Medical suction device

Abstract

To provide a small-size and lightweight medical suction device.SOLUTION: A medical suction device 100 that sucks a suction object from a patient includes: a suction pipe 22A on which a suction force for sucking the suction object acts; and a pump 22 that is connected to the suction pipe and generates the suction force. The suction force is a negative pressure and is set so as to be smaller than a predetermined maximum value.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a medical aspirator for aspirating aspirates from a patient.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes an aspirator that applies an aspiration pressure for aspirating an aspirated substance from a patient to an aspiration channel. This aspirator includes a flow rate sensor that detects the flow rate of the aspiration channel, a pump that adjusts the aspiration pressure acting on the aspiration channel, and a control unit that controls the operation of the pump according to the flow rate. Then, based on the detection result of the flow rate sensor, the control unit controls the operation of the pump so that the aspiration pressure increases when the flow rate of the aspiration channel decreases.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] A medical aspirator aspirates aspirates from a patient's body or from a medical instrument such as a cannula connected to the patient. As an example, the aspirate is a body fluid such as saliva, sputum, secretions, or blood. Specifically, a patient targeted for an aspiration procedure may not be able to normally swallow saliva by themselves. For example, such patients suffer from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), muscular dystrophy, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, impaired consciousness, or other diseases. And in order to prevent aspiration pneumonia and the like, a tube for aspirating saliva is installed in the patient's oral cavity and connected to a medical aspirator. Since such a medical aspirator is installed near the patient, it is desired to be smaller and lighter in consideration of the installation location.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A medical suction device according to one aspect is a medical suction device that sucks aspirated matter from a patient, a suction tube on which a suction pressure for sucking the aspirated matter acts, and a pump that is connected to the suction tube and generates the suction pressure. The suction pressure is a negative pressure and is set to be less than a predetermined maximum value.

Advantages of the Invention

[0006] Thereby, since the suction pressure is limited to be small, the pump that generates the suction pressure becomes smaller, and a small and lightweight medical suction device can be provided.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0008] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments for implementing the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the dimensions, materials, shapes, and relative positions of the components described in the following embodiments can be arbitrarily set and can be changed according to the configuration or various conditions of the apparatus or method to which the present invention is applied. Also, unless otherwise specified, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments specifically described below.

[0009] In the following description, the suction pressure is a negative pressure. A large suction pressure means a strong negative pressure with a large absolute value of the negative pressure. On the other hand, a small suction pressure means a weak negative pressure with a small absolute value of the negative pressure. For example, when comparing a suction pressure of -40 kPa and a suction pressure of -20 kPa, the suction pressure of -40 kPa is greater and the negative pressure is stronger.

[0010] [Embodiment] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a medical suction device 100 for sucking aspirates from a patient will be described. FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view showing the medical suction device 100 as seen from above the front. FIG. 2 is a schematic explanatory view simulating a cross-section along the center of the medical suction device 100. Hereinafter, an example of sucking saliva as the aspirate will be mainly described.

[0011] The medical suction device 100 is desirably continuously suctioned, except when not temporarily sucking saliva during eating or drinking. Therefore, it is desirable for the medical suction device 100 to have durability to withstand continuous suction. Also, since the medical suction device 100 is used at night, it is desirable that the sound emitted by the medical suction device 100 is small. And the suction pressure suitable for sucking highly viscous aspirates is desirably a negative pressure with a maximum value greater than -35 kPa and less than -45 kPa.

[0012] However, during continuous suction, it is more desirable that the maximum value of the suction pressure for highly viscous aspirates is greater than -15 kPa and less than -25 kPa. This is because if the suction pressure is within the range greater than -15 kPa and less than -25 kPa, the aspirate can be suctioned even if there is a difference in the viscosity of the aspirate according to the patient. Note that the suction of highly viscous aspirates is temporary suction and there is no need to perform continuous suction. Therefore, compared with the case of continuous suction, a louder sound is emitted from the medical suction device 100, but since it is a temporary noise, the discomfort given to patients, nurses, caregivers, and the patient's family at home is within an acceptable range.

[0013] On the other hand, as a suction device for suctioning highly viscous aspirates, a suction device with a maximum suction pressure reaching -80 kPa may be used. However, since such a suction device is not limited to a suitable value for the maximum suction pressure, the suction pump is large and heavy. Furthermore, since such a suction device emits a louder sound, it is not particularly suitable for use at night.

[0014] Therefore, in the medical suction device 100 of the present embodiment, the suction pressure is a negative pressure and is set to be less than a predetermined maximum value. Furthermore, it is desirable that the maximum value is set to a value greater than -35 kPa and less than -45 kPa. Thereby, it is possible to suction highly viscous aspirates and provide a small and lightweight medical suction device 100.

[0015] In addition, the medical suction device 100 includes a limiting means (described later) for limiting the suction pressure to a continuous suction range smaller than the maximum value. It is desirable that this continuous suction range is set to a range greater than 0 kPa and less than -25 kPa. Thereby, it is possible to provide a medical suction device 100 that can perform continuous suction without making a small sound from the medical suction device 100 and giving discomfort to patients, nurses, caregivers, and the patient's family at home.

[0016] [Suction device] The medical suction device 100 shown in Fig. 1 includes a suction device main body 17 and a storage unit 3 for storing the aspirated material. The medical suction device 100 also includes a holding unit 26 that detachably holds the storage unit 3 with respect to the suction device main body 17. As an example, the storage unit 3 is held with respect to the suction device main body 17 by being placed on the holding unit 26. Further, the storage unit 3 is a storage tank that can be washed and reused. Alternatively, the storage unit 3 may be a disposable storage bag. Furthermore, a storage bag may be attachable inside the storage unit 3.

[0017] The size of the storage unit 3 may vary according to the expected storage volume. As an example, the storable volume of the storage unit 3 is 500 mL or 1500 mL. Further, the storage unit 3 may be provided with a scale indicating the amount of the aspirated material stored therein. For example, the scale is provided every 100 mL from 100 mL to 500 mL.

[0018] The medical suction device 100 includes a front cover 31 and a rear cover 32. Further, a lid portion 4 that covers the opening of the storage unit 3 is attached to the storage unit 3 so as to prevent leakage of the stored aspirated material. At least a part of the lid portion 4 is covered by the front cover 31. Furthermore, from the front cover 31, an inlet 5 that serves as an inlet for the aspirated material flowing into the storage unit 3 and a tube holder 11 are exposed. This tube holder 11 temporarily holds the suction tube 2 (Fig. 2) when the cannula 1 is temporarily taken out of the oral cavity during eating, drinking, etc. Further, an adjustment knob 35 for adjusting the suction pressure is exposed from the rear cover 32.

[0019] As shown in Fig. 2, the medical suction device 100 includes a suction tube 22A to which a suction pressure for aspirating the aspirated material acts. The medical suction device 100 also includes a pump 22 that is connected to the suction tube 22A and generates the suction pressure. Furthermore, the medical suction device 100 includes a suction path SP that is connected to the suction tube 22A.

[0020] This suction path SP is composed of each part provided between the suction tube 22A and the suction tube 2. That is, the suction path SP is composed of a structure on which a negative pressure as a suction pressure acts. For example, a storage part 3 is provided in the suction path SP. Further, an inlet 5 of the storage part 3 through which the suction material sucked from the patient flows is provided in the suction path SP. The inlet 5 is connected to a cannula 1 inserted into the body such as the patient's oral cavity via the suction tube 2, and saliva or the like sucked through the inlet 5 flows. Furthermore, an auxiliary storage part 12 connected to the outlet 10 of the storage part 3 is provided in the suction path SP. In addition, pipes or tubes (not shown) or the like may be provided in the suction path SP.

[0021] As an example, the cannula 1 to which the suction tube 2 is connected is a saliva suction cannula for sucking saliva from the patient. When continuously sucking to suck saliva, the saliva suction cannula has a rigidity that can withstand the negative pressure (for example, -20 kPa) in the continuous suction range. Also, when temporarily sucking a high-viscosity suction part such as sputum from the patient, the saliva suction cannula has a rigidity that can withstand the maximum value of the suction pressure (for example, -40 kPa). And the cannula 1 is discarded after the suction treatment is completed. Alternatively, the cannula 1 may be a tracheal cannula inserted into the patient's trachea. This tracheal cannula remains inserted into the trachea even after the suction treatment is completed. Also, as an example, the suction tube 2 is a flexible soft tube. The outer diameter of this suction tube 2 may vary depending on the size of the cannula 1 and the type of suction material.

[0022] The lid part 4 seals the storage part 3 and fits with the edge at the upper end of the storage part 3. And the lid part 4 and the storage part 3 are sealed by a sealing member (not shown). Also, the lid part 4 can be washed and reused after the suction treatment is completed. Alternatively, the lid part 4 may be disposable after the suction treatment is completed.

[0023] As an example, the lid portion 4 is formed of a rubber-like material such as rubber or elastomer. Thereby, it is not necessary to provide a packing between the lid portion 4 and the storage portion 3. Further, an inlet 5, a float 7, and a float cover 8 are detachably attached to the lid portion 4. And the lid portion 4 is integrally formed with a drain pipe 6, a float packing 9, an outlet 10, and a tube holder 11. Thereby, it is not necessary to provide a separate packing between the inlet 5 and the drain pipe 6, between the float cover 8 and the float packing 9, and between the outlet 10 and an auxiliary inlet 14 described later. Such a rubber-like lid portion 4 eliminates the need for a plurality of packings, reducing the number of parts and the cost.

[0024] The upper part of the inlet 5 protrudes upward from the lid portion 4. On the other hand, the lower part of the inlet 5 is connected to the drain pipe 6. Further, the inlet 5 is bent, and the tip of the upper part extends horizontally in the direction opposite to the auxiliary storage portion 12. Then, the aspirated saliva or the like flows into the inlet 5 from the suction tube 2. Also, the lower part of the inlet 5 is rotatably connected to the drain pipe 6 of the lid portion 4. And the inlet 5 and the drain pipe 6 are sealed by a seal member (not shown). Further, the inlet 5 can be washed and reused after the suction treatment. Alternatively, the inlet 5 may be disposable after the suction treatment.

[0025] The drain pipe 6 protrudes from the lid portion 4 toward the inner wall of the storage portion 3 that is closer to the drain pipe 6 (or downward from the lid portion 4). And the inlet 5 is connected to the drain pipe 6, and the aspirated saliva or the like flows out from the inlet 5 through the drain pipe 6 into the storage portion 3. That is, the drain pipe 6 functions as an inlet of the storage portion 3. Also, the end opening of the drain pipe 6 opens toward the side opposite to the float cover 8. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the saliva or the like flowing in from the drain pipe 6 from adhering to the float 7 and the float cover 8. Further, the drain pipe 6 can be washed and reused after the suction treatment.

[0026] The float cover 8 houses the substantially spherical float 7 in order to prevent saliva or the like from being accidentally sucked into the suction unit body 17. That is, the float 7 and the float cover 8 function as a float mechanism that prevents the suction unit body 17 from being contaminated by highly viscous aspirated matter such as sputum or saliva or the like. And the float 7 and the float cover 8 function so as to stop suction when the aspirated matter stored in the storage unit 3 exceeds the allowable capacity and the liquid level thereof exceeds a predetermined upper limit height.

[0027] Specifically, when the liquid level of the stored aspirated matter exceeds a predetermined height, the float 7 moves upward in the float cover 8 in response to the rise of the liquid level. After that, when the liquid level exceeds a predetermined upper limit height, the float 7 abuts against the float packing 9, and the suction pressure no longer acts on the storage unit 3. Also, the outflow of the aspirated matter inside the storage unit 3 to the outflow port 10 is restricted. Thereby, suction is stopped, and it is possible to prevent the aspirated matter exceeding the allowable capacity from accidentally flowing into the auxiliary storage unit 12. Further, the float cover 8 is attached to the float packing 9 integrally formed with the lid portion 4. And the float 7 and the float cover 8 can be washed and reused after the completion of the suction treatment. Alternatively, the float 7 and the float cover 8 may be disposable after the completion of the suction treatment.

[0028] The outflow port 10 is connected to the auxiliary inflow port 14 of the auxiliary storage unit 12. And the outflow port 10 and the auxiliary inflow port 14 are sealed by a sealing member (not shown). Also, the outflow port 10 is bent, and its tip extends horizontally toward the auxiliary storage unit 12. And droplets such as saliva flow out to the auxiliary storage unit 12 through the outflow port 10. In the example of FIG. 2, the outflow port 10 is formed so as to protrude horizontally from the tube holder 11 through the tube holder 11. Alternatively, the outflow port 10 may be a hole formed inside the lid portion 4. The hole extends horizontally toward the auxiliary storage unit 12.

[0029] The tube holder 11 has a groove with a substantially U-shaped cross-section that is open at the top. And the suction tube 2 can be inserted into the groove from above. Thereby, the surplus portion of the suction tube 2 can be temporarily held by the tube holder 11. Also, the tube holder 11 protrudes upward from the lid portion 4. Alternatively, the tube holder 11 may be formed to protrude laterally from the lid portion 4. In this case, the outlet 10 is formed at a position different from the tube holder 11.

[0030] Also, the medical suction device 100 includes an auxiliary storage portion 12 for storing saliva or the like flowing out from the storage portion 3. The auxiliary storage portion 12 is a washable auxiliary tank, which prevents saliva or the like from being sucked by the pump 22. The auxiliary storage portion 12 is detachably attached to the suction device main body 17. As an example, the auxiliary storage portion 12 is formed of a transparent resin. Also, the auxiliary inlet 14 and the gas outlet 16 are integrally formed with the auxiliary storage portion 12. Alternatively, the auxiliary storage portion 12 may be integrally formed with the housing of the suction device main body 17. Note that when means for preventing inflow into the pump 22 (for example, filter means) is provided, the auxiliary storage portion 12 may be omitted.

[0031] The auxiliary storage portion 12 is sealed by an auxiliary lid portion 13. This auxiliary lid portion 13 is detachably attached to the auxiliary storage portion 12. And the auxiliary storage portion 12 and the auxiliary lid portion 13 are sealed by a seal member (not shown). Also, the auxiliary lid portion 13 is removed from the auxiliary storage portion 12 when replacing the filter 15 or cleaning the inside of the auxiliary storage portion 12. As an example, the auxiliary lid portion 13 is formed of a transparent resin.

[0032] The auxiliary inlet 14 protrudes horizontally from the auxiliary storage portion 12 toward the storage portion 3 and is connected to the outlet 10. And saliva or the like flowing in from the outlet 10 flows into the auxiliary storage portion 12 from the auxiliary inlet 14. Also, the auxiliary inlet 14 and the outlet 10 are sealed by a seal member (not shown).

[0033] The lower end of the gas outlet 16 protrudes downward from the auxiliary reservoir 12 toward the pump 22. This lower end is connected to the main body connection part 18, and the lower end and the main body connection part 18 are sealed by a sealing member (not shown). Also, the upper end of the gas outlet 16 protrudes upward toward the inside of the auxiliary reservoir 12. Then, due to the negative pressure acting on the suction path SP by the pump 22, the gas (e.g., air) inside the suction path SP such as the auxiliary reservoir 12 flows out to the pump 22 through the gas outlet 16.

[0034] The main body connection part 18 connects the suction pipe 22A to which the suction pressure acts and the gas outlet 16. As an example, the main body connection part 18 is integrally formed with the suction pipe 22A, and the lower end of the gas outlet 16 is inserted into the main body connection part 18 from above. Also, the suction pipe 22A is connected to the pump 22.

[0035] The float mechanism cannot prevent the intrusion of vapor and bad odor caused by saliva and the like into the suction device main body 17. Furthermore, there is a possibility that the float mechanism does not function and saliva and the like flow out from the storage part 3 to the suction device main body 17. Therefore, the medical suction device 100 is provided with a filter 15 as a prevention means for preventing the intrusion of vapor, bad odor, saliva, and the like into the inside of the suction device main body 17.

[0036] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, a filter 15 that allows gas to pass through and does not allow liquid to pass through is detachably attached to the suction path SP. The filter 15 can prevent saliva and the like from entering from the auxiliary reservoir 12 to the pump 22. Specifically, the filter 15 is attached to the gas outlet 16 as an attachment part. Also, the gas outlet 16 is provided at a position separated from the storage part 3. That is, the attachment part of the filter 15 is provided in the auxiliary reservoir 12.

[0037] This enables the filter 15 to be replaced while the storage unit 3 remains attached. That is, the storage unit 3, the auxiliary storage unit 12, the auxiliary lid portion 13, etc. and the filter 15 are separate bodies. Therefore, it is not necessary to replace the storage unit 3, the auxiliary storage unit 12, the auxiliary lid portion 13, etc. and the filter 15 at the same time. For this reason, the filter 15 can be replaced alone, reducing the cost of filter replacement. For example, when saliva or the like flows out from the storage unit 3, when the filter 15 discolors due to the influence of vapor or bad odor caused by saliva or the like, and when the resistance of the gas sucked by the pump 22 increases, the user replaces the filter 15.

[0038] As an example, the filter 15 has an opening and a bottomed cylindrical shape. Also, the upper end portion of the gas outlet 16 has a tapered shape that gradually narrows downward from the tip to prevent the filter 15 from falling off. And the filter 15 is attached so as to cover the upper end portion. Specifically, the filter 15 is attached with the opening facing downward such that the upper end portion is inserted therein. Also, when replacing the filter 15, the auxiliary lid portion 13 is removed, and the filter 15 is pulled out upward and removed from the upper end portion. Also, the gas outlet 16 and the filter 15 may be sealed by a sealing member (not shown).

[0039] As an example, the filter 15 is a porous member formed of a resin sintered body such as polyethylene and a self-sealing agent. When saliva or the like contacts the filter 15, the flow of saliva or the like is automatically blocked. Specifically, in a state where saliva or the like is not in contact, a gas such as air passes through the ventilation holes of the filter 15. On the other hand, when saliva or the like accumulated in the auxiliary storage unit 12 comes into contact, the contacted saliva or the like blocks the ventilation holes of the filter 15. Thereby, it is possible to prevent saliva or the like from passing through the ventilation holes.

[0040] In the auxiliary reservoir 12, the auxiliary inlet 14 is separated from the gas outlet 16 which is the mounting part of the filter 15. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the inflowing saliva or the like from adhering to the filter 15 and fouling the filter 15, or to prevent the air holes from being blocked. For example, until the liquid level of the saliva or the like stored in the auxiliary reservoir 12 reaches the opening at the upper end of the gas outlet 16, it is possible to prevent the air holes from being blocked.

[0041] The auxiliary reservoir 12 is attached to the suction device main body 17. The suction device main body 17 houses a control unit CP of the suction device, a pump 22, etc. Further, the suction device main body 17 is provided with an adjustment knob 35 (Fig. 1) for adjusting the suction flow rate. Furthermore, the suction device main body 17 is provided with a switch 36 (Fig. 1) for switching on and off the power supply. With this switch 36, it may be possible to switch between a state where the suction pressure is high and a state where the suction pressure is low. Also, the suction device main body 17 houses a pressure gauge 19 for detecting the suction pressure. Furthermore, the suction device main body 17 is provided with a handle 37 (Fig. 4) for carrying the suction device. Note that this handle 37 is also used as a winding tool, and when the medical suction device 100 is not in use, the power cord 24 is wound around the handle 37.

[0042] The pressure gauge 19 detects the suction pressure acting on the suction tube 22A. Then, the detected suction pressure is displayed on a display unit (not shown) provided on the suction device main body 17. As an example, the display unit is a liquid crystal display. Also, the display unit is configured to display a suction pressure in the range of 0 kPa or more and -50 kPa or less.

[0043] In addition, the medical suction device 100 is provided with a limiting means for limiting the suction pressure to a continuous suction range smaller than the maximum value by adjusting the suction flow rate of the sucked gas, etc., and the limiting means has an adjustment valve 20. For example, the continuous suction range of the suction pressure controlled by adjusting the suction flow rate is a range greater than 0 kPa and smaller than -25 kPa. As an example, the adjustment valve 20 is a needle valve, and adjusts the flow rate of air flowing from outside the medical suction device 100 into the suction pipe 22A according to the amount of rotation of the handle 21 interlocked with the adjustment knob 35.

[0044] For example, the adjustment knob 35 is a part of the handle 21 that protrudes outside the housing of the suction device main body 17. Specifically, the needle valve moves up and down according to the amount of rotation of the handle 21. Then, according to the position of the needle valve, the amount of air passing through the orifice 20A communicating with the external atmosphere around the handle 21 increases or decreases, thereby adjusting the suction pressure. That is, by adjusting the opening range of the orifice 20A, the escape flow rate of air can be controlled and the suction pressure can be adjusted.

[0045] Also, the adjustment valve 20 and the control unit CP of the pump 22 cooperate to function as a limiting means. As an example, the control unit CP reduces the supply voltage to the pump 22 to be lower than a predetermined value (for example, 100 V) according to the operation of the switch 36. Thereby, the pump 22 operates so that the suction pressure becomes smaller than -25 kPa which is the continuous suction range. Further, the user operates the adjustment knob 35 so that the suction pressure becomes a desired value greater than 0 kPa. Note that the limiting means may have a globe valve, a butterfly valve, a gate valve, etc. instead of the needle valve. Alternatively, the adjustment valve 20 or the control unit CP may function alone as the limiting means.

[0046] The pump 22 is a source of negative pressure. For example, the pump 22 operates so that the suction pressure is within the continuous suction range in response to the operation of the switch 36. Also, the pump 22 operates so that the suction pressure is greater than the continuous suction range and less than the maximum value in response to the operation of the switch 36. Further, for sound insulation, the pump 22 is housed in a cover (not shown) within the housing of the suction unit main body 17. A vibration-proof coil spring or the like may be attached to this cover.

[0047] Also, the medical suction unit 100 includes an electric control unit 23. The electric control unit 23 performs electric control of the medical suction unit 100 and is electrically connected to the switch 36 and a fuse (not shown). Further, the medical suction unit 100 includes a power cord 24 and a plug 25. And the medical suction unit 100 is supplied with power from the outside via the power cord 24 and the plug 25. Note that the medical suction unit 100 may include a rechargeable battery.

[0048] Furthermore, the medical suction unit 100 includes a control unit CP that controls the entire pump 22 and the medical suction unit 100. And the control unit CP controls the supply voltage supplied to the pump 22 so that the suction pressure is less than the maximum value. As an example, during temporary suction, the control unit CP controls to supply a voltage of 100 V to the pump 22 so that the suction pressure is less than the maximum value. Thereby, the discharge amount of the pump 22 becomes maximum. As an example, the maximum discharge amount is 6 L / min. At this time, the user closes the regulating valve 20 to make the escape flow rate zero.

[0049] Also, during continuous suction, the control unit CP controls to supply a voltage lower than 100V to the pump 22 so that the suction pressure falls within the continuous suction range. At this time, the user can adjust the suction pressure within the continuous suction range by adjusting the opening range of the regulating valve 20 to increase or decrease the bypass flow rate. For example, the control unit CP is a control board as a hardware circuit. Alternatively, the control unit CP may be a logic device combining computer hardware and software. In this case, the control unit CP may automatically switch the supply voltage to the pump 22 regardless of the operation by the user.

[0050] Further, the medical suction device 100 includes a holding unit 26 that detachably holds the storage unit 3 with respect to the suction device main body 17. The suction device main body 17 is fixed to the holding unit 26, or the holding unit 26 is integrally formed with the housing of the suction device main body 17. Further, the holding unit 26 has a placement portion 26A on which the bottom of the storage unit 3 is placed. Then, the storage unit 3 is held by the placement portion 26A by being placed on the placement portion 26A. As an example, the storage unit 3 is held by the placement portion 26A when the outer edge portion 26B of the placement portion 26A engages with the bottom of the storage unit 3.

[0051] When the medical suction device 100 operates, the suction material such as saliva reaches the inlet 5 through the suction tube 2 from the cannula 1. Thereafter, the suction material flows from the inlet 5 through the drain pipe 6 and into the interior of the storage unit 3 and is stored. For suction, the suction pressure generated by the pump 22 acts from the suction pipe 22A to the gas outlet 16. Subsequently, the suction pressure acts from the gas outlet 16 through the filter 15 into the interior of the auxiliary storage unit 12. Thereafter, the suction pressure acts from the interior of the auxiliary storage unit 12 to the auxiliary inlet 14.

[0052] Then, the suction pressure acts from the auxiliary inlet 14 to the outlet 10. Subsequently, the suction pressure acts from the outlet 10 into the interior of the storage unit 3. Thereafter, the suction pressure acts from the interior of the storage unit 3 to the inlet 5. And the suction pressure acts from the inlet 5 through the suction tube 2 to the cannula 1. Thereby, the suction material is sucked through the cannula 1.

[0053] [Large storage section] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 6, the large storage section 203 will be described. FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view showing the small storage section 3 and the lid section 4. Further, FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view when the storage section 3 attached to the medical suction device 100 is viewed from below. Further, FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view showing the large storage section 203 and the large lid section 204. Further, FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view of the medical suction device 100 to which the large storage section 203 is attached. Further, FIG. 7 is a schematic perspective view when the large storage section 203 attached to the medical suction device 100 is viewed from below.

[0054] The suction volume of saliva or the like rarely reaches 500 mL even when continuous suction is performed for 24 hours or when the suction tube 2 is washed by water suction. Therefore, the capacity of the storage section 3 is set to 500 mL as an example. However, when suctioning a highly viscous suction material such as sputum, the highly viscous suction material may adhere to the tip of the suction tube 2 or the inside of the suction tube 2, resulting in a decrease in suction efficiency. Therefore, the removal process of removing the adhered suction material by water suction may be repeated a plurality of times. After that, the suction tube 2 may be further washed by water suction.

[0055] In such a case, a large storage section 203 having a capacity larger than 500 mL is required. Therefore, the medical suction device 100 is configured to be able to attach and detach both the small storage section 3 and the large storage section 203. Thereby, the medical suction device 100 can be used both when performing a suction treatment with a small suction volume and when performing a suction treatment with a large suction volume.

[0056] For comparison, the small reservoir 3 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4. As shown in FIG. 3, the reservoir 3 has a bottomed, substantially cylindrical shape. Also, the lid 4 has a substantially disc-shaped form so as to cover the opening of the reservoir 3. Further, as shown in FIG. 4, the placement portion 26A of the holding portion 26 of the medical suction device 100 has a shape complementary to the bottom of the reservoir 3. That is, the placement portion 26A has an outer edge portion 26B having a substantially circular outer shape.

[0057] On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 5, the large reservoir 203 has a bottomed, substantially cylindrical shape. Also, the large lid 204 has a substantially disc-shaped form so as to cover the opening of the large reservoir 203. Note that the large lid 204 is configured in the same manner as the lid 4 except for its size. For example, the large lid 204 is formed of a rubber-like material. Further, an inlet 5, a float 7, and a float cover 8 are detachably attached to the large lid 204. And the large lid 204 is integrally formed with a drain pipe 6, a float packing 9, an outlet 10, and a tube holder 11.

[0058] Also, the height of the large reservoir 203 is set to be approximately the same as the height of the reservoir 3. On the other hand, the outer dimensions (e.g., outer diameter) of the large reservoir 203 are set to be larger than those of the reservoir 3 according to the storage capacity. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 6, a part of the large reservoir 203 will project from the holding portion 26. Also, when the large reservoir 203 is attached, in addition to the front cover 31, a large front cover 232 is attached to the large lid 204. And at least a part of the large lid 204 is covered by the front cover 31 and the large front cover 232.

[0059] The holding portion 26 can detachably hold a large reservoir 203 that is larger than the reservoir 3 and stores the aspirated matter with respect to the suction device main body 17. Also, as shown in FIG. 7, the large reservoir 203 has a recess 203A that fits with the outer edge portion 26B of the placement portion 26A of the holding portion 26. Thereby, the medical suction device 100 can hold a small reservoir 3 and a large reservoir 203 with different storage capacities from each other.

[0060] The concave portion 203A has a shape complementary to the outer shape of the outer edge portion 26B. That is, the outer dimensions of the outer edge portion 26B and the inner dimensions of the concave portion 203A are set to be substantially the same. And the outer edge portion 26B fits inside the concave portion 203A. Thereby, the large storage portion 203 is held by the holding portion 26 with respect to the suction device main body 17. Note that the large storage portion 203 may have an engaging portion that engages with a part of the placing portion 26A instead of or in addition to the concave portion 203A.

[0061] According to the medical suction device 100 described above, since the suction pressure is restricted to be reduced, the pump 22 that generates the suction pressure becomes smaller, and the medical suction device 100 becomes small and lightweight. Also, the sound emitted by the medical suction device 100 can be reduced. Further, the medical suction device 100 can suck a highly viscous suction material and can continuously suck saliva or the like.

[0062] [First Application Example] The medical suction device 100 can also be used for sucking blood as a suction material. For example, in the treatment of stopping nosebleeds, the bleeding site may be stopped with an electric scalpel or bipolar forceps. In this case, due to the bleeding blood, it is difficult for the operator to visually observe the hemostatic site. Therefore, the blood near the hemostatic site is sucked with a blood suction tube for bipolar forceps attached to the bipolar forceps. Thereby, the operator can visually observe the hemostatic site. The medical suction device 100 can be connected to this blood suction tube and used for blood suction. Note that it is not limited to the blood suction tube for bipolar forceps, and the medical suction device 100 can also be connected to a blood suction tube used with a general monopolar scalpel tip.

[0063] [Second Application Example] Referring to FIG. 8, a second application example of the medical suction device 100 will be described. FIG. 8 is a schematic side view of a tracheostomy cannula 300 inserted into a patient's trachea. The tracheostomy cannula 300 is provided with a cuff 301. And, in the tracheostomy cannula 300, an upper suction port 302 and an inner suction port 303 are formed. This upper suction port 302 is the tip opening of the upper tube 304. Also, the inner suction port 303 is the tip opening of the lower tube 305.

[0064] In the tracheostomy cannula 300, secretions as aspirated substances accumulated near the upper part of the cuff 301 are aspirated from the upper suction port 302. And, these secretions are aspirated through the upper tube 304 of the tracheostomy cannula 300 as indicated by the dashed arrow A in FIG. 8. Also, secretions accumulated near the lower part of the cuff 301 are aspirated from the inner suction port 303. And, this aspirated substance is aspirated through the lower tube 305 of the tracheostomy cannula 300 as indicated by the solid arrow B in FIG. 8.

[0065] The medical suction device 100 is connected to the upper tube 304 and used for aspirating secretions accumulated near the upper part. Also, another medical suction device 100 is connected to the lower tube 305 and used for aspirating secretions accumulated near the lower part. Alternatively, the medical suction device 100 may be used for aspirating secretions in other manners. For example, the medical suction device 100 may be connected to a dedicated suction tube for aspirating secretions accumulated near the upper part and used. Also, the medical suction device 100 may be used by disconnecting the connection of the ventilator and aspirating secretions accumulated near the lower part.

[0066] As described above, the present invention has been described with reference to each embodiment, but the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. Inventions modified within the scope not contrary to the present invention, and inventions equivalent to the present invention are also included in the present invention. Also, each embodiment and each modified form, and the technical means included in each embodiment or each modified form can be appropriately combined within the scope not contrary to the present invention.

[0067] For example, although the pump 22 is directly connected to the suction tube 22A, it may be indirectly connected to the suction tube 22A via other tubes or the like. However, by detecting the suction pressure acting on the suction tube 22A directly connected to the pump 22, the pump 22 can be controlled more accurately, and the sound emitted from the pump 22 can be restricted. Further, the medical suction device 100 may further include a flow rate sensor as a detection means for detecting a physical quantity indicating the state of the flow in the suction tube 2. Further, the distal end of the suction tube 2 may be directly inserted into the patient's body. For example, the distal end of the suction tube 2 may be inserted into an open space or a closed space such as the patient's oral cavity, trachea, chest cavity, or abdominal cavity.

[0068] Some or all of the above embodiments may also be described as follows in the appended claims, but are not limited thereto.

[0069] (Appended Claim 1) A medical suction device for sucking a suction object from a patient, a suction tube on which a suction pressure for sucking the suction object acts, and a pump connected to the suction tube and generating the suction pressure. The medical suction device, wherein the suction pressure is a negative pressure and is set to be smaller than a predetermined maximum value.

[0070] (Appended Claim 2) The medical suction device according to Appended Claim 1, wherein the maximum value is a value greater than -35 kPa and smaller than -45 kPa.

[0071] (Appended Claim 3) The medical suction device further includes a limiting means for limiting the suction pressure to a continuous suction range smaller than the maximum value. The medical suction device according to Appended Claim 1 or 2, wherein the continuous suction range is a range greater than 0 kPa and smaller than -25 kPa.

[0072] (Appended Claim 4) The medical suction device according to Appended Claim 3, wherein the limiting means has a regulating valve for regulating the flow rate of air flowing into the suction tube.

[0073] (Appendix 5) The aspirator main body where the pump is disposed, A storage unit for storing the aspirated material, The medical aspirator according to any one of Appendices 1 to 4, comprising a placement unit on which the bottom of the storage unit is placed, and a holding unit for detachably holding the storage unit with respect to the aspirator main body.

[0074] (Appendix 6) The holding unit can detachably hold a large storage unit that is larger than the storage unit and stores the aspirated material, with respect to the aspirator main body. The medical aspirator according to Appendix 5, wherein the large storage unit has a concave portion that fits with the outer edge portion of the placement unit.

[0075] (Appendix 7) Comprising a suction path connected to the suction tube, The medical aspirator according to any one of Appendices 1 to 6, wherein a filter that allows gas to pass through and does not allow liquid to pass through is detachably attached to the suction path.

[0076] (Appendix 8) A storage unit for storing the aspirated material is provided in the suction path, The medical aspirator according to Appendix 7, wherein the attachment unit to which the filter is attached is provided at a position separated from the storage unit.

[0077] (Appendix 9) An auxiliary storage unit connected to the outlet of the storage unit is provided in the suction path, The medical aspirator according to Appendix 8, wherein the attachment unit is provided in the auxiliary storage unit.

[0078] (Appendix 10) The medical aspirator according to any one of Appendices 1 to 9, comprising a control unit for controlling the supply voltage supplied to the pump so that the suction pressure becomes smaller than the maximum value.

Explanation of Signs

[0079] 3: Reservoir 5: Inlet 10: Outlet 12: Auxiliary reservoir 15: Filter 17: Suction device body 20: Control valve (limiting means) 22: Pump 22A: Suction tube 26: Holding part 26A: Mounting part 26B: Outer edge part 100: Medical suction device 203: Large reservoir 203A: Concave part CP: Control unit (limiting means) SP: Suction path

Claims

1. A medical suction device for sucking aspirated matter from a patient, comprising: a suction tube to which a suction pressure for sucking the aspirated matter acts; a pump connected to the suction tube for generating the suction pressure; The medical suction device, wherein the suction pressure is a negative pressure and is set to be less than a predetermined maximum value.

2. The medical suction device according to claim 1, wherein the maximum value is greater than -35 kPa and less than -45 kPa.

3. The medical suction device according to claim 1, further comprising a limiting means for limiting the suction pressure to a continuous suction range less than the maximum value, wherein the continuous suction range is greater than 0 kPa and less than -25 kPa.

4. The medical suction device according to claim 3, wherein the limiting means includes a regulating valve for regulating the flow rate of air flowing into the suction tube.

5. a suction device body in which the pump is disposed; a storage unit for storing the aspirated matter; a placement unit on which the bottom of the storage unit is placed, and a holding unit for detachably holding the storage unit with respect to the suction device body, the medical suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The holding unit can detachably hold a large storage unit that is larger than the storage unit and stores the aspirated matter, with respect to the suction device body, wherein the large storage unit has a recess that fits with an outer edge portion of the placement unit, the medical suction device according to claim 5.

7. comprising a suction path connected to the suction tube, wherein a filter that allows gas to pass through and does not allow liquid to pass through is detachably attached to the suction path, the medical suction device according to claim 1.

8. a storage unit for storing the aspirated matter is provided in the suction path, wherein a mounting portion to which the filter is attached is provided at a position separated from the storage unit, the medical suction device according to claim 7.

9. an auxiliary storage unit connected to an outlet of the storage unit is provided in the suction path, wherein the mounting portion is provided in the auxiliary storage unit, the medical suction device according to claim 8.

10. The medical suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a control unit for controlling a supply voltage supplied to the pump so that the suction pressure is less than the maximum value.

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