Hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction system and method

Abstract

A hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction can include a body. The body can include a handle having a selectively coverable suction hole and a suction port, a stylet rod, and a dorsal tip. The suction port can be configured to connect to a suction device. A lumen of the hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction can run along an inside length of the stylet rod and extend out from the dorsal tip. Alternatively, the lumen can run along an outside length of the stylet rod and extend beyond the dorsal tip. Covering the suction hole can enable suction through the lumen when the suction port is connected to the suction device.

Description

HYPERANGULATED STYLET WITH INTEGRATED SUCTION SYSTEM ANDMETHODSTATEMENT OF GOVERNMENT INTEREST

[0001] The invention described herein may be manufactured, used and licensed by or for the United States Government.RELATED APPLICATION

[0002] This application claims the benefit of provisional application serial number 63 / 493,788 filed April 3, 2023 and titled “Hyperangulated Stylet with Integrated Suction System and Method,” the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.FIELD

[0003] The present technology includes processes and articles of manufacture that relate to a hyperangulated stylet, including a hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction.BACKGROUND

[0004] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.

[0005] A stylet can be a rigid but malleable introducer which fits inside an endotracheal (ET) tube and allows for manipulation of the tube shape to facilitate passage of the tube through the laryngeal inlet during tracheal intubation. The stylet can provide additional rigidity to the ET tube which may aid in the placement of the ET tube. A stylet can be preformed to match the shape of an angulated video laryngoscope and have a rigid design for fast intubation. When used with a video laryngoscope, the stylet can improve the view of the laryngoscope to enable fast and safe intubation.

[0006] During tracheal intubation, suction may be necessary to clear secretions and to facilitate visualization in the airway for placement of the ET tube and to avoid introduction of airway debris further into the lungs or bronchial tree. However, current suction technologies may not adequately clear the visual field during hyperangulated laryngoscopy. Adding suction to theblade of a laryngoscope may not reach a location deep enough in the visual field where proper suction can be achieved. Consequently, providing suction at the end of the laryngoscope blade may not properly clear the area. Further, providing suction at this location may block the view of the video laryngoscope. Moreover, because suction is not always needed and may in certain instances be detrimental, a system in which suction can be selectively applied is desirable.

[0007] Accordingly, there is a need for a stylet with integrated suction that can be selectively applied and with the ability to extend to a location where suction is needed.SUMMARY

[0008] In concordance with the instant disclosure, a stylet with integrated suction that can be selectively applied and with the ability to extend to a location where suction is needed, is surprisingly discovered and disclosed.

[0009] In an embodiment, a hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction is provided, The stylet has a body including: a handle having a selectively coverable suction hole and a suction port, the suction port configured to connect to a suction source; and a stylet rod configured to be coupled to a lumen and having a distal end. Covering the suction hole enables suction through the lumen when the suction port is connected to the suction source.

[0010] In another embodiment, a hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction includes a body. The body includes a handle having a selectively coverable suction hole and a suction port. The suction port can be configured to connect to a suction source to enable suction. The body can also include a stylet rod having a distal end. A lumen that runs along an inside length of the stylet rod and extends out from the distal end of the stylet rod can provide suction for the hyperangulated stylet. In some embodiments, covering the suction hole enables suction through the lumen when the suction port is connected to the suction source.

[0011] In further embodiment, a hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction includes a body. The body can include a handle having a selectively coverable suction hole and a suction port. The suction port is configured to connect to a suction source to enable suction. The body can also include a stylet rod having a distal end. A lumen that runs along an outside length of the stylet rod and extends beyond the distal end of the stylet rod can provide suction for the hyperangulated stylet. In some embodiments, covering the suction hole enables suction through the lumen when the suction port is connected to the suction source.

[0012] In a still further embodiment, a method of operating a hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction includes selectively covering a suction hole of the hyperangulated stylet to enable suction through a lumen of the hyperangulated stylet. The lumen can run along an inside length of a stylet rod and extend out from a distal end of the stylet rod of the hyperangulated stylet. The lumen can also run along an outside length of the stylet rod and extend beyond the distal end of the hyperangulated stylet.

[0013] Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein. The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.BRIEF DE SCRIPTON OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIGS. 1A, IB and 1C show a first embodiment of a hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIGS. 2A, 2B and 2C show a second embodiment of a hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 3 shows a method of operating a hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the drawing figures, in which like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout.

[0019] Embodiments of the present disclosure advantageously provide a hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction. The stylet has a body including a handle having a selectively coverable suction hole and a suction port that is configured to connect to a suction source and a stylet rod coupled to the handle and configured to be coupled to a lumen and having a distal end. Covering the suction hole enables suction through the lumen when the suction port is connected to the suction source.

[0020] The hyperangulated stylet may come with the lumen coupled to it or the stylet may not have a lumen, in which case the lumen will be either inserted into the stylet rod or coupled along an outside edge of the stylet rod, depending on the embodiment. The ability to change out the lumen allows for cleaning and replacement as needed.

[0021] As provided herein, a hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction and methodology for using the same is disclosed. The hyperangulated stylet can include a relatively large internal diameter with an ability to connect to a suction source. In one embodiment, a lumen of a rigid hyperangulated stylet runs along an interior of the stylet in a relatively large internal diameter channel that accommodates the lumen. A hole in the hyperangulated stylet handle can be a side-hole and can be selectively covered to enable suction through the lumen. In another embodiment, the lumen runs parallel (outside) to the stylet along an outside surface of the stylet rod, such as along an outside length of the stylet rod to enable in-line suction. In both cases, the lumen has a sufficiently large internal diameter and may have a particulate filter. The hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction can be selectively operated by a person performing a procedure using the hyperangulated stylet.

[0022] The technology of the disclosure can provide certain benefits and advantages in a hyperangulated stylet. In particular, the hyperangulated stylet of the present disclosure can enable selectively appliable suction and utilizes a lumen for suction that extends past a distal end of a stylet to enable suction without injuring the patient. In addition, the hyperangulated stylet can be complementary shaped to a video laryngoscope to enable fast and safe intubation. In particular, the hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction of the present disclosure enables suction during intubation while still being able to visualize the area with the video laryngoscope.

[0023] EXAMPLES

[0024] Example embodiments of the present disclosure are provided with reference to the several figures enclosed herewith.

[0025] As contemplated in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure, a hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction may include a body having a handle having a selectively coverable suction hole and a suction port, the suction port configured to connect to a suction source, and the body further having a stylet rod coupled to the handle and having a distal end. A lumen is housed along an inside length of the stylet rod, the lumen extending out fromthe distal end of the stylet rod. Covering the suction hole enables suction through the lumen when the suction port is connected to the suction source.

[0026] Referring to FIGs. 1 A to ID, a hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction 100 is shown. The hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction 100 includes a body including a handle 101, a stylet rod 102 and a distal end or dorsal tip 103 of the stylet rod. The handle has a suction hole 104 and a suction port 105 to which a suction nipple 111 is attached as shown. The suction hole 104 is selectively coverable to enable suction through the hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction 100 when the suction port 105 is connected to a suction source, such as a vacuum or other suction device or means. In some embodiments, the suction hole 104 can be selectively covered by a clinician when using the hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction 100 during a procedure. For example, the suction hole 104 can be covered by a thumb of the clinician to enable suction. Alternatively, in some embodiments, a slidable switch or movable flap can be used to cover the suction hole 104 to enable suction. As will be apparent to someone of ordinary skill in the art, any appropriately desired method can be used to cover the suction hole 104 to enable suction through the hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction 100. In still further embodiments, suction hole 104 may be a side hole on the side of the handle as shown in the drawings.

[0027] The suction hole 104 and the suction port 105 connect to a lumen 106 within the body of the hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction 100. The lumen 106 can run along an inside length of the stylet rod 102. Suction is provided through the lumen 106 when the suction hole 104 is covered and the suction port 105 is connected to a suction source. The lumen 106 can be configured to be soft and atraumatic. In particular, the lumen 106 can include one or more materials and shapes that can help ensure that a patient is not injured during placement or use of the hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction 100 as the lumen 106 is used for suction. As shown within FIG. 1 A, the lumen tip 108 extends beyond and out from the distal end 103 of the hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction 100. This can further ensure that the distal end 103 does not injure a patient, while suction is still able to reach needed areas. As illustrated in FIG. IB, a flexible tube 107 may be coupled between the suction port 105 of the handle and a suction nipple 111 as shown.

[0028] FIG. 1C shows an ET tube 109 coupled with the hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction 100. The ET tube 109 provides a snug friction fit with the hyperangulatedstylet with integrated suction 100 so that it does not come loose during placement of the ET tube 109. In some embodiments, the lumen tip 108 also extends beyond the end of the ET tube 110, when the ET tube 109 is placed on the hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction 100.

[0029] In this embodiment, in which the lumen that is embedded within the stylet rod, the lumen may need to be replaced or newly inserted within a channel 112 of the stylet rod. As shown in FIG. ID, the stylet may not come with the lumen prompting this assembly step to achieve what is shown in FIG. 1A.

[0030] As contemplated in accordance with another embodiment of the disclosure a hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction has a body including a handle having a selectively coverable suction hole and a suction port, the suction port configured to connect to a suction source; and a stylet rod coupled to the handle and having a distal end. A lumen is coupled along an outside length of the stylet rod, the lumen extending beyond the distal end of the stylet rod. Covering the suction hole enables suction through the lumen when the suction port is connected to the suction source.

[0031] FIGs. 2A to 2D show another embodiment of a hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction 200. The hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction 200 comprises a lumen 206 that runs parallel to an outside of the hyperangulated stylet along an outside length of the stylet rod with integrated suction 200 to enable in-line suction. The lumen may have a particulate filter, providing an in-line suction tube with filtering capabilties.

[0032] The hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction 200 includes a body including a handle 201, a stylet rod 202 and a distal end or dorsal tip 203 of the stylet rod. The handle has a suction hole 204 and a suction port 205 to which a suction nipple 211 is attached as shown. The suction hole 204 is selectively coverable to enable suction through the hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction 200 when the suction port 205 is connected to a suction source. In some embodiments, the suction hole 204 can be selectively covered by a clinician when using the hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction 200 during a procedure. For example, the suction hole 204 can be covered by a thumb of the clinician to enable suction. Alternatively, in some embodiments, a slidable switch or movable flap can be used to cover the suction hole 204 to enable suction. As will be apparent to someone of ordinary skill in the art, any appropriately desired method can be used to cover the suction hole 204 to enable suction through thehyperangulated stylet with integrated suction 200. In still further embodiments, suction hole 204 may be a side hole on the side of the handle as shown in the drawings.

[0033] The suction hole 204 and the suction port 205 connect to a lumen 206 within the body of the hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction 200. Suction is provided through the lumen 206 when the suction hole 204 is covered and the suction port 205 is connected to a suction source. The lumen 206 can be configured to be soft and atraumatic. In particular, the lumen 206 can include one or more materials and shapes that can help ensure that a patient is not injured during placement or use of the hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction 200 as the lumen 206 is used for suction. As shown within FIG. 2A, the lumen tip 208 extends beyond the distal end 203 of the hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction 200. This can further ensure that the distal end 203 does not injure a patient, while suction is still able to reach needed areas. As illustrated in FIG. 2B, a flexible tube 207 may be coupled between the suction port 205 of the handle and a suction nipple 211 as shown.

[0034] FIG. 2C shows an ET tube 209 coupled with the hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction 200. The ET tube 209 provides a snug friction fit with the hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction 200 so that it does not come loose during placement of the ET tube 209. In some embodiments, the lumen tip 208 also extends beyond the end of the ET tube 210, when the ET tube 209 is placed on the hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction 200.

[0035] In this embodiment, in which the lumen that is coupled to an outside length of the stylet rod, the lumen may need to be replaced or newly coupled to the stylet rod. As shown in FIG. 2D, the stylet may not come with the lumen prompting this assembly step to achieve what is shown in FIG. 2A.

[0036] FIG. 3 shows a flowchart for a method of operating a hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction, in accordance with various embodiments of the disclosure. At Block 310, a lumen is coupled to the body of the hyperangulated stylet. As indicated by the dashed box, this action is taken as needed in the case where the lumen is not yet coupled to the stylet rod, as shown in FIGs. ID and 2D, for example. In the embodiment in which the lumen resides within a channel 112 of the stylet rod as shown in FIG. ID, this includes coupling the lumen to the stylet rod by inserting it into the channel 112 to achieve what is shown in FIG. 1 A. In the embodiment in which the lumen is outside the stylet, this is accomplished by coupling the lumen to an outside of the hyperangulated stylet as shown in FIG. 2A.

[0037] In Block 320, an endotracheal tube is placed over the stylet with lumen, as shown in FIGs. 1C and 2C. As indicated by the dashed box, this is optional. At Block 330, the suction port (105 in FIGs. 1A-1D and 205 in FIGs. 2A-2D) is connected to a suction source, such as a connection device. The hyperangulated stylet is placed into the patient at Block 340. At Block 350 the suction hole of the hyperangulated stylet is selectively covered to enable suction through the lumen. The stylet may be passed over the patient’s vocal cords into the patient's airway at Block 360.

[0038] In step 350, a suction hole of the hyperangulated stylet is selectively covered to enable suction through a lumen of the hyperangulated stylet. The lumen can run along an inside length of a stylet rod of the lumen and extend out from a distal end or dorsal tip of the stylet rod of the hyperangulated stylet. Alternatively, the lumen can run along an outside length of a stylet rod and extend beyond a distal end or dorsal tip of a stylet rod of the hyperangulated stylet. Following placement of the tube of the stylet into the airway of the patient, the stylet is removed.

[0039] The following embodiments are combinable.

[0040] Therefore in one embodiment of the disclosure, a hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction has a body including: a handle having a selectively coverable suction hole and a suction port, the suction port configured to connect to a suction source; and a stylet rod coupled to the handle and configured to be coupled to a lumen and having a distal end. Covering the suction hole enables suction through the lumen when the suction port is connected to the suction source.

[0041] In another embodiment of the disclosure, the stylet rod is configured to house the lumen along an inside length of the stylet rod, with the lumen extending out from the distal end of the stylet rod when housed in the stylet rod.

[0042] In another embodiment of the disclosure, the stylet rod is configured to be coupled to the lumen along an outside length of the stylet rod, with the lumen extending beyond the distal end of the stylet rod when coupled to the stylet rod.

[0043] In another embodiment of the disclosure, the lumen runs parallel to an outside surface of the stylet rod.

[0044] In another embodiment of the disclosure, the lumen runs parallel to the outside length of the stylet rod.

[0045] In another embodiment of the disclosure, the distal end of the stylet rod is a dorsal tip.

[0046] In another embodiment of the disclosure, the suction hole is a side hole of the handle.

[0047] In another embodiment of the disclosure, further including an endotracheal tube configured to cover the stylet rod and a lumen coupled thereto.

[0048] In another embodiment of the disclosure, the endotracheal tube has a snug friction fit when placed over the stylet rod and the lumen coupled thereto.

[0049] In another embodiment of the disclosure, a lumen tip of the lumen extends beyond a distal end of the endotracheal tube when placed over the stylet rod and the lumen coupled thereto.

[0050] In another embodiment of the disclosure, the handle additionally comprising a flexible tube coupled between the suction port of the handle and a suction nipple.

[0051] Therefore, in one embodiment of the disclosure, a hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction has a body including a handle having a selectively coverable suction hole and a suction port, the suction port configured to connect to a suction source; and a stylet rod coupled to the handle and having a distal end. A lumen housed along an inside length of the stylet rod, the lumen extending out from the distal end of the stylet rod. Covering the suction hole enables suction through the lumen when the suction port is connected to the suction source.

[0052] In another embodiment of the disclosure, the distal end of the stylet rod is a dorsal tip.

[0053] In another embodiment of the disclosure, the handle additionally comprising a flexible tube coupled between the suction port of the handle and a suction nipple.

[0054] In another embodiment of the disclosure, the lumen has a particulate filter.

[0055] In another embodiment of the disclosure, the suction hole is a side hole of the handle.

[0056] In another embodiment of the disclosure, an endotracheal tube configured to cover the stylet rod and the lumen housed along an inside length of the stylet rod.

[0057] In another embodiment of the disclosure, the endotracheal tube has a snug friction fit when placed over the stylet rod and the lumen housed therein.

[0058] In another embodiment of the disclosure, a lumen tip of the lumen extends beyond a distal end of the endotracheal tube when placed over the stylet rod and the lumen housed therein.

[0059] In accordance with one embodiment of the disclosure, a hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction having a body including: a handle having a selectively coverable suction hole and a suction port, the suction port configured to connect to a suction source; and a stylet rod coupled to the handle and having a distal end. A lumen coupled along an outside length of the stylet rod, the lumen extending beyond the distal end of the stylet rod. Covering the suction hole enables suction through the lumen when the suction port is connected to the suction source.

[0060] In another embodiment of the disclosure, where the distal end of the stylet rod is a dorsal tip.

[0061] In another embodiment of the disclosure, the lumen has a particulate filter.

[0062] In another embodiment of the disclosure, the lumen runs parallel to an outside surface of the stylet rod.

[0063] In another embodiment of the disclosure, the lumen runs parallel to the outside length of the stylet rod.

[0064] In another embodiment of the disclosure, the handle additionally comprising a flexible tube coupled between the suction port of the handle and a suction nipple.

[0065] In another embodiment of the disclosure, the suction hole is a side hole of the handle.

[0066] In another embodiment of the disclosure, further including: an endotracheal tube configured to cover the stylet rod and the lumen coupled along an outside length of the stylet rod.

[0067] In another embodiment of the disclosure, the endotracheal tube has a snug friction fit when placed over the stylet rod and the lumen coupled thereto.

[0068] In another embodiment of the disclosure, a lumen tip of the lumen extends beyond a distal end of the endotracheal tube when placed over the stylet rod and the lumen coupled thereto.

[0069] In one embodiment of the disclosure, a method of operating a hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction includes selectively covering a suction hole of the hyperangulated stylet to enable suction through a lumen of the hyperangulated stylet.

[0070] In another embodiment of the disclosure, the lumen is housed along an inside length of a stylet rod, the lumen extending out from a distal end of the stylet rod of the hyperangulated stylet.

[0071] In another embodiment of the disclosure, the lumen is coupled along an outside surface of a stylet rod, the lumen extending beyond a distal end of the stylet rod of the hyperangulated stylet.

[0072] In another embodiment of the disclosure, further including prior to selectively covering the suction hole of the hyperangulated stylet: coupling the lumen to a stylet rod of the stylet.

[0073] In another embodiment of the disclosure, coupling the lumen to the stylet rod of the stylet includes one or more of inserting the lumen along an inside length of the stylet rod and coupling the lumen along an outside length of the stylet rod.

[0074] In another embodiment of the disclosure, further including placing an endotracheal tube over the stylet rod and the lumen coupled thereto.

[0075] In another embodiment of the disclosure, further including prior to selectively covering the suction hole of the hyperangulated stylet: placing an endotracheal tube over the stylet rod and the lumen coupled thereto.

[0076] In another embodiment of the disclosure, further including prior to selectively covering the suction hole of the hyperangulated stylet: connecting a suction port of the hyperangulated stylet to a suction source.

[0077] The above description of technology of the disclosure is merely exemplary in nature of the subject matter, manufacture and use of one or more inventions, and is not intended to limit the scope, application, or uses of any specific invention claimed in this application or in such other applications as may be filed claiming priority to this application, or patents issuing therefrom. Regarding methods disclosed, the order of the steps presented is exemplary in nature, and thus, the order of the steps can be different in various embodiments, including where certain steps can be simultaneously performed, unless expressly stated otherwise. “A” and “an” as used herein indicate “at least one” of the item is present; a plurality of such items may be present, when possible. Except where otherwise expressly indicated, all numerical quantities in this description are to be understood as modified by the word “about” and all geometric and spatial descriptors are to be understood as modified by the word “substantially” in describing thebroadest scope of the technology of this disclosure. “About” when applied to numerical values indicates that the calculation or the measurement allows some slight imprecision in the value (with some approach to exactness in the value; approximately or reasonably close to the value; nearly). If, for some reason, the imprecision provided by “about” and / or “substantially” is not otherwise understood in the art with this ordinary meaning, then “about” and / or “substantially” as used herein indicates at least variations that may arise from ordinary methods of measuring or using such parameters.

[0078] While implementations of the disclosure are susceptible to embodiment in many different forms, there is shown in the drawings and as herein described in detail specific embodiments, with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an example of the principles of the disclosure and not intended to limit the disclosure to the specific embodiments shown and described. In the description above, like reference numerals may be used to describe the same, similar or corresponding parts in the several views of the drawings.

[0079] In this document, relational terms such as first and second, top and bottom, and the like may be used solely to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” “including,” “has,” “having,” or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element preceded by “comprises ... a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element.

[0080] Reference throughout this document to “one embodiment,” “certain embodiments,” “an embodiment,” “implementation(s),” “aspect(s),” or similar terms means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Thus, the appearances of such phrases or in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments without limitation.

[0081] The term “or” as used herein is to be interpreted as an inclusive or meaning any one or any combination. Therefore, “A, B or C” means “any of the following: A; B; C; A and B; A and C; B and C; A, B and C.” An exception to this definition will occur only when a combination of elements, functions, steps or acts are in some way inherently mutually exclusive. Also, grammatical conjunctions are intended to express any and all disjunctive and conjunctive combinations of conjoined clauses, sentences, words, and the like, unless otherwise stated or clear from the context. Thus, the term “or” should generally be understood to mean “and / or” and so forth. References to items in the singular should be understood to include items in the plural, and vice versa, unless explicitly stated otherwise or clear from the text.

[0082] Recitation of ranges of values herein are not intended to be limiting, referring instead individually to any and all values falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated, and each separate value within such a range is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. The words “about,” “approximately,” or the like, when accompanying a numerical value, are to be construed as indicating a deviation as would be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art to operate satisfactorily for an intended purpose. Ranges of values and / or numeric values are provided herein as examples only, and do not constitute a limitation on the scope of the described embodiments. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (“e.g.,” “such as,” “for example,” or the like) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the embodiments and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the embodiments. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any unclaimed element as essential to the practice of the embodiments.

[0083] For simplicity and clarity of illustration, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements. Numerous details are set forth to provide an understanding of the embodiments described herein. The embodiments may be practiced without these details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and components have not been described in detail to avoid obscuring the embodiments described. The description is not to be considered as limited to the scope of the embodiments described herein.

[0084] In the following description, it is understood that terms such as “first,” “second,” “top,” “bottom,” “up,” “down,” “above,” “below,” and the like, are words of convenience andare not to be construed as limiting terms. Also, the terms apparatus, device, system, etc. may be used interchangeably in this text.

[0085] When an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “engaged to,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected, or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly engaged to,” “directly connected to” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0086] Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer, or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed herein could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments.

[0087] Spatially relative terms, such as “inner,” “outer,” “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper,” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the example term “below” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

[0088] The many features and advantages of the disclosure are apparent from the detailed specification, and, thus, it is intended by the appended claims to cover all such features and advantages of the disclosure which fall within the scope of the disclosure. Further, since numerous modifications and variations will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the disclosure to the exact construction and operation illustrated and described, and, accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to that fall within the scope of the disclosure.

[0089] Example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope to those who are skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many different forms, and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well- known technologies are not described in detail. Equivalent changes, modifications and variations of some embodiments, materials, compositions and methods can be made within the scope of the present disclosure, with substantially similar results.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction comprising: a body including: a handle having a selectively coverable suction hole and a suction port, the suction port configured to connect to a suction source; and a stylet rod coupled to the handle and configured to be coupled to a lumen and having a distal end, where covering the suction hole enables suction through the lumen when the suction port is connected to the suction source.

2. The hyperangulated stylet of claim 1, where the stylet rod is configured to house the lumen along an inside length of the stylet rod, with the lumen extending out from the distal end of the stylet rod when housed in the stylet rod.

3. The hyperangulated stylet of claim 1, where the stylet rod is configured to be coupled to the lumen along an outside length of the stylet rod, with the lumen extending beyond the distal end of the stylet rod when coupled to the stylet rod.

4. The hyperangulated stylet of claim 3, where the lumen runs parallel to an outside surface of the stylet rod.

5. The hyperangulated stylet of claim 4, where the lumen runs parallel to the outside length of the stylet rod.

6. The hyperangulated stylet of claim 1, where the distal end of the stylet rod is a dorsal tip.

7. The hyperangulated stylet of claim 1, where the suction hole is a side hole of the handle.

8. The hyperangulated stylet of claim 1, further comprising:an endotracheal tube configured to cover the stylet rod and a lumen coupled thereto.

9. The hyperangulated stylet of claim 8, where the endotracheal tube has a snug friction fit when placed over the stylet rod and the lumen coupled thereto.

10. The hyperangulated stylet of claim 8, where a lumen tip of the lumen extends beyond a distal end of the endotracheal tube when placed over the stylet rod and the lumen coupled thereto.

11. The hyperangulated stylet of claim 1, the handle additionally comprising a flexible tube coupled between the suction port of the handle and a suction nipple.

12. A hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction comprising: a body including: a handle having a selectively coverable suction hole and a suction port, the suction port configured to connect to a suction source; and a stylet rod coupled to the handle and having a distal end; and a lumen housed along an inside length of the stylet rod, the lumen extending out from the distal end of the stylet rod, where covering the suction hole enables suction through the lumen when the suction port is connected to the suction source.

13. The hyperangulated stylet of claim 13, where the distal end of the stylet rod is a dorsal tip.

14. The hyperangulated stylet of claim 13, the handle additionally comprising a flexible tube coupled between the suction port of the handle and a suction nipple.

15. The hyperangulated stylet of claim 13, where the lumen has a particulate fdter.

16. The hyperangulated stylet of claim 13, where the suction hole is a side hole of the handle.

17. The hyperangulated stylet of claim 13, further comprising: an endotracheal tube configured to cover the stylet rod and the lumen housed along an inside length of the stylet rod.

18. The hyperangulated stylet of claim 17, where the endotracheal tube has a snug friction fit when placed over the stylet rod and the lumen housed therein.

19. The hyperangulated stylet of claim 17, where a lumen tip of the lumen extends beyond a distal end of the endotracheal tube when placed over the stylet rod and the lumen housed therein.

20. A hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction comprising: a body including: a handle having a selectively coverable suction hole and a suction port, the suction port configured to connect to a suction source; and a stylet rod coupled to the handle and having a distal end; and a lumen coupled along an outside length of the stylet rod, the lumen extending beyond the distal end of the stylet rod, where covering the suction hole enables suction through the lumen when the suction port is connected to the suction source.

21. The hyperangulated stylet of claim 20, where the distal end of the stylet rod is a dorsal tip.

22. The hyperangulated stylet of claim 20, where the lumen has a particulate filter.

23. The hyperangulated stylet of claim 20, where the lumen runs parallel to an outside surface of the stylet rod.

24. The hyperangulated stylet of claim 23, where the lumen runs parallel to the outside length of the stylet rod.

25. The hyperangulated stylet of claim 20, the handle additionally comprising a flexible tube coupled between the suction port of the handle and a suction nipple.

26. The hyperangulated stylet of claim 20, where the suction hole is a side hole of the handle.

27. The hyperangulated stylet of claim 20, further comprising: an endotracheal tube configured to cover the stylet rod and the lumen coupled along an outside length of the stylet rod.

28. The hyperangulated stylet of claim 27, where the endotracheal tube has a snug friction fit when placed over the stylet rod and the lumen coupled thereto.

29. The hyperangulated stylet of claim 27, where a lumen tip of the lumen extends beyond a distal end of the endotracheal tube when placed over the stylet rod and the lumen coupled thereto.

30. A method of operating a hyperangulated stylet with integrated suction comprising: selectively covering a suction hole of the hyperangulated stylet to enable suction through a lumen of the hyperangulated stylet.

31. The method of claim 30, where the lumen is housed along an inside length of a stylet rod, the lumen extending out from a distal end of the stylet rod of the hyperangulated stylet.

32. The method of Claim 30, where the lumen is coupled along an outside surface of a stylet rod, the lumen extending beyond a distal end of the stylet rod of the hyperangulated stylet.

33. The method of claim 30, further comprising prior to selectively covering the suction hole of the hyperangulated stylet: coupling the lumen to a stylet rod of the stylet.

34. The method of claim 33, where coupling the lumen to the stylet rod of the stylet includes one or more of inserting the lumen along an inside length of the stylet rod and coupling the lumen along an outside length of the stylet rod.

35. The method of claim 30, further comprising: placing an endotracheal tube over the stylet rod and the lumen coupled thereto.

36. The method of claim 30, further comprising prior to selectively covering the suction hole of the hyperangulated stylet: placing an endotracheal tube over the stylet rod and the lumen coupled thereto.

37. The method of claim 30, further comprising prior to selectively covering the suction hole of the hyperangulated stylet: connecting a suction port of the hyperangulated stylet to a suction source.

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