NO output device with an analysis line with a piezoelectric pump

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a device or apparatus for delivering NO, that is to say an apparatus for supplying a gas containing NO, in particular intended to be connected between a source of gaseous NO, such as a pressurized NO cylinder, and the ventilatory circuit or patient circuit supplied with gas by a medical ventilator, which apparatus includes gas analyzer means intended to be fluidly connected to the patient circuit, typically an NO delivery apparatus comprising a piezoelectric pump analysis line including a piezoelectric suction pump.

[0002] Nitric oxide, or NO, when inhaled, dilates the pulmonary blood vessels and increases oxygenation by improving gas exchange. These properties are used to treat various medical conditions, as described in EP-A-560928, EP-A-1516639, and US-A-10,201,564.

[0003] Typically, a small amount of gaseous NO (i.e., a few ppm vol.), diluted in nitrogen (N2), is diluted in a gas stream containing oxygen, such as an N2 / O2 mixture or air, or even pure oxygen, which is carried through the patient circuit of a gas supply installation, and the final gas mixture thus obtained, containing NO, oxygen, and nitrogen, is then inhaled by the patient.

[0004] To achieve this, the patient circuit is fluidically connected to a NO delivery device providing the NO-based gas flow and also to a medical ventilator, providing the oxygen-based gas flow, as described by US-A-5,558,083.

[0005] Since NO is an effective therapeutic agent at very low concentrations (i.e., a few ppmv or tens of ppmv), it is essential to ensure that its correct dosage is in the final NO / N2 / O2 gas stream in order to be able, if necessary, to adjust the NO dosage according to the patient's condition, i.e., improvement or worsening.

[0006] Conversely, it is also important to ensure that the final NO / N2 / O2 gas flow does not contain, or contains only a negligible amount of, toxic species, in particular NO2 resulting from the oxidation of some of the NO by O2.

[0007] Therefore, to ensure increased patient safety, the NO delivery device generally has a gas sampling line to collect a portion of the final gas mixture intended for the patient, typically gas samples of approximately 250 ml / min, from within the breathing circuit carrying the final NO / N₂ / O₂ gas flow, as described in US 2006 / 207594. These gas samples are then analyzed within the NO delivery device to verify that the composition of the final NO / N₂ / O₂ gas flow corresponds to the desired composition, in particular to ensure that: the concentration of NO is as close as possible to the desired dosage, for example in the range of 10 to 20 ppmv, and the concentration of NO2 is as low as possible, typically from 0 to 5 ppmv, because NO2 is a toxic gas that can cause serious injury to the patient, even at low concentrations.

[0008] Currently, gas collection in the patient circuit is carried out using a diaphragm pump, also called a diaphragm pump, such as the reference series 2002 pump available from Thomas or the reference V / P 200 pump available from Xavitech.

[0009] Diaphragmatic pumps typically consist of two flexible membranes, also called diaphragms, mounted opposite each other and set in oscillation, meaning they move towards and away from each other at a given frequency. During the separation phase, a suction effect occurs, and a portion of the gas to be analyzed fills the volume created between the two membranes. Conversely, during the retraction phase, the same gas is expelled from the pump. By controlling the frequency of these oscillations, typically between 0 and 50 Hz, it is possible to obtain a constant flow rate of the gas for analysis, for example, 250 ml / min.

[0010] However, in practice, the use of a diaphragmatic pump poses problems for several reasons.

[0011] First, their operating principle means that the extracted flow rate itself naturally fluctuates around an average value, for example, 250 ml / min. These fluctuations affect the ventilator's performance, particularly its ability to detect the "inspirations" of a newborn patient. Indeed, newborn patients have a low respiratory drive, meaning they produce low inspiratory effort and move small inspiratory volumes, a few ml. For this population, ventilators use a proximal flow sensor, which measures the flow rates inhaled and exhaled by the patient directly at their mouth, for example, at the end of the endotracheal tube. This flow sensor serves, on the one hand, to monitor and / or measure the flow rates inspired by the patient during an inspiratory phase, and on the other hand, to detect the onset of inspiration and trigger the delivery of a volume to assist the patient.

[0012] However, the oscillations created by the diaphragmatic pump's gas extraction process are also present at the flow sensor, which disrupts the ventilator and leads to what is known as auto-triggering. This means the ventilator incorrectly interprets the patient's initiation of inspiration, resulting in the inappropriate delivery of a volume of air to the patient. Such auto-triggering introduces a detrimental asynchrony between the patient and the ventilator.

[0013] To address this, users must "enhance" the inspiration detection mechanism by making it less sensitive. However, this requires the patient to exert additional inspiratory effort to trigger the ventilator to deliver a volume.

[0014] Furthermore, the oscillations created by diaphragmatic pumps generate significant noise pollution because the oscillation frequencies fall within the patients' audible range. The noise produced by such pumps is around 50 decibels (dB), which severely disrupts patients' sleep cycles and potentially hinders their recovery.

[0015] We also know of WO2015127085, EP2522384 and US20170348503 which teach NO delivery devices including a line of analysis of the NO-based gas to ensure that its composition corresponds to the desired one and does not contain compounds harmful to the patient, such as NO2. These devices use conventional suction pumps.

[0016] From there, one problem is to limit the oscillations in the sampling flow rate in order to optimize the detection of inspiration by the fan, and to limit the noise generated by the gas sampling process.

[0017] One solution according to the invention relates to an apparatus or device for delivering NO comprising: a main gas circuit for conveying a gas containing NO, in particular a NO / N2 mixture, an analysis line comprising NO / NO2 measuring means configured to operate NO and / or NO2 concentration measurements within said analysis line, and control means connected to said NO / NO2 measuring means, configured to process the NO and / or NO2 concentration measurements operated by said NO / NO2 measuring means.

[0018] Furthermore, according to the invention: The analysis line of the apparatus includes piezoelectric suction means (i.e., a device) controlled by the control means to suction gas at a given suction flow rate; the control means are further configured to control electric field generation means configured to generate an electric field at an excitation frequency of at least approximately 20 kHz; the piezoelectric suction means include a piezoelectric pump comprising at least one piezoelectric material selected from materials capable of deforming proportionally to an electric field applied to said piezoelectric material; and said piezoelectric material is subjected to said electric field generated by the electric field generation means so as to expand or contract under the effect of the applied electric field, thereby generating a phenomenon of suction or expulsion of gas by the piezoelectric pump.

[0019] Depending on the embodiment considered, the device of the invention may comprise one or more of the following features: The control means are configured to control the piezoelectric suction means to draw gas at a given suction flow rate less than or equal to 400 mL / min, preferably at least 50 mL / min, preferably between 100 and 350 mL / min, and preferably between 200 and 300 mL / min. The given suction flow rate is, for example, on the order of 250 mL / min. The control means are configured to control electric field generation means configured to generate an electric field at an excitation frequency between approximately 20 and 30 kHz. The surface area of ​​the piezoelectric membrane is at least 30 mm². The NO / NO₂ measurement means include an NO sensor and an NO₂ sensor. The piezoelectric suction means (or device) include a piezoelectric suction pump exploiting, during its operation, the dynamic piezoelectric effect resulting from frequency excitation.The piezoelectric pump comprises at least one piezoelectric material having a crystalline or ceramic structure. The piezoelectric material is chosen from materials capable of deforming proportionally under the effect of the applied electric field. The piezoelectric material comprises at least one metal. The piezoelectric material comprises lead zirconate titanate (PZT). The piezoelectric membrane is supplied with electric current, in particular alternating current. The generation of the electric field is obtained by dynamically varying the applied electric current passing through the piezoelectric membrane. The means for generating the electric field are controlled by the control means. The means for generating the electric field include an electric current converter, also called an inverter. The current converter is configured to convert direct current to alternating current at a given frequency.The control means regulate the frequency of the alternating current. The electric field generation means are arranged within the device. The electric field generation means are powered by an electric current, in particular a direct current. Said at least one piezoelectric material is deposited in a layer, preferably a thin layer, on a metallic substrate to form a piezoelectric membrane having a surface area of ​​at least 30 mm². The thickness of the piezoelectric material layer, preferably a thin layer, is between several tens and several hundreds of µm. The metallic substrate comprises titanium or aluminum. Said at least one piezoelectric material has a disc or similar shape. Said at least one piezoelectric material is arranged in a closed enclosure comprising an inlet or port and an outlet or port.

[0020] Furthermore, depending on the embodiment considered, the NO delivery device of the invention may include one or more of the following features: The NO / NO2 measurement means include a first metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) sensor configured to determine the NO concentration and a second metal oxide semiconductor sensor configured to determine the NO2 concentration, or alternatively, a combined MOS sensor configured to determine both NO and NO2 concentrations. Each MOS sensor comprises a sensitive layer including at least one metal oxide, a resistive track subjected to an electrical potential, and a pair of electrodes, for example, a metal oxide selected from titanium dioxide (TiO2) and tin dioxide (SnO2). In another embodiment, the NO / NO2 measurement means include electrochemical sensors. It also includes power supply means providing electrical current to the various elements or components of the apparatus requiring it for operation, for example, to the control means, sensors, pump, etc.Preferably, the power supply includes a mains connection (110 / 220V) and / or a rechargeable battery or other power source, and optionally a power converter. The electrodes are electrically connected to the control means. The control means are configured to determine a concentration of NO and / or NO₂. The measuring means further include an O₂ sensor. It also includes a flow sensor arranged on the analysis line. It includes an information display, controlled by the control means, to display (at least) the concentrations, i.e., levels, of NO and NO₂, and optionally of O₂. The information display includes a screen, in particular the screen of an IGU. The information display includes a touchscreen. The information display includes a color or black and white screen.The information display is configured to display concentration values ​​for NO and NO₂, and optionally O₂, determined by the control means. The main gas circuit includes flow control means for controlling the gas flow in the main gas circuit, preferably at least one solenoid valve. The main gas circuit includes one or more gas passages, such as gas ducts or the like. The main gas circuit includes at least one gas inlet through which a NO / N₂ mixture can enter the main circuit. The main gas circuit includes at least one gas outlet through which the NO / N₂ mixture can exit the main circuit. The flow control means are controlled by the control means to permit or prevent any gas flow in the main gas circuit, in particular at least one solenoid valve is controlled by the control means (i.e., a controlled solenoid valve).The main gas circuit further includes pressure control means, in particular a gas pressure regulator. The control means include at least one microprocessor. This at least one microprocessor is arranged on at least one electronic board. The control means include at least one microprocessor implementing at least one algorithm. The NO delivery device includes an external housing or casing. The gas analysis line, the main gas circuit, and the control means are arranged within the device housing.

[0021] Furthermore, the invention also relates to a gas administration installation for a patient, i.e., dedicated to supplying a gas mixture containing NO to a patient, i.e., a person, in need of it, comprising: a NO delivery device for supplying an NO-based gas according to the invention, such as an NO / N2 mixture, a medical ventilator for supplying an oxygen-based gas, such as air or an O2 / N2 mixture, a patient circuit to which the NO delivery device and the medical ventilator are fluidly connected, and a proximal flow sensor arranged on the patient circuit and electrically connected to the medical ventilator.

[0022] Depending on the embodiment considered, the gas supply installation of the invention may include one or more of the following features: The medical ventilator is a respiratory support device that supplies the patient circuit with a breathing gas containing oxygen, typically at least 20% by volume, preferably at least 20% by volume, in particular air or an N₂ / O₂ mixture. The NO delivery device is supplied with NO, in particular an NO / N₂ mixture, by one (or more) gas source(s) containing gaseous NO. The gas source(s) contain an NO / N₂ mixture containing between 100 and 2500 ppm by volume of NO (ppmv), the remainder being nitrogen, preferably less than 1500 ppmv, preferably less than 1000 ppmv. Preferably, the gas source contains a NO / N₂ mixture containing 250 to 900 ppm by volume of NO, the remainder being nitrogen, for example, on the order of 800 ppm by volume of NO, the remainder being nitrogen. The gas source(s) is / are a pressurized gas cylinder.The patient circuit comprises an inspiratory branch and an expiratory branch. The medical ventilator, the main gas circuit, and the NO delivery device's analysis line are fluid-connected to the inspiratory branch of the patient circuit. The inspiratory and expiratory branches are connected at a junction, such as a Y-piece. The patient circuit, specifically the inspiratory branch, supplies a respiratory interface, such as a tracheal intubation tube or a respiratory mask. The proximal flow sensor is arranged on the patient circuit near the respiratory interface and / or the junction, i.e., the Y-piece. The proximal flow sensor is arranged between the junction and the respiratory interface. A gas humidifier is arranged on the inspiratory branch, preferably downstream of the gaseous NO injection site, i.e.,The patient circuit is fluid-connected to an outlet port of the medical ventilator to recover and deliver the oxygen-containing gas delivered by the ventilator, such as air or an N₂ / O₂ mixture. The pressurized gas cylinder(s), when full, contain an NO / N₂ gas mixture at a pressure of at least 150 to 200 bar abs, or even at least 250 to 300 bar abs. The patient circuit includes lines or pipes for delivering gas. The patient circuit includes a main flow sensor electrically connected to the control means. The analysis line of the NO delivery device is fluid-connected to the inspiratory branch of the patient circuit at a gas sampling site located downstream of the main flow sensor, preferably downstream of the gas humidifier.The main gas circuit of the NO delivery device is fluid-connected to the inspiratory branch of the patient circuit at an injection site located between the main flow sensor and the gas sampling site. The main gas circuit of the NO delivery device is fluid-connected to the inspiratory branch of the patient circuit via a gas injection line. The analysis line of the NO delivery device is fluid-connected to the inspiratory branch of the patient circuit via a gas sampling line. The gas analysis line of the NO delivery device includes an outlet port communicating with the ambient atmosphere. The sampling line is connected to the patient circuit using a connecting device, such as a T-piece, allowing gas sampling within the inspiratory branch of the patient circuit to verify its composition, i.e., the concentrations of NO and NO2.The connection device is arranged downstream of the NO injection point, i.e., between the NO injection point and the patient interface, e.g., a tracheal intubation tube. The medical ventilator supplies the patient circuit with a breathing gas containing oxygen, typically at least 20% vol. oxygen, in particular air or an N₂ / O₂ mixture. The NO delivery device supplies the patient circuit with gaseous NO, in particular an NO / N₂ mixture, so as to dilute the gaseous NO (i.e., NO / N₂ mixture) in the breathing gas stream containing oxygen and obtain a final gas mixture for administration to the patient. The final gas mixture essentially comprises nitrogen (N₂) and oxygen (O₂) at a concentration of at least 20% vol. approximately, and NO at a concentration between 1 and 80 ppmv, typically in the range of 10 to 20 ppmv corresponding to a desired dosage, i.e. a NO / O2 / N2 gas mixture.the final gas mixture may include NO2 species resulting from the oxidation of some of the NO.

[0023] The invention will now be better understood through the following detailed description, given by way of illustration but not limitation, with reference to the attached figures, among which: Fig. 1 is a partial schematic view of a patient gas delivery installation comprising a NO delivery device including a diaphragmatic pump gas analyzer according to the prior art. Fig. 2 Illustrates the flow oscillations generated by a diaphragm pump, part of the prior art gas analyzer. Fig. 3 is a partial schematic view of a patient gas delivery system comprising a NO delivery device including a piezoelectric pump gas analyzer according to the present invention. Fig. 4 shows the benefit of replacing the diaphragm pump Fig. 1 by a piezoelectric pump according to the invention, as illustrated in Fig. 3 .

[0024] Fig. 1 diagram shows an embodiment of a gas delivery installation 20 used to supply gaseous NO to a patient P, comprising an apparatus or device for delivering NO 1 to supply a gas based on NO and a medical ventilator 2, i.e. a respiratory support device delivering a respiratory gas containing oxygen, typically at least about 20% oxygen (O 2 ), generally at least about 21% oxygen.

[0025] Such an installation 20 allows the delivery of a final gaseous mixture containing NO at a desired concentration corresponding to a dosage set by an anesthesiologist or similar physician, typically between 1 and 80 ppmv of NO (i.e. ppm by volume).

[0026] The final gas mixture is formed by mixing a NO-based gas stream, such as a NO / N2 mixture from the NO delivery device 1, and a breathing gas stream containing oxygen, typically at least about 20% oxygen (O2), such as air or an O2 / N2 mixture, from the medical ventilator 2.

[0027] The NO-based gas flow is injected (not shown) into a patient circuit 3, in particular into an inspiratory branch 31 of said patient circuit 3, which is further supplied with the oxygen-containing gas flow provided by the medical ventilator 2.

[0028] The flow rate of the O2-based gas circulating in the patient circuit 3 is measured by a main flow sensor (not shown), arranged on the patient circuit 3 downstream of the medical ventilator 2, typically on the inspiratory limb 31. The main flow sensor is electrically connected to the control means 15 of the NO delivery device 1 in order to provide them with flow signals or measurements reflecting the flow rate of the oxygen-containing gas supplied by the medical ventilator 2 and circulating in the patient circuit 3 towards patient P, in particular in the upstream part of the inspiratory limb 31. The main flow sensor may be a mass flow meter or differential pressure flow sensor, or other type.

[0029] The final gas mixture obtained by mixing NO / N₂ and air streams, or O₂ / N₂ mixtures, for example, consists essentially of oxygen and nitrogen, and NO at the desired dosage, typically between 1 and 80 ppmv of NO; ​​it may contain unavoidable impurities, such as argon or others. It is administered to patient P during their inspiratory phases via a respiratory interface 3, for example, a breathing mask, a tracheal intubation tube, or any other suitable interface.

[0030] The gases exhaled by the patient during his expiratory phases are collected by an expiratory branch 32 of the patient circuit 3. The inspiratory branches 31 and expiratory branches 32 are fluidly connected to a junction piece 33, such as a Y-piece or similar, which is also connected to the respiratory interface 30.

[0031] The respiratory interface 30 allows the gas to be delivered to patient P, particularly during inspiratory phases, and to be collected from the gases exhaled by patient P, particularly during expiratory phases.

[0032] A proximal flow sensor 35 is also provided to measure the flow rate delivered to the patient and exhaled by the patient. This sensor is positioned at the respiratory interface 30 and / or the junction piece 33, typically between them. The proximal flow sensor 35 can be of various technologies, such as a hot-wire sensor, and is preferably adapted to the patient population being treated, i.e., newborns or adults. Here, an electrical cable 34, connected to the medical ventilator 2, provides power to the proximal flow sensor 35. Instantaneous flow measurement is performed in the medical ventilator 2 based on the electrical information returned by the proximal flow sensor 35. This technology is standard.

[0033] The inspiratory branch 31 and expiratory branch 32 include conduits, pipes, tubes, passages, tubing or the like, for example flexible polymer tubing, suitable for and configured to convey gas flows.

[0034] During the operation of the installation 20, the gas flow circulating in the inspiratory branch 31 of the patient circuit 3, i.e. going from the mechanical ventilator 2 to patient P, is inhaled by patient P, while the gases exhaled by said patient P, i.e. enriched in CO2, are conveyed by the expiratory branch 32 of the patient circuit 3 to the ventilator 2 where they are vented to the atmosphere via a vent or similar.

[0035] Furthermore, the NO 1 delivery device is of conventional architecture and operation with regard to the supply of NO, typically a NO / N 2 mixture. It includes (not shown) an internal main gas circuit for conveying a gas containing NO, in particular one (or more) internal gas delivery line, typically a NO / N 2 mixture comprising 100 to 2000 ppmv of NO (remaining N 2), typically less than 1000 ppmv.

[0036] Flow control means, such as a solenoid valve, and / or gas flow pressure control means, such as a gas pressure regulator, are arranged on the main gas circuit. The flow control means are preferably controlled by the control means 15 of the NO delivery device 1, which includes one or more (micro)processors mounted on an electronic board 150, based on the flow signals or measurements provided by the main flow sensor. The main flow sensor is advantageously arranged on the patient circuit 3, typically the inspiratory branch 31, upstream of the injection site 31a of the inspiratory branch 31 of the patient circuit 3, where NO (i.e., the NO / nitrogen mixture) is injected into the inspiratory branch 31 and mixed with the oxygen-containing gas flow from the medical ventilator 2.

[0037] The NO / N2 mixture, comprising for example 100 to 2000 ppmv of NO (rest N2), generally comes from one or more gas sources, e.g. one or more compressed gas cylinders (not shown) containing the NO / N2 gas mixture at a pressure of up to 150 bar, or even 180 to 200 bar, or more.

[0038] The NO delivery device 1 allows NO, i.e. the NO / nitrogen gas mixture, to be supplied / injected into the patient circuit 3 so that it mixes with the oxygen-containing gas flow from the medical ventilator 2, as already explained.

[0039] More specifically, the NO / nitrogen mixture is conveyed by a gas injection line 11, such as a conduit or similar, and the injection of NO (i.e. of the NO / nitrogen mixture) is carried out at an injection site 31a of the inspiratory branch 31 of the patient circuit 3 so as to effect a mixing (i.e. a dilution) of the flow (flow rate) of NO / nitrogen mixture with the flow (flow rate) of gas containing oxygen (i.e. >20% vol. approx.) from the medical ventilator 2, such as air or an O2 / N2 mixture and thus obtain the final gas mixture NO / O2 / N2.

[0040] The final gas mixture is then administered to patient P via the respiratory interface 30. It therefore mainly comprises nitrogen (N2), oxygen (O2) at a content of at least 20% vol. approximately, and NO at a content between 1 and 80 ppmv, typically in the range of 10 to 20 ppmv corresponding to a desired dosage.

[0041] Indeed, nitric oxide, or NO, when inhaled, dilates the pulmonary vessels and increases oxygenation by improving gas exchange. These properties are used to treat various medical conditions, such as Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension of the Newborn, or PPHN (for Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension of the Newborn ), Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome or ARDS observed mainly in adults or pulmonary hypertension (PH) in cardiac surgery in adults or children, as described in particular by EP-A-560928, EP-A-1516639 and US-A-10,201,564.

[0042] The concentration of NO in the mixture administered to the patient corresponds to a dosage (i.e., a target concentration) determined by a physician or similar professional. Generally, it ranges from 1 to 80 ppm by volume (ppmv), typically in the range of 10 to 20 ppmv, depending on the population being treated (i.e., newborns, children, adolescents, or adults) and the disease being treated.

[0043] However, due to the presence of O2 in the final gaseous mixture NO / O2 / N2, some of the NO present will oxidize and form toxic NO2 species.

[0044] It is therefore essential to ensure that the concentration of NO in the final gas mixture corresponds to the dosage desired by the doctor and that, moreover, the quantity of toxic NO2 species is limited, typically less than a few ppmv, generally less than 0.5 ppmv.

[0045] To do this, the NO 1 delivery device of Fig.1 integrates means of gas analysis 10, i.e. a gas analyzer, allowing to monitor, i.e. measure, the concentrations of NO and NO2 in the final gas mixture, as explained below.

[0046] As already mentioned, the NO 1 delivery device also includes control means 15, comprising, for example, one or more electronic control boards 150 and a control unit 151 with a (micro)processor, typically a microcontroller or similar. The control means 15 allow for the control or command of all the electromechanical elements of the NO 1 delivery device. More specifically, the electronic control board 150 preferably integrates the control unit 151, i.e., one or more microprocessors, and is configured to control and also analyze the signals from the various components of the NO 1 delivery device, such as the pump, sensors, etc., including those from the gas analysis means 10.

[0047] The gas analysis means 10, i.e. the gas analyzer, is arranged in the housing 5 or external casing, for example made of polymer, of the NO delivery device 1.

[0048] The gas analyzer 10 includes an inlet port 100 arranged on the outside of the housing 5 of the NO delivery device 1, which is fluidically connected to the inspiratory branch 31 of the patient circuit 3, via a gas sampling line 101.

[0049] The connection of the sampling line 101 to the patient circuit 3 is made by means of a suitable connection device 102, such as a T-piece or similar, allowing gas sampling to be carried out within the inspiratory branch 31 of the patient circuit 3 in order to check its composition, in particular the concentrations of NO and NO2 species.

[0050] The connection device 102 is arranged downstream of the NO injection point 31a, i.e. between the NO injection point 31a and the patient interface 30, e.g. a tracheal intubation probe.

[0051] The inlet port 100 of the gas analyzer 10 communicates fluidly with a gas analysis line 110, arranged in the housing 5, within which are arranged successively, from the inlet port 100, a NO 2 sensor 120 and a NO sensor 121, a flow sensor 130 and a gas suction device 140, such as a suction pump.

[0052] The gas analysis line 110 terminates in an outlet port 110a connected to the ambient atmosphere A through which the gas is released into the atmosphere after passing through the gas analysis line 110 and coming into contact with, in particular, the NO 2 120 and NO 121 sensors.

[0053] The suction pump 140 allows the gas to circulate by creating a flow or gas flux in the gas analysis line 110, as explained below.

[0054] The power supply of the NO 1 delivery device, in particular the control means 15, the gas analysis means 10 (i.e. the sensors 120, 121, 130), the diaphragm pump 140, is ensured by an electrical current source and / or electrical supply means (not shown), for example a connection to mains current (110 / 220V) of the type electrical cord and plug, and / or one (or more) electrical supply battery(ies), preferably rechargeable, and / or a current transformer.

[0055] The gas flow to be analyzed, which is drawn in by the pump and circulates in the gas analysis line 110, is brought into contact with the NO 2 sensors 120 and NO 121, which will then measure the concentration of NO 2 and NO in the gas flow and provide these measurements to the control means 15 which will then return them to the user, such as a doctor or other healthcare personnel, by ordering their display on an information display (not shown), such as a screen, of the graphical user interface (GUI) of the NO 1 delivery device.

[0056] The gas analysis line 110 may also include one or more other sensors, such as an oxygen sensor.

[0057] Of course, if necessary, the control means 15 can also process the measurements of NO and NO 2 before ordering their display, in particular perform a compensation of these values ​​to take into account environmental factors that may influence the measurements, such as atmospheric pressure, temperature and / or humidity, to which the gas mixture may have been subjected.

[0058] According to the prior art, as already explained, the suction pump 140 is generally of the diaphragm type, also called a diaphragm pump. It is controlled by the control means 15 in order to aspirate, i.e., draw up, a portion of the gas to be analyzed from the patient circuit 3. Preferably, the flow rate in the gas analysis line 110 is kept constant and equal to a given target flow rate, for example, approximately 250 ml / min. This control of the diaphragm pump 140 is based on flow rate measurements taken by the flow sensor 130 of the analyzer 10 and includes adjustment, preferably continuous, of the diaphragm pump control 140 in order to obtain the desired target flow rate.

[0059] Given the intrinsic oscillatory nature of the diaphragm pump 140, as explained previously, the control means 15, via in particular the control unit 151, can process the signal from the flow sensor 130 in order to "smooth out" the oscillations, by means of low-pass filters, time averages etc... and allows the said diaphragm pump 140 to reach and maintain the target flow given, for example 250 mL / min.

[0060] In all cases, since the 140 pump is diaphragmatic type, it induces oscillations around the target flow rate value, for example 250 ml / min.

[0061] So, Fig. 2 represents a flow curve as a function of time showing the oscillations generated by a diaphragm pump 140 used in the gas analysis line 110 of a NO 1 delivery device according to the prior art, and measured by the flow sensor 130 of the gas analysis line 110.

[0062] The instantaneous flow rate INS, derived from the instantaneous flow rate value transmitted by the flow sensor 130, and an averaged value ME, resulting from signal processing performed by the control means 15, notably via the control unit 151, which controls the diaphragm pump 140 to reach and maintain the target sampling flow rate, are visible. It is noted that this averaged value ME is well centered on the flow rate of 250 ml / min. However, it is clear that the instantaneous flow rate INS is oscillatory, alternating between values ​​successively higher and lower than the averaged value ME.

[0063] For example, the maximum recorded flow rate of the instantaneous flow rate INS., INS. 1 is approximately 275 ml / min, while the minimum recorded flow rate of the instantaneous flow rate INS., INS. 2 is approximately 225 ml / min. This corresponds to flow rate variations of approximately 50 ml / min over time, which interfere with the measurement of the proximal flow rate 35 by propagating successively through the sampling line 101, the inspiratory branch 31 of the patient circuit 3 via the connection device 102, and the proximal flow rate sensor 35, leading to the aforementioned problems encountered with diaphragm pumps 140 according to the prior art.

[0064] In order to resolve these problems, according to the present invention, the NO 1 delivery device of installation 100 was replaced with Fig. 1 , the diaphragm pump 140 according to the prior art by a piezoelectric pump 141, as illustrated in Fig. 3 The rest of installation 100 is unchanged and its operation is identical to that described in relation to Fig. 1 .

[0065] More specifically, the piezoelectric pump 141 used according to the invention operates based on a piezoelectric material (or materials), that is, a material having piezoelectric properties, for example, a crystalline or ceramic-type structure, and responding to excitation by an electric field by deforming proportionally to the electric field to which it is subjected. For example, the piezoelectric material could be lead zirconate titanate, which can deform by up to 0.1% of its dimensions under the effect of an electric field. Of course, the piezoelectric material could be any other suitable material.

[0066] The piezoelectric material is deposited as one or more thin layers, ranging from tens to hundreds of micrometers thick, onto a metallic substrate, such as titanium, aluminum, or any other suitable substrate. This creates a thin "membrane" that can "oscillate" under the influence of a varying electric field.

[0067] In other words, a piezoelectric pump 141 can schematically comprise a surface, for example in the shape of a disc or some other suitable shape, comprising a suitable substrate, for example metallic, and a thin piezoelectric layer (or layers) deposited thereon.

[0068] Such a piezoelectric assembly is placed in an enclosure, for example with a circular cross-section, forming a cavity equipped with an inlet port and an outlet port. Means are also provided for generating an electric field to produce a variable electric field (i.e., a conductive material) affecting the piezoelectric material.

[0069] The piezoelectric membrane is supplied with an electric current, and the electric field generation means are controlled by the control means 15 to perform dynamic variations over time of the electric current supplied to the piezoelectric membrane. The electric field is then generated by the dynamic variations, over time, applied to the electric current passing through the piezoelectric assembly, i.e., the piezoelectric membrane, in particular an alternating electric current.

[0070] When the piezoelectric material expands or contracts due to the applied electric field, i.e., alternating electric current, a suction or expulsion phenomenon occurs through the inlet and outlet ports of the piezoelectric pump 141, respectively. However, the small deformations of the piezoelectric material mobilize only a tiny amount of gas, which then requires: work of the piezoelectric membrane at high frequencies to significantly increase the number of oscillations of the piezoelectric material; and dimensions of the piezoelectric membrane, typically of the surface of the piezoelectric membrane, and therefore of the cavity which contains it, which are sufficient to mobilize "enough" gas per oscillation and achieve the expected flow performance.

[0071] From there, the excitation frequency of the piezoelectric material is preferentially an ultrasonic frequency, that is to say at least 20 kHz, typically between 20 kHz and 30 kHz.

[0072] As illustrated on Fig. 3 , the control means 15 control the piezoelectric pump 141 in order to aspirate, i.e. to collect, a portion of the gas to be analyzed coming from the patient circuit 3 and passing through the sampling line 101 which is fluidly connected to the inspiratory branch 31.

[0073] Preferably, the control means 15 control, i.e., drive, the piezoelectric pump 141 so that the flow rate in the gas analysis line 110 is maintained constant and equal to a given target flow rate, typically between 50 and 500 ml / min, for example, approximately 250 ml / min. This control of the piezoelectric pump 141 is based on flow rate measurements taken by the flow sensor 130 and includes adjustment, preferably continuous, of the control of the piezoelectric pump 141 in order to obtain the desired target flow rate.

[0074] When the sampling line 101 is long, for example several meters, it may present a resistance to the flow of the sampled gas, which may affect the performance of the piezoelectric pump 141.

[0075] Therefore, at the aforementioned operating frequencies, the surface area of ​​the piezoelectric membrane can be a factor to consider in order to obtain the target flow rate, for example a target flow rate of 250 ml / min, also considering the resistance exerted by the sampling line 101.

[0076] Tests carried out within the framework of the invention have shown that the surface area of ​​the piezoelectric membrane must be at least 30 mm², when operating at excitation frequencies between 20 and 30 kHz.

[0077] Fig. 4 represents the variations in gas flow rate within the gas analysis line 110 when gas aspiration is carried out, according to the invention, with a piezoelectric pump 141 and the flow rate measured by the flow sensor 130 of Fig. 3 .

[0078] We see the instantaneous flow rate INS. derived from the instantaneous value transmitted by the flow sensor 130, centered on the target flow rate, i.e. here of 250 ml / min, via an adequate control of the piezoelectric pump 141 by the piloting means 15, typically the control unit 151.

[0079] Due to the use of a piezoelectric pump 141 in place of the diaphragm pump 140 according to the prior art, the instantaneous flow rate INS. is perfectly smooth, i.e., not exhibiting oscillations or exhibiting extremely limited oscillations.

[0080] For example, in a 20-second acquisition, only a few local maxima and minima INS.1 and INS.2 occur, the value of which deviates only slightly from the target value, namely by only about 1 ml / min, that is, more than 50 times lower than in the case of Fig. 2 where a 140 diaphragm pump according to the prior art was used.

[0081] The advantage of using a piezoelectric pump 141 in the gas analysis line 110 of the ventilator 1 according to the invention is clear. Indeed, the flow rate variations over time are small and do not interfere with the measurement of the proximal flow rate 35, thus improving the sensitivity of the inspiratory effort detection of the medical ventilator 2 and thereby facilitating the inspiratory effort of patients, particularly newborns.

[0082] In addition, the 141 piezoelectric pump also has the advantage of being perfectly silent because the operating frequencies in the ultrasonic range are inaudible to the human ear.

[0083] In general, the gas administration installation 20 comprising the NO delivery device 1 according to the invention is suitable for use in treating various pulmonary pathologies, such as Neonatal Pulmonary Hypertension (NPPH), Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) and / or pulmonary hypertension (PH) in cardiac surgery, in different patient populations, in particular neonates, adults, adolescents or children.

Claims

1. An apparatus for delivering NO (1) comprising: - a main gas circuit for conveying a gas containing NO, in particular an NO / N2 mixture, - an analysis line (110) comprising means for measuring NO / NO2 (120, 121) configured to perform measurements of concentration of NO and / or NO2 within said analysis line (110), and - control means (15) connected to said means for measuring NO / NO2 (120, 121) and configured to process the measurements of concentration of NO and / or NO2 performed by said means for measuring NO / NO2 (120, 121), characterized in that: - the analysis line (110) comprises piezoelectric suction means (141) controlled by the control means (15) to aspirate gas at a given suction flow rate, - the control means (15) are further configured to control electric field generation means configured to generate an electric field at an excitation frequency of at least about 20 kHz, - the piezoelectric suction means (141) comprise a piezoelectric pump comprising at least one piezoelectric material selected from materials capable of deforming proportionally to an electric field applied to said piezoelectric material, and - said piezoelectric material is subjected to said electric field generated by the electric field generation means so as to expand or contract under the effect of the applied electric field, thereby generating a phenomenon of suction or expulsion of gas by the piezoelectric pump.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the piezoelectric material has a crystalline or ceramic structure.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the given suction flow rate is less than 400 mL / min, preferably between 200 and 300 mL / min.

4. The apparatus according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the control means (15) are configured to control electric field generation means configured to generate an electric field at an excitation frequency between 20 and 30 kHz.

5. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the means for measuring NO / NO2 (120, 121) comprise an NO sensor (121) and an NO2 sensor (120).

6. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the piezoelectric material comprises at least one metal.

7. The apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that the piezoelectric material comprises lead zirconate titanate (PZT).

8. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the piezoelectric suction means (141) comprise a piezoelectric suction pump operating, during its operation, with the dynamic piezoelectric effect resulting from the frequentional excitation.

9. The apparatus according to one of claims 1, 6 or 7, characterized in that said at least one piezoelectric material is deposited as a layer on a metal substrate to form a piezoelectric membrane having a surface area of at least 30 mm2.

10. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the electric field generation means comprise an electric current converter.

11. The apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that the electric current converter is supplied with direct electric current.

12. The apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that the current converter is configured to convert the direct current into alternating current at a given frequency.

13. The apparatus according to claims 1 and 12, characterized in that the control means control the value of the frequency of variation of the alternating current.

14. The apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that the piezoelectric membrane is supplied with alternating electric current.

15. An installation for administering gas (20) to a patient (P) comprising: - an apparatus for delivering NO (1) for supplying a gas based on NO according to any one of claims 1 to 9, such as an NO / N2 mixture, - a medical ventilator (2) for supplying an oxygen-based gas, such as air or an O2 / N2 mixture, - a patient circuit (3) to which the NO delivery apparatus (1) and the medical ventilator (2) are fluidly connected, - and a proximal flow sensor (35) arranged on the patient circuit (3) and electrically connected to the medical ventilator (2).