Nozzles, heads and aerosol dispersers

Abstract

The present application relates to an aerosol dispenser, a head for an aerosol dispenser, and a nozzle for a head for an aerosol dispenser. A nozzle (1) for spraying a fluid from an aerosol container (41) is provided. The nozzle (1) comprises a proximal / base region (25) configured to receive a fluid delivery tube (30) configured to provide fluid communication with the aerosol container (41). The nozzle (1) further comprises a distal / tip region (26) including an output throughbore (16). The output throughbore (16) has a diameter of 0.20 mm or less and a length of 2-6 mm.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] This application claims the benefit of European Patent Application No. 22163325.8, filed March 21, 2022.

[0002] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol dispenser, and in particular to a head for an aerosol dispenser and a nozzle for a head for an aerosol dispenser. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to an aerosol dispenser, a head and a nozzle for use in cryotherapy. [Background technology]

[0003] To treat skin warts occurring on the soles of the feet or toes and / or various other warts or other skin disorders, post-infection topical treatments are commonly used, of which cryotherapy is well known.

[0004] Cryotherapy is commonly used in the medical field to remove skin lesions from mammalian bodies, including the human body. Cryotherapy refers to a treatment that freezes superficial skin lesions. However, cryotherapy can be painful, stinging, both when administered and for a variable period of time afterwards. In some cases, the extreme cold can freeze blood vessels that supply blood to the abnormal cells.

[0005] Some known cryotherapy techniques combine the effectiveness of traditional cryotherapy with modern aerosol technology, involving fairly simple and easy-to-use treatment devices. In these techniques, the coolant solution is typically stored in a pressurized container, and a measured amount of the coolant solution is dispensed from the container on demand (i.e., upon activation by the user).

[0006] One known aerosol container contains norflurane. Norflurane, also known as HFC-134A, has a chemical structure known as 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane. 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane is compressed under pressure into a liquid, and absorbs large amounts of heat energy upon vaporization. As a result, upon evaporation, it significantly reduces the temperature of any object it comes into contact with (i.e., in this case, a skin lesion or wart).

[0007] An aerosol head and an aerosol dispenser suitable for cryotherapy are described in US Patent No. 5,999,633. The aerosol dispenser described in this prior art shows significant improvements in terms of spray accuracy and ease of use. A more precise spray beam can help treat skin lesions while reducing damage to healthy skin surrounding the skin lesion and reducing unnecessary leakage. The present disclosure (the present application) aims to provide further improvements over the prior art. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] International Publication WO2018115447 A1 Summary of the Invention

[0009] In one aspect of the disclosure, a nozzle for spraying a fluid in an aerosol container is provided. The nozzle comprises a proximal region configured to receive a fluid transport tube configured to provide fluid communication with the aerosol container. The nozzle further comprises a distal region including an output throughbore. The output throughbore has a diameter of 0.20 mm or less. The output throughbore has a length of 2-6 mm.

[0010] According to this aspect, the nozzle has an output through-hole capable of ejecting the fluid of the aerosol container received from a tube connected to the aerosol container, the output through-hole having specific dimensions that allow it to emit a particularly narrow beam, narrow in this context being understood in particular as maintaining a relatively small cross-sectional dimension of the spray over a long spray length, i.e. the spray is not only narrow when it leaves the nozzle, but also maintains a narrow spray over a long spray length.

[0011] Thus, spray accuracy can be increased even when a relatively inexperienced user or medical professional is applying the spray. For example, when fluid is sprayed to treat a skin lesion with cryotherapy, the risk of damaging healthy skin tissue surrounding the skin lesion can be reduced. Also, waste or unnecessary use of active ingredients can be reduced. Additionally, dimensions were selected to maintain adequate pressure drop and manufacturability.

[0012] The output through hole, in some examples, has a diameter of 0.18 mm or less, for example 0.15 mm or less, particularly 0.05 to 0.15 mm, more particularly 0.08 to 0.12 mm. Such a diameter can be relatively easy to provide while allowing for improved accuracy during spraying. In some examples, the output through hole can have a diameter of 0.15 to 0.19 mm.

[0013] It has also been found that the particular dimensions selected are more patient-friendly with respect to the noise generated during nebulization. In particular for younger patients, e.g. children, the noise generated during nebulization can be unpleasant. The dimensions of the output through-hole reduce the noise.

[0014] In some examples, the nozzle may include a nozzle output tube, the nozzle output tube including an output through hole, the nozzle output tube being inserted into the distal region. In some of these examples, the nozzle output tube may include or be made from polyetheretherketone (PEEK). Providing the output through hole in a separate tube may be easier and may help provide an output through hole having the required dimensions while avoiding deformation or damage to the nozzle.

[0015] The nozzle may further comprise a holder extending between the open proximal end and the open distal end. The holder may include a proximal interior channel configured to receive the fluid delivery tube and a distal interior channel configured to receive the nozzle output tube. Providing the holder with the interior channels may facilitate assembly of the nozzle.

[0016] The holder may further include, in some examples, an intermediate inner channel connecting the proximal inner channel with the distal inner channel. The intermediate inner channel is formed between a first wall and a second wall, the first wall configured as a stopper for the fluid transport tube and / or the second wall configured as a stopper for the nozzle output tube. Thus, the fluid transport tube and the nozzle output tube can be held within the nozzle while providing a fluid connection between the fluid transport tube and the output through-hole of the nozzle output tube.

[0017] A channel is to be understood herein as a sealed passageway, and therefore when referring to the diameter of a channel, reference is made to the diameter of the passageway, i.e. the inner diameter.

[0018] Optionally, the nozzle may further comprise a nozzle output tube retainer surrounding at least a distal portion of the holder. The output tube retainer may have a flange that protrudes beyond the open distal end of the holder and prevents the nozzle output tube from exiting the distal interior channel of the holder. Thus, retention of the nozzle output tube may be further improved.

[0019] The nozzles described herein may be used in combination with any suitable aerosol head and any suitable aerosol container.

[0020] In a further aspect of the present disclosure, a head for an aerosol container is provided. The head includes a base configured to be coupled to an aerosol container, the base including an outlet. The base further includes a nozzle according to any of the examples described herein. The base further includes a fluid transport tube within the base. The fluid transport tube extends through the outlet on the exterior of the base and into the nozzle.

[0021] The nozzle may be attached to the outlet of the base. This may help to reduce the risk of the fluid delivery tube moving, for example if the tube is flexible. The accuracy and control of the spray may be improved.

[0022] The fluid delivery tube may be flexible, allowing it to adapt to its shape and maintain fluid communication when a user activates the aerosol.

[0023] The fluid transport tube may be continuous. A continuous tube can reduce the risk of crystal formation in cryogenic applications. If two or more fluid transport tubes are connected, for example via connectors, there is an increased risk of fluid expansion at the tube-tube junctions, which can lead to crystal formation.

[0024] The aerosol head may further comprise an elastically deformable actuator. The deformable actuator may include a lever arm and a coupling part integrally formed with the lever arm. The coupling part may be configured to be attached around the fluid transport tube, the aerosol valve outlet and a part of the aerosol valve activator. The coupling part may be configured such that when the lever arm is deformed by a user, the coupling part acts on the valve activator of the aerosol container. Thus, elastic deformation of the lever arm causes a downward deformation / movement of the coupling part attached around the valve activator, thereby directly or indirectly pressing the valve activator so that the propellant and active ingredient contained in the aerosol container flow out of the valve outlet through the fluid transport tube. The outlet part forms part of the base of the head and is constructed separately to the elastically deformable actuator and the fluid transport tube, so that there is no risk of the outlet part moving when the coupling part deforms to activate the valve activator. A stationary outlet part may help to improve accuracy during spraying. The lever arm can provide easy handling of the aerosol head by the user, for both experienced and entry level medical practitioners.

[0025] In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol dispenser is provided comprising a head according to any of the examples described throughout this disclosure and an aerosol container including a valve assembly including a valve outlet and a valve activator for selectively opening a passageway from an interior of the aerosol container to the valve outlet.

[0026] Aside from cryotherapy, the nozzles, heads and aerosol dispensers described throughout this disclosure may be used in other medical or non-medical applications involving spraying with an aerosol dispenser, where a particularly narrow spray beam is required. For example, the nozzles, heads and aerosol dispensers described herein may be applied in preventative treatments, cosmetic treatments and painting.

[0027] Non-limiting examples of the present disclosure are illustrated diagrammatically in the accompanying drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0028] [Figure 1A] 1 shows an axial cross section of an example of a nozzle for a head for an aerosol container.

[0029] [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B is an enlarged view of a distal portion of the nozzle of FIG. 1A.

[0030] [Diagram 2] 1B shows an axial section through the holder of the nozzle of FIG. 1A.

[0031] [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an example of an aerosol head.

[0032] [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a side view of an example of an aerosol head attached to an aerosol container.

[0033] [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a perspective front view of an example of an aerosol head.

[0034] [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an example of an aerosol dispenser. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0035] In one embodiment, a nozzle 1 suitable for spraying a fluid in an aerosol container 41 is provided. An example of the nozzle 1 is shown in FIG. 1A. FIG. 1A is an example of an axial cross section of a nozzle 1 for a head 40 for an aerosol container 41. The nozzle 1 is attached to an outlet 43 of a base 42 of the head 40, and a fluid delivery tube 30, e.g., a flexible tube, extends into the nozzle 1 through the tip in this view. It should be noted that although the nozzle is shown attached to the outlet 43 of the base 42 of the head for the aerosol container 41, the nozzle 1 may be provided as a separate, independent element. FIG. 1B is an enlarged view of the distal portion of the nozzle 1 of FIG. 1A.

[0036] The nozzle 1 comprises a proximal region 25 configured to receive a fluid transport tube 30 configured to provide fluid communication with an aerosol container 41. The fluid transport tube 30 may be flexible. The nozzle 1 further comprises a distal region 26 including an output through hole 16 (see FIG. 1B). The output through hole 16 has a diameter of 0.20 mm or less, such as a diameter of 0.18 mm or less, such as a diameter of 0.15 mm or less, such as a diameter of 0.05-0.15 mm. In some examples, the diameter may be 0.15-0.19 mm. In some examples, the diameter may be 0.08-0.12 mm. The diameter may be, for example, about 0.1 mm. It should be understood that the diameter is always greater than 0, since if the diameter of the through hole is 0, there is no through hole.

[0037] The output through hole 16 has a length of 2-6 mm, i.e., a diameter of 0.20 mm or less, e.g., 0.05-0.15 mm (specifically, 0.08-0.12 mm, more specifically, about 0.1 mm), extending over a length of 2-6 mm. In some examples, the length may be 4-5 mm. The length may be, for example, about 4.4 mm, 4.5 mm, or 4.6 mm. The diameter may be measured in a radial direction 22 and the length may be measured in an axial direction 21 of the nozzle. The radial direction 22 may be understood as a direction perpendicular to the axial direction 21 in an axial cross section.

[0038] Thus, the fluid to be sprayed travels through the nozzle's output through-hole 16 and exits the nozzle 1 through the distal end (tip) of the nozzle. The dimensions, i.e., diameter and length, of the output through-hole 16 can provide a narrower spray beam over a longer spray length (i.e., distance after exiting the through-hole) than the prior art. The longer length of such a small diameter of the output through-hole 16 results in a greater pressure drop, and the shorter length results in a less focused beam. The selected range of lengths, in combination with the indicated diameters, results in a narrow spray beam that allows for precise treatment of, for example, skin lesions and reduces leakage.

[0039] 1A, the nozzle extends between an open proximal end 27 and an open distal end 28. The nozzle 1 includes a nozzle output tube 20. The nozzle output tube 20 is inserted into a distal region 26 and has an output through hole 16 of the precise dimensions discussed above. Using a separate nozzle output tube 20 to provide the output through hole 16 and then inserting the nozzle output tube 20 into the nozzle, e.g., holder 10, has been found to be an efficient manufacturing and assembly method for providing an output through hole 16 of the desired dimensions.

[0040] In some examples, the nozzle output tube 20 may be made of or include polyetheretherketone (PEEK). The nozzle output tube 20 may be an extruded PEEK tube. This material may be particularly easy to provide output through holes 16 having the aforementioned diameters and lengths. Prior art attempts to provide long small diameter through holes by drilling and molding have been unsuccessful.

[0041] The example nozzle of FIG. 1A also includes a holder 10. The holder 10 extends between an open proximal end 3 and an open distal end 6 (see FIG. 2). The holder 10 includes a proximal region 31 configured to receive a fluid delivery tube 30, e.g., a flexible tube, configured to provide fluid communication with an aerosol container 41. The holder 10 also includes a distal region 32. The distal region 32 may be configured to receive the nozzle output tube 20. The open proximal end 3 and the open distal end 6 of the holder 10 may be the open proximal end 27 and the open distal end 28 of the nozzle 1 in some examples.

[0042] In the example of FIG. 1A, the holder 10, and therefore the nozzle 1, is elongated in the axial direction 21. As used herein, elongated may refer to the fact that the outer diameter of an element, e.g., a nozzle, is smaller, particularly significantly smaller, than the length of the element. In other examples, the length of the nozzle or holder may not be longer than the outer diameter of the nozzle or holder. The holder and nozzle may have a radial cross-section that is substantially circular in some examples. In other examples, the holder and nozzle may have a radial cross-section that has a different shape, e.g., a square, a triangular, or other radial cross-sectional shape.

[0043] The holder 10 surrounds the nozzle output tube 20. A distal region 26 of the elongated holder 10 may, in some instances, clamp or press against at least a portion of the nozzle output tube 20, such as a proximal portion of the nozzle output tube 20. In these or other instances, there may be an adhesive between the nozzle output tube 20 and an inner wall of the distal region of the holder.

[0044] The axial 21 and radial 22 orientations of the nozzle and holder correspond to the axial 21 and radial 22 orientations of the nozzle output tube 20. The nozzle output tube may have a substantially circular radial cross-section. In other examples, the holder 10 may have a different radial cross-section, such as a square, triangular, or other radial cross-section.

[0045] FIG. 2 shows an axial cross-section of the holder 10 of the nozzle 1 of FIG. 1A. In some examples, the holder 10 includes a proximal inner channel 2 configured to receive a fluid transport tube 30. The proximal inner channel 2 may be provided in a proximal region 31 of the holder 10. The proximal inner channel 2 may extend between an open proximal end 3 and a first inner wall 4 of the holder 10. The first wall 4 of the holder 10 may be configured as a stopper for the fluid transport tube 30. For example, the tube 30 may be inserted into the proximal inner channel 2 until it contacts the first wall 4 and cannot continue moving in the axial direction 21. In some examples, the first wall 4 may be substantially perpendicular (orthogonal) to the axial direction 21.

[0046] The diameter of the proximal internal channel 2 may be on the order of the outer diameter of the envisaged fluid transport tube 30. In some examples, the proximal internal channel 2 may be slightly tapered towards the first wall 4. For example, the inner wall defining the proximal internal channel 2 may be inclined at an angle of 0.3°-0.7°, e.g., about 0.5°, relative to the axial direction 21. Such tapering may help to maintain the fluid transport tube 30 in a desired position, e.g., inside the proximal internal channel 2 and relative to the first wall 4. For example, referring to FIG. 2, one, two or more internal radial protrusions 23 near the proximal end 3 may facilitate removal of the holder 10 from the injection mold. In some examples, the internal radial protrusions 23 may also help to hold the fluid transport tube 30 in place. The example of FIG. 2 shows two radially extending internal protrusions 23.

[0047] The inside of the proximal end portion 31 of the holder 10 may be flared toward the proximal end 3 of the holder 10. This may facilitate the introduction of the fluid transport tube 30 into the proximal internal channel 2. The length 24 of the proximal internal channel 2 may be 20-30 mm in some examples. For example, the proximal internal channel may have a length of about 25 mm. In other examples, lengths smaller than 20 mm and lengths larger than 30 mm are possible. In examples where the holder 10 is attached to the base 42 of a head for an aerosol container 41, a shorter or longer length of the proximal internal channel 2 may be selected, for example, depending on the expected distance between the skin lesion to be treated and the aerosol base 42 of the head in some examples.

[0048] The holder 10 may further include a distal interior channel 5 configured to receive the nozzle output tube 20. The distal interior channel 5 may extend between an open distal end 6 of the holder 10 and a second wall 7 inside the holder. The second wall 7 may act as a stopper for the nozzle output tube 20 inside the distal interior channel 5. For example, the nozzle output tube 20 may be inserted into the distal interior channel 5 until it contacts the second wall 7 and is unable to continue moving in the axial direction 21. The second wall 7 of the holder may be substantially perpendicular (orthogonal) to the axial direction 21 in some examples.

[0049] The diameter of the distal inner channel 5 may be on the order of the outer diameter of the nozzle output tube 20. In some examples, the distal inner channel 5 may taper slightly towards the distal end 6 of the holder 10. For example, the distal inner channel 5 may have a diameter of 1.5 mm at its proximal end and a diameter of 1.6 mm or 1.7 mm at its distal end. This taper may help maintain the nozzle output tube 20 in a desired position, for example, inside the distal inner channel 5 and relative to the second wall 7. The length 58 of the distal inner channel 5 may be 2-6 mm, for example, 4-5 mm, in some examples.

[0050] The holder 10 may further include an intermediate inner channel 11 connecting the proximal inner channel 2 with the distal inner channel 5. When the nozzle output tube 10 is inserted into the distal inner channel 5, the intermediate inner channel 11 connects the proximal inner channel 2 with the output through hole 16 of the nozzle output tube 20. When a fluid transport tube 30, e.g. a flexible tube, is placed inside the proximal inner channel 2, fluid can advance through the fluid transport tube 30 and then through the intermediate inner channel 11 and the output through hole 16. The intermediate inner channel 11 may be provided in an intermediate portion of the nozzle 33. The intermediate portion may be understood as the portion between the proximal portion 31 and the distal portion 32, for example.

[0051] The intermediate internal channel 11 can have a diameter of 0.2-0.9 mm, in some examples about 0.8 mm. In other examples, the intermediate internal channel 11 can have a diameter of 0.2-0.4 mm, for example about 0.3 mm or about 0.4 mm. In some examples, the diameter of the intermediate internal channel 11 and the inner diameter of the fluid transport tube 30 can be substantially the same. A diameter of the intermediate internal channel 11 and an inner diameter of the fluid transport tube of 0.2-0.4 mm, in combination with the dimensions of the output through hole 16 of the nozzle 1, can provide a particularly good narrow spray beam while reducing the amount of fluid collected from the aerosol container 41. A similar or equal inner diameter of the fluid transport tube 30 and the inner diameter of the intermediate internal channel 11 can also reduce the risk of crystal formation between the fluid transport tube 30 and the intermediate internal channel 11. In some examples, the length of the intermediate internal channel 11 can be 2-6 mm, for example 2.5-4 mm.

[0052] In some examples, the diameter of the intermediate inner channel 11 may be 1.5 to 4 times larger than the diameter of the output through hole 16, for example 2 or 3 times larger. Such a ratio may allow to obtain a more precise beam while at the same time reducing the amount of fluid in the aerosol container 41 used. Thus, the number of times that the fluid can be sprayed can be increased. For example, if the aerosol dispenser is used to treat skin warts, a larger dose of treatment may be obtained for a given content of the aerosol dispenser.

[0053] In some examples, the intermediate interior channel 11 may be omitted, i.e., the proximal interior channel 2 may be adjacent to the output through-hole 16 of the nozzle.

[0054] The holder 10 may be rigid. For example, after the nozzle is connected to the base 42 of the head for the aerosol container 41, the non-flexible holder 10 may help to maintain the fluid transport tube 30, e.g., a tube that is more flexible than the holder, in a specific position for spraying. The direction of spraying may be better controlled. The holder 10 may be made of or include polypropylene in some examples. Other plastics or materials that make the holder 10 relatively unbendable may also be used.

[0055] In the case where the output through-hole 16 is provided in the nozzle output tube 20, the nozzle 1 may further comprise a nozzle output tube retainer 35 surrounding at least a distal portion of the holder 10. As shown in the example of FIG. 1A, the nozzle output tube retainer 35 may also at least partially surround a middle portion of the holder 10. The middle portion of the holder 10 may have a step 39 radially inward. The proximal end (base end) of the retainer 35 may extend up to the step 39 formed by the holder 10. A stronger connection between the retainer 25 and the holder 10 and thus a better fixation of the nozzle output tube 20 may be obtained.

[0056] The nozzle output tube retainer 35 may be radially flush with a portion of the holder 10 (see FIG. 1A). That is, the retainer 35 and the holder 10 may form a substantially flat outer surface along the length of the nozzle. This may allow for easy and comfortable introduction of the nozzle 1 into a body cavity, such as the mouth.

[0057] The retainer 35 may have a flange 36 that protrudes beyond the open distal end 6 of the holder 10 that prevents the nozzle output tube 20 from exiting the distal inner channel 5 of the holder 10. The flange 36 may protrude axially 21 and radially inward, as shown in FIG. 1B. Providing the retainer 35 may help to further secure the nozzle output tube 20 inside the distal inner channel 5.

[0058] The flange 36 may have a radial surface 37 that faces the open distal end 6 of the holder 10, and this surface 37 may extend radially beyond the holder 10 a certain amount to stop the nozzle output tube 20. The amount that the radial surface 37 extends may be adjusted to properly secure the nozzle output tube 20 and avoid interrupting the flow of the spray beam. The radial surface 37 may extend radially 8-10 times the inner diameter of the distal inner channel 5 in some examples.

[0059] The flange 36 may have an inner surface 38 that extends away from the open distal end 6 of the holder 10. The angle between the two opposing inner surfaces 38 of the flange may be between 45° and 75°, such as between 55° and 65°, such as about 60°. This angle may be measured in an axial cross section. These angles may avoid interruption of the spray beam flow and may also reduce or avoid dripping.

[0060] The nozzle output tube retainer 35 may be joined to the holder 10 by ultrasonic welding. This method of joining both elements may provide a strong attachment between the retainer 35 and the holder 10. Other methods of joining them may also be possible. For example, adhesives may be used additionally or alternatively. In some examples, the flange 36 may be joined to the open distal end 6 of the holder 10, for example by ultrasonic welding. Providing an attachment at the open distal end 6 of the holder may further contribute to increasing the strength of the attachment.

[0061] In a further aspect of the disclosure, a head 40 for an aerosol container 41 is provided. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of an example of the aerosol head 40. FIG. 4 is a side view of an example of the aerosol head 40. FIG. 5 is a perspective front view of the aerosol head 40. The head 40 is configured to be coupled to the aerosol container 41. The head 40 comprises a base 42, the base being configured to be coupled to the aerosol container 41. The base 42 further comprises an outlet port 43. The head 40 further comprises a nozzle 1 as described herein. The head 40 further comprises a fluid delivery tube 30, e.g., a flexible tube, within the base 42. The tube 30 extends through the outlet port 43 outside the base 42 and into the nozzle 1. The base 42 may be coupled to the aerosol container, e.g., by a snap fit or by a matching thread on a bottom 52 of the base 42.

[0062] The fluid delivery tube 30 is configured to provide fluid communication between the aerosol container 41 and the output through-hole 16 of the nozzle 1 having a particular diameter and a particular length, so that the fluid in the aerosol container 41 can be precisely atomized. Narrower beams may be obtained for other nozzles having different sized output through-holes 16.

[0063] In some examples, the nozzle 1 may be attached to the outlet section 43 of the base 42, for example, by ultrasonic welding. The nozzle 1 may have a proximal flange 44 to facilitate this or other attachment methods. Other methods of attaching the nozzle 1 and the base 42 may be used in other examples. By way of example, adhesives, clamps, or threaded joints, for example using matching threads, may be used. The attachment may be fixed, i.e., non-removable, or may be removable. For example, matching threads provide a removable attachment, while ultrasonic welding provides a fixed attachment. Ultrasonic welding may provide a strong and durable attachment between the nozzle 1 and the base 42. Attaching the nozzle 1 to the outlet section 43 of the base 42 may help to increase precision, since the position of the fluid transport tube 30 may be better controlled. In this way, movement and vibration of the fluid transport tube 30 may be reduced. The attachment between the nozzle 1 and the outlet section 43 of the base 42 may be via the distal end 6 of the holder 10 of the nozzle 1, for example, via the proximal flange 44.

[0064] In other examples, the proximal region 25 of the nozzle 1 can be attached to the fluid transport tube 30. For example, the inner wall of the holder 10 of the nozzle 1, for example the inner wall of the proximal inner channel 2, can be attached to the fluid transport tube 30. The attachment can be fixed or removable. For example, an adhesive can be used to provide a fixed, non-removable attachment. In other examples, tapering the proximal inner channel 2 towards the output through-hole 16 can be sufficient to fix the nozzle 1 to the fluid transport tube 30. For example, an axial or inclined (with respect to the axial) inner wall of the proximal inner channel 2 can help to hold the fluid transport tube 30 therein. The holder 10 can be rigid. The movement of the fluid transport tube 30 can be further limited and controlled by the holder 10 being non-bendable or barely bendable. In some examples, immobilization of the fluid transport tube 30 can be achieved.

[0065] The inner diameter of the fluid transport tube 30 and the diameter of the intermediate internal channel 11 may be substantially the same. This may help to avoid or at least reduce crystal formation between the distal end of the fluid transport tube 30 and the first wall 4. This may also help to reduce the amount of fluid in the aerosol container 41 that is used each time nebulization occurs.

[0066] The head 40 may further comprise an elastically deformable actuator 50 for directly or indirectly pressing a valve activator 45 of the aerosol container 41, so that fluids, e.g. propellant and active ingredient, in the aerosol container 41 flow through a valve outlet 46 and through the fluid transport tube 30 towards the output through-hole 16 of the nozzle 1. The fluid transport tube 30 may be a continuous tube, i.e., integrally formed. A fluid transport tube 30 having a single tube section may help to reduce crystal formation.

[0067] The elastically deformable actuator 50 may include a lever arm 57 and a coupling portion 48 integrally formed with the lever arm 57. The coupling portion 48 may be configured to be attached around the fluid transport tube 30, the valve outlet 46, and a portion of the valve activator 45. The coupling portion 48 may have a through hole 56 for the fluid transport tube 30 to pass through. The coupling portion 48 may be configured such that when the lever arm 57 is deformed by a user, the coupling portion 48 acts on the valve activator 45 of the aerosol container 41, thereby opening the valve outlet 46 and releasing the contents of the aerosol container 41. The coupling portion 48 may include a downward projection 54.

[0068] The head base 42 may, in some examples, include a removable upper flange 49, which may aid in assembling the aerosol dispenser head 40. In other examples, the head base 42 may be integrally formed.

[0069] The disk 51 can be accommodated inside the base 42, corresponding to the bottom 52 of the base 42 (see FIG. 3). The disk 51 can be rotatable and can include an extension 53 for handling by the user (see FIG. 4). The disk 51 can include two or more steps with different heights, and the downward projection 54 of the coupling 48 can be configured to contact any of the steps. The extension 53 of the disk 51 can make it possible to rotate the disk 51 inside the bottom 52 of the base 42 of the head and engage the different steps of the disk 51. The lever arm 57 can be configured to be actuated by the user until the downward projection 54 hits one of the steps of the disk. These steps can thus provide a limit to the downward movement allowed for the coupling 48 and the stroke that the user can make with the lever arm 57.

[0070] One stage of the disk can have a height such that the downward projection 54 of the coupling 48 is prevented from moving downwardly and therefore the lever arm 57 cannot be actuated. This stage can be referred to as the "safety stage" or "off stage." The stage having a height such that the lever arm 57 can be actuated can be referred to as the "on stage." The disk 51 can have, for example, an "on stage" and an "off stage" in some examples. Further examples can incorporate additional intermediate stages.

[0071] Note that in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 3, extension 53 has been rotated out of the plane of the cross section and is therefore not visible in this particular view.

[0072] In some examples, the head body, upper flange 49 and / or disk 51 may be made from polypropylene (PP), such as Bormed™ HD810MO available from Borealis. The flexible tube may be made from another polypropylene (PP), such as PP available from Raumedic-. The nozzle holder may also be made from Bormed™ HD810MO, for example. The aerosol container or canister may also be made from aluminum. The output via said tube may be made from PEEK.

[0073] In a further aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol dispenser 47 is provided. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of an example of an aerosol dispenser. The aerosol dispenser includes an aerosol container 41 and an aerosol head 40 according to any of the examples described herein.

[0074] The aerosol container 41 includes a valve assembly 55. The valve assembly 55 includes a valve activator 45 having a valve outlet 46 for selectively opening a passageway from the interior of the aerosol container to the valve outlet 46. In some examples (such as the example shown), the valve activator 45 may be a stem that is urged upward (to a closed position) by a spring. A dip tube may be provided below the valve activator 45. Moving the valve activator 45 downward may compress the spring and open a passageway from the dip tube to the valve outlet 46. In general, any suitable valve activator 45 may be used. The aerosol container may include norflurane as a propellant in some examples, for example. In other examples, the aerosol container may include HFO 1234 ze or HFO 152a. HFO 1234 ze and HFO 152a may be used as propellants, as well as norflurane.

[0075] In further examples, other valves having other valve activators may be used.

[0076] In further examples, different compositions can be used in combination as propellants and active ingredients, particularly as a mixture of any composition or compound suitable for use in cryotherapy. In some examples, the composition can include liquid nitrogen as an active ingredient and / or propellant. In yet another example, compositions including dimethyl ether, propane and / or isobutene can be envisaged.

[0077] The combination of a relatively narrow and long output through the tubing and connection to the valve assembly 55 has been found to produce a "stop" sound that is pleasant for the patient after use. Propellant and active ingredients between the valve assembly 55 and the nozzle outlet can back up and escape around the valve assembly 55 when nebulization is stopped, producing a slight sound that indicates operation has been stopped.

[0078] This specification uses examples to disclose teachings, including preferred embodiments, and also enables one of ordinary skill in the art to practice these teachings, including making and using any device or system, and running any incorporated methods. The patentable scope is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those of ordinary skill in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that do not differ substantially from the language of the claims. Aspects from the various embodiments described, as well as other known equivalents of each such aspect, may be combined by those of ordinary skill in the art to construct additional embodiments and techniques according to the principles of this application. When reference signs related to the drawings are placed within parentheses in the claims, they are merely for the purpose of enhancing the clarity of the claims, and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0079] 1 nozzle 2. Proximal Internal Channel 5. Distal Inner Channel 10 Holder 11 Middle inner channel 16 Output through hole 20 Nozzle output tube 25 Proximal region of the nozzle (base end region) 26 Distal region of nozzle (tip region) 30 Fluid transport pipe 35 Nozzle output tube retainer 36 Nozzle output tube retainer flange 40 Head 41 Aerosol containers 42 Base 50 Actuator

Claims

1. A nozzle (1) for spraying a fluid in an aerosol container (41), comprising: a proximal region (25) configured to receive a fluid transport tube (30) configured to provide fluid communication with said aerosol container (41); a distal region (26) including an output through hole (16), said output through hole (16) having a diameter of 0.20 mm or less and a length of 2 to 6 mm; A nozzle comprising:

2. 2. The nozzle of claim 1, wherein the output through hole (16) has a diameter of less than or equal to 0.18 mm, in particular less than or equal to 0.15 mm, in particular between 0.05 and 0.15 mm, more in particular between 0.08 and 0.12 mm.

3. 3. The nozzle of claim 1 or 2, further comprising a nozzle output tube (20), said nozzle output tube (20) including said output throughbore (16) and inserted into said distal region (26).

4. The nozzle of claim 3, wherein the nozzle output tube (20) comprises or is made from polyetheretherketone.

5. The catheter further comprises a holder (10) extending between the open proximal end (3) and the open distal end (6), the holder (10) comprising: a proximal internal channel (2) configured to receive said fluid transport tube (30); a distal inner channel (5) configured to receive said nozzle output tube (20); 5. The nozzle of claim 3 or 4, comprising:

6. The nozzle of claim 5, wherein the holder (10) further comprises an intermediate inner channel (11) connecting the proximal inner channel (2) with the distal inner channel (5).

7. The intermediate internal channel (11) is formed between a first wall (4) and a second wall (7), 7. The nozzle according to claim 6, wherein the first wall (4) is configured as a stopper for the fluid transport pipe (30) and / or the second wall (7) is configured as a stopper for the nozzle output pipe (20).

8. Nozzle according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the intermediate internal channel (11) has a diameter of 0.2 to 0.9 mm.

9. The nozzle (1) further comprises a nozzle output tube retainer (35) surrounding at least a distal portion of the holder (10); 9. The nozzle of claim 5, wherein the nozzle output tube retainer (35) has a flange (36) that protrudes beyond the open distal end (6) of the holder (10) and prevents the nozzle output tube (20) from exiting the distal internal channel (5) of the holder (10).

10. A head (40) for an aerosol container (41), comprising: a base (42) configured to be coupled to the aerosol container (41), the base (42) including an outlet port (43); A nozzle (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, connected to the base (42); a fluid transport tube (30) in the base (42), the fluid transport tube extending through the outlet (43) outside the base (42) into the nozzle (1); A head.

11. The head of claim 10, wherein the diameter of the intermediate internal channel (11) and the inner diameter of the fluid transport tube (30) are substantially the same.

12. A head according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the nozzle (1) is attached to an outlet (43) of the base (42).

13. A head according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the fluid transport tube (30) is flexible and / or continuous.

14. The actuator further comprises an elastically deformable actuator (50), the elastically deformable actuator (50) comprising: A lever arm (57); a coupling (48) formed integrally with the lever arm (57) and configured to mount around the fluid delivery tube (30), the aerosol valve outlet (46), and a portion of the aerosol valve activator (45); Including, the coupling (48) is configured such that when the lever arm (57) is deformed by a user, the coupling (48) acts on the valve activator (45) of the aerosol container (41); A head according to any one of claims 10 to 13.

15. 1. An aerosol dispenser comprising: A head (40) according to any one of claims 12 to 14, an aerosol container (41) including a valve assembly (55), the valve assembly (55) including a valve outlet (46) and a valve activator (45) for selectively opening a passageway from an interior of the aerosol container (41) to the valve outlet (46); An aerosol dispenser comprising:

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