Nitric oxide supply system

Abstract

To provide a system and method for accurately supplying therapeutic gas to a patient needing it.SOLUTION: A patient receives breathing gas from a high frequency ventilator using at least an enhanced therapeutic gas (e.g., nitric oxide and NO) flow measuring device. At least some of the enhanced therapeutic gas flow measuring devices can be used to address some surprising phenomena that occur when therapeutic gas is blended into breathing gas the patient receives from a breathing circuit mounted with the high frequency ventilator with a turbulent flow. When using at least some of the enhanced therapeutic gas flow measuring devices, the dose of therapeutic gas blended into breathing gas that the patient receives with a turbulent flow can be more accurate and / or insufficient supply of therapeutic gas into the breathing gas can be avoided and / or reduced.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to a system and method for supplying a therapeutic gas to a patient who receives breathing gas from a ventilator and requires a therapeutic gas, and at least changes in pressure and / or flow rate, using a flow meter for promoting therapeutic gas (NO).

Background Art

[0002] It is possible to supply a therapeutic gas to a patient who needs it and provide medical benefits. One of these therapeutic gases is nitric oxide (NO) gas, which functions to dilate blood vessels in the lungs when infected with air, improve the oxygen supply of the blood, and reduce pulmonary hypertension. At least for this reason, nitric oxide can be provided to patients with pulmonary hypertension as a therapeutic gas in breathing gas.

[0003] Furthermore, many patients receive breathing gas (e.g., inspiratory breathing gas) from a ventilator, and the ventilator can change at least pressure and / or flow rate (e.g., high-frequency ventilator, etc.). Instead of a conventional ventilator, a high-frequency ventilator uses a constant inflated pressure (meaning mean airway pressure [MAP]), and the pressure vibrates and changes very rapidly (e.g., up to 900 revolutions per minute, etc.) around MAP. In other words, a high-frequency ventilator maintains a constant pressure within the patient's breathing circuit, and this pressure vibrates very rapidly. Advantageously, this can promote gas exchange across the blood vessels in the patient's lungs.

[0004] Although high-frequency ventilators are beneficial, patients who receive breathing gas from high-frequency ventilators can receive further benefits from therapeutic gases. Utilizing these further benefits, therapeutic gases are high-frequency ​​​​​​​​​​​​It is necessary to supply the respiratory gas that the patient receives from the breathing circuit attached to the ventilator. However, supplying therapeutic gas into the patient's respiratory gas supplied from the high-frequency ventilator to the patient. This is because there are difficulties and / or unexpected problems. Unexpected problems could affect the accuracy of the supply and / or administration of the therapeutic gas.

[0005] Therefore, a ventilator capable of changing at least the pressure and / or flow rate (e.g.) This occurs when supplying therapeutic gas to patients who receive respiratory gas from devices such as high-frequency ventilators. Overcoming difficulties and / or unexpected problems to improve the accuracy of the supply and / or administration of therapeutic gases. It needs to be changed. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 5558083 [Patent Document 2] U.S. Patent No. 14 / 672447 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] One aspect of the present invention is a nitric oxide supply that provides a therapeutic gas containing NO to the inspiratory limb portion of a breathing circuit. In relation to the supply system, the breathing circuit can be fitted with a high-frequency ventilator. This nitrate monoxide The supply system receives the flow rate of the therapeutic gas and injects the therapeutic gas into the supply circuit. It can have a module. The injection module can measure forward NO flow rate. A unidirectional NO flow sensor can be used (for example, to go into an injection module, nitric oxide supply system). (e.g., from the system to the injection module) and / or forward NO flow rate and reverse NO flow rate It may have a bidirectional NO flow sensor capable of measuring and / or It can be trusted. The above flow sensor and / or nitric oxide supply from the flow sensor Using the information communicated to the system, the nitric oxide supply system delivers NO to the injection module. This allows for more accurate supply and / or avoids insufficient supply of therapeutic gas into the respiratory gas. And / or can be reduced.

[0008] In an exemplary embodiment, the NO flow sensor is at least found by the applicant It can be used to address surprising and erroneous flow phenomena.

[0009] In an exemplary embodiment, flow rate information can be obtained from a bidirectional flow sensor. The information from this bidirectional flow sensor can change at least the pressure and / or flow rate. It can be used to detect the use of a ventilator (e.g., a high-frequency ventilator), and / Alternatively, it may be possible to correct distortions in flow rate information generated by a ventilator. Cut.

[0010] In an exemplary embodiment, flow rate information can be obtained from a unidirectional flow sensor. The information from this one-way flow sensor can change at least the pressure and / or flow rate. It can be used to detect the use of a ventilator (e.g., a high-frequency ventilator), and / Alternatively, it may be possible to correct distortions in flow rate information generated by a ventilator. Cut. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] The features and advantages of the present invention will be more fully understood by reference to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It will be appreciated. [Figure 1] An exemplary nitric oxide supply system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 2] An exemplary nitric oxide supply system having a check valve according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 3] An exemplary nitric oxide supply system using an exemplary ventilator having a free breathing valve according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 4A] An exemplary injection module having a bidirectional NO flow sensor according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 4B] An exemplary injection module having a bidirectional NO flow sensor according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 5A] An exemplary graphical display of information from a flow sensor according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 5B] An exemplary graphical display of information from a flow sensor according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 5C] An exemplary graphical display of information from a flow sensor according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 6A] An exemplary graphical display of information from a flow sensor including information on negative flow and / or a negative flow according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 6B] An exemplary graphical display of information from a flow sensor including information on negative flow and / or a negative flow according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 6C] An exemplary graphical display of information from a flow sensor including information on negative flow and / or a negative flow according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0012] This invention generally provides treatment to patients who require therapeutic gas and receive respiratory gas from a ventilator. In relation to the gas supply system and method, the ventilator must have at least pressure and / or flow rate It can change (for example, radiofrequency ventilators), and among the many, accelerating therapeutic gases ( For example, use a flow meter for nitric oxide, NO, etc. These are used for measuring the flow rate of therapeutic gases. At least some of the vessels can be used to deal with some surprising phenomena These phenomena sometimes occur in ventilators that can change at least the pressure and / or flow rate. (For example, a high-frequency ventilator) The respiratory gas received by the patient from the respiratory circuit contains turbidity. This occurs when the therapeutic gas is mixed in a flow. At least these facilitating therapeutic gas flow meters By utilizing some and / or the present invention, disturbances in the respiratory gas received by a patient from a ventilator can be reduced. The dosage of the therapeutic gas mixed in the flow becomes more accurate, and / or the therapeutic gases are delivered into the respiratory gas. This can help avoid and / or reduce shortages of therapeutic gas supply.

[0013] The terms used here are "mixed in a proportionally turbulent flow," "mixed in a turbulent flow," and "proportional." "Quantitative mixing" and similar terms relate to the mixing of flows and allow for adjustment of the main flow in relation to turbulent flows. It is an uncontrollable flow, and the components introduced into this turbulent flow become part of the mainstream. It controls and mixes with the mainstream flow meter upstream (or alternatively downstream). Various implementations In terms of form, the intake airflow is a "turbulent flow," and it does not require any particular control or regulation of the flow rate. Furthermore, nitric oxide is supplied as part of the intake airflow through the supply line. It is a mixed element.

[0014] The "false NO flow rate" and similar terms used here are incorrectly measured by flow sensors. This shows a flow rate phenomenon. This example of false NO flow rate is not limited to, but NO is accurate. Measurement of NO flow rate using a flow sensor when no flow is occurring, and the actual NO flow rate differs significantly from the measured value. The NO flow rate is measured as a value.

[0015] The system and method of the present invention supply therapeutic gas from a supply system to an injection module. This can then be done, and next, a breathing circuit (not limited to, but including a high-frequency ventilator, and / or whatever) Fluid-connected to other applicable ventilators and / or ventilating technologies, and for breathing The patient receives respiratory gas from the circuit. The system and method of the present invention includes at least one There is a therapeutic gas flow sensor that detects the flow of therapeutic gas from the supply system to the injection module. Next, measure the flow rate within the breathing circuit and to the patient. Advantageously, a therapeutic gas flow sensor is used. It can measure flow rates in one or more directions (e.g., a bidirectional therapeutic gas flow sensor) and / or, Dealing with some surprising phenomena, these phenomena sometimes involve at least pressure and / or flow A breathing circuit equipped with a ventilator that can adjust the amount of air it can expend (e.g., a high-frequency ventilator). This occurs when therapeutic gases are mixed with respiratory gases in a turbulent flow.

[0016] Furthermore, the system and method of the present invention are based on technology (e.g., algorithms, user input, A ventilator that can change at least the pressure and / or flow rate using (etc.) Using (for example, a high-frequency ventilator) to compensate for at least some surprising phenomena It is possible to determine whether or not to correct it, and the surprising phenomenon is that sometimes, breathing with a ventilator... This occurs when therapeutic gases are mixed with breathing gases in a turbulent flow within the circuit. Sometimes, information from at least the therapeutic gas flow sensor can be used, and therapeutic gas A flow sensor can measure flow rate in one direction (e.g., a unidirectional flow sensor) and / or capable of measuring flow rate in one or more directions (e.g., a bidirectional flow sensor).

[0017] Furthermore, the system and method of the present invention are based on technology (e.g., algorithms, user input) (and / or) can be used in more effective operating valves, and / or, To give a few examples, static friction, dynamic friction, and / or valve partial interaction affect valve operation. The force that can be applied can be corrected. In at least some embodiments This results in improved accuracy of NO supply and monitoring, and the respiratory gas of the therapeutic gas. This can prevent and / or reduce supply shortages within the country.

[0018] Referring to Figure 1, the respiratory gas is received from the radiofrequency ventilator via the infusion module. An example nitric oxide supply system 100 for supplying therapeutic nitric oxide gas to a patient is illustrated. To demonstrate. Any of the technologies of this invention apply to respiratory devices (e.g., ventilators, radiofrequency ventilators) To supply therapeutic gas to patients receiving respiratory gas (from a breathing mask, nasal cannula, etc.) It can be used in systems where misalignment is applicable. For example, the system and method of the present invention are Prior Patent Document 1 (U.S. Patent No. 5558083) is a supply system and / or other technology. The "Nitric Oxide Supply System" in the sub-document may be used, modified, and / or added to, prior to The contents of Patent Document 1 can be incorporated by referring to the whole document.

[0019] The system and method of the present invention sometimes demonstrate use in conjunction with a high-frequency ventilator, but the present invention The system and method can be used with any applicable respiratory device. Any applicable respiratory device may face difficulties and / or problems with high-frequency ventilators. To provide any applicable breathing apparatus and / or reverse inspiratory pressure and / or pressure A ventilator and / or ventilating technology (e.g., a biphasic positive pressure mask, pressure) that can perform this function. Any applicable method, including any artificial respiration technique that changes the flow rate, etc. It can be fitted with a breathing device. Therefore, calling it a high-frequency ventilator is simply easy. This is for the purpose of, and is not limited to, the intake pressure and / or flow rate are sometimes reversed. Furthermore, there is no pressure and / or flow rate that can remain positive (e.g., high-frequency sine). Change the wave pressure and / or flow rate. For simplicity, reverse the intake pressure and / or flow rate. To call it creation is sometimes to refer to pressure and / or flow rate that can remain positive (e.g., high This causes a situation where the frequency sinusoidal pressure and / or flow rate changes. Therefore, reverse intake The terms "pressure" and / or "flow rate" are used for simplicity and are not limiting.

[0020] The system and method of the present invention can be used in conjunction with any applicable therapeutic gas. Yes, it is possible. Therapeutic gases, therapeutic gas flow meters, therapeutic gas supply systems, and similar devices can be used with air. This explanation refers to nitric oxide (NO) gas used in the treatment of infected individuals. Please understand that the following therapeutic gases can also be used: Nitric oxide, NO, and Calling them similar is for simplicity's sake and does not imply any limitation.

[0021] The system and method of the present invention relates to the breathing of a patient in the breathing circuit and / or at any of the locations. It can be used to mix therapeutic gases into a gaseous environment in a turbulent flow. According to the examples, The therapeutic gas can be mixed in a turbulent flow with the patient's breathing gas at a location before the breathing circuit. Yes, it is possible. In other examples, in at least some cases, the patient's breathing circuit has been shown to have: It may include only one limb for both inspiration and exhalation. For example, BiPAP patient A respiratory apparatus may have only one limb connecting the inspiratory limb and the expiratory limb. According to the embodiment, the therapeutic gas can function as both an inspiratory and expiratory limb. It can be mixed in a turbulent flow within the patient's respiratory gas in the limbs. For simplicity, the patient The breathing circuit of a person is sometimes shown to have separate inspiratory and expiratory limbs. This is simple. This is for the purpose of, and is not limited to, anything.

[0022] In an exemplary embodiment, a nitric oxide supply system such as a nitric oxide supply system 100 M is a therapeutic gas (e.g.,) in the patient's breathing gas in the breathing circuit (attached to a radiofrequency ventilator). For example, nitric oxide (NO, etc.) is included as part of the patient's respiratory gas (e.g., ppm). , and / or as pulses (e.g., ml / breath, mg / kg / hour, etc.), turbulent flow It can be used for mixing. NO or pulsed NO (for example, as a pulse) To mix in the patient's respiratory gas in at least a turbulent flow (e.g., mixing in a turbulent flow) The nitric oxide supply system 100 uses a nitric oxide source 103 (for example, a cylindrical storage of NO, Nitric oxide is supplied from, for example, a NO generator, etc., via conduit 105 to and / or receive nitric oxide. It can be obtained. Instead of a cylinder of NO-containing gas, NO can be generated bedside. A suitable chemical reaction, for example, using an NO-releasing agent such as nitrogen dioxide with a reducing agent such as ascorbic acid It can be generated by reactions such as the above. Furthermore, the conduit 105 is, for example, connected to the therapeutic gas inlet 110. Through this, it can also be fluidly connected to the injection module 107, and the injection module 107 also Furthermore, it can be fluidly connected to the inspiratory limb portion of the breathing circuit equipped with the high-frequency ventilator 117.

[0023] As shown in the figure, the radiofrequency ventilator 117 delivers the breathing gas (for example, forward flow rate 133) The inspiratory outlet supplies air to the patient via the inspiratory limb portion 121 of the patient's breathing circuit, and the patient's exhaled air is supplied to the patient. It may have an exhalation inlet that receives air through the exhalation branch of the person's breathing circuit. When the 107 is connected to the inspiratory branch 121 of the breathing circuit, nitric oxide is supplied by the nitric oxide. From the supply system 100 (for example, NO forward flow rate 137) to the injection module 107, conduit 1 This nitric oxide can be supplied via 05 and / or the treatment gas inlet 110. Subsequently, radiofrequency is used to supply breathing gas to patient 108 via the infusion module. It can be supplied into the inspiratory branch 121 of the breathing circuit of a patient attached to a ventilator 117.

[0024] Nitric oxide is injected into the infusion module 107 via the conduit 105, and then the respiratory gas is injected into the patient's respiratory system. To regulate the flow rate received from the circuit to patient 108, the nitric oxide supply system 100 It may have one or more control valves 109 (e.g., proportional valves, bidirectional valves, etc.). For example, when the control valve 109 is open, nitric oxide is directed forward (for example). NO forward flow rate 137) flows through conduit 105 to infusion module 107, then to patient 108. This allows it to be supplied to patient 108. In other embodiments, control valve 10 When 9 is closed, nitric oxide does not flow in the forward direction and is therefore not supplied to patient 108. It will not be done.

[0025] In at least some embodiments, the nitric oxide supply system 100 is one or the same It is possible to have more than this NO flow sensor 115, and the NO flow sensor is a control valve 10 Measure the flow rate of the therapeutic gas through conduit 9 and / or conduit 105 (e.g., NO forward flow rate 137). It can then be injected through the treatment gas inlet 110 into the injection module 107, and then into the patient 10 It is possible to measure the flow rate of the therapeutic gas up to 8. Furthermore, at least several actual In this embodiment, the infusion module 107 provides one or more respiratory circuit gas (BCG) flows. It may have a volume sensor 119, and the respiratory circuit gas (BCG) flow sensor 119 is The patient's respiratory gas (e.g., forward flow) passes through the infusion module 107 and then flows to the patient 108. The flow rate of at least 133) can be measured. As shown in the injection module 107, BCG The flow sensor 119 is located anywhere within the expiratory limb portion 121, upstream of the infusion module 107. It can be installed in places such as the following. It also receives flow rate information from the BCG flow sensor 119. Instead, the nitric oxide supply system 100 provides the respiratory gas from the radiofrequency ventilator 117. Flow rate information can be received directly from the high-frequency ventilator 117, which indicates the flow.

[0026] In exemplary embodiments, the system and method of the present invention are a therapeutic gas breathing system and The therapeutic gas breathing system and the method may be used, modified, and / or attached together with the method. It has a bidirectional breathing circuit gas (BCG) flow sensor. According to the examples shown here, One or more breathing circuit gas (BCG) flow sensors 119 are bidirectional and / Alternatively, the system and method of the present invention further comprises one or more bidirectional breathing circuit gases ( It may have a BCG flow sensor. For example, the system and method of the present invention may have It may be used, modified, and / or attached to the supply system and / or other teachings, and other teachings This refers to prior patent document 2 (U.S. Patent No. 14 / 672447, filed March 30, 2015). Detailed document, "System for supplying therapeutic gas to patients using accelerating breathing circuit gas (BCG) flow measurement" The "System and Methods" are included here, and their contents are incorporated here by referring to the entire document.

[0027] In an exemplary embodiment, the nitric oxide gas flow rate is proportional to the breathing gas flow rate. (It is also known that it is proportional to the supply voltage) in mixed respiratory gases and therapeutic gases It provides NO at a predetermined concentration. For example, the nitric oxide gas supply system 100 provides NO at a predetermined concentration In respiratory and therapeutic gases mixed with NO of a certain degree, the known NO concentration of NO source 103 is used. This can be guaranteed by using the BCG flow sensor 119 in the patient's circuit. The amount of breathing gas in the conduit 105; and information from the NO flow sensor 115. This is the amount of therapeutic gas flow to the injection module 107.

[0028] At least to supply therapeutic gas to the patient and / or to some of the teachings disclosed herein To at least carry out the above, the nitric oxide supply system 100 has a control system The control system may have one or more CPUs 111. CPU111 can be connected to memory (not shown), and also to one or more It is easily accessible memory, such as random access memory (RAM). ROM (ROM), flash memory, compact disk, floppy disk P-disk, hard disk, or local or remote digital storage These include the following. The support circuit (not shown) is connected to the CPU 111, and the CPU 111, sensor, and Lubricants, sampling systems, user input / display, infusion modules, respiratory equipment, etc. These can be supported by conventional methods. These circuits include cache memory, power supply Light, clock circuit, input / output electrical circuit, subsystem, power control device, signal control Distors, and similar ones. CPU111 is a sensor, valve, sampler. Communication with the feeding system, supply system, user input / display, infusion module, respiratory equipment, etc. It can be trusted. In an exemplary embodiment, the memory is executed by the CPU 111. When doing so, it can store a series of machine-executable instructions (or algorithms) and supply them A system can perform a method. For example, a supply system can perform a method. The steps include: measuring the flow rate in the inspiratory limb portion of the patient's breathing circuit; and measuring the inspiratory flow rate between the two steps. The steps include supplying a therapeutic gas containing nitric oxide to the patient; and changing the inspiratory flow rate or the inspiratory flow rate. Steps to monitor the transformation and the amount of therapeutic gas supplied at a continuous inspiratory flow rate ( For example, it includes a step of changing the volume or mass. The instructions for this machine execution also include this Instructions may also be provided for any of the other methods shown here.

[0029] Furthermore, in order to ensure at least accurate administration of the therapeutic gas, a nitric oxide supply system 100 It may have a user input / display 113, and the user input / display 113 is a A display, keyboard, and / or buttons, or a touchscreen device. User - Input / Display 113 receives predetermined settings from the user and the patient's prescription (mg / kg Standard body weight, mg / kg / hour, mg / kg / respiration, mL / respiration, cylindrical concentration, supply concentration, duration The system receives information such as the patient's age, height, gender, and weight (time, etc.). User input / display 113 is Furthermore, when used with a high-frequency ventilator, etc., it receives user input related to the operating mode. It is possible. For example, user input / display 113 is nitric oxide supply system 100 To indicate that it is to be used with a high-frequency ventilator, the user should press a button or use other means. It has. User input / display 113 defines the patient's dosage and / or gas measurement. In at least some embodiments used in this, for example, a sample line is sent to patient 108. A gas sampling system that can receive gas samples supplied via 131 This can be done using the M129. The gas sampling system 129 has many sensors. It is possible, and is not limited to, nitric oxide gas sensors, nitrogen dioxide gas sensors - and oxygen gas, etc., and relevant information (e.g., gas concentration) is used It can be used to display on the input / display 113.

[0030] As shown in Figures 1-3, the CPU 111 controls the control valve 119, user input / display Display 113, NO flow sensor 115, BCG flow sensor 119 and / or gas sample It can communicate with the integrating system 129. The CPU 111 uses an appropriate algorithm. Through this process, one of the methods shown here can be performed.

[0031] The above method involves a patient receiving respiratory gas from the breathing circuit of a patient with a radiofrequency ventilator. It can be used to beneficially supply therapeutic gases, but the above method is at least It is not possible to explain several surprising phenomena, such as the patient's respiratory gas These are generated when NO is mixed in a turbulent flow within the patient's respiratory gas. Without knowledge of at least some of the phenomena, it is impossible to determine the exact NO concentration (for example, the patient's respiratory rate). The NO concentration of the inhaled gas (e.g., parts per million (PPM) NO) differs from the specified NO concentration. For example, insufficient administration. This NO concentration can be used as the prescribed dosage for the patient. Therefore, it is especially important. Thus, by explaining at least some of these phenomena... This allows for more accurate NO administration, avoiding and / or reducing NO deficiency. It is possible.

[0032] In a breathing circuit equipped with a high-frequency ventilator, the patient's respiratory gases and NO are mixed in a turbulent flow. Extensive research has revealed a surprising decrease (erroneous NO flow phenomenon) that can be found to have occurred. In at least some embodiments, the nitric oxide supply line (e.g., conduit 105) ) and / or cause NO flow rate in the injection module (e.g., treatment gas inlet 110) The flow sensor 115 measures whether it is flowing incorrectly (even if NO is not flowing). ). As a result, for example, NO supply system 100 supplies and / or monitors NO supply and / or The accuracy of the NO flow rate decreases, and this incorrect NO flow rate causes the NO supply system 100 to be in a predetermined state. If the system supplies too little NO (for example, insufficient dose), it will mistakenly believe that NO is being supplied. That's how I perceive it.

[0033] These incorrect NO flow measurements were, for example, recognized as flow by a flow sensor. In the high-frequency ventilator 117, a rapid-acting valve and / or diagram (not shown) The resulting vibration or pressure vibration is then triggered, and the NO supply system 100 then... It can be used for supplying and / or monitoring. The flow rate is measured by the flow sensor 115. This is a misconception, but this is because these vibrations or pressure vibrations are included in the conduit 105. When pressure is applied to the NO gas in a short time, and a very small amount of NO flows through the conduit 105, this As a result of pressurization and / or depressurization (sometimes simply referred to as pressurization), NO flow sensor 11 5. You can see the flow rate above (for example, NO forward flow rate 137). As a result, in reality, forward NO forward flow rate 137 is generated when there is no directional flow rate or no flow rate at all (for example, in a conduit). In 105, in the injection module 107, through the treatment gas inlet, etc., and nitrogen monoxide This could lead to a situation where the supply system detects incorrectly. Therefore, at least this incorrect flow rate can occur. As a result, the accuracy of NO supply and monitoring has improved, and the therapeutic gas has been delivered into the respiratory gas. It is possible to avoid / reduce shortages.

[0034] Looking at Figure 2, in the exemplary embodiment, at least the incorrect NO flow rate is addressed. At that time, a check valve 202 (for example, a pneumatic check valve) is installed in fluid connection with the intake limb 121. This is possible. For example, a check valve can be installed by fluid connection to the intake limb 121. It is not installed in the intake limb portion 121. In other embodiments, the check valve 202 is in the injection module It can be installed upstream of the 107 at the intake limb 121. When using, the check valve 202 It opens and arrives at the injection module 107 and / or is measured by the flow sensor 115. Before proceeding, ensure that any incorrect NO flow sources, vibrations, and / or pressure fluctuations are reversed. Check valve The use of valves can address at least some of the problems associated with incorrect NO flow rates. However, these check valves also introduce many problems, and these problems include, but are not limited to, To give 23 examples, response delay flow rate from forward flow cracking pressure, surface seals and materials The material's physical attractiveness due to electrostatic discharge may affect sealing performance due to contamination, component tolerances, or material selection. Repeated use between units, surface finish that affects sealing performance, audible noise or Characterized as an undamped spring-mass system that is susceptible to the generation of vibrations, or "noise," induced by forward flow. This can impair the accuracy, repeatability, and control response time of flow control. .

[0035] Furthermore, the check valve 202 can obstruct the ventilator, and the ventilator is shown in Figure 3. As shown, it has a free breathing valve 302. Free breathing valve 302 (a valve that sometimes prevents suffocation) The vent (called a "b") opens to the air, allowing the patient to breathe unconsciously using a ventilator. The free breathing valve 302 allows patients who are trying to breathe unconsciously to breathe air. A ventilator is necessary to enable the patient to inhale. According to the examples, artificial When the ventilator does not have this free breathing valve 302, it controls the time that respiratory air is supplied to the patient. It can be considered as a closed system with a ventilator. This free breathing valve If the patient is unconsciously trying to breathe, the user will not be able to inhale air and breathe. There is no inlet for air to flow into the patient's breathing circuit. With this free breathing valve, the patient When you try to breathe unconsciously, the free breathing valve then activates the user's surrounding environment. It can be operated to allow air to be drawn in. Regarding ventilators equipped with a free breathing valve. Therefore, the check valve provided in the patient's breathing circuit allows interference from the free breathing valve, and the check valve This device does not achieve the purpose of this safety feature and should not be used with this ventilator.

[0036] In exemplary embodiments, interference with the free breathing valve 302 is reduced and / or To prevent this, check valve 202 and / or further check valves are installed in the injection module 107, for the therapeutic gas. It can be installed by connecting to the inlet 110 and / or the conduit 105 and / or fluid.

[0037] In exemplary embodiments, at least some of the above phenomena (e.g., incorrect NO flow rate) may occur. To address issues such as (etc.) and / or to provide further benefits, the NO flow rate is upstream of the control valve. It can be measured in this configuration (for example, if the NO flow sensor is upstream of the control valve), When the control valve is closed, the NO flow sensor that has been exposed to at least some of the above phenomena will It can be reduced and / or decreased. For example, at least some of the above phenomena can be reduced. To reduce and / or eliminate the NO flow sensor, the NO flow sensor 115 is valved It can be installed upstream of B109. In at least some examples, NO flow rate Sensor 115, whether upstream or downstream of valve 109, ensures that valve 109 is properly positioned To determine whether it functions and / or whether the flow rate does not leak through valve 109. It can be used to check the flow rate of the NO flow sensor 115 when the flow rate exceeds the prediction. Therefore, if detected, this can indicate leakage in valve 109.

[0038] In exemplary embodiments, at least some of the above phenomena (e.g., incorrect NO flow rate) may occur. In order to address (etc.) and / or to provide further benefits, NO supply conduits (e.g., Conduit 105) can have a very small cross-sectional diameter. For example, NO supply conduit ( For example, the conduit 105) may have an inner diameter with a cross-section of approximately 1 / 32 inch or approximately 1 / 4 inch. Yes, it is possible. In other embodiments, the NO supply conduit (e.g., conduit 105) is approximately 1 / 8 inch. The cross-section can have an inner diameter. The cross-section can increase the compressible volume in the NO supply conduit. It can be selected to reduce, for example, vibration signals detected by a flow sensor. This can be greatly reduced and / or effectively eliminated. In at least some embodiments, The cross-sectional view can be selected to greatly increase resistance to flow, and pressure changes And / or vibration with a high-frequency ventilator restores increased resistance to the flow. This is not sufficient, and / or the propagation of pressure changes and / or vibrations is greatly reduced and / or This can be reduced, for example, by using an NO flow sensor (for example, an NO supply system with an NO flow sensor). This can be done before it reaches the flow sensor. In at least some embodiments, NO The inner diameter of the cross-section of the supply conduit (for example, conduit 105) is the same whether it is inside or outside the system 100. The diameter of the cross-section can be such that, and / or the NO supply conduit (e.g., conduit 105) has a flow rate. It can be the same as the diameter of the cross-section of at least one downstream of the control valve.

[0039] Referring to Figure 4A4B, an exemplary injection module is shown, which is at least This also addresses some of the aforementioned phenomena (e.g., incorrect NO flow rate, etc.) and / or further It can provide the benefit of having a first end 404 and a second end 40 They have 6, which can be connected to the inspiratory limb portion of the patient's breathing circuit. First end 404 And at the second end 406, there is a first opening and a second opening, respectively, and the injection module 400 In the main body, liquids can be flowed through the injection module (for example, breathing gas). The injection module 400 also has a communication port 408, and the communication port 408 is connected to the injection module Information is transmitted between Joule (and any added components) and the nitric oxide supply system. It can communicate (e.g., liquid and / or pneumatic communications, electrical and / or digital communications) , etc.). The system and method of the present invention use this information to, for example, at least several To address the aforementioned phenomena and / or to provide further benefits. Furthermore, the injection module The module 400 has a treatment gas inlet 410, and the treatment gas inlet 410 can receive therapeutic gas from a nitric oxide supply system, and / or, Therapeutic gases can be injected into the respiratory gas passing through the intake module.

[0040] In an exemplary embodiment, the injection module of the present invention has one or more bidirectional N O has a flow sensor 402 and / or can be fluid-coupled, for example, at To address some of the aforementioned phenomena (e.g., incorrect NO flow rate, etc.) and / or further It provides benefits. For example, the injection module 400 has one or more bidirectional nitrogen monoxide injection systems. It has a NO flow sensor 412 and / or can be fluid-coupled. Bidirectional NO The O flow sensor 412 is installed in the treatment gas inlet 410 and / or connected to the fluid. The bidirectional NO flow sensor 412 can be connected to the NO supply conduit (for example, in the figure). The fluid flows through the conduit 105) shown in 1 to the infusion module 400 and / or the patient's breathing circuit. It is possible to measure the flow rate to the inspiratory limb. Furthermore, a bidirectional NO flow sensor 41 2 can be used as a feedback control oscillation for NO supply, and / Alternatively, to monitor the flow rate and / or volume of NO gas supplied into the patient's breathing circuit. It can be used. For example, the flow rate measured from the bidirectional NO flow sensor 412 is N This can be compared with the flow rate measurement from the flow sensor 115 that detects leakage of O. As a result, it can be administered more accurately, and / or the leakage of nitric oxide into the surrounding environment can be reduced. The amount can be reduced.

[0041] In at least some embodiments, the therapeutic gas inlet 410 is shown to be located as shown. However, the bidirectional NO flow sensor 412 is used to supply NO and fluid to the injection module. It can be connected at any of the locations. For example, the bidirectional NO flow sensor 412 is connected to nitric oxide. The supply system and / or NO supply conduit (e.g., conduit 105 shown in Figure 1) and fluid It can be installed at any of the connected positions. In other embodiments, bidirectional NO flow rate Sensor 412 is replaced with NO flow sensor 115 (shown in Figure 13), or They can be used together.

[0042] In at least some embodiments, two or more bidirectional NO flow sensors It can be installed in the treatment gas inlet 410 and / or fluid-connected. For example One or more bidirectional NO flow sensors shall be installed in the treatment gas inlet 410. The following are possible: and / or one or more bidirectional NO flow sensors, the treatment gas inlet. It can be fluid-connected to 410. Two or more bidirectional NO flow sensors, for example. For example, NO supplied via injection module 400 for a very wide range of flow rates. It can measure the flow rate.

[0043] In an exemplary embodiment, the bidirectional NO flow sensor 412 is located in the forward and reverse directions. It can be a sensor that can measure the flow rate in both. For example, both The flow sensor 119 is a thermal mass flow meter (sometimes called a thermal dispersive flow meter); pressure-based Flow meters; optical flow meters; electromagnetic, ultrasonic, and / or Coriolis flow meters; laser Doppler - Flow meter and / or providing a response time of less than approximately 2 milliseconds and within ±10 SLPM or more It can be any flow meter having a range. An example limit for reverse flow is - 10, -9, -8, -7, -6, -5, -4, -3, -2.5, -2, -1.5, -1, -0.75, It can be -0.5, -0.4, -0.3, -0.2, or -0.1 SPLM. Exemplary limits for forward flow rates are 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2.5, 2, and 1. It can be 5, 1, 0.75, 0.5, 0.4, 0.3, 0.2, or 0.1 SPLM. In at least some embodiments, the bidirectional flow sensor 119 is pressure-based. It can be a flow meter (for example, a flow meter of a different pressure sensor type), and / or Fluid and / or pneumatic communication can be provided via communication port 408.

[0044] In an exemplary embodiment, the bidirectional NO flow sensor 412 has, for example, a communication port 4 It can be fluidly connected to the nitric oxide supply system via 08. This allows the flow The quantity information can be communicated to the nitric oxide supply system, and NO supply and / or monitoring can be performed. Regarding the flow, it can be used by a nitric oxide supply system. This bidirectional flow information When using the information, the nitric oxide supply system will supply and / or monitor NO more accurately. It is possible to do so.

[0045] In an exemplary embodiment, the system and method of the present invention are technical (e.g., algorithms, It can use user input, etc., and it can determine whether a high-frequency ventilator can be used. Furthermore, in exemplary embodiments, it is defined that a high-frequency ventilator is being used. At the time, the system and method of the present invention use technology (e.g., algorithms, user input, etc.) It can be used to correct at least some surprising phenomena (e.g., incorrect NO flow rate). To correct, and / or, at times, within the respiratory gas in a breathing circuit equipped with a radiofrequency ventilator. This affects the surprising phenomena that occur when therapeutic gases are mixed in a turbulent flow, and / or These technologies offer further benefits. These technologies sometimes provide at least from therapeutic gas flow sensors. The information can be used, and the therapeutic gas flow sensor is NO flow sensor 115 (for example) (, capable of measuring flow rate in one direction), NO flow sensor 412 (for example, one or more directions (Capable of measuring flow rate in the direction) and / or injection module, therapeutic gas inlet, and / or This includes a flow sensor or similar device that connects to the NO conduit and the fluid.

[0046] The system and method of the present invention involve a therapeutic gas (e.g., NO) being delivered to a breathing circuit attached to a ventilator. Whether or not it is supplied internally can be determined using any reasonable technique, and those techniques The technique is not limited to this, but to give a few examples, it involves user input (for example, nitric oxide input). User input information to the supply system), detection (e.g., detection by a nitric oxide supply system) Algorithms), signal recovery, and / or any combination thereof and / or further These include systems that divide the system into parts, and direct communication with ventilators. For example, a nitric oxide supply system. Therefore, the user inputs that NO is supplied into the breathing circuit attached to the high-frequency ventilator. It becomes possible. In other embodiments, the nitric oxide supply system is such that NO is used for high-frequency artificial respiration. In a breathing circuit with an inhaler attached, for example, detection and / or signal recovery techniques can be used to detect It is possible.

[0047] In an exemplary embodiment, defined as using a high-frequency ventilator, the present invention The system and method may exhibit at least some unexpected phenomena (e.g., erroneous NO flow rate phenomena). It can correct (etc.), provide an effect with a ventilator, and / or compromise on any of the above. We will use these technologies to provide further benefits, and these technologies include, but are not limited to, a few examples. Examples include filtration, the use of reduction techniques, any combination thereof, and / or further fractionation. Either a digit, or information that can correct the information generated by a high-frequency ventilator with NO flow rate information attached. The use of the process, changes to the NO supply control algorithm to avoid high-frequency vibrations, Air filtration, digital filtration, NO flow sensor located upstream of the flow control valve, very Examples include small-diameter NO injectors and / or pneumatic filters. The present invention is illustrated by the examples. The system and method can consider the information generated by the high-frequency ventilator as noise, Using any reasonable technique, this noise can be filtered out of NO flow information (e.g., from an NO flow sensor). It can be removed from the information. The technology is not limited to this, but to give a few examples: Linear filters, nonlinear filters, statistical signal processing, noise gates, and / or, There are any combinations of these and / or further divisions.

[0048] For easy understanding, at least some exemplary detection and / or signal recovery techniques and / Or illustrative compensation techniques are disclosed herein. Please understand that other techniques may also be used. Furthermore, the technologies disclosed in this invention are intended for ease of understanding and are not limiting. I want you to understand this.

[0049] The examples define whether NO is supplied into the breathing circuit attached to the ventilator. Therefore, the system and method of the present invention utilize a pressure and / or high-frequency ventilator system. Flow rate information indicating pressure can be identified. In at least some embodiments, pressure and The flow rate information from the NO flow sensor is transmitted to the NO flow sensor, flow sensor 11 5 (illustrated in Figure 13), and / or bidirectional NO flow sensor (in Figure 4A4B) (As illustrated in the diagram) it can be analyzed (for example, by a nitric oxide supply system) This allows us to determine whether a high-frequency ventilator is being used. For example, NO flow rate The information from the sensor is analyzed against the expected information from the NO flow sensor, and / or The actual NO flow rate information is generated by a radiofrequency ventilator that is separate from the actual NO flow rate information. Identify the flow rate information. In the examples, the information from the NO flow sensor is, to give a few examples, , high frequency expected forward and / or reverse flow and / or pressure, high frequency expected No forward flow and / or pressure, no high frequency expected zero and / or forward and / or This shows the reverse flow rate, allowing for analysis against the expected flow rate information.

[0050] Referring to Figures 5A and 5B, a graph displaying information from the NO flow sensor is illustrated as an example. Therefore, at least one example to determine whether a high-frequency ventilator is being used. The technology is put into practice. The information from the NO flow sensor is the form of current, voltage, and / or flow. Please understand that this is information in any other form indicating quantity and / or pressure. For simplicity's sake. The flow velocities shown are illustrative examples only. This is for simplicity and does not limit them.

[0051] Referring to Figure 5A, plot 502 shows the NO flow rate for a given flow rate of 10 ml / min. An example of expected information from a volume sensor is shown, for instance, when a high-frequency ventilator is not attached. This is when NO is supplied into the respiratory circuit. As shown in the figure, plot 502 is almost straight. It can be considered as a line, and plot 502 represents a constant flow rate (for example, a constant 10 ml / min). This shows the expected information from the NO flow sensor for the flow rate (flow rate). Of course, the flow rate is When it is not constant, the plot will respond accordingly. For example, a constant flow rate for a patient's respiration It is applied to a portion of the circuit and then modified for other portions of the patient's respiratory circuit. For the sake of understanding, a constant flow rate is illustrated. This is for simplicity and not for limitation. There isn't one.

[0052] Referring to Figure 5B, plot 504 shows NO flow for an exemplary flow rate measure of 0 ml / min. The expected information from an exemplary high-frequency ventilator from a volume sensor is shown. As illustrated, Lot 504 can be considered to have a nonlinear shape (e.g., a sine curve), and Pro 504 indicates information from the NO flow sensor regarding vibration or pressure vibration, and vibration or Pressure oscillations are generated, for example, at least partially by high-frequency ventilators.

[0053] Referring to Figure 5C, plot 506 shows the flow when bent by vibration or pressure vibration. This shows exemplary actual information from an NO flow sensor for a volume measurement of 10 ml / min. Plot 506 shows exemplary data from an NO flow sensor for a given flow rate measurement of 10 ml / min. The expected information (e.g., plot 502 in Figure 5A) and the radiofrequency ventilator Combined with exemplary information from an NO flow sensor showing generated vibration or pressure vibrations. It can be considered that it is curved in total. Due to these deformations, the nitric oxide supply system It is thought that the flow rate is supplied at a rate different from the predetermined constant flow rate of 10 ml / min. (These variations may indicate an incorrect NO flow rate, not the actual NO flow rate.)

[0054] The problem is that, in response to this incorrect flow information, the NO supply system is not supplying gas to the breathing circuit. Attempt to adjust the flow rate to supply at a predetermined flow rate measure. This new flow rate measure is modified Because it is based on and not an actual flow meter, this adjusted flow meter is within the breathing circuit. This can cause the actual supply of NO to occur at a rate other than a predetermined flow rate.

[0055] In addition to the problems mentioned above, the NO supply system attempts to regulate the flow rate of gas to the breathing circuit. To test and try to supply at a predetermined flow rate, the supply valve (for example, valve 109) To activate (for example, open, close, partially open, partially closed, etc.). The operation of this valve causes at least a delay in the supply in at least some embodiments. This causes the interaction of valve components which can lead to time delays. When attempting to adjust the amount (although adjustment is not necessary), close the valve and allow static friction and / or The valve is reopened to recover the force applied by kinetic friction. These forces are not constant ( For example, more force is needed to recover from static friction than from kinetic friction, valve operation This can cause delays in the dynamic and / or NO supply. In exemplary embodiments, Therefore, using the technology disclosed here, the time it takes for the system to attempt to regulate NO flow The length is reduced and / or shortened. As a result, the occurrence of the above-mentioned problems is reduced. Furthermore, less In some examples, this resulted in increased accuracy of NO supply and monitoring. and / or, to avoid and / or reduce the supply of therapeutic gas to the respiratory gas. can.

[0056] In exemplary embodiments, the system of the present invention addresses at least the above-mentioned problems. The method involves using technology (e.g., algorithms, user input, etc.) to make the results more effective and accurate. It can be used for and / or to compensate for forces affecting valve operation, and is limited to While this is not always the case, to give a few examples, static friction, kinetic friction, and / or the interaction of valve components. For example, the system and method of the present invention sometimes provides the necessary force to recover various forces. Identify, factorize, and / or correct for the quantity of (e.g., static friction, kinetic friction, etc.).

[0057] Referring further to Figure 5A5C, the use of a high-frequency ventilator was examined according to the above-described embodiment. To do so, the system and method of the present invention obtains actual information from an NO flow sensor, and The expected information from the NO flow sensor regarding flow rate can be analyzed. For example, when supplying NO at 10 ml / min, the nitric oxide supply system uses an NO flow sensor. - Actual information from (for example, shown in plot 506 in Figure 5C) NO flow rate sensor Analysis of the expected information from Sir (for example, shown in plot 502 in Figure 5A) Then, identify the actual deviation, and subsequently, the nitric oxide supply system will use a high-frequency ventilator. It can be determined that it is being supplied into the breathing circuit with the attached device. Actual deviations are distinguishable. It is possible, and since flow oscillations of less than 80 vibrations per minute are expected, the respiratory rate of the ten-mile ventilator While the number of breaths is less than approximately 80 per minute, the vibrations from a high-frequency ventilator are several hundred magnitudes per minute. It is a dude.

[0058] According to the embodiments described above, when the use of a high-frequency ventilator is detected, the system of the present invention and The method can correct information generated by at least a high-frequency ventilator. For example, a nitric oxide supply system generates information from NO flow rate to a high-frequency ventilator. Filters out information indicating vibration or pressure vibrations generated by this high-frequency ventilator. By filtering the information, the nitric oxide supply system can deliver the correct NO dosage to the patient. They can provide it.

[0059] In addition to the changes described above, at least the erroneous NO flow phenomenon described above sometimes occurs at very low flow rates. This can be observed at speeds (e.g., less than 100 ml / min). Furthermore, at least the above-mentioned phenomena are observed in flow rates. By distorting the information to a sufficiently large extent, it is assumed that zero flow rate and / or negative flow rate are occurring. The problem is that very low flow rates are advantageous, and / or a given dosage. It is necessary to supply a sufficient amount of NO to the patient. At least the above-mentioned phenomena are detected and / or corrected. Failure to do so sometimes results in administering an dose that is not the prescribed therapeutic dose, and sometimes an dose that affects the effect. It will be supplied to patients.

[0060] In exemplary embodiments, smaller variations include unidirectional and / or bidirectional flow sensors. Correct the use of information from and / or large deformations from bidirectional flow sensors at times. This requires the use of the information and / or further technical expertise. Refer back to Figure 5C. Then, plot 506 is between 5 ml / min and 15 ml / min, and the predetermined 10 ml / min. This shows the deformation of the flow rate. In this embodiment, the detection and / or correction of the incorrect NO flow rate is performed unidirectionally. This is achieved by a forward flow sensor and / or a bidirectional flow sensor, for example, when the flow rate is 0 m It will not be less than l / min. However, in an exemplary embodiment, the predetermined flow rate is less than 0 ml / min. Detecting and / or correcting deformations that result in full flow sensors becomes more complex, and / or bidirectional flow sensors. — may be necessary.

[0061] For example, referring to Figure 6A, plot 606 shows a variation of 15 ml / min, which is 10 ml This indicates a predetermined flow rate per minute (for example, plot 6060 is between 25 ml / min and 5 ml / min). (It deforms at this point), and the predetermined flow rate deforms to less than 0 ml / min between points 608610. The negative region between points 608 and 610 in lot 606 indicates an incorrect NO flow rate in the reverse direction. It can be considered that this indicates the flow rate. If we consider this flow rate to be in the reverse direction, then it is a bidirectional flow sensor. - Using the information, plot 606 appears as shown in Figure 6A, but unidirectional flow Using the sensor information, plot 606 appears as shown in Figure 6B (for example, flow (e.g., no quantity, 0 ml / min flow rate) and / or appear as shown in Figure 6C (for example, (Equal or opposite positive flow rates, positive valve relative to negative valve)

[0062] In an exemplary embodiment, a bidirectional flow sensor and / or a bidirectional flow sensor The information detects deformations indicating very low flow rates and / or flow rates less than 0 ml / min and / or Used for correction. Information from the bidirectional flow sensor is used for high-frequency ventilators. Used to detect the use of and / or to correct information from the NO flow sensor. The information used may not be limited to any of the technologies disclosed herein. Using that appropriate technique, it is shown that a high-frequency ventilator generates vibrations or pressure oscillations. .

[0063] Referring to Figure 6B6C, in an exemplary embodiment, a unidirectional flow sensor and / or Information from a unidirectional flow sensor indicates very low flow rates and / or flow rates less than 0 ml / min. The deformation shown can be used to detect and / or correct using any reasonable technique, These techniques are not limited to, but some examples include insertion, curve fitting, and / or regression. There is an analysis.

[0064] For example, using a unidirectional flow sensor and / or information from a unidirectional flow sensor to achieve high frequency To detect the use of a wave ventilator, the system and method of the present invention relates to a predetermined flow rate. Then, the actual information from the NO flow sensor is compared to the expected information from the NO flow sensor. The analysis revealed that the deformation was greater than the expected information from the NO flow sensor. When used, the system and method of the present invention are not limited to those disclosed herein. Using any of the following appropriate technologies, the expected information from the NO flow sensor is obtained. By considering the above positive values, the use of a high-frequency ventilator can be detected.

[0065] According to the above embodiment, information from the unidirectional flow sensor and / or from the unidirectional flow sensor When detecting the use of a high-frequency ventilator using this method, the system and method of the present invention are not limited to However, by using any of the appropriate technologies, such as any of the technologies disclosed herein, This can correct information indicating vibrations or pressure fluctuations generated by a high-frequency ventilator. For example... For example, with respect to the region between points 608 and 610 of plot 606 (shown in Figure 6B), The system and method of the present invention add and limit missing plot information. However, if you use any of the appropriate technologies disclosed herein to modify the object It can be corrected. Regarding other embodiments, between points 608 and 610 of plot 606 Regarding the region (shown in Figure 6C), the system and method of the present invention reverse these values. (For example, we consider positive values ​​as negative values), and although we do not limit ourselves, here we open Deform using any of the appropriate techniques shown (for example, actually visible It can correct deformations (and / or inverted deformations).

[0066] Those skilled in the art will know that many adaptations and modifications are readily available, and these adaptations and modifications are A therapeutic gas supply system for supplying the compounding gas of the present invention can be formed, and as a result, the The method and system for introducing a predetermined amount of drug gas into a patient can be improved, and all of these improvements are possible. The present invention falls within the scope defined in the following claims. Therefore, the present invention is as follows: It is limited only by and equivalents.

[0067] Throughout this specification, the terms "one embodiment," "a certain embodiment," and "one or more embodiments" are used. "State," "exemplary embodiment," "multiple exemplary embodiments," and / or "multiple embodiments" are , specific characteristics described in relation to embodiments having at least one embodiment of the present invention, It means structure, material, or feature. Therefore, "one" in various places throughout this specification In any or more embodiments, in a particular embodiment, and / or in one embodiment Phrases such as "in form" do not necessarily indicate the same embodiment of the present invention. Furthermore, specific The properties, structure, materials, or features are described in appropriate manner in one or more embodiments. They can be combined.

[0068] Any of the steps described herein, without departing from the scope of the present invention, include reorganization, separation, and Please understand that they can be combined or used in combination. For simplicity, the steps are sometimes... They exist continuously. This is simply for simplicity and does not imply limitation.

[0069] Furthermore, none of the elements and / or embodiments of the present invention described herein depart from the scope of the present invention. It should be understood that they can be reorganized, separated, and / or combined without any modifications. For simplicity, elements are sometimes explained separately. This is simply for simplicity and does not limit the scope. That's not the case.

[0070] Although the present invention has been described in relation to specific embodiments, these embodiments are representative of the present invention. Please understand that this merely illustrates the principles and applications of this invention. Those skilled in the art will be able to make various modifications and changes to this invention. It is clear that the methods and apparatus of the present invention can be made without departing from the scope of clarity. Therefore, the present invention is a modification and change of the scope of the appended claims and equivalents. This indicates that it includes further information.

Claims

1. A nitric oxide supply system for supplying a therapeutic gas into the respiratory gas at the inspiratory limb of a patient's respiratory circuit equipped with a high-frequency ventilator or ventilator technology that provides reverse and / or vibration in inspiratory pressure or flow rate, The nitric oxide supply system is At least one control valve for providing a flow of nitric oxide gas, An injection module, wherein the injection module is An injector body having a first opening and a second opening, wherein the first opening and the second opening are configured such that the infusion module is connected to the inspiratory limb of the breathing circuit, thereby allowing the patient's respiratory gas in the breathing circuit to flow through the first opening and the second opening, The therapeutic gas inlet in the injector body is configured to receive a flow of nitric oxide gas and to inject the nitric oxide gas into the injection module, and then into the patient's respiratory gas in the inspiratory limb portion of the breathing circuit. An injection module comprising, At least one NO flow sensor that is in fluid communication with the treatment gas inlet, A control system that receives flow information from at least one NO flow sensor by communicating with the at least one NO flow sensor, wherein the control system (i) to detect the use of the high-frequency ventilator, (ii) Identifying that the flow rate information is insufficient and adding the missing flow rate information, (iii) Identifying the flow rate information as reverse flow rate and A control system that is capable of performing the following actions A nitric oxide supply system equipped with the following features.

2. The nitric oxide supply system according to claim 1, wherein the treatment gas inlet receives a flow of nitric oxide gas from a nitric oxide source via a conduit.

3. The nitric oxide supply system according to claim 2, wherein the nitric oxide source is a cylinder for storing NO or an NO generator.

4. The nitric oxide supply system according to claim 3, wherein the NO generator is operable to produce the nitric oxide gas by a reaction between an NO-releasing agent and a reducing agent.

5. The nitric oxide supply system according to claim 4, wherein the NO-releasing agent is nitrogen dioxide and the reducing agent is ascorbic acid.

6. The nitric oxide supply system according to claim 1, wherein the control system is operable to use the flow rate information to ensure that a desired dose of NO is supplied into the infusion module, and then into the patient's respiratory gas at the inspiratory limb of the breathing circuit.

7. The nitric oxide supply system according to claim 1, wherein the control system is operable to use the flow rate information to ensure that the desired dose of NO is not undersupplied and / or undersupplied.

8. The nitric oxide supply system according to claim 1, further comprising a check valve, the check valve being one or more of the following: (i) in fluid communication with the therapeutic gas inlet of the injection module, and (ii) integrated into the injection module.

9. The nitric oxide supply system according to claim 1, wherein the at least one NO flow sensor is at least one bidirectional flow sensor.

10. The nitric oxide supply system according to claim 9, wherein the at least one bidirectional flow sensor is a thermomass flow meter or a thermal dispersive flow meter.

11. The nitric oxide supply system according to claim 1, wherein the inspiratory limb is also the expiratory limb in the breathing circuit.

12. The nitric oxide supply system according to claim 1, wherein the NO flow sensor is located downstream of the control valve in the nitric oxide supply system.

13. The nitric oxide supply system according to claim 1, wherein the control valve is located upstream of the NO flow sensor in the nitric oxide supply system.

14. The nitric oxide supply system according to claim 1, wherein the treatment gas inlet receives a flow of nitric oxide gas through a conduit, and the conduit has one or more of the following: (i) an inner diameter in cross-section of about 1 / 32 inch to about 1 / 4 inch, and (ii) an inner portion inside the nitric oxide supply system and an outer portion outside the nitric oxide supply system, wherein the inner portion of the conduit has a cross-sectional diameter substantially the same as the diameter of the cross-section of the outer portion of the conduit.

15. The nitric oxide supply system according to claim 1, further comprising at least one second NO flow sensor, the at least one second NO flow sensor being in fluid communication with the therapeutic gas inlet and communicating with the control system, the control system receiving flow information from the NO flow sensor and detecting leakage when the flow information from the NO flow sensor does not match.

16. The nitric oxide supply system according to claim 15, wherein the flow rate of nitric oxide gas is increased when a leak is detected.

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