Respiratory interface

Abstract

To provide a respiratory interface for delivering gases to a single nare of a patient.SOLUTION: A respiratory interface comprises: a gases delivery assembly having a single sealing nasal prong 200 configured to seal one of the nares of a patient, a conduit 300, a conduit connector 400, and a support 500 with headgear strap clips 503. The prong 200 slides relative to the support to be interchangeable so that it can engage and seal either nare. A cuff is connected to slider members 501.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 62

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to respiratory interfaces, and more particularly to respiratory patient interfaces for providing gases or fluids to a patient. [Background technology]

[0002] Respiratory support apparatus are used to deliver a flow of gas to a user or patient in a variety of environments, such as hospitals, medical facilities, home care or home environments. Respiratory support apparatus or respiratory treatment apparatus (collectively "respiratory apparatus" or "respiratory device") may be used to deliver a flow of gas, such as air and / or supplemental oxygen or other gases, to a user. To deliver heated and humidified gas, the respiratory device may also include a humidifier. The respiratory apparatus may allow for the regulation and control of the characteristics of the gas flow, including flow rate, temperature, gas concentration, humidity, pressure, etc. Sensors, such as flow and / or pressure sensors, are used to measure the characteristics of the gas flow. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0003] 1. A respiratory interface for delivering gas to one nostril of a patient, comprising: A single sealing nasal prong, a seal body configured to seal one of a patient's nares, the seal body having or including substantially opposed front and rear surfaces and substantially opposed left and right surfaces, the substantially opposed front and rear surfaces being substantially symmetrical with respect to one another; an inlet configured to receive a gas; an outlet configured to deliver gas to a patient, the outlet being located in an approximately central position between the left and right sides such that a single sealing nasal prong can seal against either one of the patient's nostrils; Including, The seal body and outlet of the single-sealing nasal prongs are positioned such that one of the patient's nostrils is substantially sealed and receives gas from the outlet, while the other of the patient's nostrils is not sealed and does not receive direct gas from the outlet. A respiratory interface is provided that includes:

[0004] 1. A respiratory interface for delivering gas to one nostril of a patient, comprising: A single sealing nasal prong, a seal body configured to seal one of a patient's nares, the seal body having or including substantially opposed front and rear surfaces and substantially opposed left and right surfaces, the substantially opposed left and right surfaces being substantially symmetrical to one another; an inlet configured to receive a gas; an outlet configured to deliver gas to a patient, the outlet being located in an approximately central position between the left and right sides such that a single sealing nasal prong can seal against either one of the patient's nostrils; Including, The seal body and outlet of the single-sealing nasal prongs are positioned such that one of the patient's nostrils is substantially sealed and receives gas from the outlet, while the other of the patient's nostrils is not sealed and does not receive direct gas from the outlet. A respiratory interface is provided that includes:

[0005] Optionally, the substantially opposing front and rear faces are substantially symmetrical to one another.

[0006] Optionally, the respiratory interface further comprises a gas delivery assembly, the gas delivery assembly comprising single sealing nasal prongs.

[0007] Optionally, the gas delivery assembly further comprises a conduit connected or connectable to the single sealed nasal prongs.

[0008] Optionally, the respiratory interface further comprises headgear connected or connectable to the gas delivery assembly.

[0009] 1. A respiratory interface for delivering gas to one nostril of a patient, comprising: 1. A gas delivery assembly comprising: a single sealing nasal prong having a seal body configured to seal with one of the patient's nostrils, an inlet configured to receive gas, and an outlet configured to supply gas to the patient; A conduit directly coupled to and in fluid communication with the single sealed nasal prongs. a gas delivery assembly having headgear connected or connectable to the gas delivery assembly; A respiratory interface is provided comprising:

[0010] 1. A respiratory interface for delivering gas to one nostril of a patient, comprising: 1. A gas delivery assembly comprising: a single sealing nasal prong having a seal body configured to seal with one of the patient's nostrils, an inlet configured to receive gas, and an outlet configured to supply gas to the patient; A conduit directly coupled to and in fluid communication with the single sealed nasal prongs. a gas delivery assembly comprising: headgear connected or connectable to the gas delivery assembly; A respiratory interface is provided that includes:

[0011] 1. A respiratory interface for delivering gas to one nostril of a patient, comprising: 1. A frameless gas delivery assembly comprising: a single sealing nasal prong having a seal body configured to seal with one of the patient's nostrils, the single sealing nasal prong having an inlet configured to receive gas and an outlet configured to supply gas to the patient; Conduit in fluid communication with single sealed nasal prongs a frameless gas delivery assembly including: headgear connected or connectable to the gas delivery assembly; A respiratory interface is provided that includes:

[0012] Optionally, the headgear is directly connected to the gas delivery assembly.

[0013] Optionally, the headgear is directly connected to the single sealing nasal prongs.

[0014] Optionally, the headgear is directly connected to the conduit.

[0015] Optionally, the seal body includes a wall defining the inlet, the outlet, and the seal body.

[0016] Optionally, the wall thickness is from about 0.7 mm to about 0.8 mm.

[0017] Optionally, the respiratory interface further includes an adjuster configured to isolate the single sealing nasal prongs from tension when the single sealing nasal prongs are moved from one nostril to the other, while still allowing the headgear to maintain headgear retention force.

[0018] Optionally, the adjuster includes a support.

[0019] Optionally, the support is or includes one or more sliding members.

[0020] Optionally, the support or strap is or includes a flexible portion.

[0021] Optionally, the adjuster is coupled to a cuff supporting a single sealing nasal prong, between or as an intermediate component of a headgear mechanism.

[0022] Optionally, the respiratory interface further comprises a clip configured to releasably fasten the conduit to another item associated with the patient.

[0023] Optionally, the outlet is located at an approximately central position between the front and rear faces.

[0024] Optionally, the opposing left and right sides are substantially symmetrical to one another.

[0025] Optionally, the single sealing nasal prong is pivotable about an axis so that it can be oriented to fit into either of the patient's nostrils.

[0026] Optionally, the single sealing nasal prong includes a rigid portion that is connected or connectable to a gas flow assembly.

[0027] Optionally, the rigid portion provides stability of the single sealing nasal prong to the gas flow assembly.

[0028] Optionally, the wall thickness of the rigid portion is from about 1.5 mm to about 4 mm.

[0029] Optionally, the single sealing nasal prongs include flexible portions configured to substantially conform to the shape of the patient's nares.

[0030] 1. A respiratory interface for delivering gas to one nostril of a patient, comprising: a single sealing nasal prong having a seal body configured to seal with one of the patient's nostrils, an inlet configured to receive gas, and an outlet configured to supply gas to the patient; A conduit having an outlet configured to supply gas to a single sealed nasal prong, the conduit being coupled or coupleable to the single sealed nasal prong such that the conduit outlet is coaxial with the inlet of the single sealed nasal prong. A respiratory interface is provided that includes:

[0031] Optionally, the cross-sectional area of ​​the conduit outlet is similar to the cross-sectional area of ​​the prong inlet.

[0032] Optionally, the ratio of the width of the single sealing nasal prong to the length of the single sealing nasal prong is from about 0.4 to about 0.9.

[0033] Optionally, the ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the prong exit to the cross-sectional area of ​​the conduit exit 305 is about 0.72.

[0034] Optionally, a ratio of a cross-sectional area of ​​the prong exit to a cross-sectional area of ​​the base of the seal is about 0.33.

[0035] Optionally, the prong outlet is approximately central to the conduit outlet.

[0036] Optionally, the single sealing nasal prongs include a flexible seal.

[0037] Optionally, the single sealing nasal prong includes a rigid joint.

[0038] Optionally, the rigid joint is integral with the single sealing nasal prong.

[0039] Optionally, the seal body includes a wall defining the inlet, the outlet, and the seal body.

[0040] Optionally, the wall thickness is from about 0.7 mm to about 0.8 mm.

[0041] Optionally, the respiratory interface further comprises a cuff having a prong coupling, the single sealing nasal prong being received or receivable by the prong coupling of the cuff.

[0042] Optionally, the rigid joint is coupled to the cuff.

[0043] Optionally, the rigid coupling includes a single sealed nasal prong entrance.

[0044] Optionally, the gas path from the conduit to the prong outlet is substantially straight.

[0045] Optionally, the single sealed nasal prong and conduit assembly form a continuous gas pathway.

[0046] Optionally, the single sealed nasal prong and the conduit assembly form a direct fluid connection.

[0047] Optionally, the conduit assembly includes a conduit and a conduit connector that facilitates a connection between the conduit and the cuff.

[0048] Optionally, an inner surface of the rigid portion includes an undercut or recess and the cuff includes a complementary groove, the undercut or recess and the complementary groove interacting with each other to couple the prong to the conduit.

[0049] Optionally, the cuff includes a headgear attachment hook.

[0050] Optionally, the rigid portion includes a cutout or recess configured to receive a portion of a headgear strap.

[0051] Optionally, the cuff includes teeth configured to grip and retain a portion of the headgear strap.

[0052] Optionally, the conduit and prong configuration are configured to reduce flow resistance.

[0053] 1. A respiratory interface for delivering gas to one nostril of a patient, comprising: a single sealing nasal prong having a seal body configured to seal with one of the patient's nostrils, an inlet configured to receive gas, and an outlet configured to supply gas to the patient; an adjuster configured to allow the single-sealing nasal prong to be removable from the first nostril and to be placed in the patient's other nostril to seal against the other nostril without the single-sealing nasal prong being removed from the respiratory interface; A respiratory interface is provided that includes:

[0054] Optionally, the respiratory interface further comprises headgear, the headgear comprising an adjuster.

[0055] Optionally, the headgear includes a single strap or bifurcated straps.

[0056] Optionally, the headgear includes an extendable portion.

[0057] Optionally, the headgear includes a non-stretchable portion.

[0058] Optionally, the non-stretchable portion has a stretchable portion on each side.

[0059] Optionally, the adjuster includes a sliding member that allows prong adjustment independent of the head strap.

[0060] Optionally, the single sealing nasal prong is a movable prong.

[0061] Optionally, the single sealing nasal prong is movable between two positions.

[0062] Optionally, the single sealing prong is rotatable from a first position in which the prong seals against a first nostril of the patient, to a second position in which the prong seals against a second nostril of the patient.

[0063] Optionally, the single sealing nasal prong is rotatable about a pivot or is rotatable about a vertical axis.

[0064] Optionally, the pivot is located between the first location and the second location.

[0065] Optionally, the first location is on a first region of the manifold and the second location is on a second region of the manifold.

[0066] Optionally, the first location and the second location on the first region of the manifold are on the same region of the manifold.

[0067] Optionally, the prong outlet extends at a first angle when in the first location to accommodate a first nostril angle, and the prong outlet extends at a second angle when in the second location to accommodate a second nostril angle.

[0068] Optionally, the manifold includes a first outlet corresponding to a first location of the prongs and a second outlet corresponding to a second location of the prongs.

[0069] Optionally, the respiratory interface further comprises a plug configured to seal the second opening when the single sealing nasal prongs are in the first location and to seal the first opening when the single sealing nasal prongs are in the second location.

[0070] Optionally, the plug is integral with the prong and configured to rotate when the prong rotates.

[0071] Optionally, the respiratory interface further comprises a tether connecting the plug to the respiratory interface.

[0072] Optionally, the seal body has opposing left and right sides, and the prong outlet is located in an approximately central position between the left and right sides such that a single sealing nasal prong can seal with either one of the patient's nares.

[0073] Optionally, the seal body has opposing front and rear faces, and the prong outlet is located at an approximately central position between the front and rear faces such that a single sealing nasal prong can seal with each of the patient's nares regardless of vertical orientation.

[0074] 1. A respiratory interface for delivering gas to one nostril of a patient, comprising: a body having a pair of side arms configured to provide stability of the interface on the patient's cheek; Single-sealing nasal prongs, A manifold having a single-sided inlet for receiving gas from a gas source and an outlet for delivering gas to a single sealed nasal prong. Including, The single-sealing nasal prongs provide a respiratory interface positioned such that one of the patient's nostrils is substantially sealed and supplied with gases from the outlet, while the other of the patient's nostrils is not sealed and does not receive a direct supply of gases from the outlet.

[0075] Optionally, the manifold is a separate piece from the side arms, and the side arms are connectable or connected to the manifold.

[0076] Optionally, the side arms include headgear attachment features.

[0077] Optionally, the conduit clip engages or is engageable with the conduit.

[0078] 1. A respiratory interface for delivering gas to one nostril of a patient, comprising: a single sealing nasal prong having a seal body configured to seal with one of the patient's nostrils, an inlet configured to receive gas, and an outlet configured to supply gas to the patient; a support for a single-sealing nasal prong strap, the single-sealing nasal prong being translatable relative to the support and interchangeably received by the patient's nares, the single-sealing nasal prong remaining coupled to the support; A headgear connected or connectable to a support; A respiratory interface is provided that includes:

[0079] Optionally, the support comprises a sliding member.

[0080] Optionally, the support includes two sliding members.

[0081] Optionally, the sliding member is shapable or adaptable such that it substantially follows or adapts to the contours of the patient's face.

[0082] Optionally, the slide member includes a preformed profile.

[0083] Optionally, the pre-shaped profile comprises a pre-curve or rounded profile comprising a curvature or profile that substantially follows or adapts to the contours of the patient's face, or the curvature or profile is substantially convex relative to the patient's face.

[0084] Optionally, the preformed profile includes one or more of an approximately 120° range of a circle, approximately one-third of a circle, an arc-shaped configuration.

[0085] Optionally, the pre-formed profile includes a length and / or a pre-curved length ranging from about 70 mm to about 110 mm.

[0086] Optionally, the pre-curved or rounded profile includes a range or pre-curved length of about 90 mm.

[0087] Optionally, the breathing interface further comprises a clip at an end portion of the sliding member, which is coupled or coupleable to headgear.

[0088] Optionally, the strap is connected or connectable to a single sealing nasal prong.

[0089] Optionally, the strap is removably coupled to the single sealing nasal prongs.

[0090] Optionally, the headgear is a single strap or a bifurcated strap.

[0091] Optionally, at least one end of the headgear includes a strap attachment.

[0092] Optionally, the strap attachment comprises a substantially hollow body including an interior wall for defining a channel therebetween, the open end including an open end and a distal end, the open end defining an opening to the channel and for receiving a free end of a head strap, and the distal end defining an end of the channel substantially distal to the open end, the channel providing a pathway extending between the open end and the distal end, through which the head strap is threaded, the substantially hollow body including at least one first protrusion extending from a base attached to the interior wall to a tip substantially in a direction toward the opposing interior wall or into a channel defined by at least opposing side walls. , the tip is configured to engage at least a portion or surface of a head strap received within the channel, the tip is configured to substantially allow the head strap to be threaded into the channel and in a direction along a path from the open end to the distal end, and the tip is configured to substantially resist the head strap being dislodged or pulled out of the channel in a direction extending from the distal end toward the open end of the substantially hollow body, the tip of at least one first protrusion is positioned to be spaced a predetermined distance from the opposing interior wall, the predetermined distance being a function of the thickness of the head strap received within the channel.

[0093] Optionally, the strap attachment includes two or more walls defining a channel, the channel configured to receive an end of a head strap, a first projection set including at least one first projection extending from a first wall of the strap attachment and substantially toward or into the channel, the first projection including a distal end configured to engage a portion of the head strap and prevent an end of the head strap received in the channel from being removed from the channel, the distal end of the first projection being spaced apart from a second opposing wall of the channel at a distance provided as a function of a thickness of the head strap to be received in the channel.

[0094] Optionally, the strap attachment includes two or more walls defining a channel configured to receive an end of a head strap, a first protrusion set including at least one first protrusion, and a second protrusion set including at least one second protrusion, the first protrusion set and the second protrusion set extending into the channel from opposing walls of the strap attachment, at least one first protrusion of the first protrusion set and at least one second protrusion of the second protrusion set include distal ends configured to engage a portion of the head strap and prevent dislodgment of an end of the head strap received in the channel, and the distal end of the at least one first protrusion and the distal end of the at least one second protrusion taper to or include a tapered end or apex.

[0095] Optionally, the strap attachment includes two or more walls defining a channel, the channel including the two or more walls configured to receive an end of a head strap, a first protrusion set including at least one first protrusion, and a second protrusion set including at least one second protrusion, the first protrusion set and the second protrusion set defining a curved or serpentine path through which the end of the head strap is received, at least one first protrusion of the first protrusion set and at least one second protrusion of the second protrusion set include a distal end for engaging a portion of the head strap and preventing dislodgment of the end of the head strap received within the channel, and the distal end of the at least one first protrusion and the distal end of the at least one second protrusion taper to or include a tapered end or apex.

[0096] Optionally, the strap attachment includes a strap termination or a ferrule.

[0097] Optionally, at least one end of the headgear is received within a channel of the strap attachment, and when received, the at least one end of the headgear follows a defined path, optionally a substantially serpentine path, within the channel of the strap attachment.

[0098] Optionally, the strap attachment comprises a plurality of protrusions, the plurality of protrusions comprising a first set of protrusions and a second set of protrusions, the first and second sets of protrusions being disposed on opposing sides of the channel.

[0099] Optionally, the first and second sets of protrusions are arranged to be offset, optionally laterally offset, from one another in an opposing configuration.

[0100] Optionally, the projection is configured to extend toward an end of the strap attachment opposite the head strap insertion end of the strap attachment.

[0101] Optionally, at least one protrusion tapers to a tapered end, or tip, or apex.

[0102] Optionally, said strap attachment includes an opening through which said headgear is inserted into said channel.

[0103] Optionally, said opening comprises a lead-in feature.

[0104] Optionally, said lead-in feature includes a substantially rounded lip for housing or receiving said headgear.

[0105] Optionally, the seal body has opposing left and right sides, and the prong outlet is centered between the left and right sides such that a single sealing nasal prong can be adjusted to seal with either one of the nostrils to provide treatment to the patient.

[0106] Optionally, the seal body has opposing front and rear faces, and the prong outlet is centered between the front and rear faces such that a single sealing nasal prong may be inserted regardless of vertical orientation.

[0107] 1. A respiratory interface for delivering gas to one nostril of a patient, comprising: a single sealing nasal prong having a seal body configured to seal with one of the patient's nostrils, an inlet configured to receive gas, and an outlet configured to supply gas to the patient; Cuff including prong attachment Including, A respiratory interface is provided in which a single sealing nasal prong is received or receivable by the prong attachment portion of the cuff.

[0108] Optionally, the cuff includes a conduit coupling that is coupled or coupleable to the conduit assembly.

[0109] Optionally, the single sealing nasal prong includes an undercut or recess and the cuff includes a complementary groove.

[0110] Optionally, the portion of the single sealing nasal prong that is received or receivable by the cuff is a rigid portion.

[0111] Optionally, a portion of the conduit is threaded for engagement with the cuff.

[0112] Optionally, the single sealed nasal prong connection and the conduit connection of the cuff are integral with the cuff.

[0113] Optionally, the single sealing nasal prong attachment portion and the conduit attachment portion of the cuff are separate pieces.

[0114] Optionally, the prong attachment portion of the cuff includes a shape that generally corresponds to the shape of the single sealing nasal prong.

[0115] Optionally, the prong attachment portion of the cuff is substantially elliptical or oval.

[0116] Optionally, the conduit outlet is aligned with the cuff opening, which is further aligned with the prong inlet and the prong outlet, maintaining a substantially straight line gas path from the conduit to the single sealing nasal prong.

[0117] Optionally, the conduit outlet, the cuff opening and the prong inlet have similar diameters.

[0118] Optionally, the headgear attachment includes a ring attached to the cuff.

[0119] Optionally, the inner surface of the single sealing nasal prong has one or more cutouts therein for receiving a portion of a head strap.

[0120] Optionally, the headgear attachment includes one or more teeth on an inner surface of the cuff.

[0121] Optionally, the head strap is held in place by a friction fit.

[0122] Optionally, the head strap is coupled to the prongs by glue, welding, protrusions and / or clips.

[0123] Optionally, the headgear includes a sliding member.

[0124] Optionally, the sliding member is coupled or coupleable to the cuff by a clip.

[0125] Optionally, the sliding member is removably coupled or removably coupleable to the cuff.

[0126] Optionally, a sliding member isolates the movement of the single sealed nasal prongs from the headgear.

[0127] Optionally, the sliding member includes headgear attachment regions at or near each end.

[0128] Optionally, the slide member is a single slide member or a pair of slide members.

[0129] Optionally, the sliding member is shapable or adaptable such that it substantially follows or adapts to the contours of the patient's face.

[0130] Optionally, the slide member includes a preformed profile.

[0131] Optionally, the pre-shaped profile comprises a pre-curve or rounded profile comprising a curvature or profile that substantially follows or adapts to the contours of the patient's face, or the curvature or profile is substantially convex relative to the patient's face.

[0132] Optionally, the preformed profile includes one or more of an approximately 120° range of a circle, approximately one-third of a circle, an arc-shaped configuration.

[0133] Optionally, the pre-formed profile includes a length and / or a pre-curved length ranging from about 70 mm to about 110 mm.

[0134] Optionally, the pre-curved or rounded profile includes a range or pre-curved length of about 90 mm.

[0135] Optionally, the headgear includes a single strap or bifurcated straps.

[0136] Optionally, at least one end of the headgear includes a strap attachment.

[0137] Optionally, the strap attachment comprises a substantially hollow body including an interior wall for defining a channel therebetween, the open end including an open end and a distal end, the open end defining an opening to the channel and for receiving a free end of a head strap, and the distal end defining an end of the channel substantially distal to the open end, the channel providing a pathway extending between the open end and the distal end, through which the head strap is threaded, the substantially hollow body including at least one first protrusion extending from a base attached to the interior wall to a tip substantially in a direction toward the opposing interior wall or into a channel defined by at least opposing side walls. , the tip is configured to engage at least a portion or surface of a head strap received within the channel, the tip is configured to substantially allow the head strap to be threaded into the channel and in a direction along a path from the open end to the distal end, and the tip is configured to substantially resist the head strap being dislodged or pulled out of the channel in a direction extending from the distal end toward the open end of the substantially hollow body, the tip of at least one first protrusion is positioned to be spaced a predetermined distance from the opposing interior wall, the predetermined distance being a function of the thickness of the head strap received within the channel.

[0138] Optionally, the strap attachment includes two or more walls defining a channel, the channel configured to receive an end of a head strap, a first projection set including at least one first projection extending from a first wall of the strap attachment and substantially toward or into the channel, the first projection including a distal end configured to engage a portion of the head strap and prevent an end of the head strap received in the channel from being removed from the channel, the distal end of the first projection being spaced apart from a second opposing wall of the channel at a distance provided as a function of a thickness of the head strap to be received in the channel.

[0139] Optionally, the strap attachment includes two or more walls defining a channel configured to receive an end of a head strap, a first protrusion set including at least one first protrusion, and a second protrusion set including at least one second protrusion, the first protrusion set and the second protrusion set extending into the channel from opposing walls of the strap attachment, at least one first protrusion of the first protrusion set and at least one second protrusion of the second protrusion set include distal ends configured to engage a portion of the head strap and prevent dislodgment of an end of the head strap received in the channel, and the distal end of the at least one first protrusion and the distal end of the at least one second protrusion taper to or include a tapered end or apex.

[0140] Optionally, the strap attachment includes two or more walls defining a channel, the channel including the two or more walls configured to receive an end of a head strap, a first protrusion set including at least one first protrusion, and a second protrusion set including at least one second protrusion, the first protrusion set and the second protrusion set defining a curved or serpentine path through which the end of the head strap is received, at least one first protrusion of the first protrusion set and at least one second protrusion of the second protrusion set include a distal end for engaging a portion of the head strap and preventing dislodgment of the end of the head strap received within the channel, and the distal end of the at least one first protrusion and the distal end of the at least one second protrusion taper to or include a tapered end or apex.

[0141] Optionally, the strap attachment includes a strap termination or a ferrule.

[0142] Optionally, at least one end of the headgear is received within a channel of the strap attachment, and when received, the at least one end of the headgear follows a defined path, optionally a substantially serpentine path, within the channel of the strap attachment.

[0143] Optionally, the strap attachment comprises a plurality of protrusions, the plurality of protrusions comprising a first set of protrusions and a second set of protrusions, the first and second sets of protrusions being disposed on opposing sides of the channel.

[0144] Optionally, the first and second sets of protrusions are arranged to be offset, optionally laterally offset, from one another in an opposing configuration.

[0145] Optionally, the projection is configured to extend toward an end of the strap attachment opposite the head strap insertion end of the strap attachment.

[0146] Optionally, at least one protrusion tapers to a tapered end, or tip, or apex.

[0147] Optionally, said strap attachment includes an opening through which said headgear is inserted into said channel.

[0148] Optionally, said opening comprises a lead-in feature.

[0149] Optionally, said lead-in feature includes a substantially rounded lip for housing or receiving said headgear.

[0150] 1. A respiratory interface for delivering gas to one nostril of a patient, comprising: A single sealing nasal prong, an inlet configured to receive a gas; an outlet configured to deliver gas to a patient; A seal body having a wall defining an outer surface of a single sealing nasal prong. Including, the seal body and the outlet of the single-sealing nasal prong are positioned such that one of the patient's nostrils is substantially sealed and supplied with gas from the outlet, while the other of the patient's nostrils is not sealed and does not receive a direct supply of gas from the outlet; A respiratory interface is provided that is configured to provide respiratory flow therapy to a patient through a single sealed nasal prong, where the respiratory flow causes flushing of the airway to eliminate dead space within the airway.

[0151] Optionally, the wall has a rest shape and is configured to substantially maintain the rest shape upon insertion into the patient's nares.

[0152] Optionally, gas flowing through the gas passage causes an exterior surface of the single-sealing nasal prong to seal against one of the patient's nostrils. Gas flowing through the prongs can expand the walls of the prongs to create a seal against the user's nostril.

[0153] Optionally, the wall defines an inlet, an outlet, and a seal body.

[0154] Optionally, the wall thickness is from about 0.7 mm to about 0.8 mm.

[0155] Optionally, the cross-section of the prong outlet is generally oval.

[0156] Optionally, a cross-section of the prong outlet is elliptical.

[0157] Optionally, the cross section of the outlet has a minor radius of about 1 mm to about 3 mm and a major radius of about 4 mm to about 24 mm.

[0158] Optionally, the cross section of the outlet has a minor radius of about 1 mm to about 3 mm and a major radius of about 5 mm to about 10 mm.

[0159] Optionally, the minor axis is about 2 mm and the major axis is about 7 mm.

[0160] Optionally, the seal body tapers inwardly from the inlet to the outlet.

[0161] Optionally, a cross-sectional area of ​​the prong exit is smaller than a cross-sectional area of ​​the prong entrance.

[0162] Optionally, the single sealing nasal prongs are configured to provide an expiratory pressure of between 3.5 cmH2O and 16 cmH2O.

[0163] Optionally, the single sealing nasal prongs are configured to provide an exhalation pressure of between 3.5 cmH2O and 20 cmH2O.

[0164] Optionally, the outer surface of the seal body tapers inwardly from the inlet end to the outlet end.

[0165] Optionally, the outer surface of the seal body is outwardly curved.

[0166] Optionally, the flow rate is controlled to create a desired pressure for inhalation and exhalation.

[0167] Optionally, the flow rate is reduced during exhalation to reduce the expiratory pressure.

[0168] Optionally, the respiratory interface is configured such that the expiratory pressure is about 5-6 cmH2O.

[0169] Optionally, the respiratory interface is configured to provide an expiratory airway pressure of about 5-8 cmH2O.

[0170] Optionally, the outlet is configured such that gas delivered from the outlet causes washout of dead space gas through unsealed nostrils.

[0171] Optionally, the single nasal prong is interchangeable between the nostrils.

[0172] Optionally, the breathing interface further includes one or more sliding members that allow prong adjustment independent of the head strap adjustment.

[0173] Optionally, the respiratory interface further comprises a conduit configured to deliver gas directly to the single sealed nasal prongs without passing through another component.

[0174] Optionally, a cross-section of the prong inlet is substantially similar to a cross-section of the conduit outlet.

[0175] Optionally, a cross-section of the inlet is substantially similar to a cross-section of a proximal conduit of the patient.

[0176] Optionally, the gas path from the conduit to the prong outlet is substantially straight.

[0177] Optionally, the single sealed nasal prong and the conduit form a continuous gas pathway.

[0178] Optionally, the single sealed nasal prong and the conduit form a direct fluid connection.

[0179] an inlet configured to receive a gas; an outlet configured to deliver gas to a patient, the outlet having a generally oval cross-section; a seal body having a wall defining an outer surface of a single sealing nasal prong, the outer surface of the single sealing nasal prong being curved outwardly and tapering inwardly from an inlet end to an outlet end; 1. A single sealed nasal prong comprising: the wall defines a gas passageway between the inlet and the outlet; Gas flowing through the gas passageway causes the exterior surface of the single-sealing nasal prongs to seal against one of the patient's nostrils, providing a single-sealing nasal prong.

[0180] Optionally, the other nostril is the left side.

[0181] Optionally, a cross-sectional area of ​​the prong exit is smaller than a cross-sectional area of ​​the prong entrance.

[0182] Optionally, the seal body and outlet of the single sealing nasal prong are positioned such that one of the patient's nostrils is substantially sealed and supplied with gases from the outlet, while the other of the patient's nostrils is not sealed and does not receive a direct supply of gases from the outlet.

[0183] Optionally, the seal body includes a wall defining the inlet, the outlet, and the seal body.

[0184] Optionally, the wall thickness is from about 0.7 mm to about 0.8 mm.

[0185] Optionally, the prong has a sealing portion and a bonding portion.

[0186] Optionally, the coupling portion is stiffer than the sealing portion.

[0187] Optionally, the coupling portion has a lip that engages or is engageable with the conduit cuff.

[0188] Optionally, the lip has an undercut to receive a groove from the conduit portion.

[0189] Optionally, the prong outlet is positioned relative to the prong body such that the prong can be adjusted to seal with either one of the nostrils to provide treatment to the user.

[0190] Optionally, the single sealing nasal prongs are interchangeable between a user's nostrils.

[0191] Optionally, the single sealing nasal prongs are configured to provide an expiratory pressure of between 3.5 cmH2O and 16 cmH2O.

[0192] Optionally, a cross-section of the prong inlet is substantially similar to a cross-section of the conduit outlet.

[0193] Optionally, the ratio of the length of the single sealing nasal prong to the width of the single sealing nasal prong is from about 1.52 to about 1.59.

[0194] Optionally, the ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the prong exit to the cross-sectional area of ​​the conduit exit 305 is about 0.72.

[0195] Optionally, a ratio of a cross-sectional area of ​​the prong exit to a cross-sectional area of ​​the base of the seal is about 0.33.

[0196] Optionally, the prong outlet is approximately in the center of the conduit outlet.

[0197] Optionally, the single sealing nasal prongs include a flexible seal.

[0198] Optionally, the single sealing nasal prong includes a rigid joint.

[0199] Optionally, the wall thickness of the rigid joint is from about 1.5 mm to about 4 mm.

[0200] Optionally, the prong outlet is in the center of the prong body in a horizontal orientation such that the prongs can be adjusted to seal with either one of the nostrils to provide treatment to the user.

[0201] Optionally, the prong outlet is in the center of the prong body in both horizontal and vertical orientations such that the prong may be inserted regardless of vertical orientation.

[0202] Optionally, the seal body is substantially symmetric about a vertical axis.

[0203] Optionally, the seal body is substantially symmetric about a horizontal axis.

[0204] A respiratory interface is provided for providing a flow of gas at a rate that eliminates dead space, the respiratory interface comprising:

[0205] 1. A respiratory interface for delivering gas to one nostril of a patient, comprising: 1. A gas delivery assembly comprising: a single-sealing nasal prong having a seal body configured to seal only one of the patient's nostrils, an inlet configured to receive gas, and an outlet configured to supply gas to the patient; A conduit directly coupled to and in fluid communication with the single sealed nasal prongs. a gas delivery assembly comprising: headgear connected or connectable to the gas delivery assembly; A respiratory interface is provided that includes:

[0206] The gas delivery assembly further includes a support, the support including a pair of opposed clips for connecting to corresponding clips attached to the headgear.

[0207] Advantageously, the technology disclosed herein provides a single nasal prong gas delivery member for delivering gas therapy to a patient, which may be incorporated as part of a respiratory interface that may be worn by or supported on the patient.

[0208] The single nasal prong may be of a configuration that seals or partially seals the patient or nostril with which the nasal prong is associated.

[0209] Whether the nasal prongs should be in a sealing or partial sealing configuration may depend on the gas therapy to be delivered to the patient. The degree of sealing or partial sealing may depend on the nasal prong design or shape or other patient comfort features that may be provided as part of the comfort or fit or therapy type characteristics. The prongs provide a degree of sealing and enhance exhalation pressure when compared to non-sealing prongs.

[0210] A respiratory interface for delivering gas to one nostril of a patient. The respiratory interface includes a side arm or a pair of side arms that may be integral with, attachable to, or removably connectable to a headgear member. The respiratory interface further includes a frame or bridging member for positioning or supporting a single nasal prong. The frame or bridging member is substantially positionable in an area below the patient's septum or substantially provided to provide a single nasal prong operatively provided for delivering gas to a nostril of the patient.

[0211] The frame or bridging member is configured to permit translation, rotation or other positioning of the single nasal prong relative to one or more nostrils of the patient, and the single nasal prong may be adjustably positionable about the frame or bridging member and arranged to deliver gases to one nostril or arranged to be movable from one of the patient's nostrils to the other of the patient's nostril.

[0212] A single nasal prong may be translatable along or about the frame or bridging member, or rotatable relative to the frame or bridging member, to adjust the orientation of the nasal prong relative to the patient and each of the patient's nostrils.

[0213] The respiratory interface includes a base frame and nasal prongs (and optionally headgear or connectable or attachable headgear), the nasal prongs being laterally adjustable relative to the base frame.

[0214] 1. A method of configuring an exhaust location for gas from a respiratory interface to provide a supply of gas to a patient, the exhaust being provided by a gas delivery member in the form of nasal prongs, said nasal prongs being adjustable between a substantially left position and a substantially right position relative to the patient's nares and relative to the location of the remainder of the respiratory interface with which the nasal prongs are in fluid communication.

[0215] In some configurations, the respiratory interface includes a single-sealing nasal prong, the single-sealing nasal prong including a seal body configured to seal against one of the patient's nares. The seal body may have opposing front and rear faces and opposing left and right faces. The opposing front and rear faces may be substantially symmetrical to one another. When viewed from above, the opposing front and rear faces may be symmetrical about a vertical plane. The single-sealing nasal prong 2 may have an inlet configured to receive gas and an outlet configured to supply gas to the patient. When the prong is placed in an operating position, the inlet of the prong may be distal to the nostril and the outlet may be proximal. The outlet may be located at an approximately central location between the left and right faces such that the single-sealing nasal prong can seal against either one of the patient's nares. The central location of the single-sealing nasal prong may be a location where the center of the outlet is equidistant from the circumferential surface of the prong. The circumferential surface may be considered the maximum circumferential area of ​​the prong. In other words, when viewed from above, the outlet of the prong may be at the center of the circumferential surface of the prong body. The outlets may be arranged such that the prongs may be symmetric about at least two orthogonal vertical planes through the prongs.

[0216] The location of the prong outlets can allow the single-sealing nasal prong to be used regardless of the orientation of the nostrils, allowing the prongs to seal against either nostril. Human nostrils are angled toward one another, and the prongs can be shaped and configured to seal against either nostril. The seal body and outlets of the single-sealing nasal prongs can be positioned such that one of the patient's nostrils is substantially sealed and supplied with gas from the outlet, while the other of the patient's nostril is not sealed and does not receive a direct gas supply from the outlet or the gas supply of the respiratory system of which the respiratory interface is a part. The centrally located outlets serve to allow the prongs to engage and seal against either the left or right nostril of the user. The prongs can be shaped to fit and substantially occlude either the right or left nostril of the user. For example, the prongs can be positioned or located in two different orientations on the patient's face. That is, the interface can rotate itself 180 degrees and still fit the patient properly for proper prong engagement with the patient's nares. The central prong exit position may also enable the interface to fit properly to engage at or with the nostrils when rotated approximately 180 degrees, and thus may be considered orientation independent when placed on a patient's face, assuming the sliding member or members (e.g., article 501, 1501) extend substantially horizontally or in a plane across the face. In some configurations, the prongs may be configured to enable the interface to fit properly to engage at or with the nostrils when rotated approximately 180 degrees, and thus may be considered orientation independent when placed on a patient's face while still attached to a support (e.g., support 500) or without being detached, removed or separated from a support (e.g., support 500).In some configurations, the prongs or interface can be configured to allow the prongs to interchangeably fit within or with the patient's left or right nostril while allowing the prongs to remain attached to the support (e.g., support 500) or without being detached from the support (e.g., support 500), for example, the prongs can be translatable relative to the support or if the prongs are in a fixed position relative to the support, the interface can flip the prongs to be positioned within or at the desired nostril.

[0217] The respiratory interfaces described herein may include a conduit for carrying gas to the prongs. The conduit may be an unheated, ventilated conduit. The conduit may allow some water vapor to escape through the walls of the conduit. The ventilated conduit may allow excess water vapor to escape from the gas stream to prevent condensation within the conduit. The conduit may include ventilated walls or may include ventilated sections within the walls of the conduit.

[0218] In an alternative configuration, the conduit may include a heater wire disposed within the conduit. The heater wire may be located in the lumen of the conduit or alternatively may be embedded in the wall of the conduit. The heater wire is configured to heat the gas within the conduit.

[0219] In one aspect, a respiratory interface for delivering gas to a user is provided, the respiratory interface comprising: A single nasal prong, a seal body configured to seal one of the user's nostrils (i.e., nasal passages), the seal body including an arcuate wall defining a gas passageway; an inlet configured to receive a gas into the seal body; an outlet configured to deliver gas to a nostril of a user; Includes single nasal prongs Including, The inlet and the outlet are defined in the seal body; A breathing interface is provided, the outlet being at a central location in the seal body when viewed from above the interface.

[0220] The respiratory interface includes headgear configured to mount the interface on a user's head in an operative position, the respiratory interface including a gas delivery conduit in fluid communication with the single nasal prong for supplying gas to the prong, the operative position of the interface being when the single prong is inserted into the user's nostril.

[0221] The outlet is centrally located relative to the outer profile of the prongs when viewed from above.

[0222] The outlet is centrally located relative to the left, right, front and rear faces of the seal body.

[0223] The outlet is symmetrical about a vertical plane that extends from the front to the back of the prongs and into the outlet.The outlet is symmetrical about a vertical plane that extends from the left to the right of the prongs and into the outlet.

[0224] The outlet may be symmetrical about the vertical and horizontal axes of the prongs.

[0225] The centrally located outlet allows the prongs to be independent of the direction or orientation of the nostril. The centrally located outlet of the seal body allows the prongs to be used with the left or right nostril of a user. As previously mentioned, the prongs can be placed or positioned in two different orientations on the patient's face. That is, the interface can rotate itself 180 degrees and still fit the patient properly for proper prong engagement with the patient's nares.

[0226] The arcuate wall includes a flexible region and a rigid region, the flexible region extending away from the rigid region, and the flexible region of the arcuate wall is configured to bend or elastically deform to conform to and form a seal with the nostrils of a user.

[0227] The respiratory interface includes a cuff and the prongs are connected to the cuff.

[0228] The respiratory interface includes a conduit and a conduit connector, the conduit being coupled to the conduit connector and the cuff being connected to the conduit connector and the prong.

[0229] The cuff is configured to facilitate a fluid connection between the conduit connector and the prongs such that gas can flow from the conduit, through the conduit connector, and to the prongs.

[0230] The respiratory interface includes a support, the prongs being supported by the support, the support being configured to allow translation of the prongs along the support relative to the user's nares.

[0231] The support includes one or more sliding members and clips disposed on either end of the sliding members. The headgear clips are configured to engage corresponding clips coupled to headgear straps. The headgear straps are used to attach the interface on the user's face in the operating position. Alternatively, the support includes one or more sliding members and the headgear straps can be attached or connected directly to the ends of the sliding members. For example, the headgear straps can be welded or glued or otherwise attached directly to the sliding members, or can be threaded directly through the buckles without clips.

[0232] One or more of the sliding members extend laterally. In one form, the support includes a pair of sliding members, the pair of sliding members being disposed parallel to one another. The sliding members terminate in headgear clips at either end of the sliding members.

[0233] The cuff engages the support and is movable along and relative to the support In use, the cuff is movable relative to the nose and / or face of a user.

[0234] In one aspect, a respiratory interface is provided, comprising: a single nasal prong configured to engage and at least partially occlude a nostril of a user; a conduit in fluid communication with the single nasal prong for supplying breathing gas to the single nasal prong; a cuff connected to the prong and connected to the conduit; Headgear configured to mount the interface on the patient's head. Including, A respiratory interface is provided that provides breathing gas at a flow rate that causes clearance of dead space in a user's airway and creates expiratory airway pressure in the patient's airway.

[0235] The respiratory interface is configured to deliver the respiratory gas at a flow rate such that the respiratory gas flushes carbon dioxide or exhaled gases from within the patient's airway.

[0236] The respiratory interface is configured to supply respiratory gas at a flow rate such that the respiratory gas reaches the nasopharynx and / or oropharynx. The flow of respiratory gas is delivered through one nostril while the other nostril remains unoccluded and provides an expiratory gas pathway to allow the expiratory gas to escape as it is washed out.

[0237] The respiratory interface is configured to deliver gas at a flow rate equal to or exceeding the maximum inspiratory demand. Alternatively, the respiratory interface delivers gas at a flow rate lower than the maximum inspiratory demand of the user, but still provides flushing, removal of dead space, and some expiratory airway pressure.

[0238] In another aspect, a medical tubing component comprising: Conduit Connectors and Cuffs Including, the conduit connector includes a thread, the thread including at least one area of ​​discontinuity; the cuff includes at least one protrusion configured to interact with the region of discontinuity upon engagement with the conduit in a first direction; A medical tubing component is provided, wherein when engaged with the threads in a second direction, the at least one protrusion is configured to engage with at least a portion of the threads that extends beyond or away from the discontinuous area.

[0239] The first direction may be provided by application of a first force or a first motion.

[0240] The second direction may be provided by application of a second force or a second motion.

[0241] The first direction and the second direction may be different.

[0242] The first direction and the second direction may be substantially transverse to each other.

[0243] The first direction may be substantially aligned with an axial direction of the conduit connector.

[0244] The second direction may be substantially transverse to said axial direction of the conduit connector.

[0245] The second direction may be a rotation to engage the at least one protrusion onto the thread.

[0246] A second direction may be an axial rotation of the cuff relative to an axial direction of the conduit.

[0247] The protrusion may engage or become engaged with the threads when moved in the second direction.

[0248] The protrusions may be configured to engage the threads upon application of a force or movement in a second direction to at least partially restrain or lock the cuff to or on the conduit connector.

[0249] When engaged, the projections may substantially restrain or prevent relative axial movement or displacement of the cuff and the conduit connector relative to one another.

[0250] The cuff may be rotated more than about 5° from the area of ​​discontinuity.

[0251] The cuff may be rotated greater than about 10 degrees from the area of ​​discontinuity.

[0252] The cuff can be rotated from about 10° to about 160° from the area of ​​discontinuity.

[0253] The cuff may be rotated approximately 90 degrees from the area of ​​discontinuity.

[0254] The cuff can be rotated greater than about 170 degrees from the area of ​​discontinuity.

[0255] The opening of the cuff may be of an inner diameter larger than the outer diameter of the conduit connector.

[0256] The cuff may include a plurality of said projections.

[0257] The cuff may include two or more lobes.

[0258] The thread may include a plurality of said discontinuous regions.

[0259] The thread may include two or more or a plurality of said discontinuous regions.

[0260] The number of discontinuous regions and the number of protrusions may match or be equal to one another.

[0261] The cuff may be rotated approximately 90 degrees from the area of ​​discontinuity.

[0262] Nasal prongs may be connectable to said conduit connector.

[0263] Nasal prongs may be connected to the conduit connector.

[0264] When the cuff is substantially engaged with the threads, the cuff may abut or contact a portion of the nasal prong.

[0265] The nasal prongs, or portions thereof, may be formed of a relatively soft or substantially compliant material.

[0266] When the cuff engages the threads, the cuff may at least partially compress a portion of the nasal prongs.

[0267] A portion of the nasal prong may be at least partially compressed upon engagement of the cuff and the threads.

[0268] Upon engagement of the cuff with the threads, a friction fit type engagement between the cuff and the nasal prongs may be provided.

[0269] The cuff may be removably attached to the conduit connector.

[0270] The cuff may be removable from the conduit connector.

[0271] The cuff may be engagable with the first threads of the conduit connector.

[0272] The cuff may be engagable with a first threaded portion and a second threaded portion of the conduit connector.

[0273] A protrusion may engage the threads distal from the end of the conduit connector.

[0274] The protrusion may engage a portion of the threads proximal to an end of the conduit connector connectable with the nasal prong.

[0275] The protrusion may engage a portion of the threads nearest or substantially adjacent the nasal prongs such that the conduit is threadably attachable or connectable to the threads of the conduit connector adjacent the cuff.

[0276] The protrusion may be a tab.

[0277] The protrusions may be projections extending substantially radially inwardly.

[0278] The discontinuity region may provide a predetermined width of the discontinuity sufficient to receive or accommodate the width of the protrusion, such that the width of the protrusion is less than the width of the discontinuity.

[0279] The thread may be a substantially helical thread.

[0280] The conduit may be substantially engaged with the conduit connector by rotating or winding the conduit onto the threads.

[0281] The conduit may be substantially engaged with the conduit connector after the cuff has engaged with the threads.

[0282] When engaged with the threads, the protrusions may be threadably engaged by positioning the protrusions within an area between adjacent turns of the threads or within an area adjacent a turn of the threads and a flange of the conduit connector.

[0283] The flange may be a stop flange.

[0284] The flange may act as a barrier to the cuff being overwrapped or compressing the flange.

[0285] The cuff may provide a shank portion, the projection being located on the shank portion radially inward of an inner wall of the cuff, the shank portion being of sufficient longitudinal length to position the projection within an area adjacent to or between adjacent turns of the thread.

[0286] The cuff is i) a distal end of the conduit after the conduit has been substantially engaged with the threads of the conduit connector; and ii) near the base of the nasal prongs after the nasal prongs are substantially engaged with the cuff The axial direction of the casing may be such that the axial direction of the casing is parallel to the axial direction of the casing.

[0287] 1. A strap attachment for terminating a head strap, comprising: a substantially hollow body including an interior wall for defining a channel therebetween, the open end defining an opening to the channel and for receiving a free end of a head strap, and the distal end defining an end of the channel substantially distal to the open end, the channel providing a passageway extending between the open end and the distal end, the substantially hollow body including at least one first protrusion extending from a base attached to the interior wall to a tip substantially in a direction toward an opposing interior wall or into a channel defined by at least opposing side walls, the tip including at least one first protrusion extending from a base attached to the interior wall to a tip, the tip extending substantially in a direction toward an opposing interior wall or into a channel defined by at least opposing side walls, the tip including at least one first protrusion extending from a base attached to the interior wall to a tip, the tip extending from a base to a tip substantially in a direction toward an opposing interior wall or into a channel defined by at least opposing side walls, the tip including at least one first protrusion extending from a base to a tip, the tip ... is configured to engage at least a portion or surface of a head strap received within the channel, the tip is configured to substantially allow a head strap to be threaded into the channel in a direction along a path from the open end to the distal end, and the tip is configured to substantially resist dislodging or pulling the head strap out of the channel in a direction extending from the distal end toward the open end of the substantially hollow body, a tip of at least one first protrusion is positioned to be spaced a predetermined distance from the opposing interior wall, the predetermined distance being a function of a thickness of a head strap received within the channel.

[0288] Optionally, the ratio of the predetermined distance to the thickness of the head strap is in the range of 1:4 to 1:1.

[0289] Optionally, the predetermined distance is less than a thickness of a head strap received within the channel.

[0290] Optionally, the tip includes a substantially tapered end or apex.

[0291] Optionally, the at least one first projection includes a leading surface and a trailing surface, the leading surface and the trailing surface extending from the base to a tip of the at least one first projection and disposed in a direction substantially along a path from the open end to the distal end.

[0292] Optionally, the leading and trailing surfaces are configured such that the at least one first projection forms a substantially hook-shaped projection.

[0293] Optionally, the trailing surface includes an acute angle with respect to the interior wall.

[0294] Optionally, the acute angle is between about 40 degrees and about 80 degrees.

[0295] Optionally, further comprising at least one second projection extending into the channel from the opposing interior wall.

[0296] Optionally, further comprising a plurality of first protrusions forming the first set of protrusions and a plurality of second protrusions forming the second set of protrusions.

[0297] Optionally, the protrusions of the first set of protrusions are substantially aligned with the protrusions of the second set of protrusions.

[0298] Optionally, the protrusions of the first set of protrusions are substantially misaligned or offset from the protrusions of the second set of protrusions.

[0299] Optionally, the protrusions of the first protrusion set and the protrusions of the second protrusion set are substantially laterally offset from one another with respect to a lateral direction across a width of the channel, the width direction being substantially perpendicular to an insertion direction of the head strap.

[0300] Optionally, the protrusions of the first set of protrusions and the protrusions of the second set of protrusions substantially alternate in elongation of length.

[0301] Optionally, the protrusions of the first set of protrusions and the protrusions of the second set of protrusions form teeth.

[0302] Optionally, the open end includes a lead-in feature.

[0303] Optionally, the lead-in feature includes a substantially rounded lip for housing or receiving the head strap.

[0304] Optionally, the lead-in feature receives the head strap and provides one or more guides for directing the head strap into the channel.

[0305] Optionally, said end is defined by an obstruction of a channel.

[0306] Optionally, the terminal end is a closed or plugged end of the channel, or a substantially closed end of the channel.

[0307] Optionally, the end portion includes one or more projections extending from either the interior wall or an opposing interior wall into or substantially across the channel.

[0308] Optionally, a protrusion extending from an interior wall is substantially aligned with a protrusion extending from an opposing interior wall of said channel.

[0309] Optionally, a protrusion extending from an interior wall is substantially misaligned with a protrusion extending from an opposing interior wall of said channel.

[0310] Optionally, the one or more protrusions are substantially aligned with opposing protrusions of the first set of protrusions and / or the second set of protrusions.

[0311] Optionally, the protrusions are offset from the first set of protrusions and / or the second set of protrusions in a direction in which the channel is configured to receive a head strap.

[0312] A strap attachment for terminating a head strap is provided, the strap attachment including two or more walls defining a channel, the channel configured to receive an end of a head strap, a first protrusion set including at least one first protrusion extending from a first wall of the strap attachment and substantially toward or into the channel, the first protrusion including a distal end configured to engage a portion of the head strap and prevent an end of the head strap received in the channel from being dislodged from the channel, the distal end of the first protrusion being spaced apart from a second opposing wall of the channel, the distance provided as a function of a thickness of the head strap to be received in the channel.

[0313] Optionally, the ratio of this distance to the thickness of the head strap is in the range of 1:4 to 1:1.

[0314] Optionally, the distance is less than the thickness of the head strap received within the channel.

[0315] Optionally, the distal end of the first projection includes a substantially tapered end or apex.

[0316] Optionally, the at least one first projection includes leading and trailing surfaces oriented substantially along a direction in which the channel is configured to receive a head strap, the leading and trailing surfaces configured such that the at least one first projection forms a substantially hook-shaped projection.

[0317] Optionally, the trailing surface includes an acute angle with respect to the first wall of the strap attachment.

[0318] Optionally, the acute angle is between about 40 degrees and about 80 degrees.

[0319] Optionally, further comprising a second set of protrusions, the second set of protrusions comprising at least one second protrusion.

[0320] Optionally, a second set of projections are configured to extend into the channel from an opposing second wall of the strap attachment.

[0321] Optionally, the first set of protrusions and the second set of protrusions include a plurality of protrusions, optionally, the protrusions are teeth.

[0322] Optionally, the protrusions of the first set of protrusions are substantially aligned with the protrusions of the second set of protrusions.

[0323] Optionally, the protrusions of the first set of protrusions are substantially misaligned or offset from the protrusions of the second set of protrusions.

[0324] Optionally, the protrusions of the first protrusion set and the protrusions of the second protrusion set are substantially laterally offset from one another with respect to a lateral direction across a width of the channel, the width direction being substantially perpendicular to an insertion direction of the head strap.

[0325] Optionally, the protrusions of the first set of protrusions and the protrusions of the second set of protrusions substantially alternate in elongation of length.

[0326] Optionally, the opening defines an entrance to said channel.

[0327] Optionally, said opening comprises a lead-in feature.

[0328] Optionally, the lead-in feature includes a substantially rounded lip for housing or receiving the head strap.

[0329] Optionally, the lead-in feature receives the head strap and provides one or more guides for directing the head strap into the channel.

[0330] Optionally, said channel terminates in a distal end at an end of said channel opposite said opening.

[0331] Optionally, said end is defined by an obstruction of a channel.

[0332] Optionally, the end portion includes one or more protrusions that extend into or substantially across the channel.

[0333] Optionally, the terminal end is a closed or plugged end of the channel, or a substantially closed end of the channel.

[0334] Optionally, the one or more protrusions further include one or more protrusions extending from the first wall and / or the opposing second wall such that the one or more protrusions extend into or substantially across the channel.

[0335] Optionally, a protrusion extending from a first wall is substantially aligned with a protrusion extending from a second, opposing wall of said channel.

[0336] Optionally, a protrusion extending from a first wall is substantially misaligned with a protrusion extending from a second, opposing wall of said channel.

[0337] Optionally, the one or more protrusions are substantially aligned with opposing protrusions of the first set of protrusions and / or the second set of protrusions.

[0338] Optionally, the protrusions are offset from the first set of protrusions and / or the second set of protrusions in a direction in which the channel is configured to receive a head strap.

[0339] A strap attachment for terminating a head strap is provided, the strap attachment including two or more walls defining a channel configured to receive an end of the head strap, a first protrusion set including at least one first protrusion, and a second protrusion set including at least one second protrusion, the first protrusion set and the second protrusion set extending into the channel from opposing walls of the strap attachment, the at least one first protrusion of the first protrusion set and the at least one second protrusion of the second protrusion set include distal ends configured to engage a portion of the head strap and prevent dislodgment of the end of the head strap received within the channel, and the distal end of the at least one first protrusion and the distal end of the at least one second protrusion taper toward or include a tapered end or apex.

[0340] Optionally, the distal ends of the first and second sets of protrusions are spaced a first distance along a plane parallel to a plane extending between and through the ends of the channel of the strap attachment.

[0341] Optionally, the first distance comprises about 4 to 8 mm.

[0342] Optionally, a first set of projections extend into the channel from a wall proximal to the end of the strap attachment into which the end of the head strap is received.

[0343] Optionally, the ends of the first and second sets of projections are spaced a second distance apart along a plane transverse to a plane extending between and through the ends of the channel of the strap attachment.

[0344] Optionally, the second distance is comprised between about 0.5 mm and about 2 mm.

[0345] Optionally, a height between each channel wall and a distal end of the second set of projections is less than a height between each channel wall and a distal end of the first set of projections.

[0346] Optionally, the distance from a distal end of the first set of protrusions and / or the second set of protrusions to each opposing wall is provided as a function of a thickness of the head strap.

[0347] Optionally, this distance is less than the thickness of the head strap received within the channel of the strap attachment.

[0348] Optionally, the ratio of this distance to the thickness of the head strap is in the range of 1:4 to 1:1.

[0349] Optionally, the distance from the distal ends of the first set of projections to the opposing wall is between about 1 mm and about 1.5 mm.

[0350] Optionally, the distance from the ends of the second set of projections to the opposing wall is from about 1 mm to about 2 mm.

[0351] Optionally, the protrusions of the first set of protrusions are substantially aligned with the protrusions of the second set of protrusions.

[0352] Optionally, the protrusions of the first set of protrusions are substantially misaligned or offset from the protrusions of the second set of protrusions.

[0353] Optionally, the protrusions of the first set of protrusions and the protrusions of the second set of protrusions are substantially laterally offset from one another with respect to a lateral direction across a width of the channel, the lateral direction being substantially perpendicular to an insertion direction of the head strap.

[0354] Optionally, the protrusions of the first set of protrusions and the protrusions of the second set of protrusions substantially alternate in elongation of length.

[0355] Optionally, the opening defines an entrance to said channel.

[0356] Optionally, said opening comprises a lead-in feature.

[0357] Optionally, the lead-in feature includes a substantially rounded lip for housing or receiving the head strap.

[0358] Optionally, the lead-in feature receives the head strap and provides one or more guides for directing the head strap into the channel.

[0359] Optionally, said channel terminates in a distal end at an end of said channel opposite said opening.

[0360] Optionally, said end is defined by an obstruction of a channel.

[0361] Optionally, the end portion includes one or more protrusions that extend into or substantially across the channel.

[0362] Optionally, the terminal end is a closed or plugged end of the channel, or a substantially closed end of the channel.

[0363] Optionally, the one or more protrusions further include one or more protrusions extending from the first wall and / or the opposing second wall such that the one or more protrusions extend into or substantially across the channel.

[0364] Optionally, a protrusion extending from a first wall is substantially aligned with a protrusion extending from a second, opposing wall of said channel.

[0365] Optionally, a protrusion extending from a first wall is substantially misaligned with a protrusion extending from a second, opposing wall of said channel.

[0366] Optionally, the one or more protrusions are substantially aligned with opposing protrusions of the first set of protrusions and / or the second set of protrusions.

[0367] Optionally, the protrusions are offset from the first set of protrusions and / or the second set of protrusions in a direction in which the channel is configured to receive a head strap.

[0368] A strap attachment for terminating a head strap is provided, the strap attachment including two or more walls defining a channel, the channel including the two or more walls configured to receive an end of a head strap, a first set of protrusions including at least one first protrusion, and a second set of protrusions including at least one second protrusion, the first set of protrusions and the second set of protrusions defining a curved or serpentine path through which the end of the head strap is received, the at least one first protrusion of the first set of protrusions and the at least one second protrusion of the second set of protrusions including a distal end for engaging a portion of the head strap and preventing dislodgment of the end of the head strap received within the channel, and the distal end of the at least one first protrusion and the distal end of the at least one second protrusion taper to or include a tapered end or apex.

[0369] Optionally, at least one first projection extends into the channel from a wall of the strap attachment and at least one second projection extends into the channel from an opposing wall of the strap attachment.

[0370] Optionally, one or more protrusions of the first set of protrusions and one or more protrusions of the second set of protrusions are offset relative to one another along at least one plane.

[0371] Optionally, the first plane includes a plane parallel to a plane extending between and through the ends of the channel of the strap attachment.

[0372] Optionally, the second plane includes a plane transverse to a plane extending between and through the ends of the channel of the strap attachment.

[0373] Optionally, the at least one first protrusion and the at least one second protrusion comprise a plurality of protrusions.

[0374] Optionally, the protrusions are teeth.

[0375] Optionally, the protrusions of the first set of protrusions are substantially aligned with the protrusions of the second set of protrusions.

[0376] Optionally, the protrusions of the first set of protrusions are substantially misaligned or offset from the protrusions of the second set of protrusions.

[0377] Optionally, the protrusions of the first protrusion set and the protrusions of the second protrusion set are substantially laterally offset from one another with respect to a lateral direction across a width of the channel, the width direction being substantially perpendicular to an insertion direction of the head strap.

[0378] Optionally, the protrusions of the first set of protrusions and the protrusions of the second set of protrusions substantially alternate in elongation of length.

[0379] Optionally, the opening defines an entrance to said channel.

[0380] Optionally, said opening comprises a lead-in feature.

[0381] Optionally, the lead-in feature includes a substantially rounded lip for housing or receiving the head strap.

[0382] Optionally, the lead-in feature receives the head strap and provides one or more guides for directing the head strap into the channel.

[0383] Optionally, said channel terminates in a distal end at an end of said channel opposite said opening.

[0384] Optionally, said end is defined by an obstruction of a channel.

[0385] Optionally, the end portion includes one or more protrusions that extend into or substantially across the channel.

[0386] Optionally, the terminal end is a closed or plugged end of the channel, or a substantially closed end of the channel.

[0387] Optionally, the one or more protrusions further include one or more protrusions extending from the first wall and / or the opposing second wall such that the one or more protrusions extend into or substantially across the channel.

[0388] Optionally, a protrusion extending from a first wall is substantially aligned with a protrusion extending from a second, opposing wall of said channel.

[0389] Optionally, a protrusion extending from a first wall is substantially misaligned with a protrusion extending from a second, opposing wall of said channel.

[0390] Optionally, the one or more protrusions are substantially aligned with opposing protrusions of the first set of protrusions and / or the second set of protrusions.

[0391] Optionally, the protrusions are offset from the first set of protrusions and / or the second set of protrusions in a direction in which the channel is configured to receive a head strap.

[0392] There is provided headgear for a patient interface including at least one head strap and at least one strap attachment as described above that engages an end of the head strap.

[0393] Optionally, the headgear is removably attachable.

[0394] Optionally, the patient interface includes single sealing nasal prongs.

[0395] Optionally, the patient interface includes a support, the single sealing nasal prongs being slidable over the support.

[0396] There is provided a respiratory interface for delivering gas to one of a patient's nostrils, the respiratory interface including: a seal body configured to seal one of the patient's two nostrils; a single-sealing nasal prong having a prong inlet configured to receive gas and a prong outlet configured to supply gas to the patient; a support for the single-sealing nasal prong; and a conduit directly coupled to and in fluid communication with the single-sealing nasal prong, wherein the single-sealing nasal prong and / or the respiratory interface are configured to enable the prong to seal against or alternately with the patient's left or right nostril.

[0397] Optionally, the prongs and / or the respiratory interface are configured to allow the prongs to alternatively seal against or with the patient's left or right nostril while allowing the prongs to remain attached to the support or without being detached from the support.

[0398] Optionally, the prongs are in a fixed position relative to the support.

[0399] Optionally, the prongs are translatable relative to the support.

[0400] Optionally, the support is external to, or separate from, the gases supplied to the conduits or single sealed nasal prongs, or does not form part of the gases supplied to the conduits or single sealed nasal prongs.

[0401] Optionally, the conduit is fluidly separated from the support, or the support does not form part of the gas path for gases delivered to the single sealed nasal prongs.

[0402] Optionally, the conduit is in fluid communication with only a single sealing nasal prong.

[0403] Optionally, the conduit comprises a single conduit.

[0404] Optionally, the respiratory interface further comprises a gas path from the conduit to the prong outlet, the gas path being substantially straight.

[0405] Optionally, a conduit outlet of the conduit is directly coupled to a prong inlet of a single sealed nasal prong, the conduit outlet and the prong outlet sharing a substantially common, substantially central axis.

[0406] Optionally, the respiratory interface further comprises headgear removably connectable to the support.

[0407] Optionally, the respiratory interface further comprises a cuff, the single sealing nasal prongs being configured to mate with the cuff.

[0408] Optionally, the respiratory interface further comprises a conduit connector, the conduit configured to mate with the conduit connector.

[0409] Optionally, the conduit connector and the cuff are separate or unitary components.

[0410] Optionally, the single sealing nasal prong comprises a substantially flexible or substantially compliant material, and the conduit connector and / or the cuff comprises a substantially rigid material.

[0411] 1. A method of providing respiratory therapy to a patient, comprising: providing a substantially high flow rate of gas to a patient via a patient interface comprising a single sealing prong on a support, the single sealing prong being configured such that one of the patient's nostrils is substantially sealed and has gas delivered to it, while the other of the patient's nostrils is not substantially sealed and does not receive gas provided by the gas supply; adjusting the single sealing prong to substantially seal with either of the patient's two nostrils based on the patient's pressure; A method is provided in which:

[0412] Optionally, adjusting the single sealing prong is dependent on the patient's nasal cycle.

[0413] Optionally, the patient pressure includes a peak expiratory pressure (PEP).

[0414] Optionally, adjusting the single sealing prong includes increasing or decreasing the patient's PEP.

[0415] Optionally, adjusting includes sliding and / or rotating a single sealing prong on the support.

[0416] Optionally, the high flow rate comprises at least 20 L / min.

[0417] Optionally, the method further comprises humidifying the gas.

[0418] A respiratory assistance system is provided that includes a gas flow source configured to provide a gas flow at a high flow rate to a patient, and a patient interface including single-sealing nasal prongs configured to deliver the gas flow at the high flow rate to the patient, the single-sealing nasal prongs adapted to substantially seal one of the patient's two nostrils.

[0419] Optionally, the respiratory assistance system further comprises a humidifier configured to heat and humidify the gas flow provided to the patient.

[0420] Optionally, the humidifier includes a humidification chamber removably connected to the humidifier base unit.

[0421] Optionally, the humidification chamber is configured to be filled with a humidification liquid, such as water, to humidify the gas flow to the patient.

[0422] Optionally, the humidification chamber includes a thermally conductive base and the humidifier base unit includes a heater plate, and the thermally conductive base, when in contact with the heater plate of the humidifier base unit, enables heating of the humidification liquid in the chamber.

[0423] Optionally, the flow source and the humidifier base unit are integral.

[0424] Optionally, the patient interface is configured to increase expiratory pressure in the patient's airway.

[0425] Optionally, the single-sealing nasal prong includes a seal body configured to seal against one of the patient's nostrils, the seal body having opposing front and rear faces and opposing left and right faces, the opposing front and rear faces being substantially symmetrical to one another, an inlet configured to receive gas, and an outlet configured to supply gas to the patient, the outlet located at an approximately central position between the left and right faces such that the single-sealing nasal prong can seal against either one of the patient's nares, the seal body and the outlet being positioned such that one of the patient's nostrils is substantially sealed and supplied with gas from the outlet, while the other of the patient's nostrils is not sealed and does not receive a direct supply of gas from the outlet.

[0426] Optionally, the respiratory assistance system further comprises a gas delivery assembly having a seal body configured to seal against one nostril of the patient, a single sealing nasal prong having an inlet configured to receive gas and an outlet configured to supply gas to the patient, a conduit directly coupled to and in fluid communication with the single sealing nasal prong, and headgear connected or connectable to the gas delivery assembly.

[0427] Optionally, the respiratory assistance system further comprises a gas delivery assembly consisting of a seal body configured to seal against one nostril of the patient, a single sealing nasal prong having an inlet configured to receive gas and an outlet configured to supply gas to the patient, a conduit directly coupled to and in fluid communication with the single sealing nasal prong, and a headgear connected or connectable to the gas delivery assembly.

[0428] Optionally, the respiratory assistance system further comprises a frameless gas delivery assembly including a single sealing nasal prong having a seal body configured to seal against one nostril of the patient, the single sealing nasal prong having an inlet configured to receive gas and an outlet configured to supply gas to the patient, and a conduit in fluid communication with the single sealing nasal prong, and headgear connected or connectable to the gas delivery assembly.

[0429] Optionally, the respiratory assistance system further comprises a respiratory interface for delivering gas to one of the patient's nostrils, the respiratory interface comprising: a seal body configured to seal against one of the patient's nostrils; a single sealing nasal prong having an inlet configured to receive gas and an outlet configured to supply gas to the patient; and a conduit having an outlet configured to supply gas to the single sealing nasal prongs, the conduit being coupled or coupleable to the single sealing nasal prongs such that the conduit outlet is coaxial with the inlet of the single sealing nasal prongs.

[0430] Optionally, the respiratory assistance system further comprises a respiratory interface for delivering gas to one of the patient's nostrils, the respiratory interface comprising: a seal body configured to seal against one of the patient's nostrils; single-sealing nasal prongs having an inlet configured to receive gas and an outlet configured to supply gas to the patient; and an adjuster configured to enable the single-sealing nasal prongs to be removable from the first nostril without the single-sealing nasal prongs being removed from the respiratory interface and to be positioned in the patient's other nostril to seal against the other nostril.

[0431] Optionally, the respiratory assistance system further comprises a respiratory interface for delivering gas to one nostril of the patient, the respiratory interface comprising: a body having a pair of side arms configured to provide stability of the interface on the patient's cheek, single-sealing nasal prongs, a manifold having a single-sided inlet for receiving gas from a gas source and an outlet for delivering gas to the single-sealing nasal prongs, the single-sealing nasal prongs positioned such that one of the patient's nostrils is substantially sealed and supplied with gas from the outlet, while the other of the patient's nostrils is not sealed and does not receive a direct supply of gas from the outlet.

[0432] Optionally, the respiratory assistance system further comprises a respiratory interface for delivering gas to one of the patient's nostrils, the respiratory interface comprising: a seal body configured to seal against one of the patient's nostrils, a single-sealing nasal prongs having an inlet configured to receive gas and an outlet configured to supply gas to the patient, a support for the single-sealing nasal prongs, the single-sealing nasal prongs being translatable relative to the support, the single-sealing nasal prongs being interchangeably received by the patient's nares, the single-sealing nasal prongs remaining coupled to the support, and a headgear connected or connectable to the support.

[0433] Optionally, the respiratory assistance system further comprises a respiratory interface for delivering gas to one of the patient's nostrils, the single-sealing nasal prongs having a seal body configured to seal against one of the patient's nostrils, an inlet configured to receive gas, and an outlet configured to supply gas to the patient, and a cuff including a prong coupling, the single-sealing nasal prong further comprising a respiratory interface received or receivable by the prong coupling of the cuff.

[0434] Optionally, the single sealing nasal prong includes an inlet configured to receive gas, an outlet configured to supply gas to a patient, the outlet having a generally oval cross-section, a seal body having walls defining an outer surface of the single sealing nasal prong, the outer surface of the single sealing nasal prong curving outwardly and tapering inwardly from an inlet end to an outlet end, the walls defining a gas passageway between the inlet and the outlet, and gas flowing through the gas passageway causes the outer surface of the single sealing nasal prong to seal against one of the patient's nostrils.

[0435] Optionally, the humidifier includes a humidification chamber including a gas inlet for receiving a gas flow from a gas flow source and a gas outlet for delivering a humidified gas flow to the patient interface.

[0436] Optionally, the respiratory assistance system further comprises an inhalation conduit located between the humidifier and the patient interface, the inhalation conduit configured to deliver the humidified flow of gas to the patient interface.

[0437] Optionally, the air inlet conduit is a heated air inlet conduit.

[0438] Optionally, the respiratory assistance system further comprises a patient conduit located between the inhalation conduit and the patient interface.

[0439] Optionally, the patient conduit is formed from a breathable material.

[0440] Optionally, the high flow rate comprises a gas flow delivered to the patient of at least 20 L / min.

[0441] Optionally, the high flow rate includes a gas flow delivered to the patient of up to about 70 L / min.

[0442] Optionally, the gas flow comprises a set gas flow rate.

[0443] Optionally, the respiratory assistance system further comprises headgear for holding the patient interface on the patient's face.

[0444] Optionally, the respiratory assistance system further comprises a respiratory interface for delivering gas to one of the patient's nostrils, the single-sealing nasal prong further comprising an inlet configured to receive gas, an outlet configured to supply gas to the patient, and a seal body having a wall defining an outer surface of the single-sealing nasal prong, the seal body and the outlet of the single-sealing nasal prong being positioned such that one of the patient's nostrils is substantially sealed and supplied with gas from the outlet while the other of the patient's nostril is not sealed and does not receive a direct supply of gas from the outlet, the respiratory interface configured to provide respiratory flow therapy to the patient through the single-sealing nasal prong, the respiratory flow causing washing of the airway to eliminate dead space in the airway.

[0445] Optionally, the wall defines an inlet, an outlet, and a seal body.

[0446] Optionally, the wall thickness is from about 0.7 mm to about 0.8 mm.

[0447] Optionally, the cross-section of the prong outlet is generally oval.

[0448] Optionally, a cross-section of the prong outlet is elliptical.

[0449] Optionally, the cross section of the outlet has a minor radius of about 1 mm to about 3 mm and a major radius of about 5 mm to about 10 mm.

[0450] Optionally, the minor axis is about 2 mm and the major axis is about 7 mm.

[0451] Optionally, the seal body tapers inwardly from the inlet to the outlet.

[0452] Optionally, a cross-sectional area of ​​the prong exit is smaller than a cross-sectional area of ​​the prong entrance.

[0453] Optionally, the single sealing nasal prongs are configured to provide an exhalation pressure of between 3.5 cmH2O and 20 cmH2O.

[0454] Optionally, the outer surface of the seal body tapers inwardly from the inlet end to the outlet end.

[0455] Optionally, the outer surface of the seal body is outwardly curved.

[0456] Optionally, the gas flow rate is controlled to create a desired pressure for the patient's inhalation and exhalation.

[0457] Optionally, the gas flow rate is reduced as the patient exhales to reduce the expiratory pressure.

[0458] Optionally, the system is configured such that the expiratory airway pressure is about 5-8 cmH2O.

[0459] Optionally, the outlet is configured such that gas delivered from the outlet causes washout of dead space gas through unsealed nostrils.

[0460] Optionally, the single nasal prong is interchangeable between the nostrils.

[0461] Optionally, the respiratory assistance system further comprises one or more sliding members, the sliding members configured to allow nasal prong adjustment independent of head strap adjustment.

[0462] Optionally, the respiratory assistance system further comprises a conduit configured to deliver gas directly to the single sealed nasal prongs without passing through another component.

[0463] Optionally, a cross-section of the prong inlet is substantially similar to a cross-section of the conduit outlet.

[0464] Optionally, a cross-section of the inlet is substantially similar to a cross-section of a proximal conduit of the patient.

[0465] Optionally, the gas path from the conduit to the prong outlet is substantially straight.

[0466] Optionally, the single sealed nasal prong and the conduit form a continuous gas pathway.

[0467] Optionally, the single sealed nasal prong and the conduit form a direct fluid connection.

[0468] A kit is provided that includes a humidification chamber having a humidification inlet configured to couple to a flow source and a humidification outlet, an inhalation conduit having an inhalation conduit inlet configured to couple to the humidification outlet and an inhalation conduit outlet, and a single sealing nasal prong configured to couple to the inhalation conduit outlet.

[0469] Optionally, the humidification chamber is configured to be filled with a humidification liquid, such as water, to humidify the gas flow to the patient.

[0470] Optionally, the humidification chamber is removably connectable to the humidifier base unit.

[0471] Optionally, the humidifier base unit is integral with the flow source.

[0472] Optionally, the humidification chamber includes a thermally conductive base and the humidifier base unit includes a heater plate, and the thermally conductive base, when in contact with the heater plate of the humidifier base unit, enables heating of the humidification liquid in the chamber.

[0473] Optionally, the single sealing nasal prong is of any of the aspects or embodiments described above.

[0474] Optionally, the single sealing nasal prong further comprises a patient conduit, the patient conduit including an inlet configured to couple to the inhalation conduit outlet.

[0475] Optionally, the patient conduit is formed from a breathable material.

[0476] Optionally, the intake conduit is heated.

[0477] Optionally, the kit further comprises a conduit clip configured to secure the inlet conduit to or around the patient.

[0478] The features of one or more embodiments or configurations may be combined with the features of one or more other embodiments or configurations.

[0479] As used herein, the term "comprising" means "consisting at least in part of." When interpreting each statement containing the term "comprising" in this specification, other features may be present than those following the term. Related terms such as "comprise" and "comprises" are to be interpreted in the same manner.

[0480] Reference to a range of numerical values ​​disclosed herein (e.g., 1-10) also incorporates reference to every rational number within that range (e.g., 1, 1.1, 2, 3, 3.9, 4, 5, 6, 6.5, 7, 8, 9, and 10) and also to any range of rational numbers within that range (e.g., 2-8, 1.5-5.5, and 3.1-4.7), and thus is hereby expressly disclosed, all subranges of every range explicitly disclosed herein. These are only examples specifically intended, and all possible combinations of numerical values ​​between the minimum and maximum values ​​recited are to be considered as being expressly disclosed in this application as well.

[0481] It is to be understood that alternative embodiments or configurations may include any or all combinations of two or more of the parts, elements or features illustrated, described or referenced herein.

[0482] Numerous modifications of the structure and widely different embodiments and applications of the present invention will occur to those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains, without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims. The disclosures and descriptions herein are purely illustrative and are not intended to be limiting in any sense. Where reference is made herein to a specific integer having known equivalents in the art to which the present invention pertains, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth. The present invention may be broadly comprised of the parts, elements and features referred to or shown in the specification of this application, individually or collectively, as well as any combination of any two or more of said parts, elements or features in part or in whole.

[0483] Certain embodiments and modifications thereof will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the detailed description herein and with reference to the following figures. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0484] [Figure 1A] 1 shows in schematic form a respiratory assistance device; [Figure 1B] 1 shows a respiratory interface on a patient. [Figure 1C] 1 shows a respiratory interface on a patient. [Figure 1D] 1 shows a respiratory interface on a patient. [Diagram 2] FIG. 13 illustrates a front perspective view of one configuration of a respiratory interface. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of the respiratory interface of FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 3 is a top view of the respiratory interface of FIG. 2. [Diagram 5] FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the respiratory interface of FIG. 2. [Figure 6] FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of the cuff and sliding member of the respiratory interface of FIG. 2. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view of the cuff and sliding member of FIG. 6. [Figure 8] FIG. 3 is a front view of the respiratory interface of FIG. [Figure 9A] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the respiratory interface of FIG. [Figure 9B] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the respiratory interface of FIG. [Figure 10A] FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of the nasal prongs of the respiratory interface of FIG. [Figure 10B] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the nasal prongs of the respiratory interface of FIG. [Figure 10C] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the nasal prongs of the respiratory interface of FIG. [Figure 10D] FIG. 3 is another cross-sectional view of the nasal prongs of the respiratory interface of FIG. [Figure 11A] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the nasal prongs. [Figure 12] FIG. 11B is a top view of the nasal prongs of FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 11B is a bottom view of the nasal prongs of FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 11B is a side view of the nasal prongs of FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. 11B is a front or rear view of the nasal prongs of FIG. [Figure 16] 11A-11C are a series of top views showing the pivotable prongs. [Figure 17] FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of another configuration of a respiratory interface. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a rear perspective view of the respiratory interface of FIG. [Figure 19] FIG. 18 is a top view of the respiratory interface of FIG. [Figure 20] FIG. 18 is a bottom view of the respiratory interface of FIG. [Figure 21] FIG. 18 is a left side view of the respiratory interface of FIG. [Figure 22] FIG. 18 is a right side view of the respiratory interface of FIG. [Figure 23] FIG. 18 is a front view of the respiratory interface of FIG. [Figure 24]FIG. 18 is a rear view of the respiratory interface of FIG. [Diagram 25] FIG. 18 is an exploded view of the respiratory interface of FIG. [Figure 26] FIG. 18 is a front perspective view of the nasal prongs of the respiratory interface of FIG. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is a rear perspective view of the nasal prongs of FIG. [Figure 28] FIG. 27 is a top view of the nasal prongs of FIG. [Figure 29] FIG. 27 is a bottom view of the nasal prongs of FIG. [Diagram 30] FIG. 27 is a left side view of the nasal prongs of FIG. [Diagram 31] FIG. 27 is a front view of the nasal prongs of FIG. [Diagram 32] FIG. 27 is a rear view of the nasal prongs of FIG. [Diagram 33] FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of another configuration of a respiratory interface. [Diagram 34] FIG. 34 is a rear perspective view of the respiratory interface of FIG. [Diagram 35] FIG. 34 is a top view of the respiratory interface of FIG. [Diagram 36] FIG. 34 is a bottom view of the respiratory interface of FIG. [Figure 37] FIG. 34 is a front view of the respiratory interface of FIG. [Figure 38] FIG. 34 is a rear view of the respiratory interface of FIG. [Figure 39] FIG. 34 is an exploded view of the respiratory interface of FIG. [Diagram 40] FIG. 34 is a front perspective view of the nasal prongs of the respiratory interface of FIG. [Diagram 41] FIG. 41 is a rear perspective view of the nasal prongs of FIG. [Diagram 42] FIG. 41 is a top view of the nasal prong of FIG. [Diagram 43] FIG. 41 is a bottom view of the nasal prongs of FIG. [Diagram 44] FIG. 41 is a left side view of the nasal prong of FIG. [Diagram 45] FIG. 41 is a front view of the nasal prongs of FIG. [Diagram 46] FIG. 41 is a rear view of the nasal prongs of FIG. [Figure 47] FIG. 34 is a front perspective view of the cuff of the respiratory interface of FIG. [Figure 48] FIG. 48 is a rear perspective view of the cuff of FIG. 47. [Figure 49] FIG. 48 is a rear perspective view of the cuff of FIG. 47. [Figure 50] FIG. 13 is a partial front perspective view of another configuration of a respiratory interface. [Figure 51] FIG. 51 is a detailed front perspective view of the respiratory interface of FIG. [Figure 52] FIG. 51 is a top view of the respiratory interface of FIG. [Figure 53] FIG. 51 is another front perspective view of the respiratory interface of FIG. [Figure 54a] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of another configuration of a respiratory interface. [Fig. 54b] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of another configuration of a respiratory interface. [Fig. 54c] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of another configuration of a respiratory interface. [Figure 55] 13A-13D show a series of schematic diagrams of alternative configurations of a respiratory interface; [Figure 56] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of another configuration of a respiratory interface. [Figure 57] 13 is a graph of test results of flow delivered at 60 LPM comparing a standard respiratory interface having two nasal prongs to a respiratory interface in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 58A] FIG. 1 shows flow streamlines during exhalation for a two-prong breathing interface delivering nasal gas flow. [Figure 58B] FIG. 1 shows flow streamlines during exhalation for a two-prong breathing interface delivering nasal gas flow. [Figure 58C] FIG. 1 shows flow streamlines during exhalation for a two-prong breathing interface delivering nasal gas flow. [Fig. 58D]FIG. 1 shows flow streamlines during exhalation for a two-prong breathing interface delivering nasal gas flow. [Figure 59A] 1 shows flow streamlines during exhalation for a respiratory interface with a single sealing nasal prong providing nasal gas flow. [Figure 59B] 1 shows flow streamlines during exhalation for a respiratory interface with a single sealing nasal prong providing nasal gas flow. [Figure 59C] 1 shows flow streamlines during exhalation for a respiratory interface with a single sealing nasal prong providing nasal gas flow. [Fig. 59D] 1 shows flow streamlines during exhalation for a respiratory interface with a single sealing nasal prong providing nasal gas flow. [Figure 60A] 13 shows a graph of positive expiratory pressure test results comparing a standard breathing interface with two nasal prongs and a breathing interface in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 60B] 13 shows a graph of positive expiratory pressure test results comparing a standard breathing interface with two nasal prongs and a breathing interface in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 61A] 13 shows a graph of breathing rate test results comparing a standard breathing interface with two nasal prongs to a breathing interface in accordance with the present invention; [Figure 61B] 13 shows a graph of breathing rate test results comparing a standard breathing interface with two nasal prongs to a breathing interface in accordance with the present invention; [Figure 61C] 13 shows a graph of maximum expiratory flow test results comparing the left and right nostrils of a user having a respiratory interface in accordance with an arrangement of the present invention; [Figure 62] 1 shows a disassembled set of components to be assembled together, including a conduit connector including prongs and threads with discontinuous areas, a cuff (to engage with the conduit connector) and a conduit. [Figure 63A]Illustrates a first orientation for placing the cuff in place by a protrusion (or protrusions) interacting with a discontinuous area of ​​the threads of the conduit connector. [Figure 63B] 13 illustrates a second orientation for engaging the cuff onto the conduit connector. [Figure 63C] The completed assembly of the cuff and conduit connector is illustrated, along with the conduit engaged onto the conduit connector. [Figure 64] 13 illustrates a cuff configuration with a single lobe. [Figure 65] 1 shows a two lobe cuff configuration. [Figure 66A] 1 shows a two lobe cuff configuration. [Figure 66B] FIG. 65 shows the cuff configuration of FIG. 66A and indicates lobe width P'. [Figure 66C] FIG. 65 shows the cuff configuration of FIG. 66A and indicates lobe width P'. [Figure 66D] 13 shows a cuff configuration having a single protrusion on a pair of sliding members. [Figure 66E] 13 shows a cuff configuration having pairs of protrusions on pairs of sliding members. [Figure 67A] 13A-13C show bottom views of a cuff configuration having pairs of lobes. [Figure 67B] 13A-13C show bottom views of a cuff configuration with cut out features. [Figure 68] 1 shows a side view of a cuff configuration having an elongated or extended shank of height S'. [Figure 69] 1 shows a conduit connector including threads having a discontinuous area with a first thread portion T'. [Figure 70A] FIG. 70 shows the conduit connector of FIG. 69 showing area A' with which the protrusion of the cuff may engage. [Figure 70B] FIG. 70 shows the conduit connector of FIG. 69 showing area A″ with which the protrusion of the cuff may engage. [Figure 71] 1 shows a cuff connector including a first threaded portion T' and a second threaded portion T''. [Figure 72]1 illustrates a top perspective view of a preformed shape or bent configuration of a sliding member with a cuff engaged therewith. [Figure 73] 1 illustrates a front view of a slide member provided as a preformed shape or bent configuration. [Figure 74] FIG. 74 shows a side view of the configuration of FIG. 73. [Figure 75] 1 shows a slide member provided as a preformed shape or bent configuration. [Figure 76] 1 shows a conduit connector with a single continuous thread. [Figure 77A] 1A-1D show perspective, front and side views of an exemplary embodiment of a strap attachment. [Fig. 77B] 1A-1D show perspective, front and side views of an exemplary embodiment of a strap attachment. [Fig. 77C] 1A-1D show perspective, front and side views of an exemplary embodiment of a strap attachment. [Fig. 78A] 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a respiratory interface having strap attachments. [Fig. 78B] 1 illustrates a second exemplary embodiment of a respiratory interface having strap attachments. [Figure 79] FIG. 13 shows a cross-sectional view of the strap attachment and head strap of the respiratory interface. [Figure 80A] 1 illustrates a perspective cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a strap attachment. [Figure 80B] 1 illustrates a perspective cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a strap attachment. [Figure 81A] 1 illustrates a perspective cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a strap attachment. [Fig. 81B] 1 illustrates a perspective cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a strap attachment. [Fig. 82A] 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a strap attachment. [Fig. 82B] 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a strap attachment. [Fig. 82C]1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a strap attachment. [Figure 83] FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a strap attachment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0485] A respiratory assistance device 10 for delivering a flow of gas (which may include one or more gases) to a patient is shown in Figure 1. The device 10 may be, for example, a CPAP device or a high-flow device. An exemplary CPAP device is described in WO 2011 / 056080, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0486] Generally, the device 10 includes a main housing 100. The main housing 100 houses a flow generator 11 in the form of a motor / impeller arrangement, a humidifier 12, a controller 13, and a user I / O interface 14 (e.g., including a display and input devices such as buttons, a touch screen, etc.). The controller 13 is configured or programmed to control the components of the device, including operating the flow generator 11 to generate a flow of gas for delivery to a patient, operating the humidifier 12 to humidify and / or heat the generated gas flow, receiving user input from the user interface 14 for reconfiguration and / or user-defined operation of the device 10, and outputting information to a user (e.g., on a display). The user may be a patient, medical personnel, or other person interested in using the device.

[0487] The patient respiratory conduit 16 is connected to a gas flow exhaust or patient outlet port 30 of the housing 100 of the respiratory assistance apparatus 10 and to a respiratory interface 17 (i.e., patient interface 17), such as a nasal cannula having a manifold 19 and nasal prongs 18. Additionally or alternatively, the patient respiratory conduit 16 may be connected to a face mask. Additionally or alternatively, the patient respiratory conduit may be connected to a nasal pillows mask, and / or a nasal mask, and / or a tracheotomy interface, or any other suitable type of respiratory interface. The gas flow, which may be humidified, generated by the respiratory assistance apparatus 10 passes through the patient respiratory conduit 16 and is delivered to the patient via the respiratory interface 17. The patient respiratory conduit 16 may have a heater wire 16a for heating the gas flow passing to the patient. The heater wire 16a is under the control of the controller 13. The patient respiratory conduit 16 and / or the respiratory interface 17 may be considered as part of the respiratory assistance apparatus 10, or alternatively, as peripherals thereof. The respiratory assistance device 10, the respiratory conduit 16 and the respiratory interface 17 may together form a respiratory assistance system, or in some configurations a flow therapy system.

[0488] The general operation of the exemplary respiratory assistance device 10 is well known to those skilled in the art and need not be described in detail here. In general, however, the controller 13 controls the flow generator 11 to generate a gas flow at a desired flow rate, controls one or more valves to control the mixture ratio of air to oxygen or other alternative gas, and controls the humidifier 12 to humidify and / or heat the gas flow to an appropriate level. The gas flow is directed to the patient through a patient respiratory conduit 16 and a respiratory interface 17. The controller 13 may also control a heating element in the humidifier 12 and / or a heating element 16a in the patient respiratory conduit 16 to humidify and / or heat the gas to a desired temperature that achieves a desired level of therapy and / or comfort for the patient. The controller 13 may be programmed with or may determine an appropriate target temperature for the gas flow.

[0489] Operational sensors 3a, 3b, 3c, 20 and 25, such as flow sensors, temperature sensors, humidity sensors and / or pressure sensors, may be located at various locations on the respiratory assistance apparatus 10, and / or the patient breathing conduit 16, and / or the breathing interface 17. Outputs from the sensors may be received by the controller 13 to assist the controller 13 in operating the respiratory assistance apparatus 10 to provide optimal therapy. In some configurations, providing optimal therapy includes meeting the patient's inspiration demand. The apparatus 10 may have a transmitter and / or receiver 15 to enable the controller 13 to receive signals 8 from the sensors and / or control various components of the respiratory assistance apparatus 10, including, but not limited to, the flow generator 11, the humidifier 12 and the heater wire 16a or attachments or peripherals associated with the respiratory assistance apparatus 10. Additionally or alternatively, the transmitter and / or receiver 15 may deliver data to a remote server or enable remote control of the apparatus 10.

[0490] Respiratory assistance apparatus 10 may be any suitable type of apparatus for delivering respiratory flow therapy, i.e., a flow of gas, to a user. Respiratory flow therapy involves providing a flow of gas at a desired flow rate. Apparatus 10 is preferably a flow-controlled device that is controlled to deliver a preset or predetermined flow rate. To make the flow of gas more comfortable and tolerable to the user, the flow of gas is humidified using a humidifier.

[0491] In some configurations, the device 10 can deliver a high flow gas flow or high flow therapy (e.g., air, oxygen, other mixed gases, or some combination thereof) to the patient to assist breathing and / or treat respiratory disorders. In some configurations, the gas is or includes oxygen. In some configurations, the gas includes a blend of oxygen and ambient air. As used herein, "high flow" therapy refers to administering gas to the patient's airways at a relatively high flow rate that generally meets or exceeds the patient's maximum inspiratory demand or generally meets or exceeds the patient's inspiratory flow. The flow rate used to achieve "high flow" can be any of the flow rates described below. For example, in some configurations, in an adult patient, "high flow therapy" may refer to the delivery of gas to the patient at a flow rate of about ten liters per minute (10 LPM) or greater, such as from about 10 LPM to about 100 LPM, or from about 15 LPM to about 95 LPM, or from about 20 LPM to about 90 LPM, or from about 25 LPM to about 85 LPM, or from about 30 LPM to about 80 LPM, or from about 35 LPM to about 75 LPM, or from about 40 LPM to about 70 LPM, or from about 45 LPM to about 65 LPM, or from about 50 LPM to about 60 LPM. In some configurations, for neonatal, infant, or pediatric patients, "high flow therapy" may refer to delivery of gas to the patient at a flow rate of greater than 1 LPM, such as from about 1 LPM to about 25 LPM, or from about 2 LPM to about 25 LPM, or from about 2 LPM to about 5 LPM, or from about 5 LPM to about 25 LPM, or from about 5 LPM to about 10 LPM, or from about 10 LPM to about 25 LPM, or from about 10 LPM to about 20 LPM, or from about 10 LPM to 15 LPM, or from about 20 LPM to 25 LPM. High flow therapy devices for adult, neonatal, infant, or pediatric patients may deliver gas to the patient at a flow rate of from about 1 LPM to about 100 LPM, or any of the subranges described above. In some cases, neonates (i.e., infants) may be provided with a gas flow rate of 2 L per minute per kg based on the neonate's weight. The delivered gas may include a percentage of oxygen.In some configurations, the percentage of oxygen in the delivered gas can be from about 20% to about 100%, or from about 30% to about 100%, or from about 40% to about 100%, or from about 50% to about 100%, or from about 60% to about 100%, or from about 70% to about 100%, or from about 80% to about 100%, or from about 90% to about 100%, or about 100%, or 100%.

[0492] During high-flow therapy, the delivered gas flow can generally meet or exceed the patient's inspiratory demand, increasing the patient's oxygenation and / or decreasing the work of breathing. Additionally, high-flow therapy can create a washout effect in the nasopharynx such that the anatomical dead space of the upper airway is washed out by the high flow of incoming gas. This can create a reservoir of fresh gas available for every breath while minimizing rebreathing of carbon dioxide, nitrogen, etc.

[0493] Another form of respiratory support device may be a stand-alone humidifier device including a main housing and a humidifier 12. The stand-alone humidifier device includes a base unit including a heater plate and a receptacle for a humidification chamber. The humidification chamber having a conductive base is also configured to hold a quantity of humidification fluid, e.g., water, and may be removably positioned on the humidifier device such that the conductive base of the humidification chamber contacts the heater plate. The heater plate heats the contents of the humidification chamber to humidify the gas as it passes through the humidification chamber. The heater plate is controlled based on one or more sensors incorporated into the humidifier. The humidifier is connected to a conduit that carries the humidified gas. The conduit includes a heater wire that runs the length of the conduit. The conduit may also include a sensor at the end of the conduit that is used for feedback control of at least the heater wire in the conduit and may also be used to control the heater plate operation. The stand-alone humidifier may be used with any suitable gas flow source, e.g., a wall-mounted gas source, a ventilator, or compressed gas. An exemplary stand-alone humidifier device is described in WO 2015 / 038013, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. The respiratory interfaces described herein may be used in conjunction with stand-alone humidifiers.

[0494] The respiratory interface 17 may be a non-sealing interface to prevent barotrauma (e.g., tissue damage to the lungs or other organs of the respiratory system due to pressure differences relative to the atmosphere). The respiratory interface may be a nasal cannula having a manifold and nasal prongs, and / or a face mask, and / or a nasal pillows mask, and / or a nasal mask, and / or a tracheostomy interface or any other suitable type of respiratory interface (i.e., patient interface).

[0495] As described below, respiratory assistance apparatus 10 may include various features to aid in the function, use and / or configuration of respiratory assistance apparatus 10.

[0496] The following description relates to a respiratory interface that may be used with a respiratory assistance device, such as those described above, to provide breathing. The respiratory interface may be used on neonates, children or adults. The prongs may be sized for different patient populations.

[0497] The respiratory interfaces described may be used to treat several different patient groups requiring respiratory assistance, such as COPD patients, individuals with acute respiratory disease, etc. The respiratory interfaces may be used in hospitals or in home care. The respiratory interfaces described herein may be used to deliver respiratory flows that may be in the range of high flow therapy as previously described.

[0498] The various configurations of respiratory interfaces described herein are for delivering gas and / or supplying a flow of gas to a patient. The gas may be humidified or non-humidified. Additionally, each of the configurations described herein are also suitable for supplying fluids, including mixtures of gas and liquid, to a patient.

[0499] Various configurations of respiratory interfaces are used to deliver respiratory gas to a user, e.g., a patient. Examples of respiratory gas can be air, oxygen, or a mixture of gases.

[0500] The various configurations of the respiratory interfaces described herein are used to deliver a respiratory gas flow to a patient. The respiratory flow rate may be similar to the flow rate previously described for high flow therapy, i.e., the magnitude of the respiratory gas flow delivered by the interfaces described herein may be within the ranges described for "high flow therapy" or "nasal high flow". The respiratory interfaces described herein may provide a flow rate of gas equal to or exceeding the maximum inhalation demand of the user, thereby reducing or preventing the entrainment of ambient air. Alternatively, the various configurations of the respiratory interfaces described herein may be used to deliver a respiratory flow rate having a magnitude as described above, but may not exceed the maximum inhalation demand or may entrain some ambient air. The respiratory gas flow delivered by the respiratory interfaces described herein may or may not be humidified.

[0501] The respiratory interfaces described herein may be used to provide a flow of gas similar to the flow rate previously described as "high flow therapy" by leaving one nostril unsealed and the other nostril sealed. With the nostril unsealed, the likelihood of barotrauma to the patient (i.e., user) is reduced because there is one unobstructed airway that allows the user to exhale and / or provide sufficient leakage to prevent barotrauma.

[0502] In the following description, proximal means proximal to the patient's nostrils when in use, and distal means distal to the patient's nostrils when in use.

[0503] The following is a summary of the features of the respiratory interface (i.e., patient interface) of the present disclosure for delivering gas to one nostril of a patient.

[0504] A first configuration of a respiratory interface 100 for delivering gas to one nostril of a patient will now be described with reference to Figures 2-16. Figures 2-8 show various views of the respiratory interface 100 after assembly, and Figure 9 shows the respiratory interface 100 disassembled. The respiratory interface 100 includes a gas delivery assembly that includes a prong 200, a conduit 300, a conduit connector 400, and a support 500. Each of these components and their interaction with each other will be described in further detail below.

[0505] In the illustrated configuration, the prongs are single sealing nasal prongs 200. The single nasal prongs are nostril interchangeable such that they can engage and seal with either nostril. When the respiratory interface is in the operative position, the single sealing prong substantially seals (i.e., substantially occludes) one of the user's nostrils (i.e., the anterior nostril).

[0506] The single sealing nasal prong 200 has a front and an opposing back side, a left and an opposing right side, a top side and an opposing bottom side. These sides are shown in FIG. 10A. The single sealing nasal prong 200 includes a seal body 201, an inlet 203, a gas passageway 204, and an outlet 205. The seal body 201 is configured to seal against one of the patient's nostrils. The cross-sectional view shown in FIG. 10B shows that the single sealing nasal prong 200 has a wall 206 that defines an outer surface of the single sealing nasal prong 200. The wall 206 also defines a gas passageway 204 between the inlet 203 and the outlet 205.

[0507] The prong inlet 203 is configured to receive gas from a gas supply element, e.g., a conduit. The prong inlet 203 is generally circular. The prong inlet 203 is in the center of the prong 200 when viewed from below. The cross section of the prong inlet 203 is substantially similar to the cross section of the conduit outlet 305 (FIG. 9A). The shape of the prong inlet 203 is substantially similar to the shape of the conduit outlet 305. The size of the prong inlet 203 is also substantially similar to the size of the conduit outlet 305. In the first illustrated configuration, the conduit outlet 305 is received within the prong inlet 203, connecting the single sealed nasal prong 200 to the conduit 300. The similar size and shape between the prong inlet 203 and the conduit outlet 305 means that there is minimal flow resistance between the conduit 300 and the single sealed nasal prong 200 because there is no flow restriction. This configuration means that the delivered gas is not jetted, improving the delivery of substances such as nebulized gas. Additionally, the absence of flow restrictions such as sharp corners, edges or other protrusions minimizes velocity changes in the gas.

[0508] This configuration provides stability by having the conduit coaxial with the prongs. The coaxial conduit results in a low bending moment on the interface by the tube. The low bending moment is because the tube hangs substantially vertically downward and does not extend to one side of the interface. The low bending moment improves the stability of the interface when on the user's face.

[0509] As shown in Figure 2, there is minimal change in direction of the conduit on its way to the single sealing nasal prong 200. Advantages of this configuration include a flow path that is relatively straight and contains fewer cross-sectional restrictions than a flow path with bends and turns, resulting in reduced noise and reduced pressure loss.

[0510] The conduit 300 and prongs 200 are configured to reduce flow resistance from the gas source to the nares, i.e., there are no flow restrictions in or between the conduit 300 and the single sealing nasal prongs 200. The conduit and prong configuration does not include bends, bends, sharp corners or features that extend into the flow path. It will be appreciated that there is some flow resistance due to the conduit and prongs themselves, but no additional flow restrictions.

[0511] A conduit 300 directly coupled to the prong 200 provides a direct connection without any change in direction of the gas. The prong inlet and conduit outlet are coaxial, allowing the gas to travel in a straight line through the conduit to the prong and then out the prong.

[0512] The prong outlet 205 is configured to deliver gas to a patient. With reference to the orientation of the single sealing nasal prong 200 in FIG. 13, the prong outlet 205 is located at an approximately central location between the left and right sides. In one example, the prong outlet 205 is located at an approximately central location between the left and right sides and between the front and back sides. The approximately central location allows the single sealing nasal prong to seal against either one of the patient's nostrils when inserted into either nostril (i.e., the anterior nares).

[0513] Because the single sealing nasal prongs 200 are bilaterally symmetrical and the prong outlet 205 is approximately central, the single sealing nasal prongs 200 are orientation independent, i.e., the single sealing nasal prongs 200 may be used in either nostril. The prongs 200 are nostril orientation independent, meaning that the prong outlet is symmetrical such that the prongs 200 may be used in either nostril and achieve the same in each of the user's nostrils.

[0514] The vertical orientation of the single-sealing nasal prongs can also be varied. With reference to FIG. 1b, which shows the orientation of the interface 100 when in use on a patient, the anterior surface of the single-sealing nasal prongs is positioned lower than the posterior surface. That is, the anterior surface is closer to the patient's lips and the posterior surface is closer to the patient's nose. The symmetry of the single-sealing nasal prongs described above allows the single-sealing nasal prongs 200 to be used with the anterior surface above the posterior surface, or alternatively, with the posterior surface above the anterior surface and still achieving a substantial seal with the nostrils.

[0515] The prong outlet 205 and prong inlet 203 in the illustrated configuration are concentric. That is, the prong outlet 205 and the prong inlet 203 have a common center. In other words, the prong outlet 205 and the prong inlet 203 are coaxial because they have a common central axis. The prong inlet 203 is substantially circular and the prong outlet 205 is elliptical. The shape of the passageway 204 changes from circular near the prong inlet 203 to elliptical near the prong outlet 205.

[0516] Alternatively, the prong outlet 205 and the prong inlet may be offset from one another, i.e., the centers of the prong inlet 203 and the prong outlet 205 may be offset from one another. In this alternative, the wall connecting the prong inlet 203 and the prong outlet 205 still defines a gas passageway from the prong inlet 203 to the prong outlet 205.

[0517] Alternatively, the prong entrance 203 may be elliptical. In some configurations, when viewed upward from the prong entrance 203, the major axis of the prong entrance 203 and the major axis of the prong exit 205 may intersect, e.g., be perpendicular, in some configurations, when viewed upward from the prong entrance 203, the major axis of the prong entrance 203 and the major axis of the prong exit 205 may be parallel, e.g., coplanar, in some configurations.

[0518] The prong exit 205 is smaller than the prong entrance 203. In particular, the cross-sectional area of ​​the prong exit 205 is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the prong entrance 203. The radius of the prong exit 205 is smaller than the radius of the prong entrance 203.

[0519] The seal body 201 and prong outlet 205 of the single-sealing nasal prong 200 in the illustrated configuration are positioned such that one of the patient's nostrils is substantially sealed and supplied with gases from the prong outlet 205, while the other of the patient's nostrils is not sealed and does not receive a direct supply of gases from the outlet. Gases are supplied directly to the sealed nostril from the single-sealing nasal prong 200. The other nostril may receive some gases, but the gases are received indirectly. The other nostril is unobstructed by the single-sealing nasal prong 200 so that the patient can breathe normally through the other nostril.

[0520] When the respiratory interface 100 is in use, the single sealing nasal prong 200 blocks one of the patient's nostrils and leaves the other unblocked, resulting in approximately 50% sealing of the patient's nose. The patient exhales the majority of exhaled gases through the path of least resistance, i.e., through the unsealed nose. The illustrated respiratory interface 100 is configured to seal at least 50% of the nostrils that it engages. Preferably, the respiratory interface 100 is shaped and configured to seal at least 75% of the nostrils that it engages.

[0521] 14 and 15, the sealing prongs 200 are spherical or globular. The seal body 201 tapers inwardly from the inlet to the outlet. In one configuration, the sealing prongs 200 are dome-shaped. The single sealing nasal prongs may have other similar shapes such as raindrop, oval, or egg-shaped.

[0522] The single sealing nasal prong 200 has a relatively wide base region which includes the prong entrance 203 and joining region, and a relatively narrow tip region which includes the prong exit 205. Between the base and tip regions is a transition region.

[0523] The base region includes an outwardly extending wall. The wall extends outwardly and includes a substantially convex shape. The base region also defines a coupling region for a prong for coupling to a gas delivery conduit.

[0524] The tip region includes an upstanding wall that defines the prong exit. The wall is an inwardly angled, upwardly extending wall. The tip region may be considered to be frusto-conical in shape.

[0525] The transition region includes a wall connecting the base region and the tip region. The transition region includes multiple transition regions. In particular, the transition region includes an outwardly curved region tapering toward the outlet. The diameter or major axis of the gas passage in the transition region decreases. The transition region may include a bend region near the tip region, especially at the intersection of the tip region and the transition region. In the bend zone / region, the curvature of the wall transitions from an outwardly curved portion to a straight / slightly inwardly curved portion. The bend region is a blend of the transition region and the tip region.

[0526] In one optional configuration where the inlet is circular and the outlet is oval, the transition region may also include a change in shape from a circular cross section at the base region to an oval / elliptical shape at the tip region.

[0527] The outer surface of the single sealing nasal prong 200 is generally convexly curved, i.e., the overall shape of the outer surface is curved and outwardly curved. The outer surface of the single sealing nasal prong 200 tapers inwardly from the entrance end to the exit end, which is larger than the exit end.

[0528] The wall thickness of the prongs can be between 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm. In a further example, the wall thickness of the prongs is between about 0.7 mm and about 0.8 mm. The wall 206 comprises a flexible or compliant material. The material is a flexible, non-elastic material. A preferred material is silicone. Alternatively, the prongs can be made of a biocompatible plastic material.

[0529] The single sealing nasal prong 200 maintains the shape shown in Figures 10-15 due to a combination of the pliable material and the dome shape of the single sealing nasal prong 200. The single sealing nasal prong 200 maintains the shape when gas is flowing through the gas passageway 204 and when gas is not flowing through the gas passageway 204. Alternatively, the material can be a resilient material and the single sealing nasal prong maintains the shape shown in Figures 10-15 due to a combination of the pliable material, the dome shape, and the resilient material. In this alternative configuration, the combination of the resilient material and the dome shape of the single sealing nasal prong 200 helps the single sealing nasal prong maintain the shape shown. The coupling includes thickened walls to create a more rigid structure in the coupling region 235.

[0530] The walls 206 of the single sealing nasal prongs 200 should be sturdy enough not to collapse. That is, the walls are flexible to bend or elastically deform to conform to the shape of the nostril, but not buckle. The portion of the single sealing nasal prongs 200 between the base and tip regions has a constant wall thickness, allowing the prongs to bend and seal against the nostril while preventing buckling. For example, in some configurations, the outlet end of the seal body 201 may have a relatively thin wall thickness compared to the remainder of the wall. A thin wall thickness may increase patient comfort. In other configurations, the wall thickness of the outlet end may be similar to the wall thickness of the remainder of the wall. A thicker wall may prevent the wall from collapsing when the single sealing nasal prongs 200 are inserted into the patient's nostril.

[0531] When placed in one of the patient's nostrils, the exterior surface of the single-sealing nasal prong 200 seals against the interior surface of that nostril. The sealing surface is the exterior surface of the wall that defines the single-sealing nasal prong 200. The single-sealing nasal prong 200 seals against the tissue of the nostril. The single-sealing nasal prong seals against the nostril when gas is flowing through the gas passageway 204 and when gas is not flowing through the gas passageway 204. The seal body 201 and outlet 205 of the single-sealing nasal prong 200 are positioned such that one of the patient's nostrils is substantially sealed and supplied with gas from the outlet, while the other of the patient's nostrils is not sealed and does not receive a direct supply of gas from the outlet. The single-sealing nasal prong 200 is interchangeable between the patient's nostrils. The single-sealing nasal prong seals against the other nostril when inserted into that nostril.

[0532] The interface has a single prong 200 and, in some configurations, no manifold. In these configurations, the other nostril is completely devoid of the interface. As seen in FIG. 1B, the interface interacts with only one of the patient's nostrils and does not engage the other of the patient's nostril. The other nostril does not engage or otherwise interact with the prongs, manifold, or any other features of the interface. The interface may be positioned on the patient's face such that one nostril does not receive gas from the conduit 300.

[0533] When not sealing against the patient's nostrils, the single sealing nasal prongs 200 may have the shape shown in Figures 10-15. In use, the single sealing nasal prongs 200 may bend and elastically deform to conform to the shape of the patient's nostrils to form a seal with the nostrils. The single sealing nasal prongs 200 may precisely fit the patient's nostrils. In this case, the single sealing nasal prongs may completely seal against the patient's nostrils. As previously mentioned, the single sealing nasal prongs 200 block one of the patient's nostrils and do not block the other nostril, so that at least 50% of the patient's nose is sealed. More specifically, in use, at least 50% of the nostrils are sealed. The prongs 200 occlude 75% or more of the nostrils. More preferably, in use, the prongs are sized to occlude 90% or more of one nostril.

[0534] The single sealing nasal prongs 200 substantially block one of the patient's nostrils and do not block the other, so that the patient's nose is approximately 50% sealed. The patient breathes, and particularly exhales, through the path of least resistance, i.e., through the unsealed nose.

[0535] The oval shape of the prong outlet allows the prong to conform because the long axis compresses as the prong is inserted into the nostril (the length of the long axis contributes to the flexibility of the opening), while the short axis provides structural support to prevent the prong from buckling. Thus, the prongs can fit a variety of different nose shapes / sizes.

[0536] The oval shape also conforms more closely to the shape of the nasal cavity and nasal opening, which means that gas can be delivered to the patient more effectively and efficiently.

[0537] Alternatively, the single-sealing nasal prongs 200 may conform to a shape that is approximately the same as the shape of the patient's nostrils, but with one or more differences. In this case, the single-sealing nasal prongs may partially seal with the patient's nostrils. Thus, the single-sealing nasal prongs may partially conform to the shape of the patient's nostrils.

[0538] With respect to the above description of the seal provided by the prongs, it will be understood that it is the body of the prongs that enables such a seal to be provided by the seal body 201 .

[0539] 4, prong outlet 205 has a length L1, which is the longest dimension of prong outlet 205. Prong outlet 205 also has a width W1, which is the widest dimension of prong outlet 205. The ratio of the width of prong outlet 205 to the length of prong outlet 205 is from about 0.4 to about 0.9. This ratio can be, for example, from about 0.4 to about 0.6, from about 0.6 to about 0.8, from about 0.8 to about 0.9, from about 0.4 to about 0.5, from about 0.5 to about 0.6, from about 0.6 to about 0.7, or from about 0.7 to about 0.8.

[0540] The length of the prong outlet can be between 4 mm and 15 mm. Preferably, the length is between 6 mm and 11 mm. The width of the prong outlet can be between 1.5 mm and 13.5 mm. Preferably, the width of the prong outlet is between 3.5 mm and 6.5 mm. The length of the illustrated prong outlet 205 design shown is 9.48 mm and the width is 5.94 mm. The ratio of the prong outlet 205 to the conduit outlet 305 is 0.72. The ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the prong outlet 205 to the cross-sectional area of ​​the base of the seal is 0.33. The cross-sectional area of ​​the base is shown in FIG. 12 in grey shading.

[0541] The length of the single sealing nasal prongs 200 is greater than the width of the single sealing nasal prongs 200. The ratio of the length to the width of the single sealing nasal prongs 200 may be between 1.01 and 2, preferably between 1.4 and 1.6, and more preferably between 1.50 and 1.55.

[0542] The prongs 200 can be provided in different sizes, such as small, medium and large. In the illustrated configuration, the dimensions of the minor to major axes of the ellipse are small: 5.3mm x 7.7mm, medium: 5.9mm x 9.4mm, large: 6.7mm x 11.5mm, with approximate ratios for each size being small: 0.69, medium: 0.63, large: 0.58.

[0543] The relationship between the width and length of the prong outlet 205 allows the opening to be flexible and able to fit a variety of nostril shapes. The length of the prong outlet 205 allows the prong outlet to be shaped or distorted to conform to the user's nostril. At the same time, the width of the prong outlet 205 provides some structural support.

[0544] The ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the prong outlet 205 to the cross-sectional area of ​​the conduit outlet 305 is about 0.2 to about 1. Preferably, this ratio is about 0.5 to about 0.8. More preferably, this ratio is about 0.7 to about 0.8. In the illustrated configuration, this ratio is about 0.72. The ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the prong outlet 205 to the cross-sectional area of ​​the base of the seal (shown in FIG. 13 by grey shading) is about 0.33.

[0545] 10-15, the overall shape of the seal tapers gently from a wide distal portion at the inlet 203 to a narrow region at the prong outlet 205. That is, the seal tapers in the proximal direction.

[0546] The size of the opening of the prong inlet 203 is larger than the prong outlet 205. The taper includes a convex curvature that terminates in the protruding prong outlet 205. The curvature, in combination with the thin wall, allows the walls of the seal to conform and gently press against the interior surface of the nostril to form a seal.

[0547] The single sealing nasal prong 200 includes a flexible sealing portion 233 provided by the wall 206. The flexible portion 233 is configured to bend to substantially conform to the shape of the patient's nostrils. The wall thickness of the flexible portion 233 is about 0.7 mm to about 0.8 mm.

[0548] The thin wall thickness of wall 233 compared to the wall thickness of joint 235 provides flexibility to wall 233. The thin wall thickness of wall 233 compared to joint 235 allows wall 233 to bend and elastically deform to conform to the shape of the nostril and seal against the nostril.

[0549] 12 shows that the seal body 201 is substantially symmetrical between the left and right sides, with the left side being a mirror image of the right side. With reference to the orientation of the single sealing nasal prong 200 in FIG. 12, the seal body 201 is also substantially symmetrical between the front and rear sides, when viewed from above, with the front side being a mirror image of the rear side.

[0550] Referring to the orientation of the single sealing nasal prong 200 in FIG. 12, the prong outlet 205 is in the center of the prong body 201 between the left and right sides. The horizontal center position allows the prongs to be adjusted to seal with either one of the nostrils to provide treatment to the patient. The center location of the prong outlet 205, along with the symmetry of the single sealing nasal prong 200, allows the single sealing nasal prong 200 to be swapped from one nostril to the other during use. The prongs seal equally well with either nostril due to the location of the prong outlet 205 and the shape of the prong outlet 205. The configuration of FIG. 12 also shows that the prong outlet 205 is in the center of the prong body 201 between the anterior and posterior sides so that the prongs can be inserted either with the anterior above the posterior or vice versa. In some alternative configurations, the outlets can be offset from the horizontal axis (not collinear or coincident), offset from the vertical axis, or offset from both the vertical and horizontal axes.

[0551] The outlet 205 of the single sealing nasal prong 200 is central to the seal body 201 when viewed from above. With reference to the orientation of the single sealing nasal prong 200 in FIG. 12, the outlet is central between the left and right faces and between the front and rear faces, and the outlet is concentrically central to the seal body. When assembled with the conduit 300, the prong outlet 205 is central to the conduit outlet 305. The central axis of the single sealing nasal prong is aligned with the central axis of the conduit outlet 305.

[0552] The outlet 205 has a generally oval cross section. With reference to FIG. 12, the prong outlet 205 in the illustrated configuration has an elliptical cross section. The ellipse has a major axis extending between the front and rear faces and a minor axis extending between the left and right faces. The elliptical cross section has a minor or small chord radius (indicated by circle 205a) and a major or large chord radius (indicated by circle 205b). In the illustrated configuration, the minor radius is about 2 mm and the major radius is about 7 mm. The cross section of the outlet may have a minor radius of about 1 mm to about 3 mm. The minor radius may be about 1.5 mm or about 2.5 mm. The cross section of the outlet may have a major radius of about 4 mm to about 24 mm. The major radius can be about 5 mm, about 6 mm, about 7 mm, about 8 mm, about 9 mm, about 10 mm, about 11 mm, about 12 mm, about 13 mm, about 14 mm, about 15 mm, about 16 mm, about 17 mm, about 18 mm, about 19 mm, about 20 mm, about 21 mm, about 22 mm, or about 23 mm. The minor radius 205a defines the curvature of the anterior and posterior regions of the prong exit 205. The major radius 205b defines the curvature of the left and right regions of the prong exit 205.

[0553] The oval shape of the prong outlet 205 allows the prong outlet 205 to conform to a variety of different nose shapes because the long radius of the opening allows the outlet 205 to deform more easily compared to a circular outlet, increasing the conformity with different nose shapes.

[0554] In some configurations, the single sealing nasal prong 200 has a sealing portion that seals with the user's nares and a coupling portion that couples with the supports and / or conduits. A relatively thin sealing portion and a relatively thick coupling portion are shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 10B. These portions are flexible and rigid relative to each other. That is, the flexible portion is more flexible than the rigid portion and vice versa, while the rigid portion has some softness, compliance or flexibility. In the configuration shown, the single sealing nasal prong is made from a flexible or compliant material, and the rigid portion's stiffness depends on the relative thickness of the rigid portion to the flexible portion. The flexible portion seals with the user's nares and the rigid portion couples with the supports and / or conduits. The single sealing nasal prong 200 also includes a rigid coupling portion 235. The rigid coupling portion 235 is connected or connectable to a gas flow assembly. The rigid coupling portion may also be provided by a wall. The rigid coupling portion 235 provides stability to the single sealing nasal prong 200. The rigid joint 235 is rigid relative to the other portions of the unitary sealed nasal prong 200. In the configuration shown, the rigid joint 235 is rigid by having a relatively thick wall. For example, the wall thickness of the rigid joint is about 1.5 mm to about 4 mm. The wall thickness can be about 2 mm, about 2.5 mm, about 3 mm, or about 3.5 mm. Alternatively, the rigid or less flexible regions can be formed of a different material that is more rigid relative to the material of the flexible portion. The rigid joint 235 has two inwardly extending flanges 235a and 235b. The flange 235b closest to the inlet is the lip 235. The flange 235a is an undercut formed by an undercut in the molding tool. The unitary sealed nasal prong 200 has a groove or recess 235c between the lip 235b and the undercut 235a. When assembled, the recess 235c receives the flange 405 of the connector 400.

[0555] The flexible section 233 has a thin wall 233 compared to the thickness of the joint 235, so that the flexible section 233 is flexible compared to the relatively rigid joint 235. The walls of the flexible region 233 can bend and elastically deform to conform to the shape of the nostril and seal. The single sealing nasal prong 200 may undergo local bending or elastic deformation or both. The flexible region 233 with a thin wall section allows some parts of the flexible region to bend, i.e., local bending or local deformation. This local bending allows for an improved seal for a wide range of different nose shapes. The local bending allows the prong to conform to the shape of the nostril.

[0556] As discussed above, the prong inlet 203 is circular and the prong outlet 205 is elliptical. The transition between the prong inlet 203 and the prong outlet 205 is determined by the prong wall 206 shown in FIG. 10B. With reference to the cross-sectional view shown in FIG. 10B, the wall thickness of the flexible seal remains generally constant. The shape of the gas passageway corresponding to the flexible seal has a similar shape to the outer surface of the single sealing nasal prong 200. With reference to FIGS. 10A and 10B, the gas passageway within the coupling is a cylindrical passageway.

[0557] 10C and 10D show cross-sectional views of the single sealed nasal prong 200. FIG. 10C shows a cross-sectional view through a plane indicated by a horizontal line in FIG. 4. FIG. 10D shows a cross-sectional view through a plane indicated by a vertical line in FIG. 4. Comparing FIG. 10C and FIG. 10D, it can be seen that the flexible section 233 is of approximately similar wall thickness, while the relatively rigid coupling portion 235 is larger in FIG. 10D relative to FIG. 10C, and at the same time, the relatively rigid coupling portion 235 with its corresponding flanges 235a and 235b and corresponding recesses 235c provide an area of ​​the same size or shape to receive the flange 405 of the connector 400. In this way, prongs 200 of different sizes or configurations can be connected with the same connector 400. This provides a single interface that can be used with prongs 200 of different sizes or configurations depending on the patient. Thus, prongs of different sizes or configurations have the same fit to fit into the same or a single interface connector 400.

[0558] FIG. 14 shows the single sealing nasal prong 200 from the left side. The right side of the single sealing nasal prong is identical to the left side of the single sealing nasal prong. Starting from the inlet 203, the base region includes the bottom surface 207 of the single sealing nasal prong 200. The bottom surface 207 is concave or inwardly curved. Adjacent to this, the bottommost surface 209 of the single sealing nasal prong 200 curves outwardly to form a lobe. The lobe extends circumferentially and can be seen in both FIG. 14 and FIG. 15. The surface of the lobe transitions into a transition region. The transition region includes a relatively short, nearly vertical surface (when viewed as a profile shown in FIG. 14). The relatively short, nearly vertical surface transitions into a gradual outwardly curved surface 213, i.e., a shallow outwardly curved surface. The central surface of the single sealing nasal prong 200 is a relatively flat surface that tapers inwardly. The tip includes a rim 219 and an inwardly curved surface 217 between the central surface 215 and the rim 219. The transition between each surface is a smooth transition. The upper edge 219 of the single sealing nasal prong 200 also forms the rim of the outlet 205.

[0559] FIG. 15 shows the single sealing nasal prong 200 from the front. The rear side of the single sealing nasal prong is identical to the front side of the single sealing nasal prong. Starting from the inlet 203, the base region includes the bottom surface 209 of the single sealing nasal prong 200. The bottom surface 209 curves outward. The lobes can be seen in this view as surfaces 223. The surfaces of the lobes curve outward and the surfaces of the lobes extend upward. The curved surface 221 and the curved surface 223 meet at point 222, resulting in a slightly sharp transition. That is, the surface 223 transitions from an arc of a first radius to an arc of a second radius that defines the surface 221. The second radius is larger than the first radius. The transition from the surface 223 to the surface 221 defines a change in the curvature and direction of the surface. The transition region may define a fillet, i.e. a rounded edge.

[0560] Continuing upward, the transition region includes a relatively flat, vertically extending surface 225. The following surfaces also extend approximately vertically, but have a slight outward curvature. The center of the single sealing nasal prong 200 is a relatively flat surface 229 that tapers inward. In the view shown in FIG. 15, the tip includes a rim 219 and an inwardly curving surface 231 between the center surface 229 and the rim 219. The transitions between each surface are smooth, except for the transition between surface 221 and surface 223. Regions 235, 227, 225 may be more rigid than the other surfaces. These surfaces are harder than surface 233. These regions form a stiffer joint for the prong. Regions 223, 208, 221 may be more flexible than regions 235, 227, 225, but stiffer than region 233, to allow the bottom of the prong to flex when received in the cuff.

[0561] When comparing Figures 14 and 15, it can be seen that the surfaces on the left correspond to the surfaces on the front side. For example, surface 211 in Figure 14 corresponds to surface 225 in Figure 15. In the configuration shown, surfaces 211 and 225 have a smooth transition between each other. This flat surface 225 transitions into surface 211 shown in Figure 14.

[0562] In the illustrated configuration, the opposing front and rear surfaces are substantially symmetrical to each other. The front and rear surfaces are symmetrical about a vertical plane. The opposing left and right surfaces are also substantially symmetrical to each other. The left and right surfaces are symmetrical about a vertical plane. Due to the symmetry of all surfaces, the outlet 205 is centered between the front and rear surfaces and centered between the left and right surfaces. The symmetrical nature of the single-sealing nasal prongs 200 allows the single-sealing nasal prongs 200 to fit and seal with either nostril, thereby allowing the single-sealing nasal prongs 200 to be inserted into the nostrils in any orientation. This makes it easier for the patient or clinician to insert the prongs and also easier to move the prongs from one nostril to the other. Although the patient's nares do not have corresponding symmetrical shapes, these configurations provide a seal for the patient's nares.

[0563] The single sealing nasal prongs 200 have been described herein as sealing against the patient's nares. The seal occurs because the seal body 201 contacts the interior surface of the patient's nares, not due to expansion in the presence of pressure. The seal occurs because the seal body contacts the outer edge of the nostril. In some cases, the seal body may also contact the interior area of ​​the nostril adjacent the nostril opening.

[0564] A single sealing nasal prong is considered to substantially seal if it provides greater than 50% occlusion of the patient's nares, preferably greater than 70% occlusion. The prongs occlude 90% or more of the nares when placed in the operative position. In some configurations, the single sealing nasal prong 200 substantially seals. The illustrated configuration provides a nearly complete seal. It will be appreciated that there will be some leakage, but this leakage is small enough that it can be ignored. In other configurations, the single sealing nasal prong 200 does not substantially seal against the patient's nares. The amount of sealing controls how much pressure is delivered to the patient and how much dead space removal occurs.

[0565] In an alternative configuration, the gas flow creates pressure within the single sealing nasal prong 200, which may cause the sealing surface to expand / distance. The seal body 201 may expand to seal with the interior surface of the patient's nares. The prongs may have thin region walls 233 that may collapse completely in the absence of pressure or gas flow, or may partially collapse in the absence of pressure or gas flow. In the presence of gas flow and pressure, the prong walls 233 may expand or bulge to seal with the patient's nares.

[0566] 1-9, other features of the gas delivery assembly of the respiratory interface 100 will now be described. In addition to the single sealing nasal prongs 200 described above, the gas delivery assembly further includes a conduit 300. The conduit has an inlet 303 for receiving gas flow from a gas supply, and an outlet 305 for delivering gas to the single sealing nasal prongs 200.

[0567] In the illustrated configuration, the outlet 305 of the conduit 300 is connected or connectable to the single sealed nasal prong 200. This connection is a direct connection, with no other parts or features between the outlet of the conduit and the inlet of the prong. The single sealed nasal prong 200 and the conduit assembly form a continuous gas pathway. Alternatively, a conduit connector 400 may be disposed between the outlet of the conduit and the inlet of the prong. The cross section of the prong inlet 203 is substantially similar to the cross section of the conduit outlet 305 proximal to the patient. The shape of the prong inlet 203 is substantially similar to the shape of the conduit outlet 305. The size of the prong inlet 203 is also substantially similar to the shape of the conduit outlet 305. The gas path from the conduit to the prong outlet 205 may be substantially straight.

[0568] In another configuration, the outlet 305 of the conduit 300 is connected or connectable to a single sealed nasal prong 200. This connection is between an assembly of the cuff 250, 1250 and the conduit connector 400 (to which the conduit 300, 1300 is also connected). The cuff 250, 1250 is also connected to one or more slider members 501, 1501 to facilitate movement of the cuff along the slider members with each of the aforementioned components attached thereto, and to properly orient or position the prongs (attached to the distal end of the conduit connector) to engage the patient's nares.

[0569] In another configuration, the outlet 305 of the conduit 300 is connected or connectable to a single sealed nasal prong 200. This connection is between the assembly of the cuff 250, 1250 and the prong 200. That is, the conduit can be connected to the cuff 250, 1250 and the prong can be held in place by the adjacently disposed assembly of the prong and cuff and the conduit outlet. In this manner, such an assembly can be provided by a friction fit type arrangement to grip or hold the prong in place relative to the cuff. In such a configuration, the conduit connector 400 may not be required.

[0570] In another configuration, the outlet 305 of the conduit 300 is connected or connectable to the single sealed nasal prong 200. This connection is a direct connection, with no other parts or features between the outlet of the conduit and the inlet of the prong. The single sealed nasal prong 200 and the conduit assembly form a continuous gas path. Alternatively, the conduit connector 400 may be disposed between the outlet of the conduit and the inlet of the prong. The cross section of the prong inlet 203 is substantially similar to the cross section of the conduit outlet 305 proximal to the patient. The shape of the prong inlet 203 is substantially similar to the shape of the conduit outlet 305. The size of the prong inlet 203 is also substantially similar to the shape of the conduit outlet 305. As a result, the gas path from the conduit to the prong outlet 205 may be substantially straight.

[0571] In some configurations, the single sealed nasal prong 200 and the conduit assembly form a direct fluid connection, with gas flowing through the tube directly to the prong. The conduit is configured to deliver gas directly to the single sealed nasal prong without passing through another component. There are no components (such as a manifold) between the outlet 305 of the conduit and the inlet 203 of the single sealed nasal prong 200. The reduced number of components compared to conventional interfaces reduces the size of the interface and also reduces friction / flow resistance. The direct connection of the tube to the prong allows most, or nearly all, of the flow to be delivered to the prong. The reduced flow resistance provides a quieter (i.e., less noisy) interface and reduces pressure loss within the interface.

[0572] As shown in Figures 1B and 2, the change in direction of the conduit on its way to the single sealed nasal prong 200 is minimal. The conduit 300 is directly coupled to the single sealed nasal prong 200. The single sealed nasal prong 200 and the conduit 300 have a common axis. More specifically, the conduit outlet 305 and the inlet of the single sealed nasal prong 200 are coaxial (i.e., share a common axis). In the illustrated configuration, the prong outlet is also positioned to share a common axis with the prong inlet and the conduit outlet. Advantages of this configuration include a flow path that is relatively straight and includes fewer cross-sectional restrictions than a flow path with bends and turns, resulting in reduced noise and reduced pressure loss. In some configurations, the support is outside of the gas supplied to the conduit or single sealed nasal prong, or is separate from the gas supplied to the conduit or single sealed nasal prong, or does not form part of the gas supplied to the conduit or single sealed nasal prong. For example, the conduit may be fluidly separated from the support, or the support does not form part of the gas path for the gas supplied to the single sealing nasal prongs. In a further configuration, the conduit 300 is provided in fluid communication only with the single sealing nasal prongs 200 (and cuff 250). In some configurations, the conduit 300 is not in fluid communication with the support 500. In some configurations, the conduit 300 is separate from the support 500 and / or is not coupled or directly coupled to the support 500.

[0573] The conduit 300 and prongs 200 are configured to provide low flow resistance from the gas source to the nares, i.e., there are low flow restrictions within or between the conduit 300 and the single sealing nasal prongs 200. The conduit and prong configuration does not include bends, bends, sharp corners, or features that extend into the flow path. It will be appreciated that there is some flow resistance as gas flows through the conduit and prongs themselves, but no additional flow restrictions.

[0574] As previously mentioned, the conduit 300 is directly coupled to the single sealing nasal prong 200. In the illustrated configuration, the conduit outlet 305 is received within the prong inlet 203, connecting the single sealing nasal prong 200 to the conduit 300. The conduit 300 directly coupled to the prong 200 provides a direct connection without any change in direction of the gas. The prong inlet and conduit outlet are coaxial, allowing the gas to travel in a straight line through the conduit 300 into the single sealing nasal prong 200 and then out of the single sealing nasal prong.

[0575] Additionally, the conduit outlet 305, the cuff opening 261 and the prong inlet 203 have similar diameters. The conduit outlet 305 is aligned with the cuff opening 261 (i.e., the cuff inlet 261), which is further aligned with the prong inlet 203 and the prong outlet 205, maintaining a substantially straight gas path from the conduit to the single sealed nasal prong 200.

[0576] In some configurations, the conduit assembly includes a conduit connector 400 that facilitates coupling between the conduit 300 and the cuff 250. The conduit connector 400 is a sleeve that is received or receivable within the conduit at or near the conduit outlet 305. The connector 400 has male threads and the conduit 300 has female threads. These threads can be wound together to connect the connector and the conduit to each other. The conduit 300 and the conduit connector 400 may be connected in other ways. For example, the conduit 300 and the conduit connector 400 may be glued together or may have other complementary mating features such as clips and recesses, or may be molded into the conduit or may include an overmold that couples the connector 400 to the conduit 300.

[0577] The arrangement of the conduit 300 and prongs 200 enhances patient comfort. In a configuration in which the single sealing nasal prongs 200 seal against the patient's nares, a portion of the support pressure is provided by the contact of the prongs against the patient's nares. Because the support pressure is provided by the contact of the prongs against the patient's nares, the pressure on the patient's upper lip is reduced when compared to a conventional cannula.

[0578] The features of the support 500 for the single sealing nasal prong 200 will now be described.

[0579] 2-8 show a support or adjuster 500. The support 500 provides a mechanism by which the prong outlets 205 can be adjusted to seal with either one of the nostrils to provide therapy to the patient. Variations of respiratory interfaces having adjustable prongs are described in further detail below.

[0580] The support 500 includes a pair of sliding members 501, a cuff 250 for receiving a single sealing nasal prong and engaging the members 501, and a clip 503 connectable to headgear. A corresponding clip 607 is disposed on the headgear strap. The headgear strap is releasably coupled to the sliding members 501 via the clip 503. The clip 503 forms a male coupling element and is received in a corresponding clip 607 disposed on the headgear strap. Each of these components is described in further detail below.

[0581] The support 500 in this configuration has two sliding members 501. Each sliding member 501 has a generally circular cross-section and is an elongated member. The sliding members 501 extend generally parallel to one another and are connected to one another at each end to form a loop as shown in Figures 2-8. Each sliding member 501 is relatively stiff (e.g., compared to a single sealed nasal prong), but is sufficiently flexible so that it can be bent to fit the patient's face.

[0582] For example, in another configuration as shown in Figures 72-75, the support 500 (whether there are two sliding members or a single sliding member 501) can be of a preformed shape or configuration or curvature.

[0583] In an exemplary embodiment, support 500, including slide member 501 and / or slide member 502, may include a pre-curved or rounded profile that substantially follows or adapts to the contours of the patient's face.

[0584] Alternatively or additionally, the sliding member 501 and / or the sliding member 502 may be formable or conformable such that, once formed, the sliding member 501 and / or the sliding member 502 may substantially follow or conform to the contours of the patient's face. In an exemplary embodiment, the support may be formed from a wire or material having a low deformable temperature or another malleable or moldable material so that it can be shaped to the shape and / or size of the patient's face.

[0585] In an exemplary embodiment, support 500 includes a curvature or profile of sliding member 501 and / or sliding member 502 such that said support 500 is substantially convex relative to the patient's face.

[0586] The preformed shape or configuration or curvature may comprise a predetermined radius of curvature, for example, providing about 120° of a circle or about one third of a circle, or may be an arcuate configuration. The preformed profile may include a range length or pre-curved length of about 70 mm to about 110 mm or about 90 mm. Such a preformed shape may facilitate a specific ergonomic positioning or angling of the prong 200 outlet for proper engagement with either nostril of the patient. In such a configuration, the sliding member 501 may be a single member (e.g., as shown in Figures 17-18, where the sliding member 501 is of a preformed shape or configuration or is otherwise formed as a curved shape) or may be a pair of sliding members 501, providing a pair of rails or a pair of sliding members along which the cuff 250 may move.

[0587] The sliding member 501 is made of a material with a low coefficient of friction. The sliding member 501 may also have a smooth surface. The low coefficient of friction allows the cuff 250 to easily slide, pivot, or slide and pivot with very little resistance against the sliding member 501. Suitable materials include nylon-based derivatives. In one configuration, the sliding member material is polyacetal (Delrin 500P NC010) or a cellulosic thermoplastic. In addition to being made of a material with a low coefficient of friction, the sliding member 501 is formed using injection molding techniques to provide a polished finish.

[0588] In some alternative configurations, the sliding member 501 may include a soft material, such as an overmolded thermoplastic, that covers a rigid member.

[0589] 2 shows a cuff 250 connecting the unitary sealing nasal prongs 200 to the conduit and also connecting these components to the support 500. A sliding member 501 is coupled or capable of being coupled to the unitary cuff 250, which is coupled to the unitary sealing nasal prongs 200. FIG. 9B shows a cross-sectional view of the unitary sealing nasal prongs 200, the cuff 250 and the sliding member 501 of the support 500.

[0590] The sliding member 501 is bendable. When the headgear is placed in the operative position and coupled to the sliding member, the sliding member 501 bends or flexes towards the face of the user. An upward force is exerted on the prongs (and supports) to form a seal with the nostrils. Due to the resilience of the sliding member 501, bending of the sliding member 501 exerts a resultant force on the sliding member 501. This resultant force pulls the sliding member 501 away from the user. When the mask is in the operative position, the sliding member and clip are maintained away from the face. In use, only the prongs and a portion of the headgear straps contact the face, and the supports (including the sliding member) do not contact the face.

[0591] A single sealing prong is advantageous because it can be detached from the support 500 without having to remove the headgear, allowing a user to change the size of the sealing prong or replace the sealing prong without having to adjust their headgear settings.

[0592] 9B, the cuff 250 secures the conduit 300, the conduit connector 400, and the single sealing nasal prong 200 together. The cuff 250 has an aperture 261 through which the conduit 300 and the connector 400 extend. The conduit connector 400 is secured to the cuff 250 via a conduit coupling 265 of the cuff 250. The cuff 250 has a prong coupling 263. The single sealing nasal prong 200 is received or receivable within the prong coupling 263. The portion of the single sealing nasal prong 200 that is received or receivable by the cuff 250 is a rigid portion of the single sealing nasal prong 200.

[0593] The recess 235c interacts with a first flange 405 of the conduit connector 400. The conduit connector 400 has a second flange 407 that abuts the inner surface of the cuff 250 to prevent the conduit connector from being pulled out of the cuff 250, which receives the prongs.

[0594] The single sealing nasal prong 200 is received within the prong coupling 263 such that as the conduit coupling 265 protrudes through the cuff opening 261 and interacts with the single sealing nasal prong 200, the recess 235c of the single sealing nasal prong 200 mates with the flange 405 within the conduit coupling 265. The single sealing nasal prong coupling 263 is held in place by this interaction between the prong 200 and the conduit coupling 265.

[0595] In an alternative configuration, a portion of the conduit connector 400 may be integral with the cuff 250 such that the conduit connector 400 and the cuff 250 are a single piece. In this configuration, the prong undercuts interact directly with the cuff.

[0596] The prong coupling 263 of the cuff 250 and the conduit coupling are one piece. Alternatively, the prong coupling 263 of the cuff 250 and the conduit coupling can be separate pieces. If the prong coupling 263 of the cuff 250 and the conduit coupling are separate pieces, they can be connected to each other by, for example, fasteners, clips or adhesives.

[0597] The prong coupling portion 263 of the cuff 250 includes a shape that generally complements the shape of the single sealing nasal prong 200. The prong coupling portion is bowl-shaped when viewed from above, having an elliptical or oval cross section. The conduit assembly includes a conduit 300 and a conduit connector 400.

[0598] In another form, the cuff 250 may include multiple cuff flanges that engage with flanges (i.e., threads) on the connector, on the exterior surface of the connector body, to couple the cuff 250 to the connector 400. The interior region of the single sealing nasal prong 200 may not include a flange and the connector 400 may be friction-fitted to the single sealing nasal prong 200, or the single sealing nasal prong 200 includes protrusions to enable a snap fit between the single sealing nasal prong 200 and the connector 400.

[0599] The conduit connector 400 in the illustrated configuration is a sleeve having a length significantly shorter than the conduit 300. The conduit 300 and the conduit connector 400 may have complementary threaded portions. In the illustrated configuration, the threads on the conduit connector are partial threads, which do not extend completely around the circumference of the sleeve. Alternatively, the threads may extend completely around the circumference of the sleeve. The conduit connector 400 has two outwardly extending flanges 405, 407 defining a space between the flanges. The flanges 405, 407 are near the outlet of the conduit connector 400. The flanges 405, 406 extend completely around the circumference of the sleeve. The conduit 300 and the connector may be connected with other mechanical connections including recesses, protrusions, clips, press fits, adhesives, and / or welds.

[0600] In an alternative configuration, the threads may be on the interior surface of the conduit connector 400 which then receives the conduit 300. In this configuration, the threads on the exterior surface of the conduit 300 interact with the threads 403 of the connector 400.

[0601] Various configurations are possible between the single sealing nasal prongs 200, the cuff 250 and the conduit connector 400. For example, the single sealing nasal prongs 200, the cuff 250 and the conduit connector 400 can be separate, separable components (configurations as described above).

[0602] For example, in a further alternative configuration shown with reference to Figures 62-71, a medical tubing component is provided that includes a conduit connector 400, the conduit connector 400 itself including threads 403, and a cuff 250. The threads 403 include at least one region of discontinuity 480. The cuff 250 includes at least one protrusion 280 configured to interact with the region of discontinuity 480 when engaged with the conduit 300 in a first direction (e.g., as shown by arrow D' in Figure 63A). The at least one protrusion 280 is further configured to engage with at least a portion of the threads 403 beyond or away from the region of discontinuity 480 when engaged with the threads 403 in a second direction (e.g., as shown by arrow D'' in Figure 63B).

[0603] With respect to the protrusion interacting with the discontinuous region, the protrusion is received, inserted, or housed within the discontinuous region. As such, the discontinuous region is configured with a size or shape, or both, to receive the protrusion and allow the cuff to be positioned on the conduit connector and moved (e.g., slid) to a particular location or position before a force or motion in a second direction is applied.

[0604] Figure 63A shows the separate components of the conduit 300, the cuff 250 and the conduit connector 400 as an intermediate or intermediate component to create an assembly of the cuff 250 and the conduit 300. Figure 63B shows the initial engagement of the cuff 250 onto the conduit connector 400. Figure 63C shows the resulting final assembly where the conduit 300 has also been engaged or connected with the conduit connector.

[0605] FIG. 76 shows a further configuration in which the conduit connector 400 includes a continuous thread that allows the cuff 250 to be wound directly onto the conduit connector.

[0606] The first direction is provided by application of a first force or a first motion, see for example FIG. 63A, which shows a first direction indicated by arrow D'.

[0607] The second direction is provided by application of a second force or a second motion, see for example FIG. 63B63B63B, which shows a second direction indicated by arrow D″.

[0608] As shown, the first direction and the second direction are different from one another. In this manner, the connection between the cuff 250 and the conduit connector 400 is effected as a two-step motion, providing a relatively secure connection that is substantially free of accidental or inadvertent separation. That is, separation or removal of the cuff 250 and the conduit connector 400 requires a series of active (and different) directional movements to release the components from their connection or attachment to one another.

[0609] With respect to the two different directions, the first direction and the second direction may be substantially transverse to each other, or may provide a first axial direction and a second rotational direction.

[0610] The first direction is generally or substantially aligned with the axial direction of the conduit connector 400, while the second direction is generally or substantially transverse to the axial direction of the conduit connector 400. More specifically, the second direction may be a rotation for at least one projection 280 of the cuff 250 to engage on or with the threads 403 of the conduit connector 400. For example, the second direction may be an axial rotation of the cuff 250 relative to the axial direction of the conduit 300.

[0611] When the cuff 250 (having the protrusions 280) is moved or rotated in a second direction, one or more protrusions 280 provided by the cuff 250 may engage or become engaged with the threads 403 or portions of the threads 403.

[0612] The protrusions 280 are configured to substantially engage the threads 403 or portions of the threads 403 of the conduit connector 400 upon application of a force or movement in the second direction to at least partially restrain or lock the cuff 250 to or onto the conduit connector 400. In this manner, the cuff 250 and the conduit connector 400 may be substantially further prevented from being separated or removed from one another unless a reversal of the second direction and a reversal of the first direction are applied in the opposite (i.e., removal or separation) operation. Thus, when engaged, the protrusions 280280 function to substantially restrain or prevent relative axial movement or displacement of the cuff 250 and the conduit connector 400 from or relative to one another.

[0613] If more than one protrusion is provided, such protrusions may be axially offset from one another by an appropriate distance to account for the pitch of the thread on the conduit connector 400, such that each protrusion may be located or housed in an adjacent region between two turns or runs of the thread 403, or at least a first protrusion may be located or housed in an area between a run or turn of the thread 403 and the flange 407 of the connector 400. Thus, the protrusions may be located on the cuff and may be positioned or arranged at equal or non-equidistant intervals on the cuff to achieve the above.

[0614] The protrusions 280 may function to achieve such locking or restraint when the cuff is rotated more than about 5° or more than about 10° from the region of discontinuity. Alternatively, this may be accomplished by rotating the cuff 250 (with the protrusions 280) more than about 90° from said region of discontinuity 480. In a further alternative, the cuff 250 may be rotated more than about 170° from said region of discontinuity, for example in a configuration with a single discontinuous thread 403 on the conduit connector 400 and a single protrusion 280 on the cuff.

[0615] Depending on the placement or positioning of one or more discontinuous regions 480, it will be appreciated that once protrusion 280 is substantially inserted into one or more discontinuous regions 480, the second orientation should be performed in a manner sufficient to provide for engagement of protrusion 280 with thread 403 or with a vicinity of thread 403 (e.g., A') or with an area between adjacent turns or runs of the thread (e.g., A''). See, for example, Figures 70A and 70B, which show shaded areas A' and A'' indicating potential areas that may accommodate engagement with protrusion 280.

[0616] The opening 261 of the cuff 250 has an inner diameter that is larger than the outer diameter of the conduit connector 400. In this manner, the conduit connector 400 is received by the opening 261 of the cuff 250. In this manner, the conduit connector 400 is provided as a substantially internal (i.e., internal to the more outwardly disposed cuff) component.

[0617] In a configuration having two protrusions 280, the distance between the protrusions 280 is less than the diameter of the thread or the distance between the outer surfaces of the threads and greater than the diameter of the outer surface of the conduit connector 400 (on which the threads are disposed). In this manner, the protrusions 280 fit between the outer surface of the thread and the outer surface of the conduit connector 400.

[0618] As discussed above, the cuff 250 may include a plurality of protrusions 280. In one embodiment, the cuff includes two protrusions. Optionally, the protrusions may be positioned substantially opposite or 180° apart from one another, or may be equally spaced around the circumference of the opening 261 of the cuff 250. Alternatively, the protrusions may be substantially evenly spaced apart, or may be unevenly spaced apart from one another. For each protrusion provided, a correspondingly provided discontinuous threaded region may be provided for receiving the protrusion.

[0619] The protrusion or protrusions 280 may also act as an alignment feature for aligning the cuff and the conduit connector with respect to one another.

[0620] As discussed above, thread 403 may include multiple discontinuous regions 480. In one embodiment, thread 403 may include two discontinuous regions, as shown, for example, in Fig. 71. In another embodiment, a single discontinuity may be provided, as shown, for example, in Fig. 69.

[0621] Similar to the previous disclosure herein, the nasal prongs 200 are connectable or connected to the conduit connector 400 .

[0622] When the cuff 250 is in a substantially engaged position within or on the threads 403 , the cuff 250 may abut, contact, or otherwise impinge upon the nasal prongs 200 .

[0623] The nasal prongs 200 may be formed of a relatively soft or substantially compliant material such that when the cuff 250 engages the threads 403, the cuff 250 may at least partially compress the nasal prongs 200, or a portion thereof, or the nasal prongs 200, or a portion thereof, may be at least partially compressed upon engagement of the cuff 250 with the threads 403. Thus, a friction fit type engagement between the cuff 250 and the nasal prongs 200 may subsequently be achieved.

[0624] The cuff 250 and the conduit connector 400 may be removably attached to one another in a non-permanent manner. In this manner, the cuff and the conduit connector may be capable of being detached from one another.

[0625] Depending on the configuration of the threads 403 of the conduit connector 400, the cuff 250 may be engageable with the first thread T' of the conduit connector 400, or the cuff 250 may be engageable with the first thread portion T' and the second thread portion T'' provided on the conduit connector 400.

[0626] With respect to the protrusions 280, the protrusions may be protuberances that extend substantially radially inward. In such a configuration, such protrusions 280 may be tabs.

[0627] As shown in Figures 69-71, discontinuity region 480 provides a predetermined width W' of the discontinuity sufficient to receive or accommodate width P' of protrusion 280 such that width P' of the protrusion is less than width W' of discontinuity region 480. In this manner, protrusion 280 may be received and inserted into discontinuity region 480 until moved in a second direction. Width H' of the region between adjacent turns of the turns of thread 403 or between a feature of the conduit connector such as a flange 407 (e.g., a stop flange or second flange 407 as shown in Figure 62) and the adjacent turn or turn may also be of a height dimension sufficient to receive a height dimension of the protrusion.

[0628] Once the protrusions 280 are successfully inserted or received within the discontinuous region, they may then be engaged with the threads 403 or a turn or turn of the threads 403 by positioning each protrusion 280 within region A″, which may be between adjacent turns of the threads (see, for example, FIG. 70B ), or within region A′ adjacent a turn or turn or run of the threads 403 and a feature of the conduit connector 400, such as flange 407. The flange 407 of the conduit connector 400 may be a ridge or stop flange that provides a physical structure beyond which the protrusions 280 cannot be wrapped. Alternatively, rotation may be stopped or prevented by continued rotation as the cuff wraps onto the threads of the conduit connector 400 increasing the force requirement or resistance to rotation as the cuff compresses the prongs.

[0629] The discontinuous area or areas are sized to allow for the insertion or reception of one or more protrusions provided by the cuff. A discontinuous area is an area of ​​the conduit connector that is, for example, absent threads 403 or at least has a substantially reduced height or depth (radially) to facilitate accommodation of the protrusions in the discontinuous area.

[0630] In an alternative configuration, the cuff 250 may be provided with a shank portion 281 with the projection 280 located on the shank portion 281 radially inward of the cuff 250, e.g., an inner wall 282 of the cuff 250. The shank portion 281 may have a longitudinal length (or height) S' sufficient to position the projection 280 of the cuff 250 such that the conduit connector 400 properly receives it within an area A' adjacent a turn or run of the thread or an area A'' between adjacent turns of the thread. The projection 280 may be located at a distance within the range of height S' to be properly engageable or receivable by the threads of the conduit connector 400.

[0631] The cuff 250 may also include a notch 283 or indentation (radially outwardly shaped) around the inner wall 282 of the opening 261 of the cuff 250. For example, as shown in FIG 67B, the cuff 250 may alternatively include a notch or recessed area 283 instead of having a protrusion 280 as shown in FIG 67A.

[0632] The size or dimensions of the opening of the notch 261 are larger than the dimensions of the threads 403 received therein. Depending on the threads 403 of the conduit connector 400, one or more notches may be provided around the circumference of the cuff 250. The notches 261 provide a feature that can receive the threads 403 and provide a path through which the threads 403 can advance as the cuff is rolled onto the conduit connector 400.

[0633] The notch 283 may be sized and / or shaped to facilitate receipt of the threads 403 and thereby aid in the initiation of rotation of the cuff 250 about the threads 403 .

[0634] It will be appreciated that the threads 403 may be substantially helical threads. The pitch of the threads 403 may be constant or may vary along the thread length. The pitch of the threads 403 provided on the conduit connector 400 may be substantially the same as the pitch of a conduit corrugation or other formation that may be wrapped onto the threads 403 of the conduit connector. In some configurations, the pitch of the threads 403 of the conduit connector 400 may vary slightly due to the relatively flexible nature of the conduit 300 or to accommodate slight differences between the pitch of the threads 403 and the features of the conduit 300 that may be wrapped onto the threads 403.

[0635] As disclosed herein, the conduit 300 can be substantially engaged with the conduit connector 400 by rotating or rolling the conduit onto the threads, thereby engaging these two components and forming an assembly of the conduit 300 and the conduit connector 400, resulting in the assembly shown, for example, by FIG. 8.

[0636] Optionally, the conduit 300 may have the cuff 250 engaged with the threads prior to (or subsequent to) substantially engaging the conduit connector 400. In this manner, sequential engagement of the different components provides for assembly of the cuff on the conduit connector and assembly of the prongs with the cuff. The additional pressure or force of the cuff pressing against the prongs in such a configuration may additionally pinch or more securely hold the prongs in place or position.

[0637] In a further configuration, the conduit connector 400 may include a continuous thread 403, for example as shown in FIG. 76 . That is, the conduit connector 400 may be provided without any discontinuous areas. In this configuration, the cuff 250, including one or more projections 280 or one or more notches 261, may be screwed onto the conduit connector, thereby providing a screw-fit assembly. Once the cuff is screwed or rolled into place, the conduit 300 may additionally (but optionally) be attached to the conduit connector, whether by friction fit or by rolling the conduit 300 onto the conduit connector 400 using the thread 403. In this manner, the additional (but optional) connection of the conduit to the conduit connector after the cuff is rolled (screwed) into place provides a more secure connection or additional components that function to hold the cuff in place and preferentially prevent or inhibit undesired separation of the cuff 250 from the conduit connector 400.

[0638] In other words, the cuff i) a distal end of a conduit after the conduit has been substantially engaged with the threads of said conduit connector; and ii) by the base of the nasal prongs after the nasal prongs are substantially engaged with the cuff; The axial direction of the casing may be such that the axial direction of the casing is parallel to the axial direction of the

[0639] In an alternative configuration, the conduit connector 400 and the cuff 250 may be a single, integral part. In this alternative configuration, the single sealing nasal prong 200 and the conduit connector 400 may be separable by a threaded connection or a friction fit or a snap fit.

[0640] In another alternative configuration, the single sealing nasal prong 200 and cuff 250 may be a single, integral part. In this alternative configuration, the conduit connector 400 may be separable from the prong / cuff components by a threaded connection or a friction or snap fit.

[0641] The cuff may have a variety of different couplings, including one or more rings, hooks, or clips, for connection to the support. Figures 6 and 7 show a cuff 250 having hooks in the form of curved fingers 255 that couple with member 501. The cuff includes a protrusion 257 opposite each of the fingers 255. The protrusions 257 extend outwardly from the cuff. The protrusions are located closer to the center of the cuff 250 than the fingers 255. As shown in Figure 6, the protrusions 257 are located adjacent the conduit inlet opening 261. Each protrusion 257 forms a C-shaped clip that each of the fingers 255 holds the sliding member 501. The C-shaped clip holds the sliding member to the cuff 250 as the strap pivots within the recess.

[0642] FIG. 7 shows that the cuff 250 also includes a recess 259. The recess 259 allows the cuff to easily pivot relative to the sliding member 501. The cuff 250 can pivot relative to the sliding member 501 and slide along the member 501. As the cuff pivots relative to the sliding member 501, the recess 259 receives a portion of the member 501. This allows the cuff 250 to pivot relative to the member 501 while remaining held by the member 501. The recess has a generally circular profile that complements the profile of the sliding member 501. In the illustrated configuration, the recess 259 extends about one-third of the circumference of the cuff 250. The cuff 250 may include two recesses that are opposite one another. The recesses are mirror images of each other. The recesses 259 are equal in shape and size. In alternative configurations, the recess 259 may extend further, including extending the entire circumference. In other alternative configurations, the recess 259 may extend along a shorter portion. The recess 259 allows the cuff 250 together with the single sealing nasal prong 200 to pivot or rotate relative to the support assembly 500 including the sliding member 501. The recess 259 provides space to receive a portion of the sliding member to facilitate rotation of the cuff 250 and the single sealing nasal prong 200. The rotatable cuff allows the single sealing nasal prong 200 to pivot or rotate about its longitudinal axis. The sliding member allows the single sealing nasal prong to be adjusted in place, allowing the single sealing nasal prong to be moved between the user's nares without removing the interface 100. The single sealing nasal prong may be worn in any orientation relative to the sliding member. Furthermore, it is possible to simultaneously adjust the location and orientation of the single sealing nasal prong.

[0643] As will be described below, some configurations do not allow for pivoting of the cuff 250 and therefore do not have the recess 259. The cuff can only slide relative to the sliding member 501 and does not pivot or rotate relative to the strap.

[0644] In the configuration shown, the sliding member 501 is removably coupled to the single sealing nasal prong 200 via the cuff 250. Each sliding member 501 can be removed by threading through the space between the finger 255 and the protrusion 257 or by bending or deforming the curved finger away from the member 501. The single sealing nasal prong 200 can be separated from the member 501 and replaced, readjusted, or replaced with a different interface. This allows for quick and easy adjustments to be made and allows for multiple treatments to be delivered to the patient without the need to remove or adjust the headgear mechanism. Alternatively, the sliding member 501 is non-removably or permanently coupled to the single sealing nasal prong 200 via the cuff 250. In such a configuration, a hook or clip can be used to couple the sliding member 501 with the cuff while still allowing the sliding motion to occur.

[0645] The headgear 600 is coupled or coupleable to the sliding member 501. In the configuration shown, the sliding member 501 includes a headgear attachment. In other configurations, the headgear attachment can take a variety of different forms. For example, the headgear attachment can be a ring, partial ring, or hook into which the sliding member 501 is inserted. The sliding member 501 and / or the headgear 600 can be permanently coupled to the ring or releasably coupled to the ring. By releasably coupling the headgear to the ring, the respiratory interface can be removed while the headgear remains on the patient. Another respiratory interface can then be attached to the patient without having to refit and readjust the new headgear.

[0646] The respiratory interface 100 further includes a clip 503 at an end portion of the support 500 that is coupled or coupleable to headgear. The clip may be a rectangular tab having a pair of notches for receiving complementary protrusions on the headgear clip, or may be of any other suitable configuration.

[0647] Clip components that may be used to connect the respiratory interfaces described herein to headgear are described in International Publication No. WO2015193833, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0648] In an alternative embodiment, the respiratory interface 100 may include a rectangular base with the clip extending from the rectangular base. The rectangular base may be elongated to position the clip closer to the patient's ears in use. In such a configuration, the rectangular base may be a rigid member. In such a configuration, the headgear may include shorter straps as a result of the elongated rectangular base. Advantageously, this configuration may help stabilize the interface on the patient. Alternatively, the sliding member or support 500 of any of the respiratory interfaces disclosed herein may be made longer to position the clip closer to the patient's ears as described herein.

[0649] The above configuration allows the single sealing nasal prongs 200 to be translatable relative to the support 500 and interchangeably received by the patient's nares. During this movement, the single sealing nasal prongs 200 remain coupled to the support 500 and do not need to be disengaged from the support 500. That is, the single sealing nasal prongs 200 are coupled to the support 500 when placed at either one of the patient's nostrils and also when moving between the patient's nostrils. The headgear 600 provides tension to the single sealing nasal prongs 200, which tension is isolated by the support 500. This configuration allows lateral sliding or other movement of the support 500 without the single sealing nasal prongs 200 moving relative to or disengaging from the patient's nares. The support 500 can slide relative to the prongs based on tension or force from the headgear. The support 500 is configured to isolate the single sealing nasal prongs from tension when the single sealing nasal prongs are moved from one nostril to the other while still allowing the headgear to maintain headgear retention.

[0650] The support allows the user to maintain a particular headgear setting by separating the single sealing nasal prongs 200 from the headgear 600. This allows the single sealing nasal prongs 200 to be moved relative to the patient's face. For example, the prongs can be moved from one nostril to the other without having to adjust the headgear tension, i.e., without having to adjust the headgear setting.

[0651] The single sealing nasal prong 200 can be translated substantially horizontally across the face from one nostril to the other. Translation and rotation of the prongs relative to the support allows the single sealing nasal prong 200 to be swapped from one nostril to the other and to achieve a seal with either nostril.

[0652] The configuration of the support 500 in the illustrated configuration isolates the prongs from forces exerted by the headgear. The support 500 separates the respiratory interface from the headgear, thereby preventing the prongs from moving / dislodging due to forces exerted on the headgear, such as movement of the patient's head. The support 500 also isolates the movement of the patient's head from the prongs, so that the prongs do not dislodge due to movement of the patient's head. The straps can move / translate relative to the prongs to accommodate headgear forces and head movement.

[0653] The single sealing nasal prongs 200 may be translatable by pivoting, sliding or pivoting and sliding relative to the support 500. Figure 16 shows the single sealing nasal prongs 200 in three different example pivot positions relative to the support 500. Other rotation angles are possible and may be selected to better fit the patient's nares.

[0654] This configuration allows the sliding member 501 to slide within the recess and isolates the headgear from the tension of the cuff 250. Alternatively, the sliding member 501 may be removably attached to the cuff 250 using a clip. In another variation, there is a clip on the sliding member.

[0655] In a configuration in which the cuff 250 and prongs 200 are not pivotable relative to the strap, the single sealing nasal prongs 200 are angled correctly to the nose during initial fitting.

[0656] In some configurations, the prongs 200, cuff 250 and / or interface 100 may be configured to allow the prongs to alternately seal against or with the patient's left or right nostril while allowing the prongs to remain attached to the support 500 or without being or needing to be removed from the support 500. In some configurations, the prongs may be translatable relative to the support, as described above. Alternatively, the prongs (and / or cuff) may be located in a fixed position relative to the support 500. Thus, the interface can be inverted or flipped to place the prongs at the other desired nostril without having to reposition or reposition the prongs on the support. In such a configuration, there may be two general orientations of the interface on the patient's face. These orientations may be associated with the left and right nostrils of the patient, respectively, and these two general orientations are such that a single prong may remain attached or in a static position on the support, and the interface may be flipped or rotated 180° such that when rotated (i.e., about a plane substantially intersecting the center point of the interface), the left end of the interface becomes the right end and the right end becomes the left end of the interface. In this manner, a prong may be placed in the left nostril, and then the interface may be flipped or rotated (i.e., reversed), and then the prong may be placed in the patient's right nostril, all without the need for adjustment of the prongs on the support. This allows for the interchange of the nostril receiving gas therapy, but without the adjustment of the prongs on the support. It will be appreciated that in some cases the headgear may be adjusted to provide the appropriate comfort and fit as the prongs may be swapped from one nostril to the other of the patient. Such an arrangement may simplify the use of such interfaces and may minimize the need for significant adjustment of the prongs on the support.

[0657] In alternative configurations, the single sealing nasal prong and cuff may be permanently or releasably connected in other ways. Permanent connections include adhesives, welding, press fits and one-time clips. Releasable connections include clips or complementary threaded portions.

[0658] While the illustrated configuration has been shown and described as having separate head straps and slide members, in alternative configurations the head straps and slide members may be integral.

[0659] The cuff has been described as a separate component of the unitary sealing nasal prong 200. In an alternative configuration, the cuff 250 may be part of the unitary sealing nasal prong 200. The conduit connector 400 and the cuff 250 may be separate components. In an alternative configuration, the conduit connector 400 and the cuff 250 may be a single, integral component. The cuff 250 has a prong coupling or prong coupler 263. The unitary sealing nasal prong is received or receivable by the prong coupling 263 of the cuff 250. In an alternative configuration, the prong coupling 263 of the cuff 250 is received or receivable by the prong coupling 263 of the cuff 250.

[0660] Details of the headgear 600 of the respiratory interface 100 will now be described. The headgear 600 provides sufficient retention to maintain a seal at the patient's nares. In the configuration shown, the headgear is a head strap 600. The head strap 600 can be a single strap or a bifurcated strap. A bifurcated strap is shown in Figures 1B-1D. A bifurcated strap may provide additional grip on the patient's head compared to a single strap.

[0661] In the configuration shown, the headgear 600 includes a pair of side straps 601 and a rear strap portion 602. The rear straps 602 may be separated to form split strap headgear. The rear straps may be split to include a first intermediate strap 602a and a second intermediate strap 602b, both of which are connected to the side strap portion 601. The split strap headgear may be used in a split configuration or as a single rear strap having a larger area than the side straps. The split strap headgear provides a force diagonally upward at an angle of 30 degrees to 80 degrees from horizontal. The diagonal upward force has an upward component and a lateral (sideways) component to create a seal with the nostril. This force draws the single sealing nasal prongs 200 into the nostril and maintains the seal. The headgear includes a clip that may be removably connected to an extension of the support member.

[0662] The headgear can be tightened or loosened by adjusting the head straps 600. The headgear includes a headgear connector 607 that connects to a sliding member. The headgear connector 607 includes a length adjustment element 606. The length adjustment element 606 can be on one or both sides. The length adjustment element 606 can also be on the back. The length adjustment element 606 receives the free end 603 of the strap with a portion 605 of the strap extending into the length adjustment element. The length adjustment element 606 is located adjacent to or on the headgear connector 607. The length adjustment element 606 adjusts the working length of the headgear straps, thereby allowing the tightness of the straps on the patient's head to be adjusted.

[0663] 4, the respiratory interface 100 fits into a smaller footprint than conventional interfaces. For example, the volume occupied by the interface 100 may be determined by a bounding box (shown in dashed lines) placed around the respiratory interface. The bounding box is a rectangular solid that contains the interface shown in FIGS. 1-10. The box may have the following dimensions:

[0664] Width of 110mm or less. The configuration shown is 95mm or less (including the two connecting clips). Other widths include 105mm, 100mm, 90mm, 85mm, 80mm or 75mm.

[0665] Height 40mm or less. Height is the vertical height of the single sealed nasal prong 200 and support 500 shown in Figure 4, not including the conduit 300. The configuration shown is 25mm or less. Other heights include 35mm, 30mm, 20mm or 15mm.

[0666] A depth of 50mm or less. Depth is the outer dimension from the patient's face. The illustrated embodiment is 30mm or less. Other depths include 45mm, 40mm, 35mm, 30mm or 25mm.

[0667] The bounding box is smaller than a corresponding dual-prong cannula of the same size. For example, a medium-sized single sealed prong cannula has a smaller footprint (i.e., a smaller bounding box volume) than a medium-sized dual-prong cannula. The smaller footprint of the respiratory interface provides a less intrusive interface for the user, making the interface more comfortable for the user.

[0668] 17-25 show alternative configurations of the respiratory interface 100. The features, functions and options of the respiratory interface are the same as those described above unless otherwise noted below. Like numbers are used incremented by 1000 to indicate like numbers.

[0669] In this configuration, the support 1500 has a single member or strap 1501. The single strap may be curved as shown or straight. Similar to the sliding member of the previous configuration, the single strap is relatively stiff but flexible, allowing the single strap to bend or flex easily. The single strap separates the single sealing prong from the headgear and allows the single sealing nasal prong to be moved from one nostril to the other. Advantages of the single strap include being lighter than two straps, having a smaller footprint than the previous configuration, and being more flexible compared to two straps. The cuff 250 has a single curved finger 1255 for coupling with the strap 1501. Alternatively, the cuff may have a ring or clip for removably or permanently coupling the strap 1501 to the cuff 250.

[0670] Figures 26-32 show various views of a single sealing nasal prong 1200. Similar to previous configurations, this single sealing nasal prong 1200 has an inlet 1203 and an outlet 1205. Figure 27 shows the prong in a compressed position, which occurs when the prong engages the nostril to seal against it.

[0671] Figure 30 shows the single sealing nasal prong 200 from the left side. The right side of the single sealing nasal prong is a mirror image of the left side of the single sealing nasal prong. When viewed in the orientation of Figure 30, the right side of Figure 30 is the front side of the prong 1200 and the left side is the rear side of the prong. The radius lines shown in Figure 30 show how the surfaces transition between the front and rear sides of the single sealing nasal prong 1200.

[0672] Starting at the entrance 1203, the bottom surface 1207 of the single sealing nasal prong 1200 is flat. There is a relatively abrupt transition to the front surface of the prong 1200. The bottom 1209 of the front surface curves outward. The bottom surface 1209 also tapers outward. The front surface then transitions to a relatively short, nearly vertical surface 1211 (when viewed as a profile shown in FIG. 30) which transitions to a gently outwardly curved surface 1213 which also tapers inward. The central portion 1215 of the single sealing nasal prong 1200 is a gently outwardly curved surface. In addition to being curved, the surface 1215 also tapers inward. Between the central surface 1215 and the rim 1219 is a generally flat surface 217. The transitions between each surface, other than the transition between the surface 1207 and the surface 1209, are smooth transitions. The upper edge 1219 of the single sealing nasal prong 200 also forms the rim of the outlet 1205 .

[0673] With further reference to FIG. 30, the rear surface of the prong 1201 differs from the front surface of the prong. There is a relatively steep transition to the rear surface of the prong 1200. The bottom 1221 of the rear surface is outwardly curved. The bottom surface 1209 also tapers 1221, but at a less steep angle than the angle of the similar front surface 1209. The rear surface then transitions to a relatively short, nearly vertical surface 1223 (when viewed as a profile shown in FIG. 30), which transitions to a gently outwardly curved surface 1225 that also tapers inward. The central portion 1227 of the single sealing nasal prong 1200 is a gently outwardly curved surface. In addition to being curved, the surface 1227 also tapers inward, but at a steeper angle than the front surface 1215. Between the central surface 1227 and the rim 1219 is a generally flat surface 1229. The transitions between each surface, other than the transition between surface 1207 and surface 1221, are smooth transitions.

[0674] FIG. 31 shows the single sealing nasal prong 200 from the front. The back side of the single sealing nasal prong is identical to the front side of the single sealing nasal prong. Starting at the entrance 1203, the bottom surface 1207 of the single sealing nasal prong 200 is flat. There is a relatively sharp transition to the right side of the prong 1200. The bottom surface 1231 of the front surface is curved outward. The bottom surface 1231 also tapers outward. The front surface then transitions to a relatively short, nearly vertical surface 1233 (when viewed as a profile shown in FIG. 31), which transitions to a gently outwardly curved surface 1235 that also tapers inward. The center portion 1237 of the single sealing nasal prong 1200 is a gently outwardly curved surface. In addition to being curved, the surface 2137 tapers inward. The transitions between each surface, other than the transition between surface 1207 and surface 1209, are smooth transitions.

[0675] Figure 32 is a rear view of the nasal prong of Figure 26. Comparing Figures 31 and 32, it can be seen that the exterior profile of the prong when viewed from the front is the same as the rear. The radius lines shown in Figures 31 and 32 show how the surfaces transition between the left and right sides of the single sealing nasal prong 1200.

[0676] Referring to the orientation of the single sealing nasal prong 1200 in FIG. 19, the exterior shape of the single sealing nasal prong 1200 is vertically offset. That is, the outlet 1205 and the highest point of the single sealing nasal prong 1200 are closer to the rear surface of the prong 1200 which matches the contour of the nasal cavity. The single sealing nasal prong 1200 is symmetrical between the left and right sides. That is, the left and right sides are mirror images of each other. This offset shape improves the comfort of the patient. The offset shape also improves the seal between the single sealing nasal prong 1200 and the patient's nares. The single sealing nasal prong 1200 may have features such as logos, arrows, or other indicia to indicate the correct orientation of the single sealing nasal prong 1200.

[0677] Although this asymmetric single sealing nasal prong 1200 is shown with a support having a single strap 1501, it will be understood that the asymmetric single sealing nasal prong 1200 may be used with other supports. For example, the asymmetric single sealing nasal prong 1200 may be used with a support 500 having two straps. Additionally, symmetric single sealing nasal prongs having the shape of the configurations described above may be used with a single strap 1501.

[0678] 33-49 show another configuration of the respiratory interface 2100. The features, functions and options of the respiratory interface are the same as those described above unless otherwise noted below. Like numbers are used with the increment of 2000 to indicate like numbers.

[0679] In this configuration, the single sealing nasal prong 2200 has a rigid portion 2235. The rigid portion 2235 of the single sealing nasal prong 2200 includes a cutout or recess 2241 configured to receive a portion of the headgear strap 2600. The cutout 2241 is of a width and depth similar to the width and depth of the headgear strap 2600. The cutout 2241 has a substantially rectangular shape when the prong 2200 is viewed from the side. The recess 2241 is substantially smooth. In an alternative configuration, the recess 2241 may have surface features or teeth to enhance engagement with the strap. Thus, the single sealing nasal prong 2200 is received within a prong coupler for coupling the headgear to the interface.

[0680] The cuff 2250 acts as a hub or central component that couples or engages with the various components of the respiratory interface. The cuff 2250 couples to the conduits, couples to the headgear 2600, and receives the single sealed nasal prongs 2200. The cuff 2250 acts as a connection hub that couples to all components of the system, reducing the number of components in the system. The respirator interface does not require a separate manifold to couple the conduits to the single sealed nasal prongs 2200, nor does the interface require a separate body with side arms or other stabilizers. The cuff also reduces the footprint of the respiratory interface compared to conventional respiratory interfaces that require contact with the patient's face for support.

[0681] Figures 37 and 38 show that the head strap 2600 is directly connected to the gas delivery assembly. That is, the head strap 2600 is directly connected to the single sealing nasal prongs 2200. Figure 39 shows an exploded view of the interface of Figures 37 and 38. In the configuration shown, the strap has two ends 2601. The end 2601 of the strap 2600 is directly connected to the single sealing nasal prongs 2200 in the orientation of Figure 39.

[0682] The head strap 2600 may be attached in a variety of ways. Suitable examples include gluing, welding to the prongs, simple friction or press fit, protrusions, clips, or combinations thereof. In a preferred configuration, the head strap is attached by a combination of friction fit and protrusions in the form of teeth. When fitted into the cutouts of the single sealing nasal prongs 2200, the single sealing nasal prongs 2600 and head strap are assembled with the cuff 2250. The head gear shown in the figures is an exemplary orientation only. The straps are flexible straps.

[0683] The cuff 2250 acts as a hub connecting the various components of the system. The cuff 2250 connects to the conduits 2300, 2600 headgear and receives the single sealed nasal prongs 2200. The cuff 2250 acts as a connection hub connecting all components of the system, reducing the number of components in the system. In this configuration, the interface does not require a separate manifold to connect the conduits 2300 to the prongs 2200, nor does the interface require a separate side arm. Using the cuff 2250 as a hub reduces the footprint of the interface.

[0684] The cuff 2250 includes teeth 2270 configured to grip and retain a portion of the headgear strap 2600. The teeth 2270 are positioned to extend partially around the circumference of the cuff 2250. The teeth 2270 are provided on an inner surface of the cuff 2250 and extend inward. In the configuration shown, the teeth 2270 extend radially inward. In some configurations, the teeth 2270 may extend substantially all around the circumference of the cuff 2250 or the entire circumference of the cuff 2250. The entire inner surface may include teeth 2270 or other roughened surfaces. The prong coupling of the cuff 2250 is positioned adjacent to the teeth. This allows the prongs to be positioned within the cuff 2250 and engage the prong coupling, thereby retaining the headgear over the teeth 2270.

[0685] In an alternative configuration, the head strap is held in place by a friction fit. In other alternative configurations, the head strap may be joined to the single sealing nasal prongs by glue, welding, protrusions and / or clips.

[0686] In the configuration shown, the strap 2600 has a stretchable portion 2603 on each side of the non-stretchable portion 2605. In an alternative configuration, the strap 2600 may have a single stretchable portion. In another alternative configuration, the strap 2600 may be a single woven strap. The stretchable portion 2603 allows the patient to readjust the single sealing nasal prongs 2200 without putting extra tension on the patient's face from the adjustment. Each of these configurations allows the interface to be used for a variety of different patients with different shaped and / or sized heads. There is no need to have a variety of different sized straps for different patients. The stretchable straps and straps with stretchable portions allow the adjustment of the single sealing nasal prongs 2200 without any additional tension. Additionally, the stretchable straps allow the prongs to be swapped between nostrils.

[0687] The configuration shown in Figures 33-49 includes a single sealing nasal prong 2200 having an outlet 2205 located approximately centrally between the left and right sides, but closer to the rear than to the front, when viewed in the orientation shown in Figure 40.

[0688] The respiratory interface 100, 1100, 2100 may include any one or more of the features described above. For example, the respiratory interface 100, 1100, 2100 may include any one of the conduit assemblies described above, any one of the headgear assemblies described above, and / or any one of the supports described above. The single sealing nasal prongs may be slidable and / or pivotable for movement between the nares.

[0689] Delivery of gas causes washout of dead space gas through the unsealed nostrils.

[0690] In some configurations, the respiratory interface 100 may have a manifold 3700. An example of a respiratory interface 100 with a manifold is shown in Figures 50-53. The manifold respiratory interface has a pair of side arms 3701, 3702 and a gas inlet on one side of the manifold configured to receive gas from a gas supply via a conduit 3301. The manifold may be a separate piece from the side arms, which are connectable or connected to the manifold. The manifold 3700 is a single piece with an elongated outlet (not shown). The outlet may be oval. The side arms 3701, 3702 are part of the respiratory interface and extend outwardly from a face mount portion 3704. The face mount portion contacts the patient's face and prongs extend from the face mount portion. The manifold 3700 is received within the face mount portion.

[0691] In this configuration, the conduit 3300 is positioned to extend laterally across the patient's face such that the conduit outlet is attached to the side of the respiratory interface. This lateral configuration is shown in FIG.

[0692] This lateral configuration can create a bending moment on the respiratory interface. To reduce the bending moment, the respiratory interface includes a tube clip. The tube clip reduces the transfer of pull by the conduit to the respiratory interface. The tube clip also reduces the bending moment.

[0693] Each section on either side of the head strap and the adjacent corresponding main end portions may include or have cheek supports applied thereto. The cheek supports include at least a surface area for frictionally engaging with the patient's face to stabilize the headgear 600 on the face at the cheek, such as at or under the cheekbone, during and after docking of the headgear to the respiratory interface. The surface area is preferably of a relatively high friction surface material compared to the remainder of the strap.

[0694] The high friction surface material is adapted to extend over a portion of the side of the patient's face, in use, preferably at or at least substantially towards the patient's cheek, to assist in retaining or stabilizing the respiratory interface on the patient's face. The high friction surface material positionable on the patient's cheek further assists in keeping the remaining portion of the head strap clear of and preferably extending below the patient's eyes or orbits, to prevent obstruction of vision and / or discomfort caused by the head strap passing over or adjacent the eyes or orbits. In one example, the high friction surface material may include a rough material or may include dots of adhesive that create surface roughness on the headgear straps.

[0695] It is understood that the high friction surface material, in use, may be adapted to extend over a portion of the side of the patient's face, for example extending from at or adjacent to or above the left upper lip and right outer upper lip backwards and upwards across the left and right cheeks.

[0696] The side arms 3701, 3702 include a conduit clip 3707 that engages or is engageable with the headgear attachment features and / or the conduit 3301. The conduit clip 3707 serves to reduce pulling on the conduit against the interface. Reducing pulling on the conduit enhances the seal of the respiratory interface 100. Reducing pulling on the conduit also improves patient comfort. In combination with the headgear, the clip advantageously maintains the conduit in a sealed position within the patient's nose.

[0697] The side arms 3701, 3702 provide additional stability by supporting against the patient's cheeks. The side arms 3701, 3702 transfer the load on the interface to the patient's cheeks. The side arms 3701, 3702 can be rigid arms. The side arms 3701, 3702 can include a rigid frame and a soft material overmolded onto the arms. Alternatively, the arms can include a semi-rigid material. The semi-rigid material is such that the side arms 3701, 3702 are soft to the touch but retain their shape when no force is applied. Additionally, the side arms 3701, 3702 can bend along the longitudinal axis of each side arm 3701, 3702. The semi-rigid side arms 3701, 3702 support the interface on the face but reduce the formation of pressure sores on the patient's face.

[0698] The prong exits 205 are angled along the average angle of the long axis of the nostril so that they protrude into the inner surface of the nostril but are not occluded by the inner surface of the nostril.

[0699] Some patients may find the unevenness of having prongs in only one nostril uncomfortable after extended use, and therefore the respiratory interface 100 may allow the patient to alternate which nostril is engaged.

[0700] In some configurations, the respiratory interface 100 includes a single sealing nasal prong and an adjuster. The nasal prong may be a sealing nasal prong or a partially sealing nasal prong. The single nasal prong includes a body, an inlet configured to receive gas, and an outlet configured to deliver gas to the patient. When the nasal prong is of a sealing configuration, a seal body may be present. The seal body may be configured to seal against one of the patient's nares. The seal body is substantially symmetrical about a first axis.

[0701] In an alternative configuration of the interface shown in Figures 50-56, the interface may include a single removable prong that may be removed from the face mount portion and inserted into one of two operating positions, i.e., to engage the left or right nostril.

[0702] The adjuster (sliding member 501) is configured to allow the single sealing nasal prong to be removed from a first nostril and placed in the patient's other nostril to seal against the other nostril, but the single sealing nasal prong is not removable from the respiratory interface 100. That is, the single nasal prong remains in place with the respiratory interface 100 and does not need to be removed or separated from the respiratory interface 100.

[0703] 55, the single sealing nasal prong 5200 may be a movable prong. The single sealing nasal prong 5200 preferably extends from a movable support 5900. For example, the support 5900 may be rotatable together with the single sealing prong 5200 from a first location where the prong 5200 seals against a first nostril of the patient to a second location where the prong 5200 seals against a second nostril of the patient. The movable support 5900 is rotatable about a pivot 5903. The pivot 5903 is located between the first location and the second location.

[0704] The first location of the single sealing nasal prong 5200 is on a first region of the manifold 5700 and the second location is on a second region of the manifold 5700. In an alternative configuration, the first location and the second location are on the same region of the manifold 5700. For example, in the case of a pivoting single sealing nasal prong with no movable support as shown in FIG. 55 or where the movable support is significantly smaller / less noticeable.

[0705] When in the first location, the prong outlet 5205 extends at a first angle relative to the central plane 5206 to accommodate the angle of the first nostril. When in the second location, the prong outlet 5205 extends at a second angle relative to the central plane 5206 to accommodate the angle of the second nostril. The manifold 5700 has a first outlet 5701 corresponding to the first location of the prongs and a second outlet 5703 corresponding to the second location of the prongs. The respiratory interface 5100 further includes a plug configured to seal the second outlet 5703 when the single sealing nasal prong is in the first location and to seal the first outlet 5701 when the single sealing nasal prong is in the second location. The manifold may include a single opening extending between the prongs or from at least one prong to another prong.

[0706] A plug (not shown) is integral with the prong 5200. The single sealing nasal prong 5200 and the plug may be integral with the support 5900. Thus, the plug is configured to rotate as the prong rotates. In an alternative configuration, the plug and the prong may not be integral. In this configuration, the prong may be a rotatable prong, and the plug may be positioned to seal the second outlet when the single sealing nasal prong is in a first location and to seal the first outlet when the single sealing nasal prong is in a second location. The respiratory interface of this embodiment may have a tether that couples the plug to the respiratory interface 100.

[0707] 55, the prong outlet 5205 is located at an approximately center position between the left and right sides and at an approximately center position between the front and back sides such that the single sealing nasal prong can seal with either one of the patient's nostrils regardless of vertical orientation. In some configurations, the opening may alternatively be asymmetric as described above and biased to fit one nostril, but when the prong is rotated, the opening fits the other nostril.

[0708] In an alternative configuration shown in Figures 54a-c, the respiratory interface 100 may include prongs 4200. The prongs 4200 may be removed and attached to an outlet on each side of a manifold or support. In this configuration, the unused ports are sealed using plugs, stopcocks 4800 or valves. Stopcocks 4800 are attached to the manifold 4700 by tethers 4801.

[0709] In the following configurations, further variations are described that may allow the patient to alternate which nostril is engaged.

[0710] In one configuration, the respiratory interface includes a single-prong design (no manifold) in which the single-sealing nasal prong is rotatable relative to the cuff. For example, the single-sealing nasal prong may rotate about a central axis between one orientation corresponding to use with one nostril and another orientation corresponding to use with the other nostril. This embodiment has a single-sealing nasal prong with the shape and features of the first-described respiratory interface that is symmetric between the front and back sides and between the left and right sides. This single-sealing nasal prong has a centrally located outlet.

[0711] In one configuration, the respiratory interface includes a single sealing nasal prong that is movable from one side to the other. The prong may be movable by sliding, pivoting, or a combination of sliding and pivoting, for example using a sliding member as described above. In some configurations, a feature may be included to reduce tension on the single sealing nasal prong when it is reinserted into the other nostril.

[0712] In one configuration, the respiratory interface includes a centrally located prong that can be pivoted or twisted to align with either nostril. This configuration may include a barrier (i.e., a stop) that prevents the single sealing nasal prong from being twisted beyond the proper angle. The respiratory interface 100 in this configuration may have a locking mechanism that maintains the single sealing nasal prong in the correct alignment. As the single sealing nasal prong moves, an integral plug may move into place.

[0713] Each configuration of the respiratory interface described herein can be provided in multiple sizes, e.g., neonatal, extra small, small, medium, large and extra large, with each size having a slightly different interaction with therapy.

[0714] The respiratory interface 100 is configured to provide respiratory flow therapy (i.e., respiratory gas) to a patient through the single-sealing nasal prongs 200. Test results are described in more detail later in this specification. As described above, the walls 206 of the single-sealing nasal prongs 200 have a rest shape. The walls 206 are configured to substantially maintain the rest shape upon insertion into the patient's nares. The seal body 201 and outlets 205 of the single-sealing nasal prongs 200 are positioned such that one of the patient's nostrils is substantially sealed and supplied with gas from the outlet, while the other of the patient's nostrils is not sealed and does not receive a direct gas supply from the outlet. Gas flowing through the gas passages causes the exterior surface of the single-sealing nasal prongs to seal against one of the patient's nostrils.

[0715] In addition to using a respiratory interface having the above-mentioned features, the flow rate is controlled to generate a desired pressure for inhalation and exhalation. For example, the flow rate is reduced as the patient exhales to reduce the expiratory pressure. In some exemplary operations, the expiratory airway pressure is about 5-10 cmH2O.

[0716] The level of occlusion of the nostrils can be adjusted by adjusting the tightness of the headgear. For example, the level of seal, or occlusion, can be adjusted by the user tightening or loosening the headgear straps. The tighter the headgear is pulled, the further the prongs are pulled into and against the nostrils, thereby increasing occlusion.

[0717] The possibility of discomfort may be further reduced by having a support on the side of the conduit just below the single sealing nasal prong 200 that is designed to contact the patient's upper lip. The support may include a soft and / or flexible component offset from the surface of the conduit. The flexible component may include a plastic material or any suitably soft / flexible material designed to adjust to the contours of the patient's skin. The support may be provided in a single suitable location. The single sealing nasal prong 200 may be rotatable relative to the end of the conduit. The rotatable prongs allow the single sealing nasal prong 200 to be aligned with either one of the patient's nostrils while still having the lip support in the ideal position.

[0718] The single sealing nasal prongs 200 are configured to provide an expiratory airway pressure of between 3.5 cmH2O and 20 cmH2O. In particular, the single sealing nasal prongs substantially occlude one nostril and deliver gas at a flow rate that produces an expiratory airway pressure of between 3.5 cmH2O and 20 cmH2O. Other expiratory pressures may also be provided. For example, the expiratory pressure can be 4cmH2O, 4.5cmH2O, 5cmH2O, 5.5cmH2O, 6cmH2O, 6.5cmH2O, 7cmH2O, 7.5cmH2O, 8cmH2O, 8.5cmH2O, 9cmH2O, 9.5cmH2O, 10cmH2O, 10.5cmH2O, 11cmH2O, 12cmH2O, 12.5cmH2O, 13cmH2O, 13.5cmH2O, 14cmH2O, 14.5cmH2O, 15cmH2O, 15.5cmH2O, 16cmH2O, 16.5cmH2O, 17cmH2O, 17.5cmH2O, 18cmH2O, 18.5cmH2O, 19cmH2O or 19.5cmH2O.

[0719] Below are descriptions of some additional alternative configurations to those previously described. These configurations include any elements, and elements in the configurations described below, that may be used in conjunction with the previously described configurations.

[0720] In some configurations, the respiratory interface consists of a gas delivery assembly and headgear connected or connectable to the gas delivery assembly. The gas delivery assembly has a single sealing nasal prong and a conduit directly coupled to and in fluid communication with the single sealing nasal prong. The single sealing nasal prong has a seal body configured to seal with one of the patient's nostrils, an inlet configured to receive gas, and an outlet configured to supply gas to the patient. In these configurations, the respiratory interface only includes the gas delivery assembly and the headgear. The headgear is sufficient to maintain a seal with the patient's orifices.

[0721] In some configurations, the respiratory interface includes a cuff, which is a connection hub and interconnects the prongs and the tube (i.e., conduit) to form the interface. The cuff connects directly to the prongs and the tube. The cuff facilitates a fluid connection between the tube and the prongs. The cuff also facilitates connection to headgear. The headgear may be connected directly to the cuff. Alternatively, the cuff may be connected to a support that connects to the headgear.

[0722] In some configurations, a respiratory assistance system or device 10 (such as that shown in FIG. 1A) may include a gas flow source 11 configured to provide a gas flow at a high flow rate to a patient. The respiratory assistance system may also include a humidifier 12 configured to heat and humidify the gas flow provided to the patient, and a patient interface 100 including a single-sealing nasal prong interface (such as any of the single-sealing nasal prong configurations as described herein, for example, in FIGS. 1B-76) configured to deliver the gas flow at a high flow rate to the patient. The single-sealing nasal prong interface 100 may include a single-sealing nasal prong 200 adapted to substantially seal one of the patient's two nostrils. In some configurations, the humidifier 12 includes a humidification chamber removably connected to a humidifier base unit. The humidification chamber is configured to be filled with a humidification liquid, such as water, for humidifying the gas flow to the patient. In some configurations, the humidification chamber includes a thermally conductive base and the humidifier base unit includes a heater plate, and the thermally conductive base, when in contact with the heater plate of the humidifier base unit, enables heating of the humidification liquid in the chamber. In some configurations, the flow source and the humidifier base unit are integral.

[0723] In an exemplary embodiment, the patient interface 100 may be configured to increase the expiratory pressure in the patient's airway, as will be described in more detail in the "Test Results" section below.

[0724] The humidifier 12 may include a humidification chamber (not shown) including a gas inlet for receiving a gas flow from a gas flow source and a gas outlet for delivering a humidified gas flow to the patient interface. The respiratory assistance system may include an inhalation conduit located between the humidifier and the patient interface, the inhalation conduit configured to deliver the humidified gas flow to the patient interface 100. The inhalation conduit may be a heated inhalation conduit.

[0725] Alternatively or additionally, the respiratory assistance system may include a patient conduit 300 located between the inhalation conduit and the patient interface 100. The patient conduit may be formed of a breathable material.

[0726] The high flow rate may include a gas flow delivered to the patient of at least 20 L / min and / or up to about 70 L / min. The gas flow may be a substantially set gas flow rate, e.g., a gas flow rate set to a specific flow rate. The flow rate may be a constant set flow rate, e.g., set to a constant flow rate for the duration of the treatment. Alternatively, multiple set flow rates may be used for the treatment, e.g., a first set flow rate for a specific duration and a second, different set flow rate for a specific duration for a specific treatment. In an exemplary embodiment, the first set flow rate may be a low flow rate, e.g., 15 L / min, for one hour, followed by a second set flow rate of a higher flow rate, e.g., 35 L / min, for one hour.

[0727] The respiratory assistance system may include headgear 600 for holding the patient interface 100 on the patient's face.

[0728] The respiratory assistance system may include a respiratory interface 100 for delivering gas to one nostril of a patient, the respiratory interface including a single sealing nasal prong interface of any of the configurations described herein.

[0729] In some configurations, a kit is provided that may include a humidification chamber configured to be filled with a humidification liquid, such as water, for humidifying the gas flow to the patient. The humidification chamber includes a humidification inlet configured to couple to a flow source and a humidification outlet. In some configurations, the humidification chamber may be removably connectable to a humidifier base unit (which may be integral with the flow source). In some configurations, the humidification chamber may include a thermally conductive base, the humidifier base unit includes a heater plate, and the thermally conductive base enables heating of the humidification liquid in the chamber when in contact with the heater plate of the humidifier base unit. The kit may include an inhalation conduit having an inhalation conduit inlet configured to couple to the humidification outlet and an inhalation conduit outlet. The kit may also include a single sealed nasal prong interface, such as the single sealed nasal prong interface 100 of any of the configurations described herein, configured to couple to the inhalation conduit outlet.

[0730] The single sealing nasal prong interface 100 may include a patient conduit 300 that includes an inlet configured to couple to an inhalation conduit outlet. The patient conduit 300 may be formed of a breathable material. The inhalation conduit may be heated.

[0731] The kit may further include a conduit clip (not shown) configured to secure the inhalation conduit to or around the patient.

[0732] In some configurations, the respiratory interface includes a single-sealing nasal prong, the single-sealing nasal prong including a seal body configured to seal against one of the patient's nares. The seal body may have opposing front and rear faces and opposing left and right faces. The opposing front and rear faces may be substantially symmetrical to one another. When viewed from above, the opposing front and rear faces may be symmetrical about a vertical plane. The single-sealing nasal prong 2 may have an inlet configured to receive gas and an outlet configured to supply gas to the patient. When the prong is placed in an operating position, the inlet of the prong may be distal to the nostril and the outlet may be proximal. The outlet may be located at an approximately central location between the left and right faces such that the single-sealing nasal prong can seal against either one of the patient's nares. The central location of the single-sealing nasal prong may be a location where the center of the outlet is equidistant from the circumferential surface of the prong. The circumferential surface may be considered the maximum circumferential area of ​​the prong. In other words, when viewed from above, the outlet of the prong may be at the center of the circumferential surface of the prong body. The outlets may be arranged such that the prongs may be symmetric about at least two orthogonal vertical planes through the prongs.

[0733] The location of the prong outlets can allow the single-sealing nasal prong to be used regardless of the orientation of the nostrils, allowing the prongs to seal against either nostril. Human nostrils are angled toward one another, and the prongs can be shaped and configured to seal against either nostril. The seal body and outlets of the single-sealing nasal prongs can be positioned such that one of the patient's nostrils is substantially sealed and supplied with gas from the outlet, while the other of the patient's nostril is not sealed and does not receive a direct gas supply from the outlet or the gas supply of the respiratory system of which the respiratory interface is a part. The centrally located outlets serve to allow the prongs to engage and seal against either the left or right nostril of the user. The prongs can be shaped to fit and substantially occlude either the right or left nostril of the user. For example, the prongs can be positioned or located in two different orientations on the patient's face. That is, the interface can rotate itself 180 degrees and still fit the patient properly for proper prong engagement with the patient's nares. The central prong exit position may also enable the interface to fit properly to engage at or with the nostrils when rotated approximately 180 degrees, and thus may be considered orientation independent when placed on a patient's face, assuming the sliding member or members (e.g., article 501, 1501) extend substantially horizontally or in a plane across the face. In some configurations, the prongs may be configured to enable the interface to fit properly to engage at or with the nostrils when rotated approximately 180 degrees, and thus may be considered orientation independent when placed on a patient's face while still attached to a support (e.g., support 500) or without being detached, removed or separated from a support (e.g., support 500).In some configurations, the prongs or interface can be configured to allow the prongs to alternately fit within or with the patient's left or right nostril while allowing the prongs to remain attached to the support (e.g., support 500) or without being detached from the support (e.g., support 500), e.g., the prongs are translatable relative to the support, or if the prongs are in a fixed position relative to the support, the interface can flip the prongs to be positioned within or at the desired nostril.

[0734] The respiratory interfaces described herein may include a conduit for carrying gas to the prongs. The conduit may be an unheated, ventilated conduit. The conduit may allow some water vapor to escape through the walls of the conduit. The ventilated conduit may allow excess water vapor to escape from the gas stream to prevent condensation within the conduit. The conduit may include ventilated walls or may include ventilated sections within the walls of the conduit.

[0735] In an alternative configuration, the conduit may include a heater wire disposed within the conduit. The heater wire may be located in the lumen of the conduit or alternatively may be embedded in the wall of the conduit. The heater wire is configured to heat the gas within the conduit.

[0736] In some configurations, a respiratory interface for delivering gas to one of a patient's nostrils includes a single-sealing nasal prong having a seal body configured to seal one of the patient's two nostrils, a prong inlet configured to receive gas, and a prong outlet configured to supply gas to the patient. The respiratory interface may include a support for the single-sealing nasal prong and a conduit directly coupled to and in fluid communication with the single-sealing nasal prong. The single-sealing nasal prong and / or the respiratory interface may be configured to allow the prong to alternately seal against or with the patient's left or right nostril.

[0737] The prongs and / or respiratory interface may be configured to allow the prongs to alternately seal against or with the patient's left or right nostril while allowing the prongs to remain attached to the support or without being detached from the support. The prongs may be in a fixed position relative to the support or may be translatable relative to the support. The support may be outside of the gases supplied to the conduit or single sealing nasal prongs or may be separate from (i.e., not form part of) the gases supplied to the conduit or single sealing nasal prongs.

[0738] The conduit may be fluidly separated from the support, or the support may not form part of the gas path of the gas supplied to the single sealing nasal prongs. In other words, the conduit may be in fluid communication only with the single sealing nasal prongs and is not connected to the support. The conduit may comprise a single conduit.

[0739] The respiratory interface may further include a gas path from the conduit to the prong outlet, which may be substantially straight. The conduit outlet of the conduit may be directly coupled to the prong inlet of the single sealed nasal prong, and the conduit outlet and the prong outlet may share a substantially common, substantially central axis.

[0740] The respiratory interface may further include headgear removably connectable to the support and a cuff, and the single sealing nasal prongs may be configured to mate with the cuff as described herein. The respiratory interface may further include a conduit connector, and the conduit is configured to mate with the conduit connector. The conduit connector and the cuff may be separate or integral components.

[0741] The single sealing nasal prongs may comprise a substantially flexible or substantially compliant material, and the conduit connector and / or the cuff may comprise a substantially rigid material.

[0742] Test results FIG. 57 shows a graph of test results for flow delivered at 60 LPM. The graph shows pressure versus time results. The plot 6101 on the left is a non-sealing dual prong cannula. The plot 6102 to the right of the trough is a single sealing nasal prong respiratory interface as disclosed herein. For these test results, the configurations shown in FIGS. 51-53 were used. A non-sealing dual prong cannula is shown on the left and a respiratory interface with a single sealing nasal prong according to the present disclosure is shown on the right, each followed by a time that the respiratory interface is removed from the nose. It can be seen that there are valleys in the graph indicating replacement of the respiratory interface. Using a respiratory interface with a single sealing nasal prong according to the present disclosure resulted in higher pressures and greater pressure fluctuations.

[0743] The graph shows that a higher expiratory airway pressure is obtained when the same flow rate is applied by a single sealing cannula. The peaks indicate the expiratory airway pressure. The single sealing nasal prong is advantageous because it produces a higher expiratory airway pressure for a given flow compared to a non-sealing dual prong nasal cannula. The increased expiratory airway pressure helps to prevent alveolar collapse during exhalation as well as adding expiratory resistance which reduces the expiratory rate.

[0744] Figures 58A, 58B, 58C, and 58D show flow streamlines during exhalation with two non-sealing prongs using nasal high flow therapy. Figures 58A and 58B show a side-entry interface. Figures 58C and 58D show a front-entry interface. Pressure from exhaled gas forces the prong flow stream to reverse and exit through the gap between the prongs. Light grey indicates flow delivered by nasal high flow and dark grey indicates exhaled breath flow.

[0745] Figures 59A, 59B, 59C and 59D show the flow streamlines during exhalation with a single sealing nasal prong providing a respiratory flow. The light grey flowlines show the flow delivered from the respiratory interface, i.e. fresh gas, and the dark grey flowlines show the exhaled respiratory flow, i.e. mainly carbon dioxide. The flow delivered from the single sealing nasal prong increases the flow resistance in the patient's nasal passages (of the nostrils where the single sealing nasal prongs are substantially sealing) and increases the expiratory pressure of the exhaled respiratory flow during exhalation. The pressure from the exhaled gases forces the prong flow stream to reverse, but only after it has circulated throughout the nasal passages. By using a single sealing prong interface, the fresh gas flow stream reaches the back of the patient's nostril airway. Gas reaching deeper into the airway results in more efficient dead space clearance. Flow reaching the patient's airway also improves dead space clearance and potentially more dead space clearance.

[0746] The various configurations of single-sealing nasal prongs described herein provide a breathing interface that seals one nostril while leaving the other open. This configuration reduces shear noise due to the collision of the flow delivered from the cannula with the patient's expiratory flow, as well as noise caused by the expansion of gas as it exits the cannula. Advantages of single-sealing nasal prongs include providing a unidirectional flow that increases the breathing pressure, preferably the patient's expiratory pressure. The increased expiratory pressure helps maintain airway patency. This reduces respiratory rate, reduces muscle tone, and reduces respiratory effort. Advantages of single-sealing nasal prongs also include increased dead space clearance. Improved dead space clearance also reduces the work of breathing, as the patient gets more fresh gas for a given flow rate, compared to non-sealing dual-prong cannulas.

[0747] These test results were obtained from bench-top studies comparing a non-sealing dual-prong nasal cannula with a single sealing nasal prong.

[0748] [Table 1]

[0749] Increasing expiratory resistance can increase the length of the expiratory phase and decrease the respiratory rate. The resistance is related to the amount that the patient's nostrils are blocked. This decreases the user's effort to breathe.

[0750] By engaging only one nostril of the patient, the other nostril is left open for the patient to breathe. The open nostril provides an unobstructed passageway for the user to exhale exhaled gases. The open nostril also potentially reduces resistance to exhaled air out of that nostril compared to using a dual prong system. Leaving the other nostril open also provides space for inserting other instruments, such as a nasogastric (NG) tube or feeding tube, into the open nostril while still providing the benefits of eliminating dead space, increasing washout, and increasing expiratory airway pressure.

[0751] Figures 60A and 60B show graphs of positive expiratory pressure (PEP) test results comparing a standard respiratory interface with two nasal prongs to a respiratory interface constructed in accordance with the present invention, showing that the PEP of the sealed single-prong interface as described herein is increased over the two-prong interface.

[0752] FIG. 60A shows the PEP results per flow rate for a standard two nasal prong non-sealing interface (white) and a single sealing prong interface (black) according to one embodiment described herein, tested on five adult males for 3 minutes. Pressure was measured intra-oral. Heated and humidified flow was provided to the subjects. PEP was measured at set flow rates of 15, 35 and 55 L / min, respectively. Increased PEP was observed across all flow rates for the single sealing prong interface (black) compared to the standard two nasal prong non-sealing interface (white).

[0753] Figure 60B shows the PEP measured in the trachea of ​​the upper airway model during expiratory flow rates at delivered gas set flow rates ranging from 0 L / min to 120 L / min via a single sealing nasal prong interface as described herein (filled circle) and a standard two nasal prong non-sealing interface (open circle). During use of the single sealing nasal prong interface, the PEP increases more rapidly as expiratory flow rates increase compared to the standard two nasal prong non-sealing interface.

[0754] 61A and 61B show graphs of breathing rate test results comparing a standard two nasal prong non-sealing breathing interface with a single sealing prong breathing interface constructed herein.

[0755] FIG. 61A shows the results of breath rate per flow rate for a standard two nasal prong non-sealing interface (white) and a single sealing prong interface (black) according to one embodiment described herein, tested on five adult males for three minutes. Heated and humidified flow was provided to the subjects. Breath rate was measured at set flow rates of 15, 35 and 55 L / min, respectively. A reduction in breath rate was observed across all flow rates with the single sealing prong interface (black) compared to the standard two nasal prong non-sealing interface (white).

[0756] Figure 61B shows another set of respiratory rate results from a study in healthy volunteers. Average respiratory rate (breaths per minute, BPM) for four healthy volunteers receiving nasal high flow (NHF) delivered via a standard two-prong non-sealing interface (white bars) or a sealed single-prong interface such as that described herein (gray bars). NHF delivered room air at a set flow rate of 30 L / min. Delivering nasal high flow using a sealed single-prong interface led to a reduction in respiratory rate in three of the four participants.

[0757] By sealingly engaging the entire nostril, the flow velocity of gas at the outlet of the sealing prong is reduced (compared to two non-sealing nasal prongs) for the same volumetric flow rate. This is because the single sealing nasal prong has a larger cross-sectional area than the combined cross-sectional area of ​​the two non-sealing nasal prongs. Two non-sealing nasal prongs require a gap or space around the edge of the prongs for the expiratory flow to escape. The reduced flow velocity has the advantage of reducing noise due to expansion and change of direction of the flow.

[0758] The size of the prong exit is approximately 33% larger than conventional nasal prongs. In some cases, the cross-sectional area increases within the prong and decreases again at the prong exit. The increased cross-sectional area reduces the gas velocity and reduces noise at the breathing interface. Narrowing the prong exit does not negate these effects, as the reduction in flow resistance is offset by the increased cross-sectional area within the prong.

[0759] Unidirectional flow increases airway pressure within the nose, especially during the expiratory cycle, which helps reduce the effects of nasal cycling. Unidirectional flow also improves nasal flushing and increases dead space clearance so that the patient inhales more therapeutic gas and reduces the occurrence of rebreathing. Unidirectional flow also helps to drive fresh gas deeper into the airways, which can increase dead space clearance, or flushing effect.

[0760] The single-sealing nasal prong configuration described herein reduces the overall footprint of the cannula, which improves the patient experience.

[0761] An added benefit is that a single prong seal / occlusion reduces the risk of barotrauma by always having one nostril that is not sealed. This can be particularly useful for use in neonates, as there is greater leakage from unsealed / unused nostrils.

[0762] In one exemplary operation, a constant flow rate is delivered by the respiratory flow therapy device during inspiration and expiration. The constant flow rate creates inspiratory and expiratory airway pressures with the prongs sealing, i.e., occluding, one nostril. At least 50% of the nostrils are occluded, and preferably 75% or more of the nostrils are occluded. This creates a beneficial expiratory airway pressure because it helps to open the alveoli and prevent them from collapsing. The described respiratory interface helps to reduce the patient's breathing rate due to the increased expiratory airway pressure compared to the expiratory airway pressure when gas is delivered through a nasal cannula with a pair of non-sealing prongs.

[0763] The respiratory interface described is shaped and configured to occlude at least 30% of the nose. The respiratory interface is shaped and configured to seal approximately 50% of the nose, i.e., occlude or seal one nostril while leaving the other unoccluded or unsealed. An occluded nostril aids in generating expiratory airway pressure. An occluded nostril can also create some airway pressure during inspiration. An unoccluded nostril prevents the risk of barotrauma and provides a pathway for expiratory gases to leave the airway.

[0764] Another advantage of the single sealing nasal prong configuration described herein is that any aerosolized medication added to the stream is delivered more efficiently to the patient because substantially all, and preferably all, of the stream is forced into the patient's airways, with no opportunity for gas to escape between the single sealing nasal prongs and the nostril gap.

[0765] An additional benefit of the single-sealing nasal prong configuration described herein is that by occluding one nostril, the single-sealing nasal prong allows for a more uniform leakage across a population. Dual-prong non-sealing systems run the risk of inaccurate sizing and over-occlusion due to the prongs fitting into the nostril. By not sealing one nostril, the variability in the amount of overall occlusion is reduced.

[0766] The nasal cycle is a continuous cycle in which each side of a patient's nasal cavity partially closes and opens over time. It is believed that the nasal cycle is a natural mechanism that alternates congestion and decongestion on each side of the nose. The nasal cycle creates a difference between the flow resistance of the left and right portions of the nose. Thus, the percentage of total inspiratory and / or expiratory flow in each nasal passage can vary significantly. Inevitable individual differences in nostril geometry and placement of the respiratory device interface can increase the bias of flow through one nasal passage or the other.

[0767] Asymmetry in nasal resistance through the nasal cycle can affect the positive airway pressure generated by the single-sealing nasal prongs described herein depending on which nostril the prong substantially seals against, providing an additional benefit of the single-sealing nasal prong configuration described herein.

[0768] FIG. 61C shows test data for the asymmetry discussed above. FIG. 61C shows a graph of test results for peak expiratory flow comparing the left and right nostrils of a user having a respiratory interface in accordance with a configuration of the present invention. Pressure (cmH2O) was measured in the trachea of ​​an upper airway model at peak respiratory flow rates of 30 L / min (A) or 60 L / min (B) at delivered gas flows of 20-70 L / min through a single sealing nasal prong interface such as those described herein. At the two peak respiratory flows (shown in the two graphs), the peak expiratory pressure is greater when gas flow is delivered through the left nostril compared to the right nostril. This result indicates that the positive airway pressure generated during use of a single sealing nasal prong interface can be adjusted by alternating which nostril the prongs seal with.

[0769] Another advantage of the single-sealing nasal prong configuration described herein is that the single-sealing nasal prongs also help reduce variability in dead space clearance because there is less variability in prong placement within the nares. The single-sealing nasal prongs are large enough to create an occlusion, making them more repeatable to use.

[0770] A further advantage of the single-sealing nasal prong configuration described herein is that the single-sealing nasal prong provides dead space clearance at the end of exhalation. The single-sealing nasal prong may allow for substantially similar dead space clearance as compared to a non-sealing dual-prong system.

[0771] 77A, 77B, and 77C show perspective, front, and side views of an exemplary embodiment of a strap attachment or ferrule that can be configured to terminate a headgear strap and advantageously secure or hold the end of the headgear strap.

[0772] The strap attachments may advantageously reduce wear or tear on the headgear straps or portions of the headgear straps located within the strap attachments.

[0773] The strap attachment may advantageously provide a gripping portion of the headgear strap for a user to grasp or hold when adjusting the tightness of the patient interface, such as when placed on the patient.

[0774] In an exemplary embodiment, the strap attachments 700 can be configured to terminate the headgear straps 600, as shown in FIGS. 78A and 78B.

[0775] Fig. 78A shows a single sealing nasal prong 200 as outlined in the embodiments herein, including a sliding member 501 and a clip 503 connectable to headgear 600. Two strap attachments 700 are shown in Fig. 78A and 78B, which terminate the head straps on either side of the headgear 600.

[0776] FIG. 78B illustrates a second exemplary embodiment including a patient interface 17 having two nasal prongs as described herein, a clip 503 connected to a headgear 600, and a strap attachment 700 terminating a free end of the headgear 600. In the embodiment of FIG. 78B, the patient interface 17 is a nasal cannula. The nasal cannula may be a sealed or non-sealed cannula. In certain configurations, the nasal cannula includes a cannula body from which two nasal prongs extend, and a supply tube for delivering gas from a flow source through the cannula body and the prongs to the patient. In certain configurations, the nasal cannula includes a manifold for coupling the supply tube to the cannula body. The manifold may be removably attached to the cannula body. In certain configurations, the supply tube may extend from one side of the nasal cannula. An exemplary nasal cannula is described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004 / 0261797. The contents of this specification are incorporated herein in their entirety by reference.

[0777] 79 shows a cross-sectional view of the strap attachment 700 of the respiratory interface and the headgear strap 600, where the protrusions are engaged and / or embedded in the fabric of the headgear strap 600. The headgear strap 600 is shown inserted within the strap attachment 700.

[0778] 80A and 80B show perspective cross-sectional views of an exemplary embodiment of a strap attachment having a channel 702. FIG.

[0779] 80A shows a first section of a strap attachment 700 including a first set of protrusions 710A that extend into a channel 702. The first set of protrusions 710A can include a distal end including a point or apex 712A, a leading surface 714A, and a trailing surface 716A.

[0780] In the exemplary embodiment, in an orientation in which the strap attachment is configured to receive a strap, the leading surface 714A is configured to be longer than the trailing surface 716A.

[0781] 80B shows a second section of the strap attachment 700 including a second set of protrusions 710B extending into the channel 702. In an exemplary embodiment, the second set of protrusions 710B are configured to be interleaved with the first set of protrusions 710A and configured to be taller than the first set of protrusions 710A in terms of the distance perpendicular to the distance the strap attachment receives a headgear strap or the height the protrusions extend above the channel sidewall.

[0782] In an exemplary embodiment, the protrusions 710A and 710B are configured to receive and retain a headgear strap inserted within the channel 702. The leading surfaces 714A, 714B and trailing surfaces 716A, 716B may advantageously provide points or vertices 712A, 712B that face substantially away from an entrance of the channel 702 for receiving the headgear strap 600. In such an exemplary embodiment, the points or vertices may advantageously grip and secure a headgear strap inserted within the channel 702 beyond the points or vertices 712A, 712B.

[0783] In an exemplary embodiment, the leading surfaces 714A, 714B and the trailing surfaces 716A, 716B may form a substantially hook-like projection. In an exemplary embodiment, the combination of the leading surfaces 714A, 714B and the trailing surfaces 716A, 716B may provide a hook-like configuration configured to engage the fabric of a headgear strap. In such an embodiment, the engagement of the resulting projection with the headgear strap may hold the headgear strap within the strap attachment 700. The resulting hook-like projection, illustrated as opposing projections 710A, 710B in FIGS. 80A and 80B, may act on the headgear strap or withstand an applied pull-out force vector in a direction substantially opposite to the direction in which the headgear strap enters the strap attachment 700.

[0784] In an exemplary embodiment, the protrusions 710A and 710B can be configured to be opposed and interleaved such that the apex or point 712A, 712B of each protrusion can create a curved or serpentine path for a headgear strap inserted into the channel 702 beyond the apex points 712A, 712B of the protrusions.

[0785] In an exemplary embodiment, the protrusions 710B are formed closer to the entrance of the channel 702 than the protrusions 710A. Such a configuration may advantageously facilitate easier threading of the headgear straps 600 through the strap attachment 700. In an exemplary embodiment, the serpentine path formed by the protrusions provides a path for the straps to follow as they are inserted into the strap attachment 700. However, the serpentine path and the protrusions may provide a retention force such that it is difficult to remove the assembled straps from the strap attachment. The multiple protrusions and resulting serpentine path may create multiple engagement points with the straps 600 that hold the straps within the strap attachment 700.

[0786] In the exemplary embodiment as shown in Figures 80A and 80B, protrusions 705B and 705A are provided at or toward the end of the strap attachment 700 opposite the open end where the strap attachment 700 is configured to receive the headgear strap 600. In the exemplary embodiment, protrusions 705B and 705A are substantially aligned with opposing protrusions 710B and 710A, respectively. In the exemplary embodiment, protrusions 705B and 705A are configured to be of the same or similar height as protrusions 710A and 710B, respectively, located on the same side of the channel 702, the height being related to the distance that the protrusion or protrusion extends up from the sidewall of the channel to the distal end of said protrusion or protrusion.

[0787] In an exemplary embodiment, the protrusions 705A, 705B can advantageously partially or completely close or obscure the ends of the channel 702 such that a headgear strap 600 inserted into the channel 702 is prevented from exiting the channel 702 at the end of the strap attachment 700 opposite the open end that receives the head strap 600.

[0788] Additionally, the protrusions 705A, 705B may advantageously reduce access to the interior of the strap attachment 700, such as the channel 702, at the distal ends of the strap attachment.

[0789] 81A and 81B show perspective cross-sectional views of an exemplary embodiment of a strap attachment. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 81A, protrusion 710B and protrusion 705B are shown aligned in the plane of the direction in which channel 702 receives the headgear strap. However, it will be understood that protrusion 705A and protrusion 705B may be aligned or offset with protrusion 710A and protrusion 710B.

[0790] Similarly, FIG. 81B illustrates the alignment of the protrusion 710A on the lower portion of the strap attachment 700 with the protrusion 705A on the upper portion of the strap attachment 700 along a single plane in the direction in which the channel 702 receives the headgear strap.

[0791] 81A and 81B, the channel 702 includes an entrance or opening at an end of the channel 702 that is configured to receive the headgear strap 600. The entrance or opening may include a lead-in feature that allows for easier insertion of the headgear strap into the channel 702. In an exemplary embodiment, the lead-in feature may include a rounded or smooth lip or a substantially rounded or curved profile.

[0792] FIG. 82A shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of strap attachment 700 illustrating the distance D1 between the point or apex 712B of protrusion 710B and the upper opposing wall of channel 702 (on which protrusion 710A is disposed). FIG. 82A also shows the mid-plane A1 of channel 702, indicating that both the point or apex 712B of protrusion set 710B and the point or apex 712A of protrusion set 710A are beyond the mid-point of channel 702 and are located in the same half of said channel. In other words, protrusion 710B is longer than protrusion 710A. However, in an exemplary embodiment (not shown), protrusion 710B can be of a lower height than protrusion 710A such that apex 712A and apex 712B are below the mid-plane A1 of channel 702.

[0793] In an exemplary embodiment, the apex of protrusion 710A and / or the apex of protrusion 710B may be on different sides of the midplane A1 of channel 702 such that protrusions 710A, 710B are either shorter than half the width of channel 702 or protrusions 710A, 710B are longer than half the width of channel 702 (i.e., protrusions 710A, 710B overlap vertically).

[0794] Distance D1 may be advantageously varied depending on the thickness, material, and / or compressibility of the headgear strap received by strap attachment 700. In some exemplary embodiments, distance D1 is provided as a function of the thickness of head strap 600, for example, the ratio of distance D1 to head strap thickness is within a range of about 1:4 to about 1:1.

[0795] In an exemplary embodiment, the distance between the apex 712B of the projection 710B and the plane tangent to the leading surface 714A of the projection set 710A may be a function of the thickness, material, and / or compressibility of the headgear strap, which may advantageously provide a way for threading the headgear strap 600 through the strap attachment (with a tool, if necessary).

[0796] 82B illustrates a distance D2 between a point or apex 712A of projection set 710A and a point or apex 712B of projection set 710B, respectively. Such distance D2 can likewise be varied and provided as a function of the thickness of the head strap 600 that the strap attachment 700 receives.

[0797] 82C illustrates protrusion set 710A and protrusion set 710B each including an acute angle β at trailing edge 716A and an acute angle α at trailing edge 716B. In an exemplary embodiment, acute angles β and α can be between about 40 degrees and about 80 degrees.

[0798] In an exemplary embodiment, the acute angles β and α may provide an orientation or inclination of the protrusions 710A and 710B and a location of the points or vertices 712A, 712B in an orientation that is substantially aligned with an orientation of the channel 702 for receiving the headgear strap 600. Advantageously, the angles β and α may facilitate the configured protrusions 710A and 710B to retain a headgear strap inserted within the channel 702.

[0799] In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 82A, 82B and 82C, the projections 710A, 710B include a trailing edge 716A, 716B and a leading edge 714A, 714B. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the leading edges 714A, 714B are substantially straight and the trailing edges 716A, 716B include straight and curved sections. In this embodiment, the curved section of the trailing edge 716A, 716B of each projection is set toward the base of the projection such that there is a gradual transition from the wall of the channel 702 to the trailing edge of each projection. This may advantageously provide additional strength to the projections 710A, 710B, although it will be understood that this transition may be less gradual or the angle of the two planes forms the angle β and angle α. In either embodiment, the acute nature of angles β and α causes the projections to form hook-like apexes 712A, 712B, which aid in retention of the headgear straps 600 as described herein.

[0800] 83 illustrates a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a strap attachment 700 described herein. This view illustrates the interleaved, opposing configurations of points or vertices 712A and 712B of protrusion sets 710A and 710B, respectively.

[0801] FIG. 83 shows an approximate central horizontal plane A1 of the channel 702 and an approximate central vertical plane A2 of the channel 702.

[0802] In the illustrated embodiment, protrusion 710B is shown extending beyond mid-horizontal plane A1 while protrusion 710A is shown not extending beyond mid-horizontal plane A1. However, it will be understood that the distance or extension of each protrusion 710A and protrusion 710B relative to plane A1 and / or the opposing wall within channel 702 may be a function of the thickness, material and / or compressibility of the strap.

[0803] The plane A1 shown in FIG. 83 is shown as a dashed horizontal line perpendicular to the direction of the channel 702 (i.e., across the channel 702). However, it will be understood that this plane extends as a surface through the strap attachment. This is shown in FIG. 82A, where dashed line A1 shows the same plane, but in a direction parallel to the direction of the channel 702. In an exemplary embodiment, the protrusions 710A and 710B may be offset from each other in one or both of these planar directions (i.e., parallel and perpendicular to the direction of the channel 702). As described above and shown in FIG. 82B, the protrusions 710A and 710B may be offset by a distance D2 in the direction of the channel 702. Additionally or alternatively, as shown in FIG. 83, the protrusions 710A and 710B may be offset in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the channel.

[0804] In the illustrated embodiment, protrusion sets 710A and 710B are symmetrically positioned on either side of a central vertical plane A2, with protrusion sets 710A and 710B shown offset such that the central protrusion of protrusion set 710B is bisected by vertical plane A2 and the central protrusion of protrusion set 710A is separated by vertical plane A2. The offset position of protrusion sets 710A and 710B along plane A1 provides a serpentine path (shown as wavy line T) along which the strap is held. The offset position of protrusion sets 710A and 710B may also create more load points (as shown as dots at the apexes of protrusion sets 710A, 710B in FIG. 83) on the strap held within channel 702, as compared to protrusion sets positioned such that opposing apexes are aligned along the same plane. Nonetheless, it will be understood that as described herein, protrusion set 710A and protrusion set 710B may be positioned directly opposite one another or may be positioned in any suitable pattern that provides retention and a tortuous path for a strap inserted within channel 702.

[0805] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be construed as, an admission or in any manner suggestion that that prior art forms part of the common general knowledge within the scope of the invention in any country in the world.

[0806] When reference is made herein to directional terms such as "up," "down," "front," "back," "horizontal," "vertical," etc., these terms refer to the locations and orientations of the interfaces shown in the figures and are used to indicate and / or describe relative directions or orientations that may vary when the interfaces are in use.

[0807] Although the present disclosure has been described in terms of a particular configuration, other configurations apparent to one skilled in the art are within the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. For example, various components may be repositioned as necessary. Any features of the described configurations may be combined with each other, and / or a device may include one or more or all of the features of the above-described configurations. Furthermore, not all of the features, aspects, and advantages are necessary to practice the present disclosure. Accordingly, the scope of the present disclosure is to be defined solely by the following claims.

Claims

1. A respiratory interface for delivering gas to one nostril of a patient, A single sealed nasal prong having a seal body configured to seal one of the patient's two nostrils, a prong inlet configured to receive gas, and a prong outlet configured to supply gas to the patient, Support for the single sealed nasal prong, A conduit comprising a conduit connector, the conduit connector being at least partially received within the conduit and coupled to the conduit outlet of the conduit and the prong inlet of the single sealed nasal prong, wherein the prong inlet is generally circular, the conduit is in fluid communication with the single sealed nasal prong, forming a substantially linear gas passage from the conduit to the prong outlet, and the conduit outlet and the prong outlet share a substantially common substantially central axis, The breathing interface is configured such that the single sealed nasal prong can interchangeably seal the left or right nostril of a patient, while allowing the single sealed nasal prong to remain attached to the support or without being removed from the support.

2. The breathing interface according to claim 1, wherein the single sealed nasal prong is positioned at a fixed position relative to the support.

3. The respiratory interface according to claim 1, wherein the single sealed nasal prong is translationally responsive to the support.

4. The respiratory interface according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the support is located outside the conduit, separated from the conduit, or does not form part of the conduit.

5. The respiratory interface according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the support does not form part of the gas passage for the gas supplied to the single sealed nasal prong.

6. The respiratory interface according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the conduit includes a single conduit.

7. The respiratory interface according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the prong outlet to the cross-sectional area of ​​the conduit outlet is about 0.2 to about 1.

8. The breathing interface according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising a headgear that can be detachably connected to the support.

9. The respiratory interface according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a cuff, wherein the single sealed nasal prong is configured to connect with the cuff.

10. The respiratory interface according to claim 9, wherein the conduit connector and the cuff are separate or integrated components.

11. The breathing interface according to claim 10, wherein the single sealed nasal prong comprises a substantially flexible or substantially compliant material, and the conduit connector and / or the cuff comprises a substantially rigid material.

12. The breathing interface according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the prong outlet has an orifice, the orifice having a length and a width, and the ratio of the width of the orifice of the prong outlet to the length of the orifice of the prong outlet is about 0.4 to about 0.

9.

13. The breathing interface according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the single sealed nasal prong is spherical or spherical.

14. The breathing interface according to claim 13, wherein the seal body is tapered inward from the prong inlet to the prong outlet.

15. The breathing interface according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the cross-section of the prong inlet is substantially the same as the cross-section of the conduit outlet and the conduit connector.

16. The breathing interface according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the dimensions of the prong inlet opening are larger than those of the prong outlet.

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