arranged to extend into the patient's left nostril; and the second nasal insertion of each of the first and second nasal insertion modules may be arranged to extend into the patient's right nostril.

[0054] The first nasal insertion post may include the first left nasal insertion post and the first right nasal insertion post; and the second nasal insertion post module may include the second left nasal insertion post and the second right nasal insertion post.

[0055] The geometry of the first and second nasal prongs can be, or form, asymmetrical nasal prong geometries, such that: the internal lateral dimensions or cross-sectional areas of the first and second left nasal prongs are different from the corresponding internal lateral dimensions or cross-sectional areas of the first and second right nasal prongs; and / or the external lateral dimensions or cross-sectional areas of the first and second left nasal prongs are different from the corresponding external lateral dimensions or cross-sectional areas of the first and second right nasal prongs, wherein: the first and second left nasal prongs have the same or substantially the same internal lateral dimensions or cross-sectional areas and external lateral dimensions or cross-sectional areas; and / or the first and second right nasal prongs have the same or substantially the same internal lateral dimensions or cross-sectional areas and external lateral dimensions or cross-sectional areas.

[0056] The nasal cannula system may include a coupling member for receiving the respiratory gas flow for supply via or through the frame, the coupling member being arranged to be detachably or permanently coupled to the frame.

[0057] The nasal intubation system may include: at least one inlet catheter arranged to be connected to the connecting member and to receive the respiratory gas flow for supply to the connecting member; and / or a headgear arranged to be detachably and / or adjustablely connected to the frame and extending around the back of the patient's head to secure the frame in a proper position on the head.

[0058] Each of the at least one inlet conduit may include a tube formed at least partially of a breathable material.

[0059] The first inlet conduit of the at least one inlet conduit may be arranged to be detachably connected to the connecting member along a single orientation.

[0060] The first inlet conduit of the at least one inlet conduit may be arranged to be selectively and detachably connected to the connecting member along at least two different orientations. The at least two different orientations may include a first operating configuration and a second operating configuration.

[0061] The at least one conduit may include a first inlet conduit and a second inlet conduit, wherein: the first inlet conduit is arranged to be detachably connected to a first inlet of the connecting member; and the second inlet conduit is arranged to be detachably connected to a second inlet of the connecting member.

[0062] The frame can be arranged to be selectively and detachably connected to either the first nasal insertion module or the second nasal insertion module adjacent to the rear side of the frame, and the connecting member is arranged to be detachably or permanently connected to the frame adjacent to the front side of the frame.

[0063] In a third aspect, a nasal column module is provided for use in a nasal cannula of a respiratory support system arranged to deliver a flow of respiratory gases to a patient's upper airway. The nasal column module may include: a base portion arranged to be detachably coupled to a frame of the nasal cannula, the frame being arranged to support the nasal column module in place, for example, in the patient's upper lip region; a body portion coupled to the base portion; and any one or both of the following: a first nasal column coupled to and extending from the body portion; and a second nasal column coupled to and extending from the body portion, wherein the body portion is arranged to receive the flow of respiratory gases for delivery to the patient's upper airway via either or both of the first and second nasal columns.

[0064] The nasal insertion module may include the first nasal insertion and the second nasal insertion.

[0065] The first and second nasal prongs may have asymmetric nasal prong geometries defined by the following: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first nasal prong is different from the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second nasal prong; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first nasal prong is different from the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second nasal prong.

[0066] The nasal column module can be configured to provide the patient with asymmetric high-flow nasal therapy.

[0067] The first nasal insertion post can be arranged to extend into the patient's left nostril to form a left nasal insertion post; and the second nasal insertion post can be arranged to extend into the patient's right nostril to form a right nasal insertion post.

[0068] The left and right nasal prongs can form a left asymmetric nasal prong geometry such that: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the left nasal prong is greater than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the right nasal prong; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the left nasal prong is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the right nasal prong.

[0069] The left and right nasal prongs can form a right asymmetric nasal prong geometry such that: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the right nasal prong is greater than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the left nasal prong; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the right nasal prong is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the left nasal prong.

[0070] The nasal column module can be arranged to interact with the respiratory gas flow to provide asymmetric high-flow nasal therapy.

[0071] The nasal insertion module may include the first nasal insertion and the second nasal insertion, wherein the first nasal insertion and the right nasal insertion form a symmetrical nasal insertion geometry.

[0072] The nasal column module can be arranged to interact with the respiratory gas flow to provide symmetrical high-flow nasal therapy.

[0073] The base portion may include at least one gas inlet orifice, the at least one gas inlet orifice being arranged to receive the breathing gas flow for supply to the body portion and either or both of the first nasal insertion post and the second nasal insertion post.

[0074] The at least one gas inlet orifice may be arranged to be fluidly, such as pneumatically, connected to at least one inlet conduit supplying the breathing gas flow.

[0075] The at least one gas inlet port may include a first gas inlet port and a second gas inlet port.

[0076] The nasal insertion module may include the first nasal insertion and the second nasal insertion, wherein the first nasal insertion is fluidly, such as pneumatically, connected to the first gas inlet orifice, and the second nasal insertion is fluidly, such as pneumatically, connected to the second gas inlet orifice.

[0077] The main body may include at least one gas-carrying portion arranged to be fluidly, such as pneumatically, connected to the at least one gas inlet orifice; and to provide a gas flow path for the breathing gas flow from the at least one gas inlet orifice to either or both of the first nasal post and the second nasal post.

[0078] The at least one gas-carrying portion may be arranged to be fluidly, such as pneumatically, connected to: the first nasal insertion post and the first gas inlet port of the body portion; and / or the second nasal insertion post and the second gas inlet port of the body portion.

[0079] The at least one gas-carrying portion may include: a first gas-carrying portion fluidly, such as pneumatically, connected to the first gas inlet orifice and the first nasal insertion post; and a second gas-carrying portion fluidly, such as pneumatically, connected to the second gas inlet orifice and the second nasal insertion post.

[0080] The first gas-carrying portion and the second gas-carrying portion can be separated from each other.

[0081] The at least one gas inlet hole may be arranged to be fluidly, such as pneumatically, connected to at least one outlet opening of the frame.

[0082] The at least one gas inlet port may include a first gas inlet port and a second gas inlet port, wherein: the first gas inlet port and the first nasal stud are arranged to be fluidly, such as pneumatically, connected to a first outlet opening of the frame, and the second gas inlet port and the second nasal stud are arranged to be fluidly and / or hermetically connected to a second outlet opening of the frame.

[0083] The base portion may be arranged to form a surface seal with either or both of the first outlet opening and the second outlet opening of the frame.

[0084] The base portion may include a first gas inlet hole and a second gas inlet hole, and the main body portion may include a first gas-bearing portion and a second gas-bearing portion, wherein: the first gas inlet hole of the base portion and the inlet end of the first gas-bearing portion of the main body portion are arranged at least substantially coaxially; and / or the second gas inlet hole of the base portion and the inlet end of the second gas-bearing portion of the main body portion are arranged at least substantially coaxially.

[0085] The base portion may include a first gas inlet hole and a second gas inlet hole, and the main body portion may include a first gas-bearing portion and a second gas-bearing portion, wherein: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first gas inlet hole of the base portion may be equal to or greater than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet end of the first gas-bearing portion; and / or the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second gas inlet hole of the base portion may be equal to or greater than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet end of the second gas-bearing portion.

[0086] The base portion may include a groove for receiving or preventing interference with a portion of the nasal cannula, such as a pin.

[0087] The base portion may include a first gas inlet hole and a second gas inlet hole, wherein the groove is positioned between the first gas inlet hole and the second gas inlet hole.

[0088] The groove can be circular or rectangular.

[0089] The base portion can be opaque. The main body portion can be translucent.

[0090] The base portion may include a first material, and the body portion may include a second material, wherein the first material is more rigid than the second material.

[0091] The second material can be an elastomer.

[0092] The elastomer can be silicone rubber.

[0093] The main body may be made at least in part of an elastomer such as silicone rubber and / or thermoplastic elastomer.

[0094] The substrate may be made at least partially from any or more of polypropylene, nylon, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), polycarbonate, and polyoxymethylene (POM).

[0095] The base portion may have a different color compared to the main body portion.

[0096] The base portion may have a first color and a second color, wherein the first color is associated with the geometry of the first nasal post, and the second color is associated with the geometry of the second nasal post.

[0097] The nasal prong module may have an asymmetrical nasal prong geometry, wherein the second color is different from the first color; or the nasal prong module may have a symmetrical nasal prong geometry, wherein the second color is the same as the first color.

[0098] The main body may at least partially define a cavity separate from: at least one gas-bearing portion of the main body; and / or a flow path through the nasal insertion module for the breathing gas flow.

[0099] The main body may include a first gas-carrying portion and a second gas-carrying portion, wherein the cavity is separate from the first gas-carrying portion and the second gas-carrying portion.

[0100] This cavity can be connected to the ambient air.

[0101] The cavity can communicate with the ambient air in the lower region of the main body.

[0102] The cavity may be located at least partially in the central region of the main body, such as the lateral central region.

[0103] The base portion may include a first gas inlet orifice and a second gas inlet orifice, wherein the cavity is at least partially located between the first gas inlet orifice and the second gas inlet orifice, such as laterally located between the first gas inlet orifice and the second gas inlet orifice.

[0104] The main body may include: a first longitudinal sidewall; a first lateral sidewall; a second lateral sidewall; and a rear wall, the first longitudinal sidewall, the first lateral sidewall, and the second lateral sidewall at least partially defining the cavity.

[0105] The central region of the posterior wall may include: a posterior side arranged to engage the patient's upper lip region; and an anterior side opposite the posterior surface, the anterior side being exposed to ambient air within the cavity.

[0106] At least a portion of the first nasal prong and the second nasal prong may protrude or extend from the first longitudinal sidewall and / or the rear wall in a posterior direction away from the base portion.

[0107] The cavity may be further defined by any one or more of the following: the base portion; the second longitudinal sidewall of the body portion; at least one gas-bearing portion of the body portion; the first nasal stud; and the second nasal stud.

[0108] The cavity may provide an air gap between the at least one gas-bearing portion and any one or more of the following: at least a portion of the rear wall; at least a portion of the first longitudinal sidewall of the main body portion; at least a portion of the second longitudinal sidewall of the main body portion; the first lateral sidewall; and the second lateral sidewall.

[0109] The main body may include a first gas-bearing portion and a second gas-bearing portion, and the cavity provides an air gap between the first gas-bearing portion and the second gas-bearing portion.

[0110] The main body portion may include: a posterior wall arranged to engage the patient's upper lip region; and a pair of lateral extensions extending laterally from the posterior wall beyond any one or both of the following: the base portion; and a first lateral sidewall and a second lateral sidewall of the main body portion, the pair of lateral extensions extending laterally from the posterior wall beyond the first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall, respectively.

[0111] The pair of lateral extensions extend cantileveredly from either or both of the following: the rear wall; and the first and second lateral sidewalls of the main body portion, the pair of lateral extensions extending cantileveredly from the first and second lateral sidewalls, respectively.

[0112] The lateral extensions may have different thicknesses.

[0113] The thickness of each of the pair of lateral extensions may gradually taper from the first end to the second end. The first end may be close to the central region of the rear wall, and the second end may be away from the central region of the rear wall.

[0114] The lateral extensions may be arranged to: form a buffer between the patient and the frame; and / or provide a disengagement element for detaching the nasal stud module from the frame.

[0115] When the nasal cannula module is connected to the frame but the nasal cannula has not yet been installed on the patient, the distal ends of the lateral extensions can be arranged to be spaced apart from the frame.

[0116] When the nasal cannula module is connected to the frame and the nasal cannula is installed on the patient or pressed against the patient's face by external force, the distal ends of the lateral extensions can be arranged to be supported by or in contact with the frame.

[0117] The rear wall and the pair of lateral extensions together form the rear contact surface of the main body portion.

[0118] The posterior contact surface may include a continuous curve arranged to at least substantially follow the curvature of the patient's upper lip region.

[0119] The rear side of the base portion may include a concave curved structure.

[0120] The base portion may include a central waist region, and the height of the main body portion tapers at least partially toward the central waist region.

[0121] The base portion can be arranged to bend elastically when the nasal insertion module is removed from the frame.

[0122] The nasal insertion module (e.g., the base portion) can be arranged to be connected to the frame only along a single orientation.

[0123] The nasal insertion module (e.g., the base portion) may include one or more connection structures arranged to detachably engage and / or cooperate with one or more corresponding attachment structures of the frame.

[0124] One or more connecting structures of the base portion may be arranged to be detachably connected to one or more corresponding attachment structures of the frame in a detachable snap-fit ​​manner.

[0125] The detachable snap-fit ​​can be arranged to provide one or more of the following: tactile feedback; auditory feedback; and visual feedback.

[0126] When detachably attached to one or more attachment structures of the frame, the one or more attachment structures of the base portion may be arranged adjacent to or close to the attachment members of the nasal cannula assembly to provide visual feedback.

[0127] The one or more connection structures in the connection structure can be arranged to elastically deflect and at least partially recover when the base portion is connected to the frame.

[0128] Each of the one or more connection structures can be bisected by the sagittal plane of the nasal insertion module.

[0129] The one or more connecting structures may protrude in a forward direction away from the main body portion.

[0130] Each of the one or more connection structures may include a protrusion arranged to engage or fit with a groove or underside portion of the corresponding one or more attachment structures of the frame.

[0131] The protrusion may be located on the inner surface at or near the distal end of one or more connecting structures.

[0132] The base portion may include a pair of connecting structures arranged to cooperate with a corresponding pair of attachment structures of the frame.

[0133] At least one of the connecting structures in the pair may include at least one slot arranged to cooperate with at least one corresponding protrusion of the frame.

[0134] The at least one slot may be centrally located on the corresponding connection structure.

[0135] One of the connecting structures in the pair of connecting structures may be located on the first longitudinal side of the base portion, and the other connecting structure in the pair of connecting structures may be located on the second longitudinal side of the base portion; and the first longitudinal side of the base portion may be on the same side as the first longitudinal side of the main body portion.

[0136] The connection structure may include at least one slot arranged to cooperate with at least one corresponding protrusion of the frame, wherein the connection structure on the first longitudinal side of the base portion includes the at least one slot.

[0137] At least one of the connecting structures in the pair of connecting structures may include at least one slot arranged to cooperate with at least one corresponding protrusion of the frame, wherein the connecting structure on the second longitudinal side of the base portion includes the at least one slot.

[0138] The two connection structures can be positioned relative to each other.

[0139] The pair of connection structures may include a first connection structure and a second connection structure, the first connection structure having a first connection structure geometry, and the second connection structure having a second connection structure geometry that is different from the first connection structure geometry.

[0140] The first connection structure may be wider than the second connection structure.

[0141] The base portion and the main body portion can be formed integrally.

[0142] In a fourth aspect, a nasal column module is provided for use in a nasal cannulation assembly of a respiratory support system arranged to deliver a flow of breathing gases to a patient's upper airway. The nasal column module may include a body portion comprising: at least one gas-bearing portion; a cavity; and a rear wall arranged to contact and / or engage a region of the patient's upper lip; and wherein the cavity is located between at least a portion of the rear wall and the at least one gas-bearing portion.

[0143] The nasal insertion module cavity can be arranged to provide separation from at least a portion of the at least one gas-bearing portion and at least a portion of the remainder of the body portion, such as at least a portion of the rear wall, such as a thermal gap.

[0144] The cavity can be arranged to thermally insulate at least partially the at least one gas-bearing portion from at least a portion of the rear wall.

[0145] The cavity can be exposed to ambient air.

[0146] The cavity may be located at least partially in the central region of the main body.

[0147] The main body may include: a first longitudinal sidewall; a first lateral sidewall; and a second lateral sidewall, the first longitudinal sidewall, the first lateral sidewall, and the second lateral sidewall at least partially defining the cavity.

[0148] The cavity may be further defined by any one or more of the following: the base portion of the nasal stud module; the second longitudinal sidewall of the main body portion; the at least one gas-bearing portion; and at least one nasal stud of the nasal stud module.

[0149] The cavity may provide an air gap between the at least one gas-bearing portion and any one or more of the following: the second longitudinal sidewall of the main body portion; the first lateral sidewall; and the second lateral sidewall.

[0150] The at least one gas-carrying portion may include a first gas-carrying portion and a second gas-carrying portion; and the cavity may provide an air gap between the first gas-carrying portion and the second gas-carrying portion.

[0151] The posterior wall may include: a posterior surface arranged to engage the patient's upper lip region; and an anterior surface opposite the posterior surface, the anterior surface being exposed to the ambient air within the cavity.

[0152] In a fifth aspect, a nasal cannula is provided for use in a nasal cannula assembly of a respiratory support system arranged to deliver a flow of breathing gases to a patient's upper airway. The nasal cannula may include: a patient contact portion including a rear wall arranged to contact and / or engage a region of the patient's upper lip; and at least one gas-carrying portion, wherein the nasal cannula includes a lumen located between at least a portion of the rear wall and the at least one gas-carrying portion.

[0153] The cavity can be arranged to thermally insulate at least partially the at least one gas-bearing portion from at least a portion of the rear wall.

[0154] The cavity can be exposed to ambient air.

[0155] The cavity may be located at least partially in the central region of the patient contact area.

[0156] At least one nasal insertion post is fluidly connected to the at least one gas-bearing portion.

[0157] The patient contact portion may include: a first longitudinal sidewall; a first lateral sidewall; and a second lateral sidewall, the first longitudinal sidewall, the first lateral sidewall, and the second lateral sidewall at least partially defining the cavity.

[0158] The cavity may be further defined by any one or more of the following: a second longitudinal sidewall of the patient contact portion; the at least one gas-bearing portion; a first nasal column of the nasal cannula; and a second nasal column of the nasal cannula.

[0159] The cavity may provide an air gap between the at least one gas-bearing portion and any one or more of the following: the second longitudinal sidewall of the main body portion; the first lateral sidewall; and the second lateral sidewall.

[0160] The at least one gas-carrying portion may include a first gas-carrying portion and a second gas-carrying portion; and the cavity may provide an air gap between the first gas-carrying portion and the second gas-carrying portion.

[0161] In a sixth aspect, a nasal column module is provided for use in a nasal cannulation assembly of a respiratory support system, the respiratory support system being arranged to deliver a flow of respiratory gases to a patient's upper airway. The nasal column module may be arranged to be detachably coupled to the frame of the nasal cannulation assembly. The nasal column module may include one or more coupling structures arranged to engage and / or cooperate with one or more corresponding attachment structures of the frame of the nasal cannulation assembly.

[0162] The nasal insertion module may include a base portion. The base portion may include one or more connection structures.

[0163] The nasal insertion module can be arranged to connect to the frame only along a single orientation.

[0164] The nasal insertion module may include a main body portion that is connected to the base portion.

[0165] The base portion and the main body portion can be formed integrally.

[0166] The one or more connecting structures may protrude in a forward direction away from the main body portion.

[0167] Each of the one or more connection structures may include a protrusion arranged to engage with a groove of the corresponding one or more attachment structures of the frame.

[0168] The protrusion may be located on or near the inner surface of the one or more connecting structures. In other words, each protrusion is located on or near the inner surface of the corresponding connecting structure.

[0169] The nasal insertion module (e.g., the base portion) may include a pair of connection structures arranged to cooperate with a corresponding pair of attachment structures of the frame.

[0170] One of the connecting structures in the pair of connecting structures may be located on the first longitudinal side of the base portion, and the other connecting structure in the pair of connecting structures may be located on the second longitudinal side of the base portion.

[0171] At least one of the connecting structures may include at least one slot arranged to cooperate with at least one protrusion of the frame. The at least one slot may be centrally located on the respective connecting structure.

[0172] For example, the first connection structure may include a slot arranged to cooperate with a protrusion of the frame. The slot may be centrally located on the first connection structure.

[0173] The two connection structures can be positioned relative to each other.

[0174] The pair of connection structures may include a first connection structure and a second connection structure. The first connection structure may have a first connection structure geometry, and the second connection structure may have a second connection structure geometry that is different from the first connection structure geometry.

[0175] The first connection structure may be wider than the second connection structure.

[0176] The one or more connecting structures may be arranged to be detachably connected to the one or more corresponding attachment structures of the frame in a detachable snap-fit ​​manner. The detachable snap-fit ​​is arranged to provide one or more of the following: tactile feedback; auditory feedback; and visual feedback.

[0177] The base portion may be arranged to elastically bend when the nasal insertion module is detached from the frame. One or more of the connection structures in the connection structure may be arranged to elastically deflect and at least partially recover when the nasal insertion module is detachably connected to the frame.

[0178] Each of the one or more connection structures can be bisected by the sagittal plane of the nasal insertion module.

[0179] The nasal insertion module may include a body portion connected to a base portion. One or more connection structures may protrude from the base portion in a forward direction away from the body portion. The base portion may include a first material, and the body portion may include a second material. The first material may be more rigid than the second material.

[0180] The main body portion may include: a posterior wall arranged to engage the patient's upper lip region; and a pair of lateral extensions. The pair of lateral extensions may extend laterally from the posterior wall beyond any or both of the following: the base portion; and a first lateral sidewall and a second lateral sidewall of the main body portion, the pair of lateral extensions extending laterally from the posterior wall beyond the first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall, respectively. The pair of lateral extensions may have different thicknesses.

[0181] The lateral extensions may be arranged to: form a buffer between the patient and the frame; and / or provide a disengagement element for detaching the nasal stud module from the frame. The disengagement element may be arranged to push or disengage the nasal stud module from the frame.

[0182] The rear wall and the pair of lateral extensions together form the rear contact surface of the main body portion.

[0183] The nasal insertion module may include: a first nasal insertion, which is coupled to and extends from the main body portion, and is arranged to extend into the patient's left nostril to form a left nasal insertion; and a second nasal insertion, which is coupled to and extends from the main body portion, and is arranged to extend into the patient's right nostril to form a right nasal insertion. The nasal insertion module may be arranged to receive the respiratory gas flow for delivery to the patient's upper airway via either or both of the first and second nasal insertions.

[0184] The nasal column module may have an asymmetric nasal column geometry defined by the following: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first nasal column differs from the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second nasal column; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first nasal column differs from the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second nasal column. The nasal column module may be arranged to interact with the respiratory gas flow to provide asymmetric high-flow nasal therapy.

[0185] The base portion may include: a first gas inlet port connected to the first nasal post; and a second gas inlet port connected to the second nasal post. The first and second gas inlets may be arranged to receive the respiratory gas flow for supplying to the first and second nasal posts, respectively. The first and second gas inlets may be arranged to be fluidly connected to at least one inlet conduit supplying the respiratory gas flow.

[0186] In a seventh aspect, a parts kit for a nasal cannula assembly is provided. The parts kit may include: at least one nasal column module according to any one of the third, fourth, and sixth aspects and possible examples thereof; and any one or more of the following: a frame; a connecting member arranged to be connected to the frame; at least one inlet catheter arranged to be connected to the connecting member; at least one connecting member connector arranged to connect the at least one inlet catheter to the connecting member; and a headgear arranged to be connected to the frame for securing the nasal cannula assembly to a patient's head.

[0187] In an eighth aspect, a parts kit for a nasal cannula assembly is provided. The parts kit may include: a frame; a connecting member arranged to be connected to the frame; and at least one inlet catheter arranged to be connected to the connecting member.

[0188] In a ninth aspect, a component kit for a nasal cannula is provided. The component kit may include a nasal cannula module, the nasal cannula module including: a first nasal cannula arranged to form a left nasal cannula; and a second nasal cannula arranged to form a right nasal cannula, wherein the left and right nasal cannulas form a left asymmetric nasal cannula geometry such that: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the left nasal cannula is greater than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the right nasal cannula; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the left nasal cannula is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the right nasal cannula.

[0189] In a tenth aspect, a component kit for a nasal cannula is provided. The component kit may include a nasal cannula module, the nasal cannula module including: a first nasal cannula arranged to form a left nasal cannula; and a second nasal cannula arranged to form a right nasal cannula, wherein the left and right nasal cannulas form a right asymmetric nasal cannula geometry such that: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the right nasal cannula is greater than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the left nasal cannula; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the right nasal cannula is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the left nasal cannula.

[0190] In an eleventh aspect, a component kit for a nasal cannulation system is provided. The component kit may include two or more nasal insertion module units. The frame of the nasal cannulation system may be arranged to be selectively and detachably coupled to any one of the two or more nasal insertion module units. The two or more nasal prong modules may include: a first nasal prong module, which may include: a first nasal prong arranged to form a first left nasal prong; and a second nasal prong arranged to form a first right nasal prong, wherein the first nasal prong module (e.g., the first left nasal prong and the first right nasal prong) may have or form a first nasal prong geometry; and a second nasal prong module, which may include: a first nasal prong arranged to form a second left nasal prong; and a second nasal prong arranged to form a second right nasal prong, wherein the second nasal prong module (e.g., the second left nasal prong and the second right nasal prong) may have or form a second nasal prong geometry, wherein the first nasal prong geometry is different from the second nasal prong geometry.

[0191] The first nasal prong geometry may be, or form a left-asymmetric nasal prong geometry, such that: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal prong is greater than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal prong; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal prong is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal prong. The second nasal prong geometry may be, or form a right-asymmetric nasal prong geometry, such that: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal prong is greater than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal prong; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal prong is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal prong. The first left nasal prong may be arranged to provide a larger volumetric flow rate than the first right nasal prong. The second right nasal prong may be arranged to provide a larger volumetric flow rate than the second left nasal prong.

[0192] The first nasal prong geometry may be, or may form, a left-asymmetric nasal prong geometry, such that: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal prong is greater than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal prong; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal prong is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal prong. The second nasal prong geometry may be, or may form, a left-asymmetric nasal prong geometry, such that: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal prong is greater than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal prong; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal prong is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal prong. The first left nasal prong may be arranged to provide a larger volumetric flow rate than the first right nasal prong. The second left nasal prong may be arranged to provide a larger volumetric flow rate than the second right nasal prong.

[0193] The first nasal prong geometry may be or form a right-asymmetric nasal prong geometry, such that: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal prong is greater than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal prong; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal prong is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal prong. The second nasal prong geometry may be or form a right-asymmetric nasal prong geometry, such that: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal prong is greater than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal prong; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal prong is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal prong. The first right nasal prong may be arranged to provide a larger volumetric flow rate than the first left nasal prong. The second right nasal prong may be arranged to provide a larger volumetric flow rate than the second left nasal prong.

[0194] The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post may be greater than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post may be greater than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post.

[0195] The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal insertion post may be greater than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal insertion post; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal insertion post may be greater than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal insertion post.

[0196] The two or more nasal prongs may include a third nasal prong module and / or a fourth nasal prong module.

[0197] The geometry of the third nasal insertion post can be, or can be, a left-asymmetric nasal insertion post geometry, such that: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third left nasal insertion post is greater than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third right nasal insertion post; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third left nasal insertion post is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third right nasal insertion post. The third left nasal insertion post can be arranged to provide a larger volumetric flow rate than the third right nasal insertion post.

[0198] The geometry of the third nasal insertion post can be, or can be, a right-asymmetric nasal insertion post geometry, such that: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third right nasal insertion post is greater than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third left nasal insertion post; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third right nasal insertion post is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third left nasal insertion post. The third right nasal insertion post can be arranged to provide a larger volumetric flow rate than the third left nasal insertion post.

[0199] The third nose plug module can form a first symmetrical nose plug geometry; the fourth nose plug module can form a second symmetrical nose plug geometry. The nose plugs of the first symmetrical nose plug geometry can be mirror images of each other. The nose plugs of the second symmetrical nose plug geometry can be mirror images of each other. The nose plug of the first symmetrical nose plug geometry may differ from the nose plug of the second symmetrical nose plug geometry in one or more aspects, such as the internal or external lateral dimensions or cross-sectional area of ​​the respective nose plug.

[0200] In a twelfth aspect, a nasal cannula is provided for use in a respiratory support system arranged to deliver a flow of respiratory gases to a patient's upper airway. The nasal cannula may include: a frame; and a connecting member arranged operably to the frame in a first operating configuration and a second operating configuration of the nasal cannula, either or both of the connecting member and the frame being arranged to be rotatable relative to each other between the first and second operating configurations of the nasal cannula.

[0201] The connecting member can be arranged to rotate relative to the frame, optionally rotating about a common axis.

[0202] Each of the frame and the connecting member can be arranged to rotate about a common axis.

[0203] The frame and the connecting member can be arranged to rotate relative to each other about a common axis.

[0204] The common axis may be centered on either or both of the frame and the connecting member.

[0205] The common axis can be located at the connection point between the frame and the connecting member.

[0206] The frame and the connecting member can be arranged to pivot or rotate relative to each other by at least about 180° (or about 180°) between the first operating configuration and the second operating configuration.

[0207] The first operational configuration can be a mirror image of the second operational configuration.

[0208] In the first operating configuration, the first inlet opening of the frame can be connected to the first gas outlet of the connecting member, and the second inlet opening of the frame can be connected to the second gas outlet of the connecting member; and in the second operating configuration, the first inlet opening of the frame can be connected to the second gas outlet of the connecting member, and the second inlet opening of the frame can be connected to the first gas outlet of the connecting member.

[0209] The connecting member may include a first end, the first end including a gas inlet. The gas inlet may be arranged to connect to an inlet conduit and receive the breathing gas flow from the inlet conduit. The connecting member may include a second end opposite to the first end, the second end being closed.

[0210] The nasal cannula can be arranged to be moved into or out of the first or second operating configuration when: the position of the frame is fixed and a force is applied to the connecting member; or the position of the connecting member is fixed and a force is applied to the frame; or a first force is applied to the frame and a second force is applied to the connecting member, the direction of the first force being opposite to the direction of the second force.

[0211] The nasal cannula may include a retention mechanism. The retention mechanism may be arranged to detachably or reversibly retain the frame and the connecting member in either the first operating configuration or the second operating configuration.

[0212] The retaining mechanism may provide one or more of the following: visual feedback; auditory feedback; and tactile feedback, provided when the frame and the connecting member are moved into and / or out of the first operating configuration and the second operating configuration.

[0213] The frame may include one or more fixing members; the connecting member may include one or more receiving portions; the one or more fixing members and the one or more receiving portions may form at least a part of the retaining mechanism; and the one or more fixing members may be arranged to be reversibly or detachably connected to the one or more receiving portions in either the first operating configuration or the second operating configuration.

[0214] The frame (e.g., the one or more fixing members) can be arranged to be bidirectionally connected to and disconnected from the connecting member (e.g., the one or more receiving portions).

[0215] The one or more containment portions may be spaced apart from the gas outlet of the connecting member.

[0216] At least a portion of the frame may be arranged to be positioned in the space between the one or more receiving portions and the gas outlet of the connecting member.

[0217] Each of the one or more receiving portions may include two protrusions that define a receiving groove therebetween, each receiving groove being arranged to receive at least a portion of the corresponding fixing member.

[0218] The receiving groove may include a curved configuration, and each of the one or more fixing members may include a column, wherein the curved configuration of each receiving groove is arranged to cooperate with or correspond to the curved configuration of the corresponding column of the one or more fixing members.

[0219] When pushed by a first force exceeding a first threshold, the frame and the connecting member can be moved into the first operating configuration and the second operating configuration. When pushed by a second force exceeding a second threshold, the frame and the connecting member can be moved out of the first operating configuration and the second operating configuration.

[0220] When the nasal cannula is in the first operating configuration or the second operating configuration, the one or more fixation members and the one or more receiving portions may be arranged to: be disengaged when pushed by a force higher than a first threshold; and remain connected in the absence of a force higher than the first threshold. When the nasal cannula is in the first operating configuration or the second operating configuration, the one or more fixation members and the one or more receiving portions may be arranged to: be connected when pushed by a force higher than a second threshold; and remain disengaged in the absence of a force higher than the second threshold.

[0221] The first threshold and the second threshold can be at least substantially the same.

[0222] The force (e.g., the first force and the second force) can be a rotational force.

[0223] The one or more accommodating parts may include a first accommodating part and a second accommodating part.

[0224] The one or more fixing components may include a first fixing component and a second fixing component.

[0225] The one or more receiving portions may include a first receiving portion and a second receiving portion, and the one or more fixing members may include a first fixing member and a second fixing member, wherein: in the first operating configuration, the first fixing member is arranged to be connected to the first receiving portion, and the second fixing member is arranged to be connected to the second receiving portion; and in the second operating configuration, the first fixing member is arranged to be connected to the second receiving portion, and the second fixing member is arranged to be connected to the first receiving portion.

[0226] The frame can be more flexible or compliant than the connecting component.

[0227] The nasal cannula may include a fastening mechanism arranged to restrict or prevent the frame from bending or deforming in either the first operating configuration or the second operating configuration.

[0228] The frame may include one or more blocking portions; the connecting member may include one or more barrier portions; the one or more blocking portions and the one or more barrier portions may form at least a portion of the fastening mechanism; and the one or more blocking portions may be arranged to abut, press against or engage the one or more barrier portions in either the first operating configuration or the second operating configuration.

[0229] The one or more blocking portions may include a first blocking portion and a second blocking portion. The one or more barrier portions may include a first barrier portion and a second barrier portion.

[0230] In the first operational configuration, the first blocking portion may be arranged to engage, abut, or press against the first barrier portion, and the second blocking portion may be arranged to engage, abut, or press against the second barrier portion. In the second operational configuration, the first blocking portion may be arranged to engage, abut, or press against the second barrier portion, and the second blocking portion may be arranged to engage, abut, or press against the first barrier portion.

[0231] The one or more blocking portions may include at least substantially flat surfaces.

[0232] The one or more barrier sections may include raised sections.

[0233] The connecting member may include: a body; a first extension located at or near a first end of the body and extending away from the body; and a second extension located at or near a second end of the body and extending away from the body, wherein the first end and the second end of the body are arranged opposite to each other.

[0234] At least a portion of the main body of the connecting member may be tapered.

[0235] The connecting member (e.g., the body) may have a larger cross-sectional area at the first end than at the second end.

[0236] The rate of reduction of the cross-sectional area is at least substantially constant from the first point to the second point, which is positioned closer to the first end.

[0237] The first point may be located at or near the first end of the body; and / or the second point may be located at or near the second end of the body.

[0238] The first end may include a gas inlet. The first end (e.g., the gas inlet) may be arranged to connect to an inlet conduit. The second end may be closed.

[0239] The first end can be arranged to be connected to the inlet conduit via a connecting member connector.

[0240] The body may include at least one recessed region arranged to accommodate the patient's nasal septum.

[0241] The main body may include a first longitudinal side and a second longitudinal side, the second longitudinal side being opposite to the first longitudinal side, the first longitudinal side including a first recessed region, and the second longitudinal side including a second recessed region.

[0242] The first recessed region can be arranged to receive the patient's nasal septum in the first operating configuration. The second recessed region can be arranged to receive the patient's nasal septum in the second operating configuration.

[0243] The frame may include one or more first sealing members, and the connecting member may include one or more second sealing members; the one or more first sealing members and the one or more second sealing members are arranged to cooperate with each other in either the first operating configuration or the second operating configuration to provide a gas flow path that is at least substantially sealed and isolated from ambient air between the connecting member and the frame.

[0244] The one or more first sealing members and the one or more second sealing members may be arranged to provide a groove and tongue sealing arrangement.

[0245] The one or more first sealing members may include a first tongue and a second tongue; the one or more second sealing members may include a first groove and a second groove; in the first operating configuration, the first groove may be arranged to receive the first tongue and form a seal at least substantially with the first tongue, and the second groove may be arranged to receive the second tongue and form a seal at least substantially with the second tongue; and in the second operating configuration, the first groove may be arranged to receive the second tongue and form a seal at least substantially with the second tongue, and the second groove may be arranged to receive the first tongue and form a seal at least substantially with the first tongue.

[0246] The first tongue can be disposed around or near the first inlet opening of the frame; the second tongue can be disposed around or near the second inlet opening of the frame; the first groove can be disposed around or near the first gas outlet of the connecting member; and the second groove can be disposed around or near the second gas outlet of the connecting member.

[0247] The frame and the connecting component can be connected by pins.

[0248] In a thirteenth aspect, a frame for a nasal cannula used in a respiratory support system arranged to deliver a flow of breathing gases to a patient's upper airway is provided. The frame may include: a central portion; a first lateral arm attached to a first end of the central portion via a first connecting region having a smaller thickness and / or width compared to the central portion and the first lateral arm; and a second lateral arm attached to a second end of the central portion via a second connecting region having a smaller thickness and / or width compared to the central portion and the second lateral arm.

[0249] The first connecting region and the second connecting region can each be arranged to be curved in multiple directions.

[0250] The frame may include a first pivot or bending axis and a second pivot or bending axis, the first pivot or bending axis being located at or near the first connection area, the second pivot or bending axis being located at or near the second connection area, wherein the first side arm is arranged to pivot or bend about the first pivot or bending axis, and the second side arm is arranged to pivot or bend about the second pivot or bending axis.

[0251] The first side arm and the second side arm may each be arranged to pivot or bend toward and away from the rear surface of the central portion.

[0252] The first connecting region and the second connecting region can each be arranged to be more flexible than the central portion, the first side arm, and the second side arm.

[0253] The first side arm may include a first overmolded portion, and the second side arm may include a second overmolded portion. The first and second overmolded portions may be made of a material softer than the material of the central portion, the first connecting region, and / or the second connecting region.

[0254] In a fourteenth aspect, a nasal cannula is provided for use in a respiratory support system arranged to deliver a flow of breathing gases to a patient's upper airway. The nasal cannula system may include the frame described in any of the preceding aspects.

[0255] The nasal cannula may include a nasal insertion column module according to any of the foregoing aspects. The nasal insertion column module may be arranged to be detachably coupled to the frame.

[0256] The nasal cannula may include a connecting member for receiving the respiratory gas flow to or through the frame, the connecting member being arranged to be rotatably connected to the frame.

[0257] In a fifteenth aspect, a nasal cannula assembly may include: a nasal cannula according to any of the preceding aspects; at least one inlet catheter arranged to be coupled to either or both of the connecting member and the frame and to receive the respiratory gas flow for supply to the connecting member and / or the frame; and a headgear arranged to be detachably and / or adjustablely coupled to the frame and extending around the back of the patient's head to secure the frame in a proper position on the head.

[0258] The inlet conduit may include a tube that is at least partially formed of a breathable material.

[0259] The nasal cannula assembly may include a nasal stump module configured to be detachably connected to the frame.

[0260] In a sixteenth aspect, a method is provided for constructing a nasal cannula assembly for use in a respiratory support system. The respiratory support system may be arranged to deliver a flow of respiratory gases to a patient's upper airway. The method may include: selecting a nasal cannula module from a plurality of nasal cannula modules having different nasal cannula geometries; and detachably connecting the selected nasal cannula module to a frame of the nasal cannula assembly.

[0261] The plurality of nasal prong modules may include one or more nasal prong modules having an asymmetric nasal prong geometry.

[0262] Selecting the nasal insertion module may include choosing a first nasal insertion module from among the plurality of nasal insertion modules.

[0263] The method may include replacing the first nasal insertion module with the second nasal insertion module by decoupling the first nasal insertion module from the frame and detachably connecting the second nasal insertion module to the frame.

[0264] The first nasal insertion module may include: a first nasal insertion arranged to extend into the patient's left nostril and form a first left nasal insertion; and a second nasal insertion arranged to extend into the patient's right nostril and form a first right nasal insertion. The geometry of the first nasal insertion may be, or may be, a left-asymmetric nasal insertion geometry, such that: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion is greater than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal insertion, and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal insertion. The first left nasal insertion may be arranged to provide a greater volumetric flow rate than the first right nasal insertion.

[0265] The second nasal insertion module may include: a first nasal insertion arranged to extend into the patient's left nostril and form a second left nasal insertion; and a second nasal insertion arranged to extend into the patient's right nostril and form a second right nasal insertion. The geometry of the second nasal insertion may be, or may be, a left-asymmetric nasal insertion geometry such that: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion is greater than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal insertion, and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first and second nasal insertions is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal insertion. The second left nasal insertion may be arranged to provide a greater volumetric flow rate than the second right nasal insertion.

[0266] The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post may be greater than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post. Additionally or alternatively, the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post may be greater than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post.

[0267] The selection of the nasal prong module may include selection from any two or more of the following: a first nasal prong module having a left asymmetrical nasal prong geometry; a second nasal prong module having a right asymmetrical nasal prong geometry; a third nasal prong module having a symmetrical nasal prong geometry; and / or a fourth nasal prong module having a symmetrical nasal prong geometry that differs from the symmetrical nasal prong geometry of the third nasal prong module.

[0268] The method may include: selecting a therapy type or variant for a patient from a variety of different therapy types or variants; and selecting the nasal insertion module based at least in part on the selected therapy type or variant.

[0269] These various treatment types or variations may include asymmetric high-flow nasal therapy and symmetric high-flow nasal therapy.

[0270] These various treatment types or variations may include left asymmetric nasal high-flow therapy and right asymmetric nasal high-flow therapy.

[0271] The method may include: selecting between a left air inlet or a right air inlet to allow the breathing gas flow to enter the nasal cannula assembly; and configuring the nasal cannula assembly for use with the left air inlet or the right air inlet.

[0272] The selection between the left and right air intakes can be based at least in part on the selected nose column module.

[0273] The selection of the nasal column module can be based at least in part on the choice between the left air intake and the right air intake.

[0274] The selected nasal cannula module may include a pair of nasal cannulas having an asymmetrical nasal cannula geometry, the method comprising: constructing the nasal cannula assembly such that the larger of the pair of nasal cannulas is located downstream of the smaller of the pair of nasal cannulas.

[0275] Selecting between the left air intake and the right air intake may include: selecting the left air intake when the selected nose column module has a right asymmetrical nose column geometry; selecting the right air intake when the selected nose column module has a left asymmetrical nose column geometry; or selecting either the left air intake or the right air intake when the selected nose column module has a symmetrical nose column geometry.

[0276] The method may include: removing an existing nasal column module from the frame of the nasal cannula assembly before detachably connecting the selected nasal column module to the frame.

[0277] The nose plug geometry of the selected nose plug module may differ from that of the existing nose plug module.

[0278] The selected nasal column module can be arranged to provide a different type of therapy or variant than the existing nasal column module.

[0279] The nasal cannula assembly may include a frame and a connecting member, the method comprising: reconstructing the nasal cannula assembly between a left air inlet and a right air inlet by rotating the connecting member relative to the frame.

[0280] In a seventeenth aspect, a method is provided for reconfiguring a respiratory support system or reconfiguring a nasal intubation assembly for use in the respiratory support system to provide a patient with different variations of high-flow nasal therapy. The respiratory support system may be arranged to deliver a flow of breathing gases to the patient's upper airway. The method may include: detaching a first nasal column module from the frame of the nasal cannula assembly, the first nasal column module including one or more of a first left nasal column or a first right nasal column, the first left nasal column being arranged to extend into the patient's left nostril, the first right nasal column being arranged to extend into the patient's right nostril, the first nasal column module having a first nasal column geometry; and detachably connecting a second nasal column module to the frame of the nasal cannula assembly, the second nasal column module including one or more of a second left nasal column or a second right nasal column, the second left nasal column being arranged to extend into the patient's left nostril, the second right nasal column being arranged to extend into the patient's right nostril, the second nasal column geometry of the second nasal column module being different from the first nasal column geometry.

[0281] The first nasal prong geometry can be either a symmetrical or asymmetrical nasal prong geometry. The second nasal prong geometry can be either the symmetrical or asymmetrical nasal prong geometry.

[0282] The first nasal column module can be arranged to provide either symmetrical high-flow nasal therapy or asymmetrical high-flow nasal therapy. The second nasal column module can be arranged to provide either the symmetrical high-flow nasal therapy or the asymmetrical high-flow nasal therapy.

[0283] The method may include reconfiguring the respiratory support system or the nasal cannula assembly: reconfiguring from a symmetrical high-flow respiratory support system or symmetrical high-flow nasal cannula assembly arranged to provide symmetrical high-flow nasal therapy to an asymmetrical high-flow respiratory support system or asymmetrical high-flow nasal cannula assembly arranged to provide asymmetrical high-flow nasal therapy; or reconfiguring from an asymmetrical high-flow respiratory support system or asymmetrical high-flow nasal cannula assembly arranged to provide asymmetrical high-flow nasal therapy to a symmetrical high-flow respiratory support system or symmetrical high-flow nasal cannula assembly arranged to provide symmetrical high-flow nasal therapy.

[0284] The first nasal insertion module can be associated with a first therapy, the second nasal insertion module can be associated with a second therapy, and the respiratory support system can be reconfigured to provide the second therapy by removing the first nasal insertion module and detachably connecting the second nasal insertion module without changing any settings of the gas source of the respiratory support system.

[0285] The method may include reusing the frame and any one or more of the following: a connecting member of the nasal cannula assembly arranged to be connected to the frame; at least one inlet catheter of the nasal cannula assembly arranged to be connected to the connecting member; at least one connecting member connector of the nasal cannula assembly arranged to connect the inlet catheter to the connecting member; at least one swivel connector of the nasal cannula assembly arranged to connect the inlet catheter to the respiratory support inspiratory catheter; or a headgear of the nasal cannula assembly arranged to be detachably and / or adjustablely connected to the frame and extending around the back of the patient's head to secure the frame in place on the head.

[0286] The nasal cannula assembly may include a frame and a connecting member, the method comprising: reconstructing the nasal cannula assembly between a left air inlet and a right air inlet by rotating the connecting member relative to the frame.

[0287] The method may include rotating the connecting member about an axis located in the sagittal plane of the nasal cannula assembly.

[0288] The method may include rotating the connecting member by 180°.

[0289] The method may include: reconfiguring the nasal cannula from the left air inlet to the right air inlet by rotating the connecting member in a first direction; or reconfiguring the nasal cannula from the right air inlet to the left air inlet by rotating the connecting member in a second direction, wherein the second direction is opposite to the first direction.

[0290] In an eighteenth aspect, a method is provided for constructing a nasal cannula assembly for use in a respiratory support system. The respiratory support system may be arranged to deliver a flow of respiratory gas to a patient's upper airway. The nasal cannula assembly may include a connecting member configured to receive the flow of respiratory gas and supply the flow of respiratory gas to or through the frame for delivery to the patient. The method may include: reconfiguring the nasal cannula assembly by rotating the connecting member relative to the frame between a first operating configuration and a second operating configuration, in which the connecting member is arranged to receive the flow of respiratory gas from a first side of the nasal cannula assembly, and in the second operating configuration, the connecting member is arranged to receive the flow of respiratory gas from a second side of the nasal cannula assembly.

[0291] The method may include rotating the connecting member about an axis located in the sagittal plane of the nasal cannula assembly.

[0292] The method may include rotating the connecting member by 180°.

[0293] The method may include: reconfiguring the nasal cannula from the left air inlet to the right air inlet by rotating the connecting member in a first direction; or reconfiguring the nasal cannula from the right air inlet to the left air inlet by rotating the connecting member in a second direction, wherein the second direction is opposite to the first direction.

[0294] The method may include selecting between a first operating configuration and a second operating configuration based at least in part on the geometry of a pair of nasal posts of the nasal cannula assembly.

[0295] In a nineteenth aspect, a nasal cannula is provided for use in a respiratory support system arranged to deliver a flow of respiratory gas to a patient's upper airway. The nasal cannula includes: a frame; and a coupling member arranged to be detachably or permanently and mechanically coupled to the frame. The coupling member includes: a gas inlet configured to be mechanically and fluidly coupled to an inlet conduit for receiving the flow of respiratory gas; a first gas outlet for supplying at least a portion of the received gas flow via or through the frame to a first nasal column; and a second gas outlet for supplying at least a portion of the received gas flow via or through the frame to a second nasal column. The coupling member may include a coupling member connector to which the inlet conduit is mechanically and fluidly coupled. The coupling member connector may be integrally formed with remaining coupling members. Alternatively, the coupling member connector may be a separate component coupled to remaining coupling members.

[0296] The gas inlet may be the only gas inlet of the connecting member, and the first gas outlet and the second gas outlet may be the only gas outlets of the connecting member.

[0297] The nasal cannula can be arranged in a first operating configuration and a second operating configuration to mechanically connect the connecting member to the frame. The second operating configuration may differ from the first operating configuration. The first and second operating configurations may refer to the relative orientation of the connecting member and the frame relative to each other. The second operating configuration may be a mirror image of the first operating configuration.

[0298] The connecting member and the frame are rotatably connected to rotate relative to each other about a common axis between the first and second operating configurations. The connecting member and the frame are rotatably connected via a pivot bearing, which may be formed of a pin. This connection between the connecting member and the frame via the common axis allows for at least 180 degrees of relative rotatability between the connecting member and the frame. This allows the inlet catheter to be laterally switched from the right side to the left side of the nasal cannula. Alternatively, the connecting member and the frame may be configured to allow engagement only along certain specific relative orientations. To change this relative orientation, it may be necessary to disengage the connecting member from the frame and re-engage the two components along different relative orientations.

[0299] When the nasal cannula is inserted into a patient, the common axis can be substantially perpendicular to the patient's face or head. When the nasal cannula is inserted into a patient, the first gas outlet and the second gas outlet can be substantially perpendicular to the patient's face or head.

[0300] The common axis can be centered on either or both of the frame and the connecting member. When the nasal cannula is inserted into a patient, the common axis can be located within the patient's sagittal plane.

[0301] The common axis, the first gas outlet, and the second gas outlet may be spaced apart from each other. This may mean that the common axis, the first gas outlet, and the second gas outlet are not coaxial with each other.

[0302] The first gas outlet and the second gas outlet can be located on opposite sides of the common axis, for example, on the right and left sides of the common axis, respectively.

[0303] The nasal cannula may include a retention mechanism arranged to detachably or reversibly retain the frame and the connecting member in either the first operating configuration or the second operating configuration.

[0304] The connecting member can be configured to redirect the gas flow from the gas inlet to the first and second gas outlets at an angle exceeding 95 degrees, optionally exceeding 100 degrees. In one embodiment, the connecting member can redirect the gas flow from the gas inlet to the first and second gas outlets at an angle between 110 and 130 degrees. Redirecting the gas flow at said angle may mean changing, for example, rotating or tilting, the main flow direction of the gas flow. When the nasal cannula is inserted into a patient, the gas inlet may be angled toward the patient's head. The gas inlet may be angled toward the patient's head relative to the main extension direction of the connecting member (e.g., longitudinal axis).

[0305] The frame may include a first inlet opening for fluid connection to a first gas outlet of the connecting member; and a second inlet opening for fluid connection to a second gas outlet of the connecting member. This fluid connection between these openings may only exist in certain operational configurations of the nasal cannula. In other operational configurations, no fluid connection may exist between the openings.

[0306] For example, in the first operating configuration, the first inlet opening of the frame is fluidly connected to the first gas outlet of the connecting member, and the second inlet opening of the frame is fluidly connected to the second gas outlet of the connecting member. In the second operating configuration, the first inlet opening of the frame is fluidly connected to the second gas outlet of the connecting member, and the second inlet opening of the frame is fluidly connected to the first gas outlet of the connecting member.

[0307] The nasal cannula may also include a head cover arranged to be detachably and / or adjustablely connected to the frame and extending around the back of the patient's head to secure the frame in place on the head.

[0308] The nasal cannula may also include the first nasal insertion post and the second nasal insertion post.

[0309] The nasal cannula may be configured to deliver at least one of an asymmetric breathing gas flow and a symmetric breathing gas flow to the patient at the first nasal column and the second nasal column.

[0310] The nasal cannula may be configured with an asymmetrical nasal post geometry, such that: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first nasal post is different from the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second nasal post; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first nasal post is different from the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second nasal post. Alternatively, the nasal cannula may be configured with a symmetrical nasal post geometry.

[0311] The nasal cannula may further include a nasal insertion module comprising the first nasal insertion and the second nasal insertion, the nasal insertion module including a first gas inlet orifice and a second gas inlet orifice, wherein the first nasal insertion is fluidly, such as pneumatically, connected to the first gas inlet orifice, and the second nasal insertion is fluidly, such as pneumatically, connected to the second gas inlet orifice. The nasal insertion module may be constructed according to any embodiment of the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0312] The nasal insertion module may include: a first gas-carrying portion fluidly, such as pneumatically, connected to a first gas inlet and a first nasal insertion; and a second gas-carrying portion fluidly, such as pneumatically, connected to a second gas inlet and a second nasal insertion. The first and second gas-carrying portions are separable from each other. Therefore, the nasal insertion module provides two separate fluid paths, one for the first nasal insertion and the second for the second nasal insertion.

[0313] The frame of the nasal cannula may include: a first outlet opening fluidly connected to the first inlet opening of the frame and the first gas inlet hole of the nasal cannula module; and a second outlet opening fluidly connected to the second inlet opening of the frame and the second gas inlet hole of the nasal cannula module.

[0314] The nasal insertion module can be arranged to be detachably connected to the frame. The frame and the nasal insertion module can be arranged to be detachably connected adjacent to the rear side of the frame. The frame and the connecting member can be arranged to be detachably or permanently connected adjacent to the front side of the frame. Therefore, the nasal insertion module and the connecting member can be connected to opposite sides of the frame.

[0315] In a twentieth aspect, a nasal cannula system is provided, comprising a nasal cannula having: a first nasal insertion post module as described in one embodiment of an example of the nineteenth aspect; and a second nasal insertion post module. The second nasal insertion post module may include the first and second nasal insertion posts, wherein the first and second nasal insertion posts of the first nasal insertion post module form a first nasal insertion post geometry, and the first and second nasal insertion posts of the second nasal insertion post module form a second nasal insertion post geometry. The first nasal insertion post geometry may differ from the second nasal insertion post geometry.

[0316] In a twenty-first aspect, a nasal column module is provided for use in a nasal cannula of a respiratory support system arranged to deliver a flow of respiratory gases to a patient's upper airway. The nasal column module includes a base portion comprising one or more coupling structures arranged to detachably engage and / or cooperate with a frame of the nasal cannula, such as one or more corresponding attachment structures of a frame as disclosed in the twenty-second aspect below. The frame is arranged to support the nasal column module in place, for example, in the patient's upper lip region. The nasal column module includes: a body portion coupled to or integrally formed with the base portion; a first nasal column coupled to and extending from the body portion; and / or a second nasal column coupled to and extending from the body portion. The body portion is arranged to receive the flow of respiratory gases for delivery to the patient's upper airway via either or both of the first and second nasal columns. The one or more connection structures of the base portion are arranged to torque-resistantly connect the base portion to the frame by moving the base portion and the frame toward each other in at least one of anterior and rearward directions. The anterior and rearward directions can be defined relative to the state when the nasal cannula is intended to be inserted into the patient. Therefore, the base portion and the frame can be mechanically connected to each other by translating the base portion and the frame toward each other in at least one of the anterior and rearward directions. In one embodiment, the mechanical connection may be provided solely by translating the base portion and the frame toward each other in at least one of the anterior and rearward directions, where no further action by the user is required. The mechanical connection is a torque-resistant connection, such that the base portion and the frame do not rotate relative to each other when connected. The mechanical connection can also be a connection that rigidly fixes the base portion and the frame to each other, thereby preventing any relative movement between them, whether rotational or translational. The mechanical connection is a detachable connection, allowing the frame and the base portion to be released from each other non-destructively (e.g., without tools) during the intended use of the nasal insertion module.

[0317] The one or more connecting structures of the base portion can be arranged to be detachably connected to the one or more corresponding attachment structures of the frame in a snap-fit ​​manner. The snap-fit ​​can be arranged to provide any one or more of the following: tactile feedback; auditory feedback; and visual feedback.

[0318] The one or more connection structures in the connection structure can be arranged to elastically deflect and at least partially recover when the base portion is connected to the frame.

[0319] The one or more connecting structures may protrude in a forward direction away from the main body portion. This forward direction may be defined relative to the state when the nasal cannula is intended to be inserted onto the patient's head. Each of the one or more connecting structures may be bisected by the sagittal plane of the nasal cannula module.

[0320] Each of the one or more connecting structures may include a protrusion arranged to engage or mate with a recess or underside portion of the corresponding one or more attachment structures of the frame. The protrusion may be located on an inner surface at or near the distal end of the one or more connecting structures.

[0321] The nasal insertion module (e.g., the base portion) may be arranged to connect to the frame only along a single orientation. At least one connection structure in the connection structure may include at least one slot arranged to cooperate with at least one corresponding protrusion of the frame.

[0322] The nasal insertion module (e.g., the base portion) may include a pair of connection structures arranged to cooperate with a corresponding pair of attachment structures of the frame. The pair of connection structures may be positioned relative to each other, for example, at the top and bottom of the base portion.

[0323] The pair of connection structures may include a first connection structure and a second connection structure. The first connection structure has a first connection structure geometry, and the second connection structure has a second connection structure geometry that differs from the first connection structure geometry. The first connection structure may be wider than the second connection structure.

[0324] The base portion may include a first gas inlet and a second gas inlet, the first and second gas inlets being arranged to receive the breathing gas flow for supply to the body portion and either or both of the first and second nasal insertions. The first nasal insertion may be fluidly, such as pneumatically, connected to the first gas inlet, and the second nasal insertion may be fluidly, such as pneumatically, connected to the second gas inlet.

[0325] The main body may include: a first gas-carrying portion fluidly, such as pneumatically, connected to the first gas inlet and the first nasal insertion post; and a second gas-carrying portion fluidly, such as pneumatically, connected to the second gas inlet and the second nasal insertion post. The first gas-carrying portion and the second gas-carrying portion may be separable from each other.

[0326] In a twenty-second aspect, a frame for a nasal cannula used in a respiratory support system arranged to deliver a flow of respiratory gases to a patient's upper airway is provided. The frame is arranged to support a nasal cannula module, such as the nasal cannula module described in a twenty-first aspect, in place. The frame includes one or more attachment structures arranged to detachably engage and / or cooperate with one or more corresponding coupling structures of the nasal cannula module. The one or more attachment structures may be formed by at least one of grooves, recesses, incisions, and depressions. The one or more attachment structures of the frame are arranged to torque-resistantly engage the frame with the nasal cannula module by moving the base portion and the frame toward each other in at least one of an anterior and a rearterior direction. The anterior and rearterior directions may be defined relative to the state when the nasal cannula is intended to be fitted to the patient. Thus, the nasal cannula module and the frame can be mechanically coupled to each other by translating the nasal cannula module and the frame toward each other in at least one of the anterior and rearterior directions. In one embodiment, the mechanical connection may be provided simply by translating the nasal column module and the frame toward each other in at least one of the forward and backward directions, where no further action by the user is required. The mechanical connection is a torque-resistant connection, such that the nasal column module and the frame do not rotate relative to each other when connected. The mechanical connection may also be a connection that rigidly secures the nasal column module and the frame to each other, preventing any relative movement between them, whether rotational or translational. The mechanical connection is a detachable connection, such that the frame and the nasal column module can be non-destructively (e.g., without tools) released from each other during the intended use of the frame. The frame includes an outlet opening arranged to fluidly, such as pneumatically, connect to a gas inlet port of the nasal column module to deliver the respiratory gas flow to the patient's upper airway via the nasal column module.

[0327] The one or more attachment structures may be arranged to be detachably connected to the one or more corresponding attachment structures of the nose post module in a detachable snap-fit ​​manner. The snap-fit ​​may be arranged to provide any one or more of the following: tactile feedback; auditory feedback; and visual feedback.

[0328] Each of the one or more attachment structures may include a recess or underside portion arranged to engage or mate with a protrusion of the corresponding one or more connection structures of the nose post module.

[0329] The frame can be arranged to connect to the nasal post module only along a single orientation. The frame may include a protrusion arranged to cooperate with a slot in at least one of the connection structures of the nasal post module.

[0330] The frame may include a pair of attachment structures arranged to cooperate with a corresponding pair of connection structures of the nasal insertion post module. The pair of attachment structures may be positioned relative to each other, for example, at the top and bottom of the frame.

[0331] The pair of attachment structures may include a first attachment structure and a second attachment structure. The first attachment structure has a first attachment structure geometry, and the second attachment structure has a second attachment structure geometry that differs from the first attachment structure geometry. The first attachment structure may be wider than the second attachment structure.

[0332] The frame may include: a first outlet opening arranged to be fluidly, such as pneumatically, connected to a first gas inlet port of the nasal plug module; and a second outlet opening arranged to be fluidly, such as pneumatically, connected to a second gas inlet port of the nasal plug module.

[0333] The frame may include a headgear arranged to be detachably and / or adjustablely connected to the frame and extending around the back of the patient's head to secure the frame in place on the head.

[0334] In a twenty-third aspect, a nasal cannula is provided, comprising: a frame according to a twenty-second aspect; and a connecting member arranged to be detachably or permanently and mechanically connected to the frame. The connecting member includes: a gas inlet configured to be mechanically and fluidly connected to an inlet conduit for receiving a flow of breathing gas; and a gas outlet opening for supplying at least a portion of the received gas flow to an inlet opening of the frame. The inlet opening of the frame is fluidly, such as pneumatically, connected to the outlet opening of the frame.

[0335] The connecting member may include: a first gas outlet for supplying at least a portion of the received gas flow to a first inlet opening of the frame, the first inlet opening being fluidly, such as pneumatically, connected to a first outlet opening of the frame; and a second gas outlet for supplying at least a portion of the received gas flow to a second inlet opening of the frame, the second inlet opening being fluidly, such as pneumatically, connected to a second outlet opening of the frame.

[0336] In a twenty-fourth aspect, a component kit for a nasal cannula assembly is provided. The component kit includes: a nasal stump module as described in a twenty-first aspect; and a frame as described in a twenty-second aspect or a nasal cannula as described in a twenty-third aspect. In this component kit, the nasal stump module is mechanically coupled to or detachable from the frame or the nasal cannula.

[0337] Further aspects will become apparent from the following detailed description and accompanying drawings of non-limiting examples of the present technology. Attached Figure Description

[0338] To facilitate identification of any particular element in the discussion, one or more of the most significant numbers in the reference numerals refer to the drawing number in which the element was first introduced. In different examples, the same reference numerals may refer to the same or similar elements. Except as expressly described, shown in the drawings, or otherwise apparent to those skilled in the art, the description of elements and variations in one example is intended to apply equally to any other example including that element.

[0339] Figure 1 An example of a respiratory support system based on the first example is shown.

[0340] Figure 2 An example of a respiratory support system based on the second example is shown.

[0341] Figure 3 An example of a nasal cannula assembly installed on a patient is shown, which includes a nasal cannula, an inlet catheter, and a headgear.

[0342] Figure 4 An isometric view of an example nasal cannula is shown.

[0343] Figure 5 It shows Figure 4 Isometric view of the bottom of the nasal cannula.

[0344] Figure 6 It shows Figure 4 and Figure 5 An isometric view of the nasal cannula before disassembly.

[0345] Figure 7 It shows Figures 4 to 6 Another exploded isometric view of the nasal cannula.

[0346] Figure 8 It shows Figures 4 to 7 Another exploded isometric view of the nasal cannula.

[0347] Figure 9 It shows Figures 4 to 8 Rear isometric view of the nasal cannula's nasal column module.

[0348] Figure 10 It shows Figure 9 An isometric view of the nose insertion module before decomposition.

[0349] Figure 11 It shows Figure 9 and Figure 10 Isometric view of the bottom of the nose insertion module.

[0350] Figure 12 It shows Figures 9 to 11 A top view of the arrangement of the nasal insertion posts.

[0351] Figure 13 It shows Figures 9 to 12 The first side of the nasal insertion module, for example, the right side.

[0352] Figure 14 It shows Figures 9 to 13 Front view of the nose insertion module.

[0353] Figure 15 It shows Figures 9 to 14 The second side of the nasal insertion module, for example, the left side.

[0354] Figure 16 It shows Figures 9 to 15 Bottom view of the nose insertion module.

[0355] Figure 17 It shows Figures 9 to 16 An isometric cross-sectional view of the nose insertion module.

[0356] Figure 18 It shows Figures 9 to 17 A side cross-sectional view of the nose insertion module.

[0357] Figure 19 It shows Figures 9 to 18 Another isometric cross-sectional view of the nose insertion module.

[0358] Figure 20 It shows Figures 9 to 19 A cross-sectional view of the other side of the nose insertion module.

[0359] Figure 21 It shows Figures 9 to 20Another isometric cross-sectional view of the nose insertion module.

[0360] Figure 22 It shows Figures 9 to 21 Another cross-sectional view of the nose insertion module.

[0361] Figure 23 It shows the applicability in Figures 4 to 8 A rear isometric view of another example of the nasal column module used in nasal cannulas.

[0362] Figure 24 It shows Figure 23 An exploded isometric view of the nose insertion module.

[0363] Figure 25 It shows Figure 23 and Figure 24 Isometric view of the bottom of the nose insertion module.

[0364] Figure 26 It shows the applicability in Figures 4 to 8 A rear isometric view of another example of the nasal column module used in nasal cannulas.

[0365] Figure 27 It shows Figure 26 An exploded isometric view of the nose insertion module.

[0366] Figure 28 It shows Figure 26 and Figure 27 Rear isometric view of the nose insertion module.

[0367] Figure 29 It shows the applicability in Figures 4 to 8 A front isometric view of another example of the nasal cannula module used in nasal intubation.

[0368] Figure 30 It shows Figure 29 An exploded isometric view of the nose insertion module.

[0369] Figure 31 It shows Figure 29 and Figure 30 Rear isometric view of the nose insertion module.

[0370] Figure 32 It shows the applicability in Figures 4 to 8 An isometric view of an example of a nasal cannula module used in nasal intubation.

[0371] Figure 33 It shows Figure 32 Isometric cross-sectional view of the nose insertion module.

[0372] Figure 34 It shows Figure 32 and Figure 33 Isometric cross-sectional view of the nose insertion module.

[0373] Figure 35 It shows Figures 32 to 34 The nose insertion module and the isometric view of the cross-section of the frame.

[0374] Figure 36 It shows Figures 4 to 8 A cross-sectional side view of the frame of the nasal cannula.

[0375] Figure 37 An exploded isometric view of a cross-section of an example of a nasal cannula is shown, which includes an example of a nasal cannula post module, a frame, a connecting member, and a connecting member connector.

[0376] Figure 38 It shows Figure 37 An isometric view of the frame.

[0377] Figure 39 It shows Figure 37 Isometric view of the connecting components and the connectors of the connecting components.

[0378] Figure 40 It shows Figure 37 and Figure 39 Side view of the connecting components and the connector of the connecting components.

[0379] Figure 41 It shows Figure 37 , Figure 39 and Figure 40 Isometric view of the connecting components.

[0380] Figure 42 An isometric view of an example of a connecting member and a connecting member connector is shown.

[0381] Figure 43 It shows Figure 42 Side view of the connecting components and the connector of the connecting components.

[0382] Figure 44 A cross-sectional view of an example of a connecting component is shown.

[0383] Figure 45 A cross-sectional view of an example frame is shown.

[0384] Figure 46 An isometric cross-sectional view of an example nasal cannula assembly is shown, which includes an example of a connecting member, a connecting member connector, a clamp, an inlet catheter, and a connector.

[0385] Figure 47 An exploded cross-sectional view of an example frame and pipe clamp is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0386] This disclosure relates to a nasal intubation system and nasal intubation assembly for use in a respiratory support system, such as including a detachable nasal column module, the respiratory support system being arranged to deliver high-flow therapy (HFT) to a patient.

[0387] High-flow nasal (NHF) therapy is a specific form of HFT in which a stream of breathing gas is delivered to the patient, for example, to the patient's upper airway. This breathing gas stream can be delivered via a nasal cannula. The nasal cannula is typically secured to the patient's head, for example, below the nose, such as in the philtrum and / or nasolabial fold area. A pair of nasal posts may extend into the patient's nostrils / external nostrils. These nasal posts generally do not block or seal the nostrils, so exhaled gas and / or excess breathing gas can be expelled into the environment around these nasal posts.

[0388] HFT and / or NHF therapy may alternatively be known by various other terms, such as high-flow nasal cannulation (HFNC) therapy, high-flow nasal oxygen (HFNO) therapy, high-flow oxygen therapy (HFOT), OptiFlow TM (A trademark of Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Limited), nasal inhalation (TNI) TM (a trademark of TNI Medical AG) or High-Voltage Therapy (HVT) TM (A trademark of Vapotherm, Inc.)

[0389] respiratory support system

[0390] Figure 1 A respiratory support system 100 according to a first example is illustrated. The respiratory support system 100 may be arranged or operable to provide respiratory therapy to a patient, for example, via a patient interface. This respiratory therapy may be HFT, such as NHF therapy. The patient interface may be, for example, a nasal cannula with a non-sealed nasal column.

[0391] The respiratory support system 100 may include a respiratory support device. This respiratory support device may include a gas source 110. The gas source 110 may be arranged to provide a controlled flow of respiratory gases. In the illustrated example, the gas source 110 may be a mechanical ventilator arranged to provide NHF therapy. This respiratory gas flow may be provided to the patient at a controlled flow rate. In some examples, the flow rate is up to about 70 liters per minute (L / min).

[0392] The respiratory support system 100, such as the respiratory support device, may include a blower or a flow generator. In some examples, the gas source 110 may include or take the form of a blower / flow generator, which is arranged to generate the breathing gas flow, for example, from ambient air.

[0393] The respiratory support system 100, such as gas source 110, may include a filter 114, for example, connected to a gas source outlet 112 of gas source 110. The filter 114 may be arranged to filter particles from the breathing gas stream.

[0394] The respiratory support system 100 may include a humidifier supply conduit 120 arranged to connect to a gas source outlet 112 of a gas source 110. Optionally, the humidifier supply conduit 120 may connect to the gas source outlet 112 via a filter 114, such as... Figure 1 As shown.

[0395] A respiratory support system 100, such as a respiratory support device, may include a humidifier 130 arranged to heat and / or humidify the breathing gas flow. In some examples, the respiratory support device includes both a gas source 110 (e.g., the blower / flow generator) and a humidifier 130 (e.g., integrated into a single housing). In some examples, the respiratory support device may be provided as a standalone humidifier (e.g., including humidifier 130). The humidifier 130 may receive the breathing gas flow from the gas source 110 (such as the blower / flow generator), for example, via a humidifier supply conduit 120.

[0396] In some examples, humidifier 130 may be an active permeable humidifier. Humidifier 130 may include a humidifier base 132. Humidifier base 132 may include a chamber heater, such as a heating element and a heater plate. Humidifier base 132 may include a controller arranged to control humidifier 130. Controlling humidifier 130 may include controlling the chamber heater, for example, to control and / or regulate one or more of the temperature or humidity of the breathing gas flow, as described in further detail below.

[0397] The humidifier 130 may include a humidification chamber 134. The humidification chamber 134 may be arranged as a reservoir for containing a humidifying liquid (e.g., water). The humidification chamber 134 may include a chamber inlet and a chamber outlet. The chamber inlet may be arranged to connect to a humidifier supply conduit 120. The humidification chamber 134 may be arranged to be detachably engaged with a humidifier base 132, for example, for refilling, cleaning, and / or replacement.

[0398] During operation of the respiratory support system 100, the respiratory gas flow can be received through the inlet of the humidification chamber 134, circulate in the top space of the humidification chamber 134, where the respiratory gas flow is heated and / or humidified by water and water vapor, and then exits the humidification chamber 134 through the outlet.

[0399] The humidifier 130 can be controlled such that the patient receives the respiratory gas flow at or near a target temperature and / or target humidity. For example, the target temperature and / or target humidity can be adjustable based on user input. In some examples, the respiratory support system 100 can be arranged to deliver the respiratory gas flow to the patient's upper airway at a temperature of about 31 degrees Celsius (°C) and a relative humidity of about 70%. The respiratory gas flow can be further heated and humidified through the patient's upper airway to reach the patient's lungs at a temperature of about 37°C and a relative humidity of about 100%, thereby simulating approximate temperature and humidity within the lungs of a healthy adult.

[0400] In other examples, humidifier 130 may be or include a passive (unheated) pass-through humidifier, a heat and moisture exchanger (HME), an atomizing humidifier, or a humidifier arranged to supply a continuously or periodically metered stream of humidifying liquid to a heating element to achieve instantaneous or near-instantaneous evaporation.

[0401] The respiratory support system 100 may include an inspiratory conduit 140. At one end, the inspiratory conduit 140 may be connected to an outlet of the respiratory support device, such as the outlet of a humidifier 130 (e.g., a humidifier chamber outlet), to deliver the respiratory gas flow to the patient. At the other end, the inspiratory conduit 140 may be connected to a patient interface to deliver the respiratory gas flow to the patient.

[0402] The inspiratory conduit 140 may include a pair of connectors 142, 144. Connector 142 may be arranged to physically, fluidly (e.g., pneumatically), and / or electrically connect to the outlet (e.g., humidification chamber outlet) of the respiratory support device, such as humidifier 130. Connector 144 may be arranged to physically and fluidly (e.g., pneumatically) connect to the patient interface, such as nasal cannula assembly. Either or both of connectors 142, 144 may include a rotatable shaft to disengage rotational forces in the inspiratory conduit 140 from humidifier 130 and / or nasal cannula assembly 150. Alternatively, the inspiratory conduit 140 may be directly and / or permanently connected to the respiratory support device and the patient interface.

[0403] The inspiratory conduit 140 may include a tube 146. In some examples, the tube 146 may extend between the respiratory support device and the patient interface and be fluidly (e.g., pneumatically) connected to the respiratory support device (e.g., directly / permanently or via connector 142) and the patient interface (e.g., directly / permanently or via connector 144). The tube 146 may be flexible and / or extendable. The tube 146 includes a wall that defines an inner lumen for the flow of respiratory gas.

[0404] In some examples, the total length of the inhalation tube 140 can be between approximately 0.5 meters (m) and 2.5 meters (m) (measured at rest without external force applied).

[0405] In some examples, the inspiratory conduit 140 may be heated. The inspiratory conduit 140 may include one or more resistance heater leads. The inspiratory conduit 140 may be heated during operation of the respiratory support system 100. Heating the inspiratory conduit 140 may maintain or increase the temperature of the respiratory gas flow within the inspiratory conduit 140, for example, at or above freezing, or at least reduce heat loss. Heating the inspiratory conduit 140 may suppress, prevent, and / or dissipate condensation within the inspiratory conduit 140. The one or more heater leads may be embedded in the tube 146. The one or more heater leads may be powered by the respiratory support device, such as by a humidifier 130.

[0406] In other examples, the intake duct 140 may include a water jacket. Heated water can circulate through this water jacket of the intake duct 140. The humidifier 130 may include a water pump to circulate the heated water. The heated water may be sourced from a water storage tank.

[0407] The inspiratory conduit 140 may include one or more sensors. In one example, the inspiratory conduit 140, such as connector 142, may include a sensor located at the patient end of the inspiratory conduit 140. This sensor may be a temperature sensor, such as a thermistor. In some examples, the inspiratory conduit 140 may include a sensor located at the ventricular end of the inspiratory conduit 140 and / or at a midpoint along the length of the inspiratory conduit 140.

[0408] The one or more sensors of the intake duct 140 may be electrically connected to the humidifier 130 via one or more heater wires. In one example, the one or more sensors, such as thermistors, may be connected to a pair of heater wires (e.g., in parallel with a diode). In other examples, the intake duct 140 may include one or more sensor wires. The one or more sensors may be connected to the humidifier 130 via these sensor wires.

[0409] The respiratory support system 100 includes a patient interface. The patient interface can be arranged to receive the respiratory gas flow for supply to the patient. The patient interface can be coupled to an inspiratory tube 140. In the illustrated example, the patient interface is a nasal cannula assembly 150, which is arranged to supply the respiratory gas flow to the patient's upper airway, for example, through the patient's nostrils.

[0410] The nasal cannula assembly 150 may include any or more of the following: nasal cannula, nasal column module, inlet catheter, and headgear, as described below.

[0411] Figure 2An example of a respiratory support system 200 according to the second example is shown.

[0412] Figure 2 The respiratory support system 200 is typically similar to Figure 1 A respiratory support system 100. A respiratory support system 200 may include any and more of a gas source 110 (which may include or be in the form of a blower / flow generator), a humidifier 130, an inhalation tube 140, and a nasal cannula assembly 150. In some examples, the respiratory support system 200, such as respiratory support device 210, includes a housing that includes the humidifier 130. In some other examples, the respiratory support system 200, such as respiratory support device 210, includes both the humidifier 130 and the gas source 110 (e.g., the blower / flow generator) within a single housing of the respiratory support device 210. Figure 2 In the illustrated example, the gas source 110 and the humidifier 130 are integrated into a single housing of the respiratory support device 210. In such an arrangement, the humidifier supply conduit 120 may be replaced by internal tubing within the housing of the respiratory support device 210.

[0413] The various components of the respiratory support device 210, such as those mentioned above relative to... Figure 1 One or more of the patient / user interface, controller, and sensors described in the respiratory support system 100 may be shared between the gas source 110 and the humidifier 130 of the respiratory support device 210. For example, a single controller may be arranged to control each of the gas source 110 (e.g., a proportional solenoid valve and / or a blower), the humidifier 130 (e.g., a heater plate and / or a pump), and the inspiratory conduit 140 (e.g., a heater wire). User input for controlling the gas source 110, the humidifier 130, and the inspiratory conduit 140 may be received via a single user interface of the respiratory support device 210.

[0414] In some examples, the respiratory support device 210 may be an AIRVO purchased from Fisher & Paykel Healthcare. TM AIRVO TM 2. AIRVO TM 3. myAirvo TM myAirvo TM 2 or myAirvo TM 3. Nasal high-flow system. However, the nasal intubation system and nasal intubation assembly disclosed herein can be used with other devices such as wall-mounted gas sources and / or ventilator gas supply devices.

[0415] Nasal intubation assembly

[0416] Figure 3 A more detailed illustration shows the device installed on the patient. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The nasal cannula assembly 150. (Example) Figure 3 As shown, the nasal cannula assembly 150 may include at least one inlet catheter 302 (also referred to as an “interface tube” or “interface tubular structure”), a nasal cannula 304, and a headgear 306.

[0417] The nasal cannula 304 is arranged to receive a flow of breathing gas from at least one inlet catheter 302. The nasal cannula 304 may be arranged to deliver this flow of breathing gas to a patient, such as the patient's upper airway. The nasal cannula 304 may be arranged to deliver the flow of breathing gas through one or both nasal columns (e.g., extending into the respective nostrils of the patient). Further details of the nasal cannula 304 are described below.

[0418] Inlet catheter

[0419] At least one inlet catheter 302 is arranged to be connected to a respiratory support system to receive a flow of respiratory gas, for example, to be connected to the inspiratory catheter 140 of the respiratory support system 100 or the respiratory support system 200 to receive the flow of respiratory gas and deliver the flow of respiratory gas to the nasal cannula 304 for delivery to the patient.

[0420] Each inlet catheter in at least one inlet catheter 302 may include at least one connector 308 and / or at least one connector 310. Connector 308 may be arranged to be physically, fluidly (e.g., pneumatically), and / or electrically coupled to the respiratory support system, such as inspiratory catheter 140. Connector 308 may include a swivel connector. The swivel connector facilitates disengagement from forces (e.g., rotational forces from inspiratory catheter 140). Connector 310 may be arranged to be physically and fluidly (e.g., pneumatically) coupled to nasal cannula 304, for example, via coupling members described in further detail below.

[0421] In some examples, connector 310 and / or nasal cannula 304 may be arranged such that connector 310 can be selectively coupled to nasal cannula 304 along at least two different orientations. For example, connector 310 may optionally be coupled to nasal cannula 304 such that inlet catheter 302 is positioned from the left side of nasal cannula 304 or as... Figure 3 The inlet catheter 302 may extend toward either of the right-side views shown. These different orientations allow the inlet catheter 302 to face either the patient's left or right side as shown. This depends on one or more of the patient's preference, the location of the gas source 110 and / or humidifier 130, and / or the geometry of the nasal insertion column (described in further detail below).

[0422] A nasal cannula assembly may be arranged to have an inlet catheter 302 extending from the left or right side of the nasal cannula; this nasal cannula assembly may be referred to as a “side-switch nasal cannula.” Examples of suitable nasal cannulas and / or connectors are disclosed in WO2014 / 182179 and WO2015 / 193833, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0423] In other examples, the inlet catheter 302 may be coupled to or arranged to be coupled to the nasal cannula 304 along a single orientation. For example, it may be centrally located on one of the left, right, or center sides. The inlet catheter 302 may be permanently coupled to the nasal cannula 304, which may or may not have a connector 310.

[0424] In some other examples, the nasal cannula assembly 150 may include a pair of inlet catheters 302 or a bifurcated inlet catheter 302, which are connected to or arranged to the nasal cannula 304, for example, simultaneously at opposite sides of the nasal cannula 304.

[0425] The inlet catheter 302 may be arranged to be detachably, fluidly, and / or mechanically coupled to an inlet of the nasal cannula 304 (e.g., an inlet of either or both of the connecting member and the frame of the nasal cannula 304, as will be explained in further detail below) along a single orientation. Alternatively, for example, the inlet catheter 302 may be arranged to be detachably coupled to the nasal cannula 304 (e.g., either or both of the connecting member and the frame of the nasal cannula 304) along at least two different orientations by coupling to one or more inlets of either or both of the connecting member and the frame.

[0426] The inlet conduit 302 may include a tube 312 that extends between connectors 308 and 310 and fluidly (e.g., pneumatically) connects these connectors. The tube 312 may be flexible and / or extendable. A flexible and / or extendable tube can help disengage forces, such as tube resistance from the inhalation conduit 140.

[0427] The tube 312 includes a tube wall that defines an inner lumen for the flow of breathing gas. In some examples, the tube wall may include helical ribs and a membrane. The membrane may span between two or more adjacent windings of the helical ribs. When the tube 312 is at rest, the membrane may be arranged to hang between adjacent windings of the helical ribs without any external force being applied. The membrane may be arranged to be stretched as the tube 312 elongates in the axial direction. The membrane may limit the extensibility of the helical ribs and / or the tube 312.

[0428] In some examples, the tube 312 may be at least partially formed of a breathable material. For example, the tube wall of the tube 312, such as the membrane, may be at least partially formed of a breathable material.

[0429] "Permeable material" refers to a non-porous permeable material that allows water molecules to pass through the monolithic wall of the permeable material via solution diffusion mechanisms, but does not allow liquid water to pass through or breathing gases to flow through the wall as a whole. The water molecules in the wall are dispersed molecularly in the medium and therefore do not have a state (solid, liquid, or gaseous), although they are sometimes referred to in the art as vapor (e.g., the transmission rate is often referred to as water vapor transmission rate (MVTR), etc.). The monolithic wall does not contain open channels or pores from one main surface to another, allowing pathogens to pass through such channels along with air or liquid water droplets via pore flow mechanisms. However, this definition is not intended to exclude tubular structures formed from such permeable materials, which may have one or more pores provided by the material, such as those caused, for example, by manufacturing defects, which may result in negligible pore flow that does not materially affect the overall performance of the tubular structure, such as compliance with the leakage requirements of ISO 5367:2014. As with all polymers, the transport of some small molecules in respiratory gases (such as oxygen, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, or helium) may occur in minute or very small amounts (i.e., not a “bulk” flow), typically at a rate at least an order of magnitude lower than that of water molecules for breathable materials as defined herein. Furthermore, particularly relevant to respiratory gases delivered to patients, the amount of such small molecules transported may be less than that permitted by compliance requirements in relevant standards, such as the amount permissible in the leak test of ISO 5367:2014 (tested in Section 5.4 by the method specified in Annex E).

[0430] The breathable material, such as a permeable material, allows water vapor / molecules to enter the ambient air from the cavity, for example, through solution diffusion mechanisms. Therefore, the permeable material provides the ability to reduce, mitigate, prevent, and / or dissipate condensation within the cavity.

[0431] As will be described in further detail below, certain types of patient interfaces (such as those with asymmetrical nasal plug geometry) can be used at slower gas flow rates than other types of patient interfaces (such as those with symmetrical nasal plug geometry). Slower gas flow rates may result in a longer residence time of the gas within tube 312, which may increase condensation within tube 312. Therefore, tube 312 having a wall at least partially formed of a permeable material may be advantageous for such applications (i.e., those with relatively slow gas flow rates) because it reduces the likelihood and / or amount of condensation.

[0432] Compared to tube 146 of inspiratory conduit 140, tube 312 may have:

[0433] • Smaller inner diameter (e.g., transverse diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter and / or outer diameter (e.g., transverse diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter;

[0434] Shorter length;

[0435] • Lower mass per unit length;

[0436] • Lower overall quality; and / or

[0437] • Greater flexibility and / or stretchability.

[0438] headgear

[0439] As mentioned above, the nasal intubation assembly 150 may include a headgear, such as Figure 3 The headgear shown is 306.

[0440] The headgear 306 can be arranged to connect with the nasal cannula 304 to secure the nasal cannula 304 in a proper position on the patient's head. The headgear 306 can be arranged to extend around the patient's head.

[0441] In some examples, the hood 306 may be at least partially flexible. At least a portion of the hood 306 may be stretchable. For example, at least a portion of the hood 306 may be elastic.

[0442] The hood 306 may be at least partially made of multiple layers of material. The multiple layers of material may include one or more fabric layers. The multiple layers of material may include one or more foam layers. The multiple layers of material may include one or more fabric layers and one or more foam layers. For example, the multiple layers of material may include two fabric layers and a foam layer located between the two fabric layers.

[0443] A headgear 306 may be attached to one or both ends of a nasal cannula 304. In some examples, the headgear 306 is adjustablely attached to the nasal cannula 304, for example, to adjust the effective length of the headgear 306 on the patient's head. For example, as will be described in further detail below, the nasal cannula 304 may include one or more headgear connection portions, each arranged, for example, to detachably and adjustably receive and retain a portion of the headgear 306. This can be achieved by either or both of the following: (a) frictional engagement of the headgear 306 with one or more connection portions of the nasal cannula 304; and (b) a fastening mechanism for the headgear 306, such as a hook and loop arrangement (e.g., ).

[0444] Alternatively or additionally, the headgear may include a buckle, for example, positioned at the back of the patient's head, which allows adjustment of the length of the headgear 306.

[0445] In some examples, such as Figure 3As shown, the headgear 306 can be positioned on the opposite side of the patient's head, for example, in front of the corresponding ear, in the zygomatic region and / or temporal region of the patient's head, and connected to the nasal cannula 304. The headgear 306 can be positioned to extend from the nasal cannula 304 in a posterosuperior direction, passing between the patient's eye and ear on the corresponding side of the patient's head.

[0446] In some examples, the headgear 306 may include a single strap. In other examples, the headgear may include a pair of straps connected by buckles, for example, located at the back of the patient's head.

[0447] In some examples, the headgear 306 may include a central strap portion. In some examples, this central strap portion may be directly (and optionally, adjustably) attached to the nasal cannula 304. In some other examples, the headgear 306 may include a first side strap portion and / or a second side strap portion attached to the central strap portion. The central strap portion may be positioned generally around the back of the patient's head (e.g., above the parietal and / or occipital portions of the head).

[0448] In some examples, the headband 306 may include an upper strap or strap portion and a lower strap or strap portion, for example, to support the upper rear part of the patient's head. In some other examples, the central strap portion may include an upper strap or strap portion and a lower strap or strap portion. The upper strap or strap portion and the lower strap or strap portion may branch, for example, from a first side strap portion and / or a second side strap portion. The first side strap portion and / or the second side strap portion may include a single strap.

[0449] The upper or side belt and the lower or side belt may be permanently and from the outset arranged separately (i.e., bifurcated). Alternatively, the upper or side belt and the lower or side belt may initially be linked by one or more bridging segments. These bridging segments may be arranged to be disconnectable or separable by the user, such that the belts are separable or bifurcated. For example, the bridging segments may be thin or structurally weak (e.g., these bridging segments may include a smaller thickness, lower material strength, and / or lower structural integrity than a pair of belts), such that they may break if the pair of belts are forcibly separated.

[0450] The arrangement of the upper or lower band or band segments (e.g., bifurcated or separate) allows each of these bands or band segments (i.e., the upper or lower band or band segments) to move relative to each other. The provided level of movement allows the upper or lower band or band segments to support different regions of the head. For example, one of the upper or lower band or band segments may be used to support the midparietal segment of the head, while the other may be used to support the midoccipital segment of the head.

[0451] The upper or lower strap or section can better accommodate different patient anatomy or improve patient comfort. The upper or lower strap or section can also enhance the stability of the headgear 306 (e.g., by preventing the nasal cannula 304 from moving excessively away from the patient's head).

[0452] In some examples, the central strip section may include more than two strips or strip sections. For example, the central strip section may include three or four strips or strip sections. In some such examples, some or all adjacent pairs of the more than two strips may initially be separated or connected by bridging sections.

[0453] In some examples, the first and second portions of the headgear 306, such as the first and second side band portions attached to the central band portion, are arranged to be typically located on the corresponding side of the patient's head (e.g., above the cheek, cheekbone, temporal bone, and / or sphenoid bone portion of the head).

[0454] Nasal intubation

[0455] Figures 4 to 7 The example nasal cannula 400 is illustrated in more detail. The nasal cannula 400 can be used in… Figures 1 to 3 It is used in the nasal cannula assembly 150, for example, as nasal cannula 304.

[0456] Figure 4 The arrows in the text illustrate various directions mentioned in this disclosure, at least some of which are described from the perspective of an upright patient to whom the nasal cannula assembly can be fitted, and / or the illustrative orientation of the nasal cannula assembly or component. Arrow U indicates an upward (or up) direction. Arrow D indicates a downward (or down) direction. It should be understood that, in use, the patient may be, for example, supine. "Up" and "down" do not necessarily mean the vertical direction when the nasal cannula assembly is in use. Arrow A indicates an anterior direction. Arrow P indicates a posterior direction. Arrow L indicates a left direction. Arrow R indicates a right direction. Thus, for example, the first nasal column 406a may be considered a left nasal column, and the second nasal column 406b may be considered a right nasal column. The left and right directions may be referred to together or separately as lateral directions. And, "laterally" may refer to one or both of the left and right directions.

[0457] Frame and connecting components

[0458] The nasal cannula 400 may include a connecting member 404.

[0459] At least one conduit 302 may be arranged to supply a flow of breathing gas to, or through, the coupling member 404. The coupling member 404 may include one or more gas inlets for receiving the flow of breathing gas. In some examples, each of the at least one inlet conduit 302 may be arranged to be fluidly, such as pneumatically, coupled to a corresponding gas inlet of the coupling member 404, for example, via a corresponding coupling member connector 405.

[0460] In some examples, the connecting member 404 may include a body 436. The body 436 may be elongated. The connecting member 404, such as the body 436, may include a first end and a second end. The first and second ends of the connecting member 404, such as the body 436, may be arranged opposite to each other. The connecting member 404 may include a gas inlet located at or near either or both of the first and second ends of the connecting member 404, such as the body 436. The gas inlets may each be arranged to be coupled to the inlet conduit 302, for example, via a connecting member connector 405. In some examples, at least a portion of the connecting member 404, such as the body 436, may include a U-shaped cross-section. In some examples, at least a portion of each connecting member connector 405 may include a U-shaped cross-section. The connecting member connector 405 may be the same as, or a substitute for, the connector 310 described above.

[0461] In some examples, the coupling member connector 405 may be arranged to be coupled (e.g., detachably coupled) to the coupling member 404 at a first end of the coupling member connector 405. The coupling member 404 and the coupling member connector 405 may be coupled using a snap-fit ​​connection. In some examples, the first end of the coupling member connector 405 may include a connecting protrusion 448, an example of which is shown in... Figure 39 , Figure 40 , Figure 42 and Figure 43 As shown in the diagram, a connecting protrusion 448 may be arranged to insert into a connecting hole 449 of a connecting member 404, for example, to secure a connection between the connecting member 404 and the connecting member connector 405. The connecting protrusion 448 may include a tapered or inclined portion. This tapered or inclined portion may begin at a lower end and end at a higher end. The higher end may include a wall that is at least substantially vertical. This wall may be arranged to abut a surface of the connecting hole 449 to secure a connection between the connecting member 404 and the connecting member connector 405. The connecting protrusion 448 may be arranged to enter the connecting hole 449 via this lower end.

[0462] In some examples, the connecting member connector 405 may be arranged to engage (e.g., detachably engage) at a second end of the connecting member connector 405 to a corresponding inlet conduit 302. At least a portion of the second end of the connecting member connector 405 (e.g., on the outer surface of the second end) may include a profile arranged to complement, interact with, and / or cooperate with the inlet conduit 302, such as the inner profile of the inlet conduit 302. For example, at least a portion of the second end, such as its outer surface, may be threaded or include at least one rib. The threaded portion or at least one rib of the second end of the connecting member connector 405 may be arranged to engage and / or interact with the inlet conduit 302 (e.g., the inner surface of the inlet conduit 302).

[0463] In some examples, at least a portion of the connecting member connector 405, such as the second end of the connecting member connector 405, may be angled relative to the longitudinal axis of the connecting member 404 (e.g., body 436). This angle may be between 0 degrees and 180 degrees. For example, the angle may be between about 90 degrees (°) and about 180 degrees (°). In one particular example, the angle may be between about 120 degrees and about 150 degrees. In another example, the angle may be between 30 degrees and 60 degrees. The angular arrangement of the connecting member connector 405 (i.e., at least a portion of the connecting member connector 405) relative to the connecting member 404 can provide a smooth flow path for the gas flow from the inlet conduit 302. This can mitigate or avoid sharp turns in the gas flow path, which may potentially interfere with the gas flow and / or increase the amount of noise in the nasal cannula 400 due to the gas flow.

[0464] At least a portion of the body 436 may be tapered. The body 436 may have a larger cross-sectional area at the first end than at the second end. In some examples, the rate of reduction of the cross-sectional area may be at least substantially constant from the first point to the second point. The first point may be located closer to the first end. For example, the first point may be located at or near the first end of the body 436, and / or the second point may be located at or near the second end of the body 436.

[0465] In some examples, the connecting member 404 may include a single gas inlet, which may be arranged to connect to the inlet conduit 302, for example, via the connecting member connector 405. This single gas inlet may be located on or near the first end of the connecting member 404, for example, the body 436.

[0466] In some examples, as will be further explained below, the nasal cannula 400 may be a side-swappable nasal cannula. This side-swappable nasal cannula may be arranged such that a single gas inlet of the connecting member 404 is oriented toward one of two opposing sides of the nasal cannula 400. For example, the single gas inlet of the connecting member 404 may be reconfigured or repositioned in two ways: (a) oriented toward a first side of the nasal cannula 400 (e.g., the left side from the patient's (P) perspective), and (b) oriented toward a second side of the nasal cannula (e.g., the right side from the patient's (P) perspective), such as... Figures 4 to 8 As shown in the example, these two orientations may also be referred to as the “first operating configuration” and the “second operating configuration” of the nasal cannula 400, as will be described in further detail below.

[0467] Side-switch nasal cannulas offer the advantage of increased flexibility of use. For example, the inlet catheter 302 can be directed to either side to accommodate other medical devices, furniture, or patient preferences, among other reasons. Additional advantages are available with side-switch nasal cannulas having asymmetrical nasal column geometry or with nasal cannulas systems comprising one or more asymmetrical nasal column modules. For example, the smaller of a pair of nasal columns can accommodate a medical device or nasogastric tube within the patient's nostril. The side-switch nasal cannulas can be configured to similarly accommodate medical devices or nasogastric tubes.

[0468] In other examples, the connecting member 404 may include a first gas inlet and a second gas inlet, which are arranged, for example, to be coupled to a pair of inlet catheters 302 via first and second connecting member connectors 405. The first and second gas inlets may be positioned / oriented toward opposite sides of the nasal cannula 400.

[0469] In some examples, the body 436 may include at least one recessed region 438 (see, for example, see...). Figure 40 and Figure 43 The recessed region 438 may be arranged such that it provides any of the following: a depression, a concave curve, a recessed portion, or a fan-shaped portion. Therefore, any of these terms may also be used to refer to the recessed region 438. At least one recessed region 438 may be arranged to receive the patient's nasal septum during use. This provides the advantage of improved patient comfort by minimizing contact between the nasal cannula 400 and the patient's face. Additionally or alternatively, this provides the advantage of reducing the possibility of injury caused or exacerbated by pressure. The body 436 may include a first recessed region 438 (e.g., on a first longitudinal side of the body 436) and a second recessed region 438 (e.g., on a second longitudinal side of the body 436). The first longitudinal side (and the first recessed region 438) may be arranged opposite to the second longitudinal side (and the second recessed region 438).

[0470] The first recessed region 438 can be arranged to receive the patient's nasal septum in a first operating configuration during use. The second recessed region 438 can be arranged to receive the patient's nasal septum in a second operating configuration during use. In other words, by providing the first and second recessed regions 438, the aforementioned advantages of the recessed region 438 can be provided regardless of the orientation of the connecting member 404. For example, this may be advantageous for the side-change cannula described above, because the connecting member 404 can receive the patient's nasal septum when oriented toward either the first or second side of the nasal cannula 400.

[0471] In some examples, the connecting member 404 may include a first extension 437 and a second extension 437. The first extension 437 may be located at or near a first end of the body 436. The first extension 437 may extend away from the body 436 (e.g., away from the first end of the body 436). The second extension 437 may be located at or near a second end of the body 436. The second extension 437 may extend away from the body 436 (e.g., away from the second end of the body 436).

[0472] The connecting member 404 may include at least one gas outlet 451. The at least one gas outlet 451 of the connecting member 404 may be located on the rear side of the connecting member 404. In some examples, such as Figure 7 As shown, the connecting member 404 may include a first gas outlet 451a and a second gas outlet 451b, for example, a left gas outlet and a right gas outlet, respectively. The connecting member 404, including the connecting member connector 405, may be configured to redirect gas flow from the inlet of the connecting member connector 405 at an angle of more than 95 degrees to the first gas outlet 451a and the second gas outlet 451b. For this purpose, when the nasal cannula is inserted into a patient, the gas inlet of the connecting member connector 405 of the connecting member 404 may be tilted toward the patient's head. In other examples, the connecting member 404 may include a single gas outlet 451.

[0473] The nasal cannula 400 may include a frame 402. A connecting member 404 may be arranged (e.g., using at least one pin 412) to connect to the frame 402, for example, mechanically and / or fluidly (e.g., pneumatically). The connecting member 404 may be arranged to receive a flow of breathing gas to supply to a patient, for example, via or through the frame 402. The connecting member 404 may be arranged to attach to the front side of the frame 402. The connection between the connecting member 404 and the frame 402 may be detachable. Alternatively, the connecting member 404 and the frame 402 may be permanently connected together. In some examples, the frame 402 may be more flexible or compliant than the connecting member 404. The connecting member 404 may be rigid or semi-rigid. The term "semi-rigid" refers to a material that has a degree of stiffness and structure but also retains a degree of flexibility or ductility. A "semi-rigid" material may be able to maintain its shape but may also be able to bend or flex under pressure.

[0474] like Figure 8 As shown, the frame 402 may include at least one inlet opening 461, for example, for receiving a flow of breathing gas supplied from the connecting member 404. At least one inlet opening 461 of the frame 402 may be arranged to connect, for example, fluidly (e.g., pneumatically) to at least one gas outlet 451 of the connecting member 404. At least one inlet opening 461 may be located on the front side of the frame 402.

[0475] like Figure 7 As shown, frame 402 may include at least one outlet opening 414, for example, for supplying a flow of breathing gas to a patient (e.g., to or through a nasal column, as described in further detail below). At least one outlet opening 414 may be located on the rear side of frame 402. Each of the at least one inlet opening 461 may be arranged to fluidly (e.g., pneumatically) connect with a corresponding outlet opening 414. Each of the at least one inlet opening 461 may form a gas flow path with a corresponding outlet opening 414 (in the at least one outlet opening 414). Thus, frame 402 may include one or more gas flow paths, each formed by a corresponding inlet opening 461 and outlet opening 414. In some examples, frame 402 may include two or more inlet openings 461 and / or two or more outlet openings 414. Two or more inlet openings 461 and / or two or more outlet openings 414 may be arranged to form two or more separate flow paths for a breathing gas flow, or to supply a breathing gas flow to a separate flow path.

[0476] In some examples, such as Figure 7As shown, frame 402 may include a first inlet opening 461a and a second inlet opening 461b, for example, a left inlet opening and a right inlet opening, respectively. The first inlet opening 461a and the first outlet opening 414a of frame 402 can form a first gas flow path. The second inlet opening 461b and the second outlet opening 414b of frame 402 can form a second gas flow path. The first gas flow path and the second gas flow path of frame 402 can be completely separated from each other.

[0477] In some examples, frame 402 may include a central portion 439, an example of which is shown in Figure 38 As shown in the diagram. Frame 402 (e.g., central portion 439) may include a first protrusion positioned at or near a first end of central portion 439. For example, the first protrusion may extend cantileveredly from central portion 439 (e.g., from the first end of central portion 439). Central portion 439 may include a second protrusion positioned at or near a second end of central portion 439. For example, the second protrusion may extend cantileveredly from central portion 439 (e.g., from the second end of central portion 439). The first and second ends of central portion 439 may be arranged opposite each other. The first and second protrusions may extend outwardly away from the center of central portion 439. In some examples, the first and / or second protrusions may be at least substantially rigid. For example, the positions of the first and second protrusions relative to the remainder of the central portion may be at least substantially fixed. In other words, the free ends of the first and second protrusions (i.e., the ends not attached to the central portion 439) can have resistance to movement or bending in any direction.

[0478] The frame 402 and the connecting member 404 can be operatively connected in a first operating configuration of the nasal cannula 400. In the first operating configuration, a first inlet opening 461a of the frame 402 can be arranged to connect with a first gas outlet 451a of the connecting member 404, such as mechanically and / or fluidly (e.g., pneumatically). A second inlet opening 461b of the frame 402 can be arranged to connect with a second gas outlet 451b of the connecting member 404, such as mechanically and / or fluidly (e.g., pneumatically). Figures 4 to 8 and Figure 37 An example of the first operating configuration is shown.

[0479] The frame 402 and the connecting member 404 can be operatively connected in a second operating configuration of the nasal cannula 400. In the second operating configuration, the first inlet opening 461a of the frame 402 can be arranged to connect with the second gas outlet 451b of the connecting member 404, such as mechanically and / or fluidly (e.g., pneumatically). Furthermore, the second inlet opening 461b of the frame 402 can be arranged to connect with the first gas outlet 451a of the connecting member 404, such as mechanically and / or fluidly (e.g., pneumatically).

[0480] The second operating configuration may be or can be a mirror image of the first operating configuration. For example, the second operating configuration may be at least substantially identical to the first operating configuration, except that the connecting member 404 is oriented toward one side of the nasal cannula 400 (e.g., the first side of the nasal cannula 400), which is opposite to one side of the first operating configuration (e.g., the second side of the nasal cannula 400).

[0481] In some examples, such as when the nasal cannula 400 is a side-switch nasal cannula as described above, the frame 402 and the connecting member 404 can be coupled such that their arrangement relative to each other can be reconfigured or repositioned. By providing, for example, the ability to rotatably reconfigure or reposition either or both of the frame 402 and the connecting member 404, the nasal cannula 400 (and therefore the nasal cannula assembly 150) can adopt more than one configuration. For example, the nasal cannula 400 may be able to adopt either a first operating configuration or a second operating configuration, and move / switch between the first operating configuration and the second operating configuration (e.g., reversibly). In other words, the frame 402 and the connecting member 404 can be movable (e.g., rotated) between the first operating configuration and the second operating configuration of the nasal cannula 400. This allows the nasal cannula 400 to operate as a side-switch nasal cannula, as mentioned above.

[0482] Either or both of frame 402 and connecting member 404 may be arranged to rotate about a common axis 431, for example, as Figure 7 As shown. The common axis 431 may be centrally located on either or both of the frame 402 and the connecting member 404. The common axis 431 may be located at the connection point or connection position of the frame 402 and the connecting member 404. In some examples, a pin 412 may be provided at the common axis 431 and / or may define the common axis.

[0483] When the nasal cannula is inserted into a patient, the common axis 431 may be substantially perpendicular to the patient's face or head. The common axis 431 may be the sagittal axis of the nasal cannula and / or (when the nasal cannula is inserted into the patient) the patient, or may be located within the sagittal plane. The common axis 431, the first gas outlet 451a, and the second gas outlet 451b may be spaced apart from each other. For example, the first gas outlet 451a and the second gas outlet 451b may be located on opposite sides of the common axis 431.

[0484] In some examples, the connecting member 404 may be able to rotate or swivel relative to the frame 402 (e.g., from a first operating configuration to a second operating configuration, or vice versa). The connecting member 404 may be arranged to rotate about the pin 412 and / or the common axis 431.

[0485] Additionally or alternatively, frame 402 may be able to rotate or swivel relative to connecting member 404 (e.g., from a first operating configuration to a second operating configuration, or vice versa). Frame 402 may be arranged to rotate about pin 412 and / or common axis 431.

[0486] In some examples, either or both of the frame 402 and the connecting member 404 may be arranged relative to each other, for example, to pivot or rotate at least about 180° (or about 180°) between the first operating configuration and the second operating configuration.

[0487] The movement (e.g., rotational movement) of either or both of the frame 402 and the connecting member 404 can be reversible. For example, the connecting member 404 can be arranged to move (e.g., rotate or twirl) relative to the frame 402 along a first direction and a second direction. The first direction (e.g., clockwise) can be opposite to the second direction (e.g., counterclockwise).

[0488] Additionally or alternatively, frame 402 may be arranged to move (e.g., rotate or tumble) relative to connecting member 404 in a first direction and a second direction.

[0489] In some examples, moving the nasal cannula 400 into or out of the first and / or second operating configurations may require changing the positions of the frame 402 and the connecting member 404 relative to each other. To achieve this, it may be necessary to apply a force (e.g., a steering or rotational force) to either or both of the frame 402 and the connecting member 404. This can be achieved, for example, by one or more of the following:

[0490] • With the frame 402 fixed in position, a force can be applied to the connecting member 404 to move the nasal cannula 400 into or out of the first operating configuration and / or the second operating configuration;

[0491] With the connecting member 404 fixed in position, a force can be applied to the frame 402 to move the nasal cannula 400 into or out of the first operating configuration and / or the second operating configuration; and

[0492] A first force can be applied to the frame 402, and a second force can be applied to the connecting member 404, wherein the direction of the first force may be opposite to the direction of the second force.

[0493] In some examples, when a patient wears a nasal cannula 400, the frame 402 and the connecting member 404 can be arranged to move between a first operating configuration and a second operating configuration.

[0494] In some examples, the nasal cannula 400 may include a retention mechanism. This retention mechanism may be arranged to detachably or reversibly retain the frame 402 and the connecting member 404 in either a first operating configuration or a second operating configuration.

[0495] When the nasal cannula 400 (e.g., frame 402 and connecting member 404) is moved into and / or out of the first operating configuration and / or the second operating configuration, the holding mechanism can provide one or more of the following: visual feedback; auditory feedback; and tactile feedback.

[0496] In some examples, such as Figure 37 and Figure 38 As shown, frame 402 may include one or more fixing members 432. For example, frame 402 may include a first fixing member 432 and a second fixing member 432. Each of the one or more fixing members 432 may include a column.

[0497] In some examples, such as Figure 37 and Figures 39 to 43 As shown, the connecting member 404 may include one or more receiving portions 433. For example, the connecting member 404 may include a first receiving portion 433 and a second receiving portion 433. Each of the one or more receiving portions 433 may include two protrusions that define a receiving groove therebetween. Each receiving groove may be arranged to receive at least a portion of a corresponding fixing member 432 (e.g., a post of each fixing member 432). The receiving groove may include a curved configuration. The curved configuration of each receiving groove may be arranged to cooperate with or correspond to the curved configuration of a corresponding portion (e.g., a post) of one or more fixing members 432. In some examples, one or more receiving portions 433 may be spaced apart from a gas outlet 451 of the connecting member 404. At least a portion of the frame 402 may be arranged to be positioned in the space between one or more receiving portions 433 and the gas outlet 451 of the connecting member 404.

[0498] In some examples, one or more retaining members 432 may be arranged to be reversibly or detachably coupled to one or more receiving portions 433 in either a first operating configuration or a second operating configuration. One or more retaining members 432 may be arranged to be coupled to and disengaged from one or more receiving portions 433 in a bidirectional manner. In some examples, when the nasal cannula 400 (e.g., frame 402 and connecting member 404) is in either the first or second operating configuration, one or more retaining members 432 and one or more receiving portions 433 may be arranged to: disengage when propelled by a force exceeding a first threshold; and remain coupled in the absence of a force exceeding the first threshold. In some examples, when the nasal cannula 400 is in either the first or second operating configuration, one or more retaining members 432 and one or more receiving portions 433 may be arranged to: be coupled when propelled by a force exceeding a second threshold; and remain disengaged in the absence of a force exceeding the second threshold. The first and second thresholds may be at least substantially the same. As mentioned above, the force may be a rotational force.

[0499] In some examples, in a first operating configuration, a first fixing member 432 may be arranged to be coupled to a first receiving portion 433, and a second fixing member 432 may be arranged to be coupled to a second receiving portion 433. In a second operating configuration, a first fixing member 432 may be arranged to be coupled to a second receiving portion 433, and a second fixing member 432 may be arranged to be coupled to a first receiving portion 433.

[0500] The retaining mechanism may include one or more fixing members 432 and one or more receiving portions 433. In other words, one or more fixing members 432 and one or more receiving portions 433 may form at least a part of the retaining mechanism.

[0501] In some examples, the nasal cannula 400 may include a fastening mechanism. This fastening mechanism may be arranged to restrict or prevent the frame 402 from bending or deforming in either the first operating configuration or the second operating configuration (as mentioned above, the frame may be more flexible or compliant than the connecting member 404).

[0502] In some examples, such as Figure 38 and Figure 45 As shown, the frame 402 may include one or more blocking portions 434. The one or more blocking portions 434 may include a first blocking portion 434 and a second blocking portion 434. The one or more blocking portions 434 may include at least substantially flat surfaces.

[0503] In some examples, such as Figure 41 and Figure 44As shown, the connecting member 404 may include one or more barrier portions 435. The one or more barrier portions 435 may include a first barrier portion 435 and a second barrier portion 435. The one or more barrier portions 435 may include a lifting portion.

[0504] In some examples, one or more blocking portions 434 (e.g., at least substantially flat surfaces) may be arranged to abut, press against, or engage one or more barrier portions 435 (e.g., raised portions), for example, in either a first operating configuration or a second operating configuration. In some examples, in the first operating configuration, the first blocking portion 434 may be arranged to engage, abut, or press against the first barrier portion 435, and the second blocking portion 434 may be arranged to engage, abut, or press against the second barrier portion 435. In some examples, in the second operating configuration, the first blocking portion 434 may be arranged to engage, abut, or press against the second barrier portion 435, and the second blocking portion 434 may be arranged to engage, abut, or press against the first barrier portion 435.

[0505] The fastening mechanism may include one or more blocking portions 434 and one or more barrier portions 435. In other words, one or more blocking portions 434 and one or more barrier portions 435 may form at least a part of the fastening mechanism.

[0506] In some examples, the first extension 437 may include a first receiving portion 433, and / or the second extension 437 may include a second receiving portion 433. The first receiving portion 433 and / or the second receiving portion 433 may extend toward the body 436, for example, from the distal ends of the first extension 437 and the second extension 437, respectively. In some examples, the first extension 437 may include a first barrier portion 435, and / or the second extension 437 may include a second barrier portion 435. In some examples, the first protrusion of the frame 402 may include a first blocking portion 434, and the second protrusion may include a second blocking portion 434.

[0507] In some examples, frame 402 may include one or more first sealing members. Connecting member 404 may include one or more second sealing members. The one or more first sealing members and the one or more second sealing members may be arranged to cooperate or coordinate with each other in either a first operating configuration or a second operating configuration, for example, to provide a gas flow path between frame 402 and connecting member 404 that is at least substantially sealed from ambient air.

[0508] In some examples, the one or more first sealing members and the one or more second sealing members may be arranged to provide a grooved and tongue-and-groove sealing arrangement. For example, the one or more first sealing members may include a first tongue 423 and a second tongue 423, for example, as... Figure 45 As shown. A first tongue 423 may be disposed around or near a first inlet opening 461a of the frame 402, and a second tongue 423 may be disposed around or near a second inlet opening 461b of the frame 402. The one or more second sealing members include a first groove 424 and a second groove 424, for example, as Figure 44 As shown. A first groove 424 may be provided around or near the first gas outlet 451a of the connecting member 404, and a second groove 424 may be provided around or near the second gas outlet 451b of the connecting member 404.

[0509] In some examples, in a first operating configuration, a first groove 424 may be arranged to receive a first tongue 423 and / or at least substantially seal against the first tongue, and a second groove 424 may be arranged to receive a second tongue 423 and / or at least substantially seal against the second tongue. In a second operating configuration, a first groove 424 may be arranged to receive a second tongue 423 and / or at least substantially seal against the second tongue, and a second groove 424 may be arranged to receive a first tongue 423 and / or at least substantially seal against the first tongue.

[0510] In some examples, the nasal cannula 400 may include one or more catheter fasteners 446. Each catheter fastener 446 may be arranged to prevent or reduce the likelihood of disengagement of the respective inlet catheter 302 from the nasal cannula, for example, by reinforcing or further securing the attachment / connection of the respective inlet catheter 302 to the nasal cannula 400. In some examples, each of the at least one inlet catheter 302 may be prone to expansion / expansion and / or contraction due to various reasons, such as thermal changes or absorption of moisture / fluid by the catheter. Therefore, by providing catheter fasteners 446 to reinforce or further secure the attachment of the inlet catheter 302 to the nasal cannula 400, the adverse effects of accidental disengagement of the inlet catheter 302 (e.g., due to expansion or bulging of the inlet catheter 302) from the nasal cannula 400 can be avoided. This ensures that the therapy provided to the patient remains uninterrupted, regardless of the condition in which at least one inlet catheter 302 is exposed. In some examples, one or more catheter fasteners 446 may each include at least one tab. In use, each of the at least one tab may extend toward the respective inlet catheter 302.

[0511] Figures 41 to 43 The image shows possible examples of conduit fastener 446. In some examples, for example, such as... Figure 41As shown, the connecting member 404 (arranged to be directly or indirectly connected to at least one inlet conduit 302) may include one or more conduit fasteners 446. For example, either or both of the first extension 437 and the second extension 437 may include one or more conduit fasteners 446. For example, the first extension 437 may include a conduit fastener 446.

[0512] In some examples, such as Figure 42 and Figure 43 As shown, each of the one or more connecting member connectors 405 (which may be arranged to connect the connecting member 404 to the corresponding inlet conduit 302) may include a corresponding conduit fastener 446.

[0513] In some examples, the headgear 306 may be at least partially flexible. At least a portion of the headgear 306 may be stretchable. For example, at least a portion of the headgear 306 may be elastic. When a patient wears the nasal cannula 400, the flexibility of at least a portion of the headgear 306 allows the frame 402 and the connecting member 404 to be at least partially separated from the patient's face. In such an arrangement, when the patient wears the nasal cannula 400, the nasal cannula 400 can be moved between a first operating configuration and a second operating configuration. For example, the connecting member 404 may be rotated relative to the frame 402 to move between the first operating configuration and the second operating configuration.

[0514] Frame 402 may include one or more side arms 407. In some examples, frame 402 may include a first side arm 407a and a second side arm 407b. The first side arm 407a and the second side arm 407b may be attached to the central portion 439.

[0515] like Figure 7 As shown in the example, a first side arm 407a may be attached to a first end of a central portion 439 via a first connecting region 4071a, and a second side arm 407b may be attached to a second end of a central portion 439 via a second connecting region 4071b. The first connecting region 4071a may have a smaller thickness and / or width compared to the central portion 439 and the first side arm 407a. The second connecting region 4071b may have a smaller thickness and / or width compared to the central portion 439 and the second side arm 407b.

[0516] In some examples, the first connecting region 4071a and / or the second connecting region 4071b may be arranged to bend or pivot in multiple directions. The frame 402 may include a first pivot or bending axis 4072a and / or a second pivot or bending axis 4072b. The first pivot or bending axis 4072a may be located at or near the first connecting region 4071a. The second pivot or bending axis 4072b may be located at or near the second connecting region 4071b. In use, the first pivot or bending axis 4072a and the second pivot or bending axis 4072b may be positioned along the rear surface of the nasal cannula 400 (e.g., frame 402).

[0517] The first side arm 407a may be arranged to bend or pivot about a first pivot or bending axis 4072a. The second side arm 407b may be arranged to bend or pivot about a second pivot or bending axis 4072b. The first side arm 407a and / or the second side arm 407b may be able to bend or pivot in a first direction (e.g., toward the rear surface of the central portion 439 of the frame 402) and in a second direction (e.g., away from the rear surface of the central portion 439 of the frame 402), the second direction being opposite to the first direction.

[0518] In some examples, the first connecting region 4071a and / or the second connecting region 4071b may be arranged to be more flexible than the central portion 439, the first side arm 407a and / or the second side arm 407b.

[0519] In some examples, the first side arm 407a may include a first overmolded portion, and the second side arm 407b may include a second overmolded portion. The first and second overmolded portions may be made of a material softer than the material of the central portion 439 and / or the first connecting region 4071a and the second connecting region 4071b.

[0520] One or more side arms 407 may be arranged to engage one or more of one or more oral regions (e.g., nasolabial folds), cheek regions, and / or zygomatic regions of a patient's head when properly fitted to the patient. One or more side arms 407 may transfer at least some of the headgear tension to lateral regions. Alternatively or additionally, one or more side arms 407 may transfer at least some of the headgear tension away from one or more of the philtrum and nasal regions (e.g., columella and / or alar), which may be more sensitive to or more prone to irritation and / or discomfort.

[0521] The frame 402 may be arranged to secure the nasal cannula 400 to the patient's head in a suitable position, for example, in conjunction with a head cover 306. The head cover 306 may be arranged to be detachably and / or adjustablely coupled to the frame 402. Each of the one or more side arms 407 may include one or more head cover connection portions 409. For example, a first side arm 407a may include a first head cover connection portion 409a, and a second side arm 407b may include a second head cover connection portion 409b.

[0522] The headgear 306 may include at least one end located on each side of the patient’s head, such as a first side strap portion and a second side strap portion attached to the central strap portion, the first side strap portion and the second side strap portion being arranged to be detachably and / or adjustablely connected, for example, to a first headgear connection portion 409a and a second headgear connection portion 409b, respectively.

[0523] As mentioned above, one or more headgear connection portions 409 may each be arranged to detachably and adjustably receive and hold a portion of the headgear 306, such as a first side strap portion and a second side strap portion of the headgear 306. In some examples, the first headgear connection portion 409a and the second headgear connection portion 409b may each include at least two openings (e.g., two openings). The at least two openings may be separated, for example, by at least one partition portion (e.g., one partition portion). In some examples, a portion of the headgear 306, such as the first side strap portion and the second side strap portion of the headgear 306, may be arranged to pass through the at least two openings and loop around the at least one partition portion. The direction in which the portion of the headgear 306 passes through one of the at least two openings may be opposite to the direction of the other of the at least two openings. This allows the portion of the headgear 306 to be securely received and held by the headgear connection portion, for example, by facilitating frictional engagement between the portion of the headgear 306 and the corresponding headgear connection portion 409 of the nasal cannula 304.

[0524] Additionally or alternatively, the headgear 306 may include a fastening mechanism. This fastening mechanism serves to prevent any portion of the headgear 306 (e.g., the first side strap portion and the second side strap portion) from becoming loose / detached. The fastening mechanism may be arranged to allow the headgear 306 to attach to itself, for example, to its free end or vicinity. The fastening mechanism may include a hook-and-loop arrangement (e.g., ).

[0525] In some examples, the length of the headgear 306 can be selectively adjusted by selecting portions of the headgear 306, such as the first side strap portion and the second side strap portion, to connect with the first headgear connecting portion 409a and the second headgear connecting portion 409b.

[0526] In some examples, either or both of the first headgear connecting portion 409a and the second headgear connecting portion 409b may include a single opening. In some examples, either or both of the first headgear connecting portion 409a and the second headgear connecting portion 409b may include more than two openings.

[0527] As will be further described below, frame 402 may include one or more mounting portions 411 for removably receiving corresponding pipe clamps 410. Pipe clamps 410 may be arranged to retain at least one inlet conduit 302. In some examples, a first side arm 407a may include one or more first mounting portions 411a, and / or a second side arm 407b may include one or more second mounting portions 411b. In some examples, one or more mounting portions 411, such as either or both of the first mounting portion 411a and the second mounting portion 411b, may include at least one recess or opening.

[0528] pipe clamp

[0529] The nasal cannula 400 may include at least one clamp 410. Each clamp of the at least one clamp 410 may be arranged to retain a corresponding inlet catheter 302. Each clamp of the at least one clamp 410 may include a body 4111 and an attachment portion 4112 to which the attachment portion is coupled. Figure 46 and Figure 47 An example of pipe clamp 410 is shown in the figure.

[0530] Each of at least one clamp 410 may include a body 4111 for receiving a corresponding inlet conduit 302. For example, the body of clamp 410 may be at least substantially annular (as shown), square, substantially square, or have another linear configuration (not shown). Clamp 410 may include an attachment portion 4112 that may be integral with or fixed to the body of clamp. The attachment portion may be non-removably, pivotally, rotatably, and / or removably fixed to the body. In some examples, the attachment portion 4112 of clamp 410 may be received by at least one recess or opening of one or more mounting portions 411. Clamp 410 (e.g., the attachment portion) may be arranged (e.g., via snap-fit ​​or snap-engagement mechanism) to be detachably coupled or secured to frame 402, for example, detachably coupled or secured to a first side arm 407a or a second side arm 407b. For example, the attachment portion (and therefore the pipe clamp 410) may be arranged to be detachably attached to or secured to one or more mounting portions 411 of the frame 402, and to detachably and securely hold the pipe clamp 410 in place. The pipe clamp 410 (e.g., the attachment portion) may be arranged to be attached to the frame 402 (e.g., a first side arm 407a or a second side arm 407b) along one or more connection orientations.

[0531] In some examples, the body 4111 of the pipe clamp 410 may include one or more clamping features (e.g., on its outer surface). In some examples, the inner diameter of the body 4111 of the pipe clamp 410 may be larger than the outer diameter of the corresponding inlet conduit 302.

[0532] In some examples, the attachment portion 4112 may include a retaining portion 4113 and one or more alignment portions 4114. The retaining portion 4113 may be centrally positioned on the attachment portion 4112. The retaining portion 4113 may be arranged to detachably engage with holes in the first side arm 407a or the second side arm 407b (e.g., the first mounting portion 411a or the second mounting portion 411b). For example, when the attachment portion 4112 is not along one or more engagement orientations, one or more alignment portions 4114 may be arranged to prevent the retaining portion 4113 from engaging with holes in the first side arm 407a or the second side arm 407b.

[0533] This arrangement allows the clamp 410 to be attached to any one or both of the first mounting portions 411a and the second mounting portions 411b. This allows a single inlet catheter 302 or any one or both of a pair of inlet catheters 302 to be detachably attached to the nasal cannula 400, for example, by connection to the gas inlet of any one or both of the connecting member 404 and the frame 402.

[0534] In an example where the nasal cannula 400 may include a single inlet catheter 302, a single clamp 410 may be provided to hold the single inlet catheter 302. The single clamp 410 may be detachably attached to either the first mounting portion 411a or the second mounting portion 411b.

[0535] In an example where the nasal cannula 400 includes a pair of inlet catheters 302 (e.g., a first inlet catheter and a second inlet catheter), one of the inlet catheters 302 (e.g., the first inlet catheter) may be connected to a connecting member 404 via a first connecting member connector, and the other inlet catheter 302 (e.g., the second inlet catheter) may be connected to the connecting member 404 via a second connecting member connector.

[0536] In an example where the nasal cannula 400 includes a pair of inlet catheters 302 (e.g., a first inlet catheter and a second inlet catheter), one of the inlet catheters 302 (e.g., the first inlet catheter) can be detachably attached to a first side arm 407a and held by a first clamp, and the other inlet catheter in the pair of inlet catheters 302 can be detachably attached to a second side arm 407b and held by a second clamp.

[0537] At least one clamp 410 may be attached to the frame 402 such that the attachment mechanism prevents or reduces the likelihood of accidental separation of at least one clamp 410 (and therefore at least one inlet conduit 302) from the frame 402. In some examples, the force may be an external force. In some examples, the force may include a bending moment, which is applied, for example, to at least one inlet conduit 302.

[0538] Insert

[0539] The nasal cannula 400 may include at least one nasal column. Each of the at least one nasal column may be arranged to extend into the patient's external nasal cavity, such as a nostril, and deliver a flow of breathing gas to the patient, such as to the patient's upper airway. The at least one nasal column may include either or both of a first nasal column and a second nasal column. The first nasal column may be arranged to extend into the patient's left nostril to form a left nasal column. The second nasal column may be arranged to extend into the patient's right nostril to form a right nasal column. Examples of at least one nasal column described in further detail below include, but are not limited to, at least one nasal column 406 ( Figures 4 to 22 As shown), at least one nasal insertion post 506 (as shown) Figures 23 to 25 As shown), at least one nasal insertion post 606 (as shown) Figures 26 to 28 (as shown) and at least one nasal insertion post 706 (as shown) Figures 29 to 31 (As shown).

[0540] The at least one nasal insertion post may be arranged to be pneumatically connected (directly or indirectly) to at least one outlet opening 414 of the frame 402 to receive a flow of breathing gas from the frame 402. In some examples, a first nasal insertion post may be arranged to be fluidly (e.g., pneumatically) connected (directly or indirectly) to a first outlet opening 414a, and a second nasal insertion post may be arranged to be pneumatically connected (directly or indirectly) to a second outlet opening 414b. For example, as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the first nasal insertion post 406a can be arranged to be pneumatically connected (directly or indirectly) to the first outlet opening 414a, and the second nasal insertion post 406b can be arranged to be pneumatically connected (directly or indirectly) to the second outlet opening 414b. This arrangement can also be applied to other examples of the first and second nasal insertion posts, such as first nasal insertion posts 506a, 606a, 706a and second nasal insertion posts 506b, 606b, 706b, which will be discussed in further detail below.

[0541] In some examples, at least one nasal insert 406 may be arranged to partially block at least one of the patient's left and right nostrils. For example, a first nasal insert 406a may be arranged to partially block the patient's left nostril, and a second nasal insert 406b may be arranged to partially block the patient's right nostril.

[0542] In a further example of this disclosure, the nasal cannula 400 may include only the left nasal column or only the right nasal column.

[0543] Column geometry

[0544] In the context of this disclosure, the configuration of at least one nasal column will be referred to as the "nasal column geometry." The configuration or geometry of at least one nasal column can refer to any one or more aspects of the at least one nasal column, including but not limited to column size, angular configuration, column thickness, column rigidity, column dimensions such as length, inner and / or outer diameter (e.g., lateral diameter), cross-sectional area, perimeter, column shape, etc. In some examples, the type or variation of therapy provided to a patient by the respiratory support system depends at least in part on or is determined by the nasal column geometry of the nasal cannula assembly 150 of the respiratory support system.

[0545] A portion of the possible nasal column geometries can be classified as "symmetric nasal column geometries", and another portion of the possible nasal column geometries can be classified as "asymmetric nasal column geometries".

[0546] Symmetrical nasal column geometry can be arranged to provide patients with symmetrical high-flow nasal therapy.

[0547] In a symmetrical nose post geometry, the first and second nose posts can be arranged to provide substantially the same volumetric flow rate. The first and second nose posts may be substantially similar or identical in one or more of the following aspects: size, thickness, rigidity, dimensions (such as length, inner diameter and / or outer diameter (e.g., lateral diameter)), cross-sectional area, perimeter, shape, etc.

[0548] In some examples of symmetrical nose post geometry, the orientation and / or angular configuration of the left and right nose posts may be identical (or substantially similar) to each other. Conversely, in these examples, the first nose post may form a “mirror image” of the second nose post, or at least be substantially a “mirror image” of the second nose post. In other words, the first and second nose posts may be about or relative to a reference point, axis, or plane (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 16 The sagittal plane S shown is symmetrical. The sagittal plane S can be a vertical plane that passes through (or approaches), for example, the center point or midpoint between the first and second nasal posts.

[0549] In some examples, the first and second nasal prongs may have the same or substantially the same orientation relative to the sagittal plane S. For example, the first nasal prong may be angled toward the sagittal plane S on one side of the plane, and the second nasal prong may be angled toward the sagittal plane S on the other side of the plane, wherein the angles of the first and second nasal prongs are at least substantially the same. In other words, both the first and second nasal prongs may be positioned toward each other at at least substantially the same angle. In another example, both the first and second nasal prongs may be positioned at at least substantially the same angle to the sagittal plane S (and thus angled away from each other), or positioned at at least substantially right-angled relative to the sagittal plane S.

[0550] The following describes in detail possible examples of symmetrical nose post geometry according to this disclosure, with some possible examples provided with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0551] refer to Figures 4 to 22 At least one nose post 406 may include either or both of a first nose post 406a and a second nose post 406b. In some examples, the first nose post 406a and the second nose post 406b together may have, be arranged, or form a symmetrical nose post geometry. As mentioned above, in a symmetrical nose post geometry, the first nose post 406a and the second nose post 406b are identical (or substantially similar) in one or more of the following aspects: size, thickness, rigidity, dimensions (such as length, inner diameter, and / or outer diameter (e.g., lateral diameter)), cross-sectional area, perimeter, shape, etc.

[0552] Both the first nasal post 406a and the second nasal post 406b may be positioned at at least approximately the same angle toward the sagittal plane S (and thus at an angle toward each other inward). Alternatively, both the first nasal post 406a and the second nasal post 406b may be positioned at at least approximately the same angle to the sagittal plane S (and thus at an angle away from each other outward), or positioned at at least approximately right angle to the sagittal plane S.

[0553] According to this disclosure, one example of a symmetrical nose post geometry may differ from other examples of symmetrical nose post geometries in any one or more aspects. In some examples, a first nose post having a first symmetrical nose post geometry may differ from a second nose post having a second symmetrical nose post geometry in one or more aspects. These aspects include, but are not limited to: nose post size, nose post angular configuration, thickness and / or rigidity of the nose post material, nose post dimensions (such as length, inner diameter and / or outer diameter (e.g., lateral diameter)), nose post cross-sectional area, perimeter, and shape.

[0554] In another example of this disclosure, Figures 23 to 25 A first nasal insert 506a and a second nasal insert 506b are shown. The first nasal insert 506a may be arranged to extend into the patient's left nostril to form a left nasal insert. The second nasal insert 506b may be arranged to extend into the patient's right nostril to form a right nasal insert. The first nasal insert 506a and the second nasal insert 506b may have, be arranged, or form a symmetrical nasal insert geometry. The first nasal insert 506a and the second nasal insert 506b are identical (or substantially similar) in one or more of the following aspects: size, thickness, rigidity, dimensions (such as length, inner diameter, and / or outer diameter (e.g., lateral diameter)), cross-sectional area, perimeter, shape, etc.

[0555] Both the first nasal post 506a and the second nasal post 506b may be positioned at at least approximately the same angle toward the sagittal plane S (and thus at an angle toward each other inward). Alternatively, both the first nasal post 506a and the second nasal post 506b may be positioned at at least approximately the same angle to the sagittal plane S (and thus at an angle away from each other outward), or positioned at at least approximately right angle to the sagittal plane S.

[0556] Figures 9 to 22 The example of the first nose post 406a and the second nose post 406b may have, be arranged, or form a first symmetrical nose post geometry, and Figures 23 to 25 The example first nasal post 506a and second nasal post 506b may have, be arranged, or form a second symmetrical nasal post geometry. The first nasal post 406a and second nasal post 406b may be configured to a first size, and the first nasal post 506a and second nasal post 506b may be configured to a second size. The first size may differ from the first size (e.g., larger or smaller than the first size).

[0557] In some examples, the internal lateral dimensions or cross-sectional areas (i.e., the internal lateral dimensions or cross-sectional areas of the first nose post 406a and the second nose post 406b) may be smaller than the internal lateral dimensions or cross-sectional areas of the first nose post 506a and the second nose post 506b, respectively. Additionally or alternatively, the outer diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter (i.e., the diameter, cross-sectional area, or perimeter of the outer surface) of the first nose post 406a and the second nose post 406b may be smaller than the outer diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter of the first nose post 506a and the second nose post 506b, respectively.

[0558] As an alternative or supplement to nasal posts of different sizes, the left and right nasal posts having a first symmetrical nasal post geometry can be positioned at a first angle (e.g., an angle toward the sagittal plane S) relative to the sagittal plane S, and the left and right nasal posts having a second symmetrical nasal post geometry can be positioned at a second angle (e.g., an angle away from the sagittal plane S) relative to the sagittal plane S, the second angle being different from the first angle.

[0559] In an “asymmetric nose post geometry,” there may be only one nose post (i.e., only the first or second nose post) or two nose posts (i.e., both the first and second nose posts), which may differ from each other in one or more aspects. These aspects may include, but are not limited to: post size, nose post angular configuration, thickness and / or rigidity of the nose post material, nose post dimensions (such as length, inner diameter and / or outer diameter (e.g., lateral diameter)), nose post cross-sectional area, perimeter, or perimeter and shape.

[0560] In some examples of asymmetric nose post geometry, the first and second nose posts can be arranged such that:

[0561] • The inner diameter (e.g., transverse diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter of the first nasal post may differ from the corresponding inner diameter (e.g., transverse diameter) or perimeter of the second nasal post; and / or

[0562] • The outer diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter of the first nose post may differ from the corresponding outer diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter of the second nose post.

[0563] Asymmetric nasal column geometry can be arranged to provide asymmetric high-flow nasal therapy to a patient. For example, compared to symmetrical high-flow nasal therapy, asymmetric high-flow nasal therapy offers advantages such as increased CO2 clearance, increased pressure, and / or reduced work of breathing. Dead space clearance is increased by generating at least partially unidirectional flow to clear exhaled air. Asymmetric high-flow nasal therapy achieves the effect of at least partially unidirectional flow primarily because it can achieve relative blockage of the patient's two nostrils using only one column or two different columns.

[0564] The following describes in detail possible examples of asymmetric nose post geometries according to this disclosure, with some possible examples provided with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0565] As mentioned above, in some examples, the nasal cannula 400 may include at least one nasal post 606. (Reference) Figures 26 to 28At least one nasal insert 606 may include either or both of a first nasal insert 606a and a second nasal insert 606b. The first nasal insert 606a may be arranged to extend into the patient's left nostril to form a left nasal insert. The second nasal insert 606b may be arranged to extend into the patient's right nostril to form a right nasal insert. In some examples, the first nasal insert 606a and the second nasal insert 606b may have, be arranged, or form an asymmetric nasal insert geometry. For example, the first nasal insert 606a and the second nasal insert 606b may have, be arranged, or form a "right asymmetric nasal insert geometry," wherein the first nasal insert 606a and the second nasal insert 606b may be arranged such that:

[0566] • The inner diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter of the second nose post 606b is greater than or may be greater than the corresponding inner diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter of the first nose post 606a; and / or

[0567] • The outer diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or circumference of the second nose post 606b is greater than or may be greater than the corresponding outer diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or circumference of the first nose post 606a.

[0568] In some examples, in a right asymmetric nose post geometry, one of the two nose posts (e.g., the second nose post 606b) may be arranged to provide a greater volumetric flow rate than the other of the two nose posts (e.g., the first nose post 606a).

[0569] As mentioned above, in some examples, the nasal cannula 400 may include at least one nasal post 706. (Reference) Figures 29 to 31 For example, at least one nasal insert 706 may include either or both of a first nasal insert 706a and a second nasal insert 707b. The first nasal insert 706a may be arranged to extend into the patient's left nostril to form a left nasal insert. The second nasal insert 707b may be arranged to extend into the patient's right nostril to form a right nasal insert. In some examples, the first nasal insert 706a and the second nasal insert 707b may have, be arranged, or form an asymmetric nasal insert geometry. For example, the first nasal insert 706a and the second nasal insert 707b may have, be arranged, or form a "left asymmetric nasal insert geometry," wherein the first nasal insert 706a and the second nasal insert 707b may be arranged such that:

[0570] • The inner diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or circumference of the first nose post 706a is greater than the corresponding inner diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or circumference of the second nose post 707b; and / or

[0571] • The outer diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or circumference of the first nose post 706a is greater than the corresponding outer diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or circumference of the second nose post 707b.

[0572] In some examples, in a left asymmetric nasal post geometry, one of the two nasal posts (e.g., the first nasal post 706a) may be arranged to provide a greater volumetric flow rate than the other of the two nasal posts (e.g., the second nasal post 706b).

[0573] In some examples, the first nasal post geometry (e.g., a first asymmetric nasal post geometry) may include, be arranged, or form a mirror image of the second nasal post geometry (e.g., a second asymmetric nasal post geometry). For example, features having the first nasal post geometry may be arranged in reverse order of the second nasal post geometry.

[0574] In some examples, the left asymmetric nasal prong geometry may include, be arranged, or form a mirror image of the right asymmetric nasal prong geometry. For example, the nasal prong geometry of the first nasal prong 606a and the second nasal prong 606b (e.g., the left asymmetric nasal prong geometry) may include, be arranged, or form a mirror image of the nasal prong geometry of the first nasal prong 706a and the second nasal prong 707b (e.g., the right asymmetric nasal prong geometry), and may include, be arranged, or form a mirror image of the second asymmetric nasal prong geometry.

[0575] The nasal cannula 400 can be arranged to have any of a series of nasal cannula geometries, such as any of the examples of nasal cannula geometries discussed above. Reference Figures 4 to 8 The nasal cannula 400 may have at least one nasal post 406 (e.g., Figures 9 to 22 The nasal column geometry of the first nasal column 406a and the second nasal column 406b is shown. Alternatively, the nasal cannula 400 may be arranged to have a nasal column geometry having any of the following:

[0576] • At least one nasal insertion post 506 (e.g., Figures 23 to 25 The first nasal insertion post 506a and the second nasal insertion post 506b shown are illustrated.

[0577] • At least one nasal insertion post 606 (e.g., Figures 26 to 28 The first nasal insertion post 606a and the second nasal insertion post 606b shown are illustrated.

[0578] • At least one nasal insertion post 706 (e.g., Figures 29 to 31 The first nasal insertion post 706a and the second nasal insertion post 707b are shown.

[0579] In some examples, at least a portion (e.g., a distal portion) of each of at least one nasal column (e.g., at least one nasal column 406, 506, 606, 706) may be arranged such that it can bulge upward and backward (e.g., relative to the patient's face) during use. In some examples, at least a portion (e.g., a distal portion) of each of at least one nasal column (e.g., at least one nasal column 406, 506, 606, 706) may be remote from the coronal plane C (e.g., Figure 13 The coronal plane C shown is angled, and may be angled toward the patient, for example, when the patient wears the nasal cannula. In some examples, the angle between at least one nasal column and the coronal plane C may be acute. In the context of this disclosure, the coronal plane C may be a vertical plane that divides the nasal cannula (or any part thereof) into anterior and posterior portions.

[0580] Nose insertion module

[0581] According to this disclosure, the nasal cannula 400 can be arranged to operate as a “modular nasal cannula.” That is, a portion of the nasal cannula 400 (which may include one or more parts or elements of the nasal cannula 400) can be arranged to be selectively and / or detachably coupled to the remainder of the nasal cannula 400. The connection between this portion of the nasal cannula 400 and the remainder of the nasal cannula 400 may include any one or more of the following: mechanical connection, fluid (e.g., pneumatic) connection, and electrical connection.

[0582] In some examples, the modular nasal cannula may be arranged such that the nasal column module may include at least one nasal column of the nasal cannula 400. The nasal column module may be arranged to be selectively and / or detachably coupled, for example mechanically and / or fluidly (e.g., pneumatically), to a portion of the nasal cannula 400. The nasal column module may be arranged to receive a flow of breathing gas for delivery to a patient, for example, to the patient's upper airway.

[0583] In some examples, the nasal column module may be arranged to be selectively and / or detachably coupled, for example mechanically and / or fluidly (e.g., pneumatically), to one or both of the frame 402 and the connecting member 404. For example, in use, the nasal column module may be arranged to be selectively and / or detachably coupled to the frame 402, for example, adjacent to the rear side of the frame 402. In some examples, the frame 402 and / or the connecting member 404 may be arranged to support the nasal column module in an operating position, for example, in fluid communication with the frame 402 and / or the connecting member 404 and / or positioned in the patient's upper lip region during use. Some examples of nasal column modules include, but are not limited to:

[0584] · Figures 9 to 22The nasal insertion module 408 is shown. The nasal insertion module 408 may include either or both of the first nasal insertion 406a and the second nasal insertion 406b described above.

[0585] · Figures 23 to 25 The nasal insertion module 508 is shown. The nasal insertion module 508 may include either or both of the first nasal insertion 506a and the second nasal insertion 506b described above.

[0586] · Figures 26 to 28 The nasal insertion module 608 shown. The nasal insertion module 608 may include either or both of the first nasal insertion 606a and the second nasal insertion 606b described above.

[0587] · Figures 29 to 31 The nasal insertion module 708 is shown. The nasal insertion module 708 may include either or both of the first nasal insertion 706a and the second nasal insertion 707b described above.

[0588] By providing a nasal column module (which may include at least one nasal column) that can be selectively and / or detachably coupled to a portion of the nasal cannula 400, at least one nasal column can be changed (and thus at least one nasal column of the nasal cannula 400). This provides the ability to reversibly modify the nasal column geometry of the nasal cannula 400, for example, by interchangeably and detachably coupling two or more nasal column modules, each with a different nasal column geometry. Thus, the use of detachably coupled nasal column modules allows the nasal cannula 400 to have any of a variety of nasal column geometries, and allows for selective interchangeability between these nasal column geometries as needed.

[0589] Furthermore, by providing nasal column modules as described above, two or more nasal column modules with identical (or substantially similar) nasal column geometries can be provided. This has the potential benefit of providing the patient with the same type of therapy (e.g., high-flow nasal therapy) if at least one nasal column needs replacement, for example, if at least one nasal column is no longer fully functional, damaged, and / or lost, while avoiding prolonged interruptions. Additionally, the nasal column modules can also be at least temporarily removed and replaced for maintenance purposes (e.g., for cleaning) without causing prolonged interruptions or unnecessary changes to the therapy provided to the patient.

[0590] Additionally or alternatively, each nasal column module may include, or be at least partially made of, a material different from that of other nasal column modules. This material may differ in any one or more respects, including, but not limited to, material type or composition, material grade or hardness, rigidity, and thickness. Therefore, by providing nasal column modules as described above, the material of the nasal column modules can also be changed if desired / when needed. For example, it may be beneficial if it is desirable to change the nature of the material of the nasal cannula 400 that contacts the patient, or to change at least the material of the nasal column to suit the patient's needs.

[0591] As mentioned above, the type or variant of therapy provided to the patient by the respiratory support system is determined at least in part by the nasal column geometry of the nasal column module detachably coupled to the nasal cannula 400. In some examples, the type of therapy provided can be determined by selecting the nasal column module and detachably coupling it to the nasal cannula 400 without altering any other configuration and / or settings of the respiratory support system.

[0592] Nasal intubation system

[0593] In some examples, a nasal cannula system comprising two or more nasal column modules may be provided. The nasal cannula system may include a nasal cannula 400 and the features mentioned above. Any one of the two or more nasal column modules may be selectively and / or detachably (e.g., mechanically and / or fluidly (e.g., pneumatically)) coupled to the nasal cannula 400 of the nasal cannula system. A nasal column module coupled to the nasal cannula 400 may be detached and replaced by another nasal column module of the two or more nasal column modules of the nasal cannula system. In other words, a nasal column module coupled to the nasal cannula 400 may be interchangeably and detachably coupled to the remaining nasal column modules of the two or more nasal column modules.

[0594] For example, this provides the possibility of selectively choosing a nasal column module (and therefore the nasal column geometry and / or material) that best suits and / or meets the patient's needs. The patient's needs may include and / or depend on a number of factors, including but not limited to any one or more of the following: the required and / or recommended type or variant of therapy; the geometry of at least one nasal column best suited to the patient (e.g., best suited to the patient's nostrils) (e.g., column size, shape, and / or symmetry / asymmetry); the most suitable and / or most comfortable material; and minimizing or at least reducing the likelihood of interference and / or blockage of the nasal cannula 400 (and / or the flow of breathing gas to the patient) and / or other devices or objects the patient is using.

[0595] Furthermore, not only may the needs of one patient differ from those of another, but the needs of the same patient may also change throughout the course of treatment. For example, for the same patient, a first nasal column geometry providing the first therapy (e.g., an asymmetric nasal column geometry providing asymmetric high-flow nasal therapy) may be beneficial for the initial phase of treatment, while a second nasal column geometry providing the second therapy (e.g., a symmetric nasal column geometry providing symmetric high-flow nasal therapy) may be preferred, for example, for greater comfort or effectiveness. In some cases, as the patient's respiratory rate decreases / improves during treatment, they may need to discontinue the therapy, so changing the nasal column geometry and thus the therapy provided may be useful. For example, switching from an asymmetric nasal column geometry to a symmetric nasal column geometry may be useful, and vice versa. Therefore, different nasal column geometries may be preferred and / or experimented with at different stages of treatment.

[0596] Symmetrical nasal high-flow therapy and asymmetric nasal high-flow therapy are different variations of nasal high-flow therapy. Compared to equivalent symmetrical nasal column geometry and / or symmetrical nasal high-flow therapy, asymmetric nasal column geometry and / or asymmetric nasal high-flow therapy can provide improved flushing (CO2 clearance) and / or increased pressure at the same flow rate. Or, they can provide similar flushing and / or pressure at lower flow rates.

[0597] In some examples, it may be useful to maintain the nasal insertion geometry (e.g., asymmetrical or symmetrical nasal insertion geometry) and modify the nasal insertion module to change the material (of at least a portion of the nasal insertion module) and / or change the size of at least one nasal insertion. This may (i) improve patient comfort and / or therapeutic efficacy, and / or (ii) reduce the likelihood of interference / blockage of the nasal cannula 400 and / or other devices being used by the patient (e.g., nasogastric tube).

[0598] In some examples, the nasal insertion module (and therefore the nasal insertion geometry and / or material of at least a portion thereof) may be selectively coupled to the nasal cannula 400 to minimize or reduce the likelihood of interference and / or blockage of the nasal cannula 400 and / or other devices / objects being used by the patient. These devices and / or objects may include those located at or near the patient's mouth and / or nose (e.g., a nasogastric tube). This can enhance patient comfort, as well as device performance and versatility, for example, by reducing the likelihood of device blockage.

[0599] Furthermore, by providing the ability to vary between two or more nasal plug geometries (e.g., between a left asymmetric nasal plug geometry and a right asymmetric nasal plug geometry), a nasal plug geometry that is relatively more suitable and / or more suited to the shape / structure of the patient's external nasal cavity can be provided (and thus the nasal cannula 400) (e.g., providing an asymmetric nasal plug geometry plug suitable for the patient's nasal asymmetry). Additionally, by providing the ability to vary between two or more nasal plug modules (e.g., with different nasal plug geometries), nasal plug modules can be selectively selected and coupled, which prevents patient injury and / or discomfort, reduces the likelihood of patient injury and / or discomfort, and / or adapts the patient to injury and / or discomfort that would otherwise be adversely affected by other / certain nasal plug geometries. In some applications (e.g., home therapy), patients may experience injury and / or discomfort due to prolonged use of a particular nasal plug geometry and / or material. As mentioned above, this can be avoided by interchangeing two or more nasal stump modules (i.e., interchangeably and detachably connecting the two or more nasal stump modules to the nasal cannula 400), which may differ in one or more aspects (such as nasal stump geometry and stump size) and / or may include different materials, or at least be made of different materials.

[0600] The nasal cannula system may include a first nasal insertion module and a second nasal insertion module. The first nasal insertion module may have a first nasal insertion geometry. The second nasal insertion module may have a second nasal insertion geometry. The first nasal insertion geometry may be different from the second nasal insertion geometry, or it may be exactly the same (or substantially similar).

[0601] A first nasal column module (and a first nasal column geometry) may be arranged to provide a first therapy to a patient. A second nasal column module (and a second nasal column geometry) may be arranged to provide a second therapy to a patient. The first therapy may differ from the second therapy (i.e., a different type or variant of therapy may be provided). In some examples, for instance, the provision of a first or second therapy to a patient by a respiratory support system may be determined at least in part by selecting and / or coupling the first or second nasal column module without altering any other configuration and / or settings of the respiratory support system.

[0602] In some examples, at least one nasal column of the nasal column module (e.g., either or both of the first nasal column module and the second nasal column module) may be arranged to partially block at least one of the patient's left and right nostrils.

[0603] In some examples, the first nose post module (and the first nose post geometry) may have a first symmetrical nose post geometry, for example... Figures 9 to 22The nasal insertion module 408 is shown, and the second nasal insertion module (and the second nasal insertion geometry) may have a second symmetrical nasal insertion geometry, for example... Figures 23 to 25 The nose post module 508 shown has a second symmetrical nose post geometry that differs from the first symmetrical nose post geometry (e.g., in one or more aspects mentioned above, such as post size and / or inner / outer diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter).

[0604] The first treatment method (e.g., a first variant of a high-flow nasal therapy) can be one of an asymmetric or symmetric high-flow nasal therapy. The second treatment method (e.g., a second variant of a high-flow nasal therapy) can be another of a symmetric or symmetric high-flow nasal therapy. In possible examples, the first nasal plug module may have a symmetric nasal plug geometry, such as the nasal plug geometry of nasal plug module 408 or nasal plug module 508, and the second nasal plug module may have an asymmetric nasal plug geometry, such as the nasal plug geometry of nasal plug module 608 or nasal plug module 708.

[0605] In some examples, the first nose post module (and the first nose post geometry) and the second nose post module (and the second nose post geometry) may (e.g., in one or more aspects mentioned above) have asymmetric nose post geometries that may differ from each other. The first nose post module may have a left asymmetric nose post geometry, for example... Figures 26 to 28 The example shows a nose post module 608, and the second nose post module may have a right asymmetric nose post geometry, for example... Figures 29 to 31 The example shows the nose insertion module 708.

[0606] In some examples, both the first nose plug module (and the first nose plug geometry) and the second nose plug module (and the second nose plug geometry) may have a left-asymmetric nose plug geometry or a right-asymmetric nose plug geometry. For example, in any one or more of the aspects mentioned above, the first and second nose plugs of the first nose plug module may differ from those of the second nose plug module, respectively. For example, the size or inner / outer diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter of the first nose plug module may differ from (i.e., larger or smaller) the size or inner / outer diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter of the first nose plug module may differ from (i.e., larger or smaller) the size or inner / outer diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter of the second nose plug module. Additionally or alternatively, the size or inner / outer diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter of the second nose plug module may differ from (i.e., larger or smaller) the size or inner / outer diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter of the second nose plug module.

[0607] In some examples, the nasal cannula system may include a third nasal column module. The third nasal column module may have a third nasal column geometry. In any one or more of the aspects mentioned above, the third nasal column geometry may differ from the first and / or second nasal column geometry. The third nasal column geometry may include a symmetrical or asymmetrical nasal column geometry, such as those described above. In some examples, the third nasal column geometry may include an asymmetrical nasal column geometry, wherein at least one nasal column (e.g., the first and second nasal columns) differs from a nasal column having either or both of the first and second nasal column geometries in one or more aspects (e.g., column size). For example, the size and / or inner / outer diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter of a first nose post having a third nose post geometry may differ (i.e., be larger or smaller) from the size and / or inner / outer diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter of a first nose post having either or both of the first and second nose post geometries. Furthermore, the size or inner / outer diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter of a second nose post having a third nose post geometry may differ (i.e., be larger or smaller) from the size or inner / outer diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter of a second nose post having either or both of the first and second nose post geometries.

[0608] In one example, the geometry of the third nasal post may be, or can be, a left-asymmetric nasal post geometry, such that: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third left nasal post may be greater than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third right nasal post; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third left nasal post may be greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third right nasal post. The third left nasal post may be arranged to provide a larger volumetric flow rate than the third right nasal post.

[0609] In another example, the geometry of the third nasal post may be, or can be, a right-asymmetric nasal post geometry, such that: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third right nasal post may be greater than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third left nasal post; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third right nasal post may be greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third left nasal post. The third left nasal post may be arranged to provide a larger volumetric flow rate than the third right nasal post.

[0610] In examples where both the first and second nose plug modules (and the third nose plug module, if present) have or form any of a left asymmetric nose plug geometry, a right asymmetric nose plug geometry, or a symmetric geometry, the following may apply: The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nose plug may be larger than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nose plug; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nose plug may be larger than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nose plug. The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nose plug may be larger than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third left nose plug; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nose plug may be larger than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third left nose plug.

[0611] In some examples, the nasal cannula system may include a fourth nasal column module. The fourth nasal column module may have a fourth nasal column geometry. This fourth nasal column geometry may differ from any or more of the first, second, and third nasal column geometries. The fourth nasal column geometry may include symmetrical or asymmetrical nasal column geometries, such as those described above. In some examples, for instance, the fourth nasal column geometry may include an asymmetrical nasal column geometry, wherein at least one nasal column differs in one or more aspects (e.g., column size) compared to a corresponding nasal column having any or more of the first, second, and third nasal column geometries. For example, the size or inner / outer diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter of the first nose post having a fourth nose post geometry may differ (i.e., be larger or smaller) from the size or inner / outer diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter of the first nose post having any one or more of the first, second, and third nose post geometries. Furthermore, the size and / or inner / outer diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter of the second nose post having a fourth nose post geometry may differ (i.e., be larger or smaller) from the size and / or inner / outer diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter of the second nose post having any one or more of the first, second, and third nose post geometries.

[0612] In some examples, the nasal cannula system may include additional post modules, i.e., more than four nasal post modules, which may be interchangeably coupled to the nasal cannula 400 (e.g., to the frame 402 and / or the connecting member 404).

[0613] In some examples, a parts kit may be provided. The parts kit may include at least one nose post module (e.g., any or more of a first nose post module, a second nose post module, a third nose post module, and a fourth nose post module). The parts kit may include any or more of the following: frame 402, connecting member 404, at least one pin 412 (…). Figure 7 The kit includes at least one inlet conduit 302, a connecting member connector 405 (which may be arranged to connect the inlet conduit 302 to the connecting member 404), at least one swivel connector (which may be arranged to connect the inlet conduit 302 to the inhalation conduit), and a headgear 306. In some examples, the kit may include two or more nasal column modules. For example, the kit may include a first nasal column module and a second nasal column module, the first nasal column module forming a left asymmetric nasal column geometry and the second nasal column module forming a right asymmetric nasal column geometry. Alternatively, the nasal column geometries of the first and second nasal column modules may be at least substantially similar or identical (e.g., both forming a left asymmetric or right asymmetric nasal column geometry).

[0614] In another example, the parts kit may include: a first nose post module (having a first left nose post and a first right nose post), the first nose post module having or forming a left asymmetric nose post geometry; and a second nose post module (having a second left nose post and a second right nose post), the second nose post module having or forming a left asymmetric nose post geometry. In this example, the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nose post may be larger than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nose post; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nose post may be larger than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nose post. Alternatively or additionally, the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nose post may be larger than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nose post; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nose post may be larger than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nose post.

[0615] The component kit may include a third nose post module (having a third left nose post and a third right nose post), the third nose post module having or forming a left asymmetric nose post geometry. The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nose post may be larger than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third left nose post; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nose post may be larger than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third left nose post. Alternatively or additionally, the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nose post may be larger than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third right nose post; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nose post may be larger than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third right nose post.

[0616] In another example, the parts kit may include: a first nose post module (having a first left nose post and a first right nose post), the first nose post module having or forming a right asymmetric nose post geometry; and a second nose post module (having a second left nose post and a second right nose post), the second nose post module having or forming a right asymmetric nose post geometry. In this example, the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nose post may be larger than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nose post; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nose post may be larger than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nose post. Alternatively or additionally, the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nose post may be larger than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nose post; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nose post may be larger than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nose post.

[0617] The component kit may include a third nose post module (having a third left nose post and a third right nose post) having or forming a right asymmetric nose post geometry. The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nose post may be larger than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third left nose post; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nose post may be larger than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third left nose post. Alternatively or additionally, the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nose post may be larger than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third right nose post; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nose post may be larger than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third right nose post.

[0618] In some examples, the parts kit may include one or more of the following: intake duct 140, connector 142, connector 144, humidifier supply duct 120, and filter 114.

[0619] Base portion

[0620] In some examples, the nasal cannula module may include a base portion 420. The base portion 420 may be arranged to be detachably coupled to either or both of the frame 402 and the connecting member 404 of the nasal cannula 400. In some examples, the nasal cannula module may include a body portion 440. The base portion 420 may be coupled to or attached to the body portion 440. In some examples, the base portion 420 and the body portion 440 may be integrally formed. For example, the body portion 440 may be overmolded to the base portion 420.

[0621] The body portion 440 may be arranged to receive a flow of breathing gas for delivery to a patient, for example, to the patient's upper airway. In some examples, at least one nasal post may be arranged to be fluidly (e.g., pneumatically) coupled to the body portion 440 and / or the base portion 420. In some examples, at least one nasal post may extend from the body portion 440.

[0622] The following description refers to nose pillar module 408 and describes possible examples of its features. While the following features have been described with reference to nose pillar module 408 (e.g., to its base portion 420 and body portion 440), it should be understood that these features may also be incorporated into / included in arrangements of other possible examples of nose pillar modules described herein, such as nose pillar module 508, nose pillar module 608, and nose pillar module 708.

[0623] refer to Figure 9 and Figure 10 The nasal insertion module 408 may include a base portion 420 and / or a body portion 440. The body portion 440 may be coupled to the base portion 420. At least one nasal insertion post 406 (e.g., a first nasal insertion post 406a and a second nasal insertion post 406b) may be arranged to be fluidly (e.g., pneumatically) coupled to the body portion 440 and / or the base portion 420. In some examples, at least a portion (e.g., a distal portion) of each of the at least one nasal insertion post (e.g., at least one nasal insertion post 406, 506, 606, 706) may be arranged such that it may protrude or extend from a first longitudinal sidewall and / or rear wall of the body portion (as further explained below). The protrusion or extension direction may be away from the base portion.

[0624] The nasal insertion module 408, such as the base portion 420, may be arranged, for example, adjacent to the rear side of the frame 402, to be selectively and / or detachably coupled (e.g., fluidly) to the frame 402.

[0625] In some examples, the nasal insertion module 408 (e.g., base portion 420) may include at least one gas inlet port 450. The at least one gas inlet port 450 may be arranged in fluid communication with at least one inlet conduit 302. In some examples, the at least one gas inlet port 450 may be arranged to be fluidly (e.g., pneumatically) coupled to at least one nasal insertion post 406 (directly or indirectly). The at least one gas inlet port 450 may be arranged to receive a flow of breathing gas to supply to the body portion 440 and at least one nasal insertion post 406 (e.g., either or both of a first nasal insertion post 406a and a second nasal insertion post 406b).

[0626] In some examples, at least one gas inlet port 450 may include a first gas inlet port 450a and a second gas inlet port 450b. A first nose post 406a may be arranged to be fluidly (e.g., pneumatically) connected to the first gas inlet port 450a (directly or indirectly). A second nose post 406b may be arranged to be fluidly (e.g., pneumatically) connected to the second gas inlet port 450b (directly or indirectly).

[0627] At least one gas inlet port 450 may be arranged to be detachably and / or fluidly (e.g., pneumatically) connected to at least one outlet opening 414 of the frame 402, either directly or indirectly. In some examples, a first gas inlet port 450a of the nasal stump module 408 may be arranged to be detachably and / or fluidly (e.g., pneumatically) connected to a first outlet opening 414a of the frame 402, and a second gas inlet port 450b may be arranged to be detachably and / or fluidly (e.g., pneumatically) connected to a second outlet opening 414b of the frame 402, either directly or indirectly, for example, to receive a flow of breathing gas. Therefore, at least the nasal stump 406 may be arranged to be detachably and / or fluidly (e.g., pneumatically) connected to at least one outlet opening 414 of the frame 402, either directly or indirectly, for example, to receive a flow of breathing gas. For example, the first nasal insertion post 406a may be arranged to be connected to the first outlet opening 414a, and / or the second nasal insertion post 406b may be arranged to be connected to the second outlet opening 414b.

[0628] In some examples, the nasal insertion post module 408 (e.g., base portion 420) may be arranged to form a seal with the frame 402 (e.g., a face seal and / or annular seal). The features forming the seal may include at least one outlet opening 414 of the frame 402, such as either or both of a first outlet opening 414a and a second outlet opening 414b.

[0629] The base portion 420 may include one or more (e.g., a single) recesses 430. The one or more recesses 430 may be arranged to prevent the nasal cannula module 408 from interfering with or blocking at least one pin 412. Additionally or alternatively, the one or more recesses 430 may be arranged (e.g., sealingly and / or removably) to receive corresponding portions of the nasal cannula 400, such as a portion of the frame 402, and / or at least one pin 412. In some examples, the one or more recesses 430 may be located between a first gas inlet port 450a and a second gas inlet port 450b. The one or more recesses 430 may have any shape complementary to the shape of the corresponding portion (e.g., at least one pin 412) of the nasal cannula 400. For example, the one or more recesses 430 and the corresponding portion of the nasal cannula 400 may be circular or rectangular.

[0630] The base portion 420 may be at least partially made of a first material, and the body portion 440 may be at least partially made of a second material. In some examples, the first material may be different from the second material. In some examples, the first material may be more rigid than the second material. This may, for example, provide improved structural integrity of the base portion 420 relative to the body portion 440. In some examples, the second material may be more flexible and / or stretchable than the first material.

[0631] Alternatively, the first and second materials can be the same. In some examples, the base portion 420 and the body portion 440 can be housed in a single molded part.

[0632] In some examples, the body portion 440 may be at least partially made of an elastomer (e.g., silicone rubber and / or thermoplastic elastomer). In some examples, the substrate portion 420 may be at least partially made of any material capable of being chemically and / or physically bonded to the body portion 440, such as any of polypropylene (PP), nylon, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), polycarbonate (PC), and polyoxymethylene (POM). In some examples, at least a portion of the substrate portion 420 may be opaque. In some examples, at least a portion of the body portion 440 may be translucent.

[0633] In some examples, the color of at least a portion of the base portion 420 may be different from the color of at least a portion of the body portion 440. In some examples, the color of the entire base portion 420 may be different from the color of the entire body portion 440.

[0634] In some examples, the base portion 420 may include at least one color. This at least one color may be associated with the geometry of at least one nasal post 406. The at least one color may include a first color and a second color. The first color may be associated with the geometry of a first nasal post 406a. The second color may be associated with the geometry of a second nasal post 406b.

[0635] In some examples, such as nose plug modules having symmetrical nose plug geometry (e.g., nose plug module 408 or nose plug module 508), the first color may be the same as the second color. In some examples, such as nose plug modules having asymmetrical nose plug geometry (e.g., nose plug module 608 or nose plug module 708), the first color may be different from the second color.

[0636] In some examples, at least one color of a first nose post module having a first symmetrical nose post geometry may be different from at least one color of a second nose post module having a second symmetrical nose post geometry, which may differ from the first symmetrical nose post geometry in one or more aspects (e.g., post size).

[0637] In some examples, at least one color of a first nose plug module having a first asymmetric nose plug geometry may differ from at least one color of a second nose plug module having a second asymmetric nose plug geometry, which may differ from the first asymmetric nose plug geometry in one or more aspects. The first and second nose plug modules may each include a first color and a second color that are different from each other. The first color may be associated with the left nose plug (e.g., first nose plug 606a and first nose plug 706a), and the second color may be associated with the right nose plug (e.g., second nose plug 606b and second nose plug 707b).

[0638] For example, a first nasal prong module (e.g., nasal prong module 608) may have a first asymmetric nasal prong geometry, which may be a mirror image of a second asymmetric nasal prong geometry of a second nasal prong module (e.g., nasal prong module 708). The arrangement of at least one color of the first nasal prong module may be a mirror image of the arrangement of at least one color of the second nasal prong module. For example, a first color of the first nasal prong module may be at least substantially the same as / similar to a second color of the second nasal prong module, and / or the second color of the first nasal prong module may be at least substantially the same as / similar to the first color of the first nasal prong module.

[0639] In some examples, the base portion 420 may include a bent plate structure. The base portion 420 may include a central waist region. In some examples, the base portion 420 may include a first longitudinal side 421 (e.g., upper side) and / or a second longitudinal side 422 (e.g., lower side), such as... Figure 10 As shown. The first longitudinal side 421 and the second longitudinal side 422 may be positioned relative to each other. The first longitudinal side 421 and / or the second longitudinal side 422 may taper at least partially toward the central waist region, for example, from one or both sides of the respective longitudinal side. In some examples, the distance between the first longitudinal side 421 and the second longitudinal side 422 may define the height of the main body portion. The height of the main body portion may taper at least partially toward the central waist region.

[0640] In some examples, the base portion 420 may be arranged to bend elastically, for example, when the nose post module is removed from the frame 402.

[0641] In some examples, the base portion 420 may be arranged to be connected to the frame 402 only along a single orientation.

[0642] like Figures 9 to 22 As shown, the nasal insertion post module 408 (e.g., base portion 420) may include one or more connection structures 480. One or more connection structures 480 may be arranged to attach to at least a portion of the frame 402, such as one or more corresponding attachment structures 490 of the frame 402 (e.g.,...). Figure 8 , Figure 35 and Figure 36 The attachment structures shown engage and / or cooperate. One or more attachment structures 480 may be arranged to deflect (e.g., reversibly and / or elastically) and at least partially recover when the nose post module 408 (e.g., base portion 420) is engaged and / or disengaged from the frame 402.

[0643] Each of the one or more connection structures 480 may include a protrusion (e.g., such as...) Figure 18 (As shown). The protrusion may be arranged to mate or engage with a recess or underside portion of a corresponding attachment structure 490 of frame 402. In some examples, each protrusion may be located on the inner surface of the corresponding attachment structure 480. Each protrusion may be located on, at, or near the distal end of the corresponding attachment structure 480. The distal end of the attachment structure 480 may be the end furthest from the body portion 440.

[0644] In some examples, one or more connection structures 480 may include a pair of connection structures 480. The pair of connection structures 480 may be arranged to cooperate with a corresponding pair of attachment structures 490 of the frame 402. The pair of connection structures 480 may be positioned relative to each other. In some examples, one of the connection structures 480 may be located on a first longitudinal side 421 (e.g., upper side, in use) of the base portion 420, and the other connection structure 480 may be located on a second longitudinal side 422 (e.g., lower side, in use) of the base portion 420.

[0645] In some examples, one of the connection structures 480 may include a first connection structure, and the other connection structure in the pair of connection structures 480 may include a second connection structure. The first connection structure may have a first connection structure geometry, and the second connection structure may have a second connection structure geometry. The first and second connection structure geometries may differ from each other. In some examples, the first connection structure may be wider than the second connection structure. The size / width of the attachment structure 490 may be arranged such that it corresponds to the size / width of the connection structure 480 to which it is arranged to accommodate. For example, in a pair of attachment structures 490, one attachment structure arranged to connect to the first connection structure (which is wider than the second connection structure) may be wider than the other attachment structure in the pair of attachment structures 490.

[0646] In some examples, the first connecting structure may be located in the central portion (also referred to as the "lower central region") of the first longitudinal side 421 of the base portion 420, and the second connecting structure may be located in the central portion (also referred to as the "upper central region") of the second longitudinal side 422 of the base portion 420.

[0647] In some examples, one or more connecting structures 480 may be bisected by the sagittal plane S. One or more connecting structures 480 may be arranged to protrude along the forward direction, for example, away from the main body portion 440 and / or protrude during use.

[0648] In some examples, the connection between the nasal plug module 408 (e.g., base portion 420) and the frame 402 may be provided by a removable snap-fit ​​mechanism. The connection between the nasal plug module 408 and the frame 402 (e.g., a removable snap-fit) may be arranged to provide one or more of the following: tactile feedback; auditory feedback; and visual feedback. Visual feedback may include abutting or approaching one or more connection structures 480 of the connection member 404. In other words, visual feedback may be provided that the nasal plug module 408 is not properly / fully connected to the frame 402 when one or more connection structures 480 are not abutting or approaching the connection member 404 when connected to the frame 402. Auditory feedback may include the generation of sound when the nasal plug module 408 is connected to the frame 402 (e.g., a removable snap-fit).

[0649] In some examples, at least one of the one or more connection structures 480 (e.g., at least one of a pair of connection structures) may include at least one slot 481. At least one slot 481 may be centrally located on the respective connection structure 480 (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 37(As shown). Frame 402 (e.g., at least one of one or more attachment structures 490) may include at least one protrusion 491. At least one slot 481 may be arranged to cooperate with and / or receive the corresponding / corresponding protrusion 491. For example, each slot 481 may be arranged to be bonded to each other via the corresponding / corresponding protrusion 491. In some examples where the base portion 420 includes a pair of coupling structures 480, only one of the pair of coupling structures 480 may include at least one slot 481, which may be arranged to cooperate with and / or receive the at least one protrusion 491 of the corresponding or corresponding attachment structure 490. For example, only the first coupling structure or only the second coupling structure (as discussed above) may include at least one (e.g., a single) slot 481, each slot being arranged to cooperate with and / or receive the protrusion 491 of the corresponding or corresponding attachment structure 490. By providing at least one slot 481 on only one connection structure 480, a visual cue can be provided regarding the correct orientation of the nose plug module 408 relative to the frame 402 and / or the connecting member 404. This serves as an alternative or supplement to the fact that one connection structure is wider than the others, preventing or reducing the likelihood of a user attempting to connect the nose plug module 408 to the frame 402 and / or the connecting member 404 in an incorrect (and unintended) orientation. In other words, either or both of (a) one connection structure being wider than the others and (b) at least one slot 481 being provided on only one connection structure 480 can provide a visual cue regarding the correct orientation of the nose plug module 408 relative to the frame 402 and / or the connecting member 404. In some examples, the nose plug module 408 is connected to the frame 402 and / or the connecting member 404 only along one correct orientation.

[0650] Alternatively, both the first and second connecting structures may include at least one slot 481, for example, the number and / or size of the slots in one of the connecting structures may differ from the number and / or size of the slots in the other connecting structures.

[0651] One or more connecting structures 480 of the base portion 420 of the nasal insertion module and one or more attachment structures 490 of the frame 402 can be arranged to torque-resistantly connect the base portion 420 to the frame 402 by translating the base portion 420 and the frame 402 toward each other in at least one of the forward and rearward directions. In some examples, the base portion 420 and the frame 402 are torque-resistantly connected to each other only by translating the base portion 420 and the frame 402 toward each other in at least one of the forward and rearward directions. The translational movement along at least one of the forward and rearward directions allows one or more connecting structures 480 to engage with one or more attachment structures 490. The connection between the base portion 420 and the frame 402 can be torque-resistant, such that the two components may not rotate relative to each other. In one example, the connection between the base portion 420 and the frame 402 rigidly fixes the base portion 420 to the frame 402, such that the two components may not move relative to each other, whether by rotation or translation.

[0652] Main body

[0653] In some examples, at least one nasal column 406 may extend from the body portion 440. The body portion 440 may be arranged to deliver a flow of respiratory gases to a patient via at least one nasal column 406 (e.g., either or both of a first nasal column 406a and a second nasal column 406b).

[0654] The nasal insertion module 408, such as the main body portion 440, may include at least one gas-carrying portion 460 (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 10 , Figure 11 and Figure 16 (As shown). At least one gas-carrying portion 460 may be arranged to be fluidly (e.g., pneumatically) coupled to at least one gas inlet port 450. At least one gas-carrying portion 460 may be arranged to provide a gas flow path for a breathing gas flow. At least one gas-carrying portion 460 may be arranged to fluidly (e.g., pneumatically) couple at least one nasal post 406 to at least one gas inlet port 450 of the nasal post module 408.

[0655] At least one gas-carrying portion 460 may include a first gas-carrying portion 460a. In some examples, the first gas-carrying portion 460a may be arranged to pneumatically connect a first nasal post 406a to a first gas inlet port 450a of a nasal post module 408 (e.g., of the base portion 420). At least one gas-carrying portion 460 may include a second gas-carrying portion 460b. In some examples, the second gas-carrying portion 460b may be arranged to pneumatically connect a second nasal post 406b to a second gas inlet port 450b of a nasal post module 408 (e.g., of the base portion 420). Thus, the first gas-carrying portion 460a may be arranged to be fluidly (e.g., pneumatically) connected to the first gas inlet port 450a and the first nasal post 406a, and the second gas-carrying portion 460b may be arranged to be fluidly (e.g., pneumatically) connected to the second gas inlet port 450b and the second nasal post 406b.

[0656] In some examples, one or more gas inlet holes in at least one gas inlet hole 450 may be arranged at least substantially coaxially with the inlet end of the corresponding gas carrying portion 460. For example, a first gas inlet hole 450a may be arranged at least substantially coaxially with the inlet end of a first gas carrying portion 460a, and / or a second gas inlet hole 450b may be arranged at least substantially coaxially with the inlet end of a second gas carrying portion 460b.

[0657] In some examples, the inner diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter of one or more gas inlet holes 450 in at least one gas inlet hole 450 may be equal to or greater than the inner diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter of the corresponding gas carrying portion 460. For example, the inner diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter of the first gas inlet hole 450a may be equal to or greater than the inner diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter of the first gas carrying portion 460a (e.g., the inner diameter or perimeter of the inlet end of the first gas carrying portion 460a), and / or the inner diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter of the second gas inlet hole 450b may be equal to or greater than the inner diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter of the second gas carrying portion 460b (e.g., the inner diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter of the inlet end of the second gas carrying portion 460b).

[0658] In some examples, one or more of the first gas inlet port 450a, the first gas-carrying portion 460a, and the first nose post 406a may be arranged to be fluidly (e.g., pneumatically) connected to the first outlet opening 414a of the frame 402. In some examples, one or more of the second gas inlet port 450b, the second gas-carrying portion 460b, and the second nose post 406b may be arranged to be fluidly (e.g., pneumatically) connected to the second outlet opening 414b of the frame 402.

[0659] The first gas-carrying portion 460a and the second gas-carrying portion 460b can be separated from each other. For example, the breathing gas flow in the first gas-carrying portion 460a can be separated from the breathing gas flow in the second gas-carrying portion 460b.

[0660] In some examples, the first gas-carrying portion and the second gas-carrying portion of a nasal plug module with a symmetrical nasal plug geometry (e.g., the first gas-carrying portion 460a and the second gas-carrying portion 460b of nasal plug module 408) may be exactly the same or substantially similar.

[0661] In some examples, the first gas-carrying portion and the second gas-carrying portion of a nose plug module having an asymmetric nose plug geometry (e.g., the first gas-carrying portion 660a and the second gas-carrying portion 660b of nose plug module 608) may differ from each other in at least one aspect (e.g., size). For example, the first gas-carrying portion 660a may have a smaller inner diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter and / or an outer diameter (e.g., lateral diameter) or cross-sectional area or perimeter compared to the second gas-carrying portion 660b.

[0662] In some examples, the main body portion 440 may include one or more of the following: a first longitudinal sidewall 441, a first lateral sidewall 442, a second lateral sidewall 443, and a rear wall 444. The rear wall 444 may include a central region 445. The rear wall 444 (e.g., the central region 445) may include a rear surface 445a and / or a front surface 445b, for example, as... Figure 22 As shown. The anterior surface 445b may be opposite the posterior surface 445a. The posterior wall 444 (e.g., the posterior surface 445a) may be arranged to contact and / or engage the patient's upper lip region.

[0663] In some examples, the posterior surface 445a may include a continuous curve. Alternatively, the posterior surface 445a may include a discontinuous curve. At least a portion of the continuous or discontinuous curve may be arranged to follow the curvature of a portion of the patient's face (e.g., the patient's upper lip region). In some examples, the central region 445 and / or the posterior surface 445a may be shaped and / or arranged to accommodate the nasal septum region of the patient's nose in use.

[0664] In some examples, the body portion 440 may include at least one lateral extension. For example, the body portion 440 may include a pair of lateral extensions (e.g., Figure 12 The first lateral extension 471 and the second lateral extension 472 are shown. The at least one lateral extension (e.g., the first lateral extension 471 and the second lateral extension 472) may extend laterally from the rear wall 444. In some examples, one of the pair of lateral extensions (e.g., the first lateral extension 471) may extend beyond the first lateral sidewall 442, and / or the other lateral extension in the pair (e.g., the second lateral extension 472) may extend beyond the second lateral sidewall 443.

[0665] Compared to one or more remaining portions of the main body portion 440 and / or the base portion 420, the at least one lateral extension (e.g., the pair of lateral extensions) may be relatively wide, relatively thin, and / or relatively flexible. In some examples, the length of each of the at least one lateral extension (e.g., the pair of lateral extensions) is greater than or longer than its width. In one example, the length-to-width ratio of each lateral extension is in the range of 2:1 to 7:1. In some examples, the length of each of the at least one lateral extension (e.g., the pair of lateral extensions) is greater than or longer than its thickness. In one example, the length-to-thickness ratio of each lateral extension is in the range of 3:1 to 10:1.

[0666] The at least one lateral extension (e.g., the pair of lateral extensions) may have different thicknesses. In some examples, the thickness of each lateral extension may gradually decrease from a first end to a second end. The first end of the lateral extension may be close to the central region 445 of the rear wall 444, and the second end may be away from the central region 445 of the rear wall 444. In other words, the first end of the lateral extension may be closer to the central region 445 than the second end of the lateral extension.

[0667] In some examples, such as Figure 32 and Figure 37 As shown, the at least one lateral extension (e.g., the first lateral extension 471 and the second lateral extension 472) may include a hinge portion or a pivot portion 483. The pivot portion 483 may be arranged to allow the at least one lateral extension to have greater flexibility and to provide a wider range of bending or flexing. For example, each lateral extension may be reversibly bent / flexed such that the angle between the lateral extension and the rear surface 445a and / or the rear wall 444 may be increased to more than 180 degrees and / or decreased to less than 90 degrees.

[0668] In some examples, the at least one lateral extension (e.g., the distal end of the pair of lateral extensions) may be arranged spaced apart from the frame 402 before and / or when the nasal cannula assembly is fitted to the patient. In some examples, for instance, the at least one lateral extension (e.g., the distal end of the pair of lateral extensions) may be arranged to cushion the patient (e.g., between the patient and the frame 402) when the nasal cannula 400 may be pressed against the patient's face (e.g., by external factors or forces). In some examples, the at least one lateral extension (e.g., the distal end of the pair of lateral extensions) may be arranged to be supported by the frame 402 when the nasal cannula assembly is fitted to the patient.

[0669] In some examples, at least a portion (e.g., the distal portion) of at least one nasal post 406 (e.g., either or both of the first nasal post 406a and the second nasal post 406b) may protrude from the first longitudinal sidewall 441 (e.g., upward and / or backward).

[0670] Non-modular features of nasal intubation

[0671] In an alternative example of the nasal cannula module described above, at least a portion of the features described above with respect to the nasal cannula module may be configured as permanent / non-removable features of the nasal cannula.

[0672] For example, at least one nasal post may be permanently, fluidly (e.g., pneumatically), and / or mechanically coupled to the remainder (or a portion) of the nasal cannula 400, such as either or both of the frame 402 and the connecting member 404. In other words, at least one nasal post may be configured as a non-removable feature of the nasal cannula (e.g., not as part of the nasal post module). The nasal cannula may include at least one gas-bearing portion as a non-removable element.

[0673] In some examples, the patient contact portion of the nasal cannula, such as the main body portion of the nasal column module (and optionally, any one or more of the features described above) and at least one nasal column, may be configured as a permanent / non-removable feature of the nasal cannula, rather than a removable arrangement, for example, as part of a removable nasal column module.

[0674] In some examples, the nasal cannula may include a lumen. The lumen may include, or be formed by, one or more air gaps 470. The lumen (e.g., one or more air gaps 470) may be located in the patient contact portion of the nasal cannula, such as the body portion of the nasal column module. In some examples, the body portion may be arranged such that it defines the lumen (e.g., one or more air gaps 470). At least a portion of the lumen (e.g., one or more air gaps 470) may be defined by and / or adjacent to any one or more of the following: at least a portion of a posterior wall (e.g., posterior wall 444 of the nasal column module), at least a portion of a first longitudinal sidewall 441, at least a portion of a first lateral sidewall 442, and at least a portion of a second lateral sidewall 443.

[0675] In some examples, one or more of the first longitudinal sidewall 441 (also referred to as the upper sidewall), the first lateral sidewall 442, and the second lateral sidewall 443 may at least partially define the cavity (e.g., one or more air gaps 470). Additionally or alternatively, one or more air gaps 470 may be at least partially defined by one or more of the following: the base portion 420 (of the nasal stud module), the second longitudinal sidewall (e.g., opposite the first longitudinal sidewall 441 of the body portion), at least one gas-bearing portion 460, and at least one nasal stud (e.g., either or both of the first and second nasal studs).

[0676] In use, one or more air gaps 470 may be exposed to or communicate with ambient air, for example, in the lower region of the main body. In some examples, one or more air gaps 470 may communicate with ambient air through openings in a second longitudinal sidewall. In some examples, the cavity or one or more air gaps 470 may be separated (e.g., fluidly separated) from at least one gas-carrying portion and / or breathing gas flow.

[0677] In some examples, at least a portion of one or more air gaps 470 may be centrally located in the nasal cannula, for example, in the central region of the body portion. In some examples, multiple cavities may be provided. The multiple air gaps 470 may be at least partially separated by a boundary between each pair of adjacent air gaps 470. One or more boundaries between the multiple air gaps may be formed by at least one gas-bearing portion and / or at least located near at least one gas-bearing portion. In one example, the nasal cannula may include three air gaps. A first boundary may be formed by a first gas-bearing portion and / or at least located near the first gas-bearing portion. A second boundary may be formed by a second gas-bearing portion and / or at least located near the second gas-bearing portion. In some examples, the multiple air gaps may be partially separated rather than completely separated from each other.

[0678] In some examples, at least a portion of the cavity or one or more air gaps 470 may be located between the first gas inlet orifice and the second gas inlet orifice and / or between the first gas-bearing portion and the second gas-bearing portion. In some examples, at least a portion of one or more air gaps 470 may be located between at least one gas-bearing portion 460 and any one or both of the first lateral sidewall 442 and the second lateral sidewall 443 and / or the second longitudinal sidewall.

[0679] In some examples, at least a portion of the cavity or one or more air gaps 470 (e.g., a first air gap 470a) may be located between at least a portion of at least one gas-bearing portion (e.g., between a first gas-bearing portion 460a and a second gas-bearing portion 460b). In other words, the cavity may provide an air gap between the first gas-bearing portion 460a and the second gas-bearing portion 460b. At least a portion of one or more air gaps 470 (e.g., a second air gap 470b) may be located between at least a portion of the first gas-bearing portion 460a and a first lateral sidewall 442. Additionally or alternatively, at least a portion of one or more air gaps 470 (e.g., a third air gap 470c) may be located between at least a portion of the second gas-bearing portion 460b and a second lateral sidewall 443. Figure 33 and Figure 34 Examples of a first air gap, a second air gap, and a third air gap are shown. In some examples, the second air gap 470b may have at least substantially the same size and / or volume as the third air gap 470c. Alternatively, the size and / or volume of the second air gap 470b may be larger or smaller than that of the third air gap 470c.

[0680] The lumen (e.g., one or more air gaps 470) of the nasal cannula (e.g., a nasal column module) may be positioned between at least a portion of the rear wall of the patient contact portion of the nasal cannula, such as the rear wall 444 of the nasal column module (e.g., the rear surface 445a), and at least one gas-carrying portion 460 (e.g., either or both of a first gas-carrying portion 460a and a second gas-carrying portion 460b), and / or provide space therebetween. In some examples, the anterior surface 445b may be, for example, within or through the lumen (e.g., one or more air gaps 470) and exposed to ambient air.

[0681] The cavity (e.g., one or more air gaps 470) provides an air-insulating gap. This air-insulating gap minimizes or at least reduces heat transfer from at least one gas-bearing portion 460 to the rear wall 444 (e.g., rear surface 445a). This avoids or reduces the possibility of at least a portion of the facial / lip contact surface of the nasal cannula (e.g., rear surface 445a) heating up, which could otherwise heat the patient's face and / or cause condensation on the patient's face.

[0682] In some examples, one or more air gaps 470 may provide a cushioning effect for the patient (e.g., lip) contact surface of the nasal cannula 400. This can provide a more flexible patient (e.g., lip) contact surface (e.g., posterior wall 444) that can more easily conform to the patient's face (e.g., their upper lip area).

[0683] By providing one or more air gaps 470, certain areas of the nasal cannula, such as the gas-bearing portion 460, at least a portion of the rear wall 444, at least a portion of the first longitudinal sidewall 441, at least a portion of the first lateral sidewall 442, and at least a portion of the second lateral sidewall 443, can be more easily cleaned and maintained.

[0684] Disconnection element

[0685] In some examples, the nasal cannula module may include one or more disconnecting elements. These disconnecting elements can be used to detach the nasal cannula module from the rest of the nasal cannula 400 (e.g., frame 402). In some examples, these disconnecting elements can be used to push or cause the nasal cannula module to disengage from the frame 402, for example, by forcibly releasing one or more connection structures of the nasal cannula module from one or more attachment structures 490 of the frame 402.

[0686] In some examples, at least a portion of the one or more disengagement elements may be disposed on or formed by at least one lateral extension (e.g., a first lateral extension 471 and / or a second lateral extension 472). Additionally or alternatively, at least a portion of either or more of the rear wall 444 (e.g., the central region 445) and the second longitudinal sidewall may each form or provide at least one disengagement element among the one or more disengagement elements. For example, a portion of the rear wall 444 and / or the second longitudinal sidewall, such as adjacent to a portion of one or more air gaps 470 and / or an opening to ambient air, may provide at least one disengagement element among the one or more disengagement elements. The one or more disengagement elements may be made of a material that is more flexible and / or stretchable than another portion of the nasal plug module (such as the base portion).

[0687] As mentioned above, any of the features described above in the nasal stud module 408 may also be combined with / included in arrangements of other possible examples of nasal stud modules described herein (such as any one or more of nasal stud modules 508, 608 and 708).

[0688] In some examples, nasal insertion module 508 may include a base portion 520, nasal insertion module 608 may include a base portion 620, and nasal insertion module 708 may include a base portion 720. Any or more of base portions 520, 620, and 720 may include any feature portion of the feature portion of base portion 420 described herein. In some examples, nasal insertion module 508 may include a body portion 540, nasal insertion module 608 may include a body portion 640, and nasal insertion module 708 may include a body portion 740. Any or more of body portions 540, 540, and 740 may include any feature portion of the feature portion of body portion 440 described herein. In some examples, nasal insertion module 508 may include a first gas-carrying portion 560a and / or a second nasal insertion portion 506b, nasal insertion module 608 may include a first gas-carrying portion 660a and / or a second gas-carrying portion 660b, and nasal insertion module 708 may include a first gas-carrying portion 760a and / or a second gas-carrying portion 760b. Any one or more of the first gas-carrying portions 560a, 660a, and 760a may include any feature portion of the first gas-carrying portion 460a. Any one or more of the second gas-carrying portions 560b, 660b, and 760b may include any feature portion of the second gas-carrying portion 460b.

[0689] Method for using the nose plug module

[0690] The following describes possible examples of methods for constructing nasal cannula components for use in respiratory support systems. As will be discussed further below, in some examples, the method may include selecting a nasal cannula module and coupling it to the nasal cannula.

[0691] Some examples of a method for constructing the nasal cannula assembly may include selecting a nasal column module. This nasal column module may be selected from a plurality of nasal column modules, for example, those with different nasal column geometries. As discussed above, this selection may be based on several factors, including but not limited to patient comfort, the type or variant of therapy required, and reducing the likelihood of obstruction. In some examples, the method may include detachably coupling the selected nasal column module to the nasal cannula assembly, for example, to the frame of the nasal cannula assembly.

[0692] In some examples, selecting the nasal insertion module may include selecting a first nasal insertion module from a plurality of nasal insertion modules. The method may include replacing the first nasal insertion module with the second nasal insertion module by decoupling the first nasal insertion module from the frame and detachably attaching a second nasal insertion module to the frame.

[0693] The first nasal insertion module may include: a first nasal insertion arranged to extend into the patient's left nostril and form a first left nasal insertion; and / or a second nasal insertion arranged to extend into the patient's right nostril and form a first right nasal insertion.

[0694] In one example, the first nasal post geometry is, or forms, a left-asymmetric nasal post geometry such that: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal post is greater than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal post; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal post is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal post. The first left nasal post may be arranged to provide a larger volumetric flow rate than the first right nasal post.

[0695] In another example, the first nasal post geometry can be or form a right asymmetric nasal post geometry (such as those right asymmetric nasal post geometries described above).

[0696] The second nasal insertion module may include: a first nasal insertion arranged to extend into the patient's left nostril and form a second left nasal insertion; and a second nasal insertion arranged to extend into the patient's right nostril and form a second right nasal insertion.

[0697] In one example, the second nasal post geometry is, or forms, a left asymmetric nasal post geometry, such that: the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal post is greater than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal post; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal post is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal post. The second left nasal post may be arranged to provide a larger volumetric flow rate than the second right nasal post.

[0698] In another example, the second nasal post geometry can be or form a right asymmetric nasal post geometry (such as those right asymmetric nasal post geometries described above).

[0699] The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post may be greater than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post. Additionally or alternatively, the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post may be greater than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post.

[0700] In some examples, the plurality of nasal plug modules may include one or more nasal plug modules having an asymmetric nasal plug geometry.

[0701] In some examples, selecting the nose post module may include choosing between any two or more of the following:

[0702] • First nasal insertion module, which has a left asymmetric nasal insertion geometry;

[0703] • Second nasal insertion module, which has a right asymmetric nasal insertion geometry;

[0704] • A third nasal insertion module having a symmetrical nasal insertion geometry; and / or

[0705] • A fourth nasal insertion module having a symmetrical nasal insertion geometry that differs from the symmetrical nasal insertion geometry of the third nasal insertion module.

[0706] In some examples, the method may include: selecting a therapy type or variant for the patient from a variety of different therapy types or variants; and selecting the nasal column module based at least in part on the selected therapy type. The variety of different therapy types or variants may include asymmetric high-flow nasal therapy and / or symmetrical high-flow nasal therapy. Asymmetric high-flow nasal therapy and symmetrical high-flow nasal therapy, or left asymmetric high-flow nasal therapy and right asymmetric high-flow nasal therapy, can be considered different variants of the same therapy type (i.e., high-flow nasal therapy).

[0707] In some examples, the method may include: selecting between a left air inlet and a right air inlet to allow a flow of breathing gas into the nasal cannula assembly; and configuring the nasal cannula assembly for use with either the left or right air inlet. In some examples, the selection between the left and right air inlets may be at least partially based on a selected nasal column module. The selected nasal column module may include a pair of nasal columns having an asymmetrical nasal column geometry. The selected nasal column module may configure the nasal cannula assembly such that the larger of the pair of nasal columns may be located downstream of the smaller of the pair of nasal columns.

[0708] In some examples, selecting between the left and right air intakes may include: selecting the left air intake when the selected nose column module has a right asymmetrical nose column geometry; and / or selecting the right air intake when the selected nose column module has a left asymmetrical nose column geometry. Alternatively or additionally, the method may include: selecting either the left or right air intake when the selected nose column module has a symmetrical nose column geometry.

[0709] In some examples, the method may include: removing an existing nasal column module from the nasal cannula assembly, such as the frame of the nasal cannula assembly. The selected nasal column module may have a different nasal column geometry compared to the existing nasal column module. The selected nasal column module may provide a different therapy type or variant compared to the existing nasal column module. Alternatively, the selected nasal column module may have the same nasal column geometry as the existing nasal column module.

[0710] The following describes possible examples of methods for reconfiguring a respiratory support system or reconfiguring nasal intubation components used in that respiratory support system, for example, to provide the patient with a different type or variant of therapy.

[0711] In some examples, the method may include: detaching a first nasal stump module (e.g., having a first nasal stump geometry) from the nasal cannula assembly, such as the frame of the nasal cannula assembly. The method may also include: detachably connecting a second nasal stump module (e.g., having a second nasal stump geometry different from the first nasal stump geometry) to the nasal cannula assembly, such as the frame of the nasal cannula assembly.

[0712] The first nasal column geometry may include one of a symmetrical nasal column geometry and an asymmetrical nasal column geometry. The second nasal column geometry may include the other of the symmetrical nasal column geometry and the asymmetrical nasal column geometry. The first nasal column module may be arranged to provide one of a symmetrical high-flow nasal therapy and an asymmetrical high-flow nasal therapy. The second nasal column module may be arranged to provide the other of the symmetrical high-flow nasal therapy and the asymmetrical high-flow nasal therapy.

[0713] In some examples, the first nasal column geometry may include one of a left asymmetric nasal column geometry and a right asymmetric nasal column geometry. The second nasal column geometry may include the other of the left asymmetric nasal column geometry and the right asymmetric nasal column geometry. Both the first and second nasal column modules can provide asymmetric high-flow nasal therapy. The asymmetric high-flow nasal therapy of the first and second nasal column modules may differ from each other.

[0714] In some examples, reconfiguring the respiratory support system or nasal intubation system may include reconfiguring one or more of the following:

[0715] • Reconfigured from a symmetrical high-flow respiratory support system or symmetrical high-flow nasal cannulation assembly that is configured to provide symmetrical high-flow nasal therapy to an asymmetrical high-flow respiratory support system or asymmetrical high-flow nasal cannulation assembly that is configured to provide asymmetrical high-flow nasal therapy.

[0716] • Reconfigured from an asymmetric high-flow respiratory support system or asymmetric high-flow nasal cannula assembly configured to provide asymmetric high-flow nasal therapy to a symmetric high-flow respiratory support system or symmetric high-flow nasal cannula assembly configured to provide symmetric high-flow nasal therapy.

[0717] • A first asymmetric high-flow respiratory support system or a first asymmetric high-flow nasal cannula assembly configured to provide a first asymmetric high-flow nasal therapy may be reconfigured into a second asymmetric high-flow respiratory support system or a second asymmetric high-flow nasal cannula assembly configured to provide a second asymmetric high-flow nasal therapy, which is different from the first asymmetric high-flow nasal therapy.

[0718] In some examples, the methods mentioned above may not require any changes to the settings of the gas source 110 to reconfigure the respiratory support system or the nasal cannula assembly to provide different types or variations of therapy.

[0719] In some examples, the methods described above may include reusing the framework as well as one or more of the following:

[0720] • The connecting member of the nasal cannula assembly, which can be arranged to connect with the frame;

[0721] • At least one inlet catheter of the nasal cannula assembly, the at least one inlet catheter being arranged to be connected to the connecting member;

[0722] • At least one connecting member connector of the nasal cannula assembly, the connecting member connector being arranged to connect the at least one inlet catheter to the connecting member;

[0723] • At least one swivel connector of the nasal cannula assembly, the swivel connector being arranged to connect the at least one inlet catheter to the inspiratory catheter of the respiratory support; and

[0724] • The headgear of the nasal cannula assembly, which can be arranged to be detachably and / or adjustablely connected to the frame and extends around the back of the patient's head to secure the frame in the proper position on the head.

[0725] List of elements in the attached image

[0726] 100 Respiratory Support System

[0727] 110 gas source

[0728] 112 Gas Source Outlet

[0729] 114 filter

[0730] 120 Humidifier Supply Pipe

[0731] 130 Humidifier

[0732] 132 Humidifier Base

[0733] 134 Humidification Room

[0734] 140 Inspiratory Tube

[0735] 142 connector

[0736] 144 connector

[0737] 146 tubes

[0738] 150 nasal cannula assembly

[0739] 200 respiratory support system

[0740] 210 respiratory support equipment

[0741] 302 inlet catheter

[0742] 304 nasal cannula

[0743] 306 headgear

[0744] 308 connector

[0745] 310 connector

[0746] 312 tube

[0747] 400 nasal intubation

[0748] 402 frame

[0749] 404 connecting components

[0750] 405 Connecting Component Connector

[0751] 406 nose insert

[0752] 406a First Nose Insertion Post

[0753] 406b Second Nasal Insertion Post

[0754] 407 Side Arm

[0755] 407a First Side Arm

[0756] 407b Second Side Arm

[0757] 408 Nose Insertion Module

[0758] 409 headgear connection part

[0759] 409a First Headgear Connection Part

[0760] 409b Second headgear connection part

[0761] 410 pipe clamp

[0762] 411 Installation Part

[0763] 411a First Installation Part

[0764] 411b Second Installation Part

[0765] 412 sales

[0766] 420 base portion

[0767] 421 First longitudinal side

[0768] 422 Second longitudinal side

[0769] 430 groove

[0770] 440 main body

[0771] 450 gas inlet port

[0772] 450a First Gas Inlet Port

[0773] 450b Second Gas Inlet Port

[0774] 451 Gas Outlet

[0775] 451a First Gas Outlet

[0776] 451b Second Gas Outlet

[0777] 460 gas-bearing section

[0778] 460a First Gas Bearing Section

[0779] 460b Second Gas Bearing Section

[0780] 414 Exit Opening

[0781] 414a First Exit Opening

[0782] 414b Second Exit Opening

[0783] 423 Tongue Slice

[0784] 424 trench

[0785] 431 Common Axis

[0786] 432 Fixed Components

[0787] 433 containment section

[0788] 434 blocking section

[0789] 435 Barrier Section

[0790] 436 main body

[0791] 437 Extension

[0792] 438 concave area

[0793] 439 Central Section

[0794] 441 First longitudinal sidewall

[0795] 442 First lateral sidewall

[0796] 443 Second Lateral Sidewall

[0797] 444 Rear Wall

[0798] 445 Central Area

[0799] 445a rear surface

[0800] 445b front surface

[0801] 446 conduit fasteners

[0802] 448 Connecting Protrusion

[0803] 449 connection hole

[0804] 460a First Gas Bearing Section

[0805] 460b Second Gas Bearing Section

[0806] 461 entrance opening

[0807] 461a First Inlet Opening

[0808] 461b Second Inlet Opening

[0809] 470 air gap

[0810] 470a First Air Gap

[0811] 470b second air gap

[0812] 470c third air gap

[0813] 471 First lateral extension [08...

Claims

1. A nasal intubation system for use in a respiratory support system, the respiratory support system being arranged to deliver a stream of respiratory gases to a patient's upper airway, the nasal intubation system comprising: frame; A first nasal insertion module, wherein the first nasal insertion module has a first nasal insertion geometry; and A second nasal insertion module, having a second nasal insertion geometry that differs from the geometry of the first nasal insertion module. The frame is arranged to be selectively and detachably connected to either the first nasal insertion module or the second nasal insertion module.

2. The nasal intubation system according to claim 1, wherein: The first nasal insertion module includes: A first nasal insertion post, the first nasal insertion post being arranged to extend into the patient's left nostril and form a first left nasal insertion post; and A second nasal insertion post is arranged to extend into the patient's right nostril and form a first right nasal insertion post. The second nasal insertion module includes: A first nasal insertion, the first nasal insertion being arranged to extend into the patient's left nostril and form a second left nasal insertion; and A second nasal insertion post is arranged to extend into the patient's right nostril and form a second right nasal insertion post.

3. The nasal cannula system of claim 2, wherein the geometry of the first nasal cannula is, or forms, an asymmetric nasal cannula geometry, such that: The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post is different from the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal insertion post; and / or The external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post is different from the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal insertion post.

4. The nasal cannula system of claim 2, wherein the geometry of the first nasal cannula is, or forms, a left-asymmetric nasal cannula geometry, such that: The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post is larger than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal insertion post; and / or The external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post is larger than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal insertion post. The first left nasal insertion post is arranged to provide a greater volumetric flow rate than the first right nasal insertion post.

5. The nasal cannulation system of claim 2, wherein the geometry of the first nasal cannula is or forms a right asymmetric nasal cannula geometry, such that: The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal insertion post is larger than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post; and / or The external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal insertion post is larger than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post. The first right nostril is arranged to provide a greater volumetric flow rate than the first left nostril.

6. The nasal cannulation system of claim 2, wherein the geometry of the second nasal cannula is or forms an asymmetric nasal cannula geometry, such that: The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post is different from the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal insertion post; and / or The external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post is different from the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal insertion post.

7. The nasal cannulation system of claim 2, wherein the geometry of the second nasal cannula is or forms a left asymmetric nasal cannula geometry, such that: The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post is larger than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal insertion post; and / or The external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post is larger than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal insertion post. The second left nasal post is arranged to provide a larger volumetric flow rate than the second right nasal post.

8. The nasal cannulation system of claim 2, wherein the geometry of the second nasal cannula is or forms a right asymmetric nasal cannula geometry, such that: The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal insertion post is larger than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post; and / or The external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal insertion post is larger than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post. The second right nostril is arranged to provide a greater volumetric flow rate than the second left nostril.

9. The nasal intubation system according to claim 7, wherein: The geometry of the first nasal post is, or forms, a left-asymmetric nasal post geometry, such that: The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post is larger than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal insertion post; and / or The external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nostril is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nostril, wherein the first left nostril is arranged to provide a greater volumetric flow rate than the first right nostril. The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post is greater than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post; and / or The external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post is greater than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post.

10. The nasal intubation system according to claim 9, wherein: The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal insertion post is greater than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal insertion post; and / or The external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal insertion post is greater than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal insertion post.

11. The nasal intubation system according to claim 8, wherein: The geometry of the first nasal post is, or forms, a right-asymmetric nasal post geometry, such that: The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal insertion post is larger than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post; and / or The external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nostril is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nostril, wherein the first right nostril is arranged to provide a greater volumetric flow rate than the first left nostril. The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal insertion post is greater than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal insertion post; and / or The external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal insertion post is greater than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal insertion post.

12. The nasal intubation system according to claim 11, wherein: The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post is greater than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post; and / or The external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post is greater than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post.

13. The nasal cannulation system of claim 1, wherein the geometry of the first nasal cannula is or is a mirror image of the geometry of the second nasal cannula.

14. The nasal intubation system of claim 2, wherein the nasal intubation system comprises: The third nasal insertion module has a third nasal insertion geometry, wherein: The geometry of the third nasal insertion post is different from that of the first and second nasal insertion posts. The frame is arranged to be selectively and detachably connected to any one of the first nasal insertion module, the second nasal insertion module, and the third nasal insertion module, and The third nasal insertion module includes: A first nasal insertion, the first nasal insertion being arranged to extend into the patient's left nostril and form a third left nasal insertion; and A second nasal insertion post is arranged to extend into the patient's right nostril and form a third right nasal insertion post.

15. The nasal intubation system according to claim 14, wherein: The geometry of the first nasal post is, or forms, a left-asymmetric nasal post geometry, such that: The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post is larger than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal insertion post; and / or The external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nostril is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nostril, wherein the first left nostril is arranged to provide a greater volumetric flow rate than the first right nostril. The second nasal post geometry is or forms a left asymmetric nasal post geometry, such that: The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post is larger than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal insertion post; and / or The external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nostril is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nostril, wherein the second left nostril is arranged to provide a greater volumetric flow rate than the second right nostril. The geometry of the third nasal insertion post is, or forms, a left-asymmetric nasal insertion post geometry, such that: The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third left nasal insertion post is greater than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third right nasal insertion post; and / or The external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third left nasal prong is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third right nasal prong, wherein the third left nasal prong is arranged to provide a greater volumetric flow rate than the third right nasal prong.

16. The nasal intubation system according to claim 14, wherein: The geometry of the first nasal post is, or forms, a right-asymmetric nasal post geometry, such that: The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal insertion post is larger than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post; and / or The external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nostril is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nostril, wherein the first right nostril is arranged to provide a greater volumetric flow rate than the first left nostril. The second nasal post geometry is, or forms, a right asymmetric nasal post geometry, such that: The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal insertion post is larger than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post; and / or The external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nostril is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nostril, wherein the second right nostril is arranged to provide a greater volumetric flow rate than the second left nostril. The geometry of the third nasal insertion post is, or forms, a right-asymmetric nasal insertion post geometry, such that: The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third right nasal insertion post is greater than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third left nasal insertion post; and / or The external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third right nostril is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third left nostril, wherein the third right nostril is arranged to provide a greater volumetric flow rate than the third left nostril.

17. The nasal intubation system according to claim 15 or 16, wherein: The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post is greater than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post, and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post is greater than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post; and The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post is greater than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third left nasal insertion post; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post is greater than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third left nasal insertion post.

18. The nasal intubation system according to claim 15 or 16, wherein: The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nostril post is greater than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nostril post, and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nostril post is greater than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nostril post; and The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal insertion post is greater than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third right nasal insertion post; and / or the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal insertion post is greater than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the third right nasal insertion post.

19. The nasal intubation system according to claim 14, wherein: The geometry of the first nasal post is, or forms, a left-asymmetric nasal post geometry, such that: The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post is larger than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal insertion post; and / or The first left nostril post has an external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area that is larger than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nostril post, wherein the first left nostril post is arranged to provide a larger volumetric flow rate than the first right nostril post. The second nasal post geometry is, or forms, a right asymmetric nasal post geometry, such that: The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal insertion post is larger than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post; and / or The second right nostril has an external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area that is larger than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nostril, wherein the second right nostril is arranged to provide a greater volumetric flow rate than the second left nostril. The third nasal column geometry includes the third left nasal column and the third right nasal column, and the third nasal column geometry is or forms a symmetrical nasal column geometry such that the third left nasal column is or forms a mirror image of the third right nasal column, wherein the third left nasal column and the third right nasal column are arranged to provide substantially the same volumetric flow rate.

20. The nasal cannulation system of claim 1, wherein the first nasal column module is arranged to interact with the respiratory gas flow received by the first nasal column module to provide the patient with a first high-flow nasal therapy, and the second nasal column module is arranged to interact with the respiratory gas flow received by the second nasal column module to provide the patient with a second high-flow nasal therapy, wherein the second high-flow nasal therapy is different from the first high-flow nasal therapy.

21. The nasal intubation system of claim 20, wherein the provision of the first high-flow nasal therapy or the second high-flow nasal therapy by the respiratory support system is determined at least in part by selecting the first nasal intubation module or the second nasal intubation module and coupling it to the frame.

22. The nasal intubation system according to claim 20 or 21, wherein: The first high-flow nasal therapy is either an asymmetric high-flow nasal therapy or a symmetric high-flow nasal therapy; and The second high-flow nasal therapy is either the asymmetric high-flow nasal therapy or the symmetric high-flow nasal therapy.

23. The nasal intubation system according to claim 20 or 21, wherein: The first high-flow nasal therapy is the left asymmetric high-flow nasal therapy; and The second high-flow nasal therapy is the right asymmetric high-flow nasal therapy.

24. The nasal cannulation system of claim 1, wherein either or both of the first nasal cannula module and the second nasal cannula module are arranged to partially block at least one of the patient's left nostril and right nostril.

25. A component kit for a nasal cannulation system, the component kit comprising two or more nasal insertion module units, the frame of the nasal cannulation system being arranged to be selectively and detachably coupled to any one of the two or more nasal insertion module units, the two or more nasal insertion module units comprising: The first nasal insertion module includes: A first nasal insertion post, the first nasal insertion post being arranged to extend into the patient's left nostril and form a first left nasal insertion post; and A second nasal insert, the second nasal insert being arranged to extend into the patient's right nostril and form a first right nasal insert, wherein the first nasal insert module has the geometry of a first nasal insert; and The second nasal insertion module includes: A first nasal post, the first nasal post being arranged to form a second left nasal post; and A second nasal insertion post, arranged to form a second right nasal insertion post, wherein the second nasal insertion post module has a second nasal insertion post geometry. The geometry of the first nasal insertion post is different from that of the second nasal insertion post.

26. The parts kit according to claim 25, wherein: The geometry of the first nasal post is, or forms, a left-asymmetric nasal post geometry, such that: The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post is larger than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal insertion post; and / or The first left nostril post has an external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area that is larger than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nostril post, wherein the first left nostril post is arranged to provide a larger volumetric flow rate than the first right nostril post. The second nasal post geometry is, or forms, a right asymmetric nasal post geometry, such that: The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal insertion post is larger than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post; and / or The second right nostril has an external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area that is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nostril, wherein the second right nostril is arranged to provide a greater volumetric flow rate than the second left nostril.

27. The parts kit according to claim 25, wherein: The geometry of the first nasal post is, or forms, a left-asymmetric nasal post geometry, such that: The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post is larger than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal insertion post; and / or The first left nostril post has an external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area that is larger than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nostril post, wherein the first left nostril post is arranged to provide a larger volumetric flow rate than the first right nostril post. The second nasal post geometry is or forms a left asymmetric nasal post geometry, such that: The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post is larger than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal insertion post; and / or The second left nasal post has an external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area that is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal post, wherein the second left nasal post is arranged to provide a greater volumetric flow rate than the second right nasal post.

28. The parts kit according to claim 25, wherein: The geometry of the first nasal post is, or forms, a right-asymmetric nasal post geometry, such that: The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal insertion post is larger than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post; and / or The outer lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nostril post is larger than the corresponding outer lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nostril post, wherein the first right nostril post is arranged to provide a larger volumetric flow rate than the first left nostril post. The second nasal post geometry is, or forms, a right asymmetric nasal post geometry, such that: The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal insertion post is larger than the corresponding internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post; and / or The second right nostril has an external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area that is greater than the corresponding external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nostril, wherein the second right nostril is arranged to provide a greater volumetric flow rate than the second left nostril.

29. The parts kit according to claim 27 or 28, wherein: The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post is greater than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post; and / or The external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first left nasal insertion post is greater than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second left nasal insertion post.

30. The parts kit according to claim 27 or 28, wherein: The internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal insertion post is greater than the internal lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal insertion post; and / or The external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the first right nasal insertion post is greater than the external lateral dimension or cross-sectional area of ​​the second right nasal insertion post.

31. A method of constructing a nasal intubation assembly for use in a respiratory support system, the respiratory support system being arranged to deliver a stream of breathing gases to a patient's upper airway, the method comprising: Select a nose plug module from a set of nose plug modules with different nose plug geometries; as well as The selected nasal column module is detachably connected to the frame of the nasal cannula assembly.

32. The method of claim 31, wherein the plurality of nasal prong modules comprises one or more nasal prong modules having an asymmetric nasal prong geometry.

33. A nasal cannula for use in a nasal cannula assembly of a respiratory support system, the respiratory support system being arranged to deliver a flow of respiratory gases to a patient's upper airway, the nasal cannula comprising: The patient contact portion includes a rear wall arranged to contact the upper lip region of the patient; At least one gas-bearing component; and cavity At least a portion of the cavity is located between at least a portion of the rear wall and the at least one gas-bearing portion.

34. The nasal cannula of claim 33, wherein the cavity is arranged to at least partially thermally insulate the at least one gas-carrying portion from at least a portion of the rear wall.

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