Guide stylet for tracheal tube insertion

Abstract

A guide stylet may comprise a tubular section comprising a main channel, a stylet tip, and a plurality of sensors. The stylet tip may comprise a first channel, a second channel, and a third channel, wherein each of the respective first, second and third channels connects an outer surface of the stylet tip to the main channel of the tubular section. The plurality of sensors may comprise a first sensor, a second sensor, and a third sensor respectively disposed inside the first, second, and third channel. When the stylet tip is exposed to an air flow exhausting from a trachea, at least one of the first, second, and third sensors may detect the air flow, and at least one of corresponding first, second, and third outputs may be generated based on the air flow detected via the at least one of the first, second, and third sensors.

Description

GUIDE STYLET FOR TRACHEAL TUBE INSERTIONTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to systems and methods for intubating a patient, and more particularly to systems and methods for intubating a patient conducted by one or more sensors capable of detecting air flow exhausting from patient’s trachea.BACKGROUND

[0002] Some medical procedures such as tracheal intubation, while essential for saving lives, can be difficult and riskful. Tracheal intubation involves inserting a tracheal tube into a patient’s trachea via a guide stylet to enable mechanical ventilation. Any delay or misplacement of the intubation can lead to severe consequences, including severe hypoxemia or permanent neurological damage an even death, so proper and timely intubation is crucial to ensure patient safety.

[0003] Various technologies have been developed to facilitate intubation procedure, such as laryngoscopy, fiberoptic intubation, etc. Laryngoscopy often provides a direct view of the patient’s larynx and glottis, allowing precise guide stylet insertion. Alternatively, fiberoptic intubation may offer an indirect view of the epiglottis and vocal cords. Despite of these advancements, failed intubations still occur, especially in challenging medical conditions, such as deformed airway anatomy fallowing trauma, severe upper airway bleeding, heavy airway secretion, etc. Additionally, intubation may be performed not only by hospital professionals but also by paramedics out of hospitals, where lack of experience and equipped devices may lead to life-threatening challenges. Therefore, there is need for guide stylets to insert tracheal tubes, wherein guide stylets are capable of being used in various medical conditions by both professionals and amateurs.SUMMARY

[0004] This summary is intended to provide an overview of the subject matter of one or more exemplary embodiments, and is not intended to identify essential elements or key elements of the subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to determine the scope of the claimed implementations. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of one or more aspects in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later. The proper scope of one or more exemplary embodiments may be ascertained from the claims set forth below in view of the detailed description below and the drawings.

[0005] In one general aspect, the present disclosure may describe an exemplary an exemplary guide stylet. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary guide stylet may comprise an exemplary tubular section comprising an exemplary main channel. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary main channel may extend from an exemplary proximal end of an exemplary guide stylet towards an exemplary distal end of an exemplary guide stylet.

[0006] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary guide stylet may further comprise an exemplary stylet tip. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary stylet tip may be connected to an exemplary distal end of an exemplary guide stylet. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary stylet tip may comprise an exemplary first channel, an exemplary second channel, and an exemplary third channel. In an exemplary embodiment, each of the respective exemplary first channel, second channel and third channel may fluidly communicate with an exemplary main channel. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary first channel may extend coaxially to an exemplary main channel. In an exemplary embodiment, each respective exemplary first channel, exemplary second channel and exemplary third channel may connect an exemplary outer surface of an exemplary stylet tip to an exemplary main channel of an exemplary tubular section.

[0007] In an exemplary embodiment, each respective exemplary first channel, exemplary second channel and exemplary third channel may comprise an exemplary first opening and an exemplary second opening. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary first opening may be disposed on an exemplary outer surface of an exemplary stylet tip. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary second opening may be disposed on an exemplary circumference of an exemplary main channel. In an exemplary embodiment, respective exemplary first openings of corresponding exemplary first channel, exemplary second channel and exemplary third channel may be disposed non-coplanarly on an exemplary outer surface of an exemplary stylet tip such that respective exemplary first openings of corresponding exemplary second and third channels are disposed on either side of an exemplary first opening of an exemplary first channel and on opposite exemplary sides of an exemplary stylet tip.

[0008] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary stylet tip may further comprise an exemplary pointed tip at which an exemplary first opening of an exemplary first channel is disposed. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary stylet tip may further comprise an exemplary round base to which an exemplary tubular section is connected.

[0009] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary guide stylet may comprise a plurality of exemplary sensors. In an exemplary embodiment, a plurality of exemplary sensors may comprise an exemplary first sensor, an exemplary second sensor, and an exemplary third sensor. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary first sensor may be disposed inside an exemplary first channel. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary second sensor may be disposed inside an exemplary second channel. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary third sensor may be disposed inside an exemplary third channel. In an exemplary embodiment, when an exemplary stylet tip is exposed to an exemplary air flow exhausting from an exemplary trachea, at least one of exemplary first sensor, exemplary second sensor, and exemplary thirdsensor may detect the exemplary air flow, and at least one of corresponding exemplary first output, exemplary second output, and exemplary third output may be generated based on exemplary air flow detected via at least one of exemplary first sensor, exemplary second sensor, and exemplary third sensor. In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary first output, exemplary second output, and exemplary third output may be mutually distinctive from each other indicating corresponding exemplary first sensor, exemplary second sensor, and exemplary third sensor which has detected an exemplary air flow. In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary first output, exemplary second output, and exemplary third output may be mutually distinctive audible sounds.

[0010] In an exemplary embodiment, each of exemplary first sensor, exemplary second sensor, and exemplary third sensor may comprise at least one of flow sensor, pressure sensor, carbon dioxide (CO2) sensor, oxygen (O2) sensor, and nitrogen (N2) sensor. In an exemplary embodiment, each of exemplary first sensor, exemplary second sensor, and exemplary third sensor may comprise at least one of contact or non-contact microphone, and acoustic sensor.

[0011] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary guide stylet may further comprise an exemplary guiding handle. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary guiding handle may be connected to an exemplary proximal end of an exemplary guide stylet. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary guiding handle may be configured to conduct an insertion of an exemplary guide stylet into an exemplary trachea. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary guiding handle may comprise an exemplary first set of strings, an exemplary second sets of strings, an exemplary first knob, and an exemplary second knob.

[0012] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary first set of strings may comprise an exemplary first end and an exemplary second end. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary first end of an exemplary first set of strings may be connected to an exemplary first side of anexemplary stylet tip where an exemplary first opening of an exemplary second channel is disposed. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary second set of strings may comprise an exemplary first end and an exemplary second end. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary first end of an exemplary second set of strings may be connected to an exemplary second side of an exemplary stylet tip, opposite an exemplary first side of an exemplary stylet tip, where an exemplary first opening of an exemplary third channel is disposed.

[0013] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary second end of an exemplary first set of strings may be wound around an exemplary first knob. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary second end of an exemplary second set of strings may be wound around an exemplary second knob. In an exemplary embodiment, when exemplary first and second knobs are turned, an exemplary stylet tip may rotate via exemplary first and the second sets of strings.

[0014] This Summary may introduce a number of concepts in a simplified format; the concepts are further disclosed within the “Detailed Description” section. This Summary is not intended to configure essential / key features of the claimed subject matter, nor is intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the present disclosure, as to its structure, organization, use and method of operation, together with further objectives and advantages thereof, will be better understood from the following drawings in which a presently preferred embodiment of the present disclosure will now be illustrated by way of example. It is expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the present disclosure. Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described by way of example in association with the accompanying drawings in which:

[0016] FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary guide stylet, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0017] FIG. IB illustrates a longitudinal sectional view of an exemplary guide stylet along section A-A depicted in FIG.1A, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0018] FIG. 1C illustrates an enlarged longitudinal sectional view of an exemplary stylet tip, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0019] FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic view of exemplary guide stylet motions, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0020] FIG. 3A illustrates a schematic view of an exemplary guide stylet as used to guide an exemplary tracheal tube into an exemplary patient’s trachea, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0021] FIG. 3B illustrates a schematic view of an exemplary guide stylet, during alignment with an exemplary trachea of an exemplary patient, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0022] FIG. 3C illustrates a schematic view of an exemplary guide stylet aligned with an exemplary trachea of an exemplary patient, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0023] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary configuration of various components of an exemplary guide stylet, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth by way of examples to provide a thorough understanding of the relevant teachings related to the exemplary embodiments. However, it should be apparent that the present teachings may bepracticed without such details. In other instances, well known methods, procedures, components, and / or circuitry have been described at a relatively high-level, without detail, in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring aspects of the present teachings.

[0025] The following detailed description is presented to enable a person skilled in the art to make and use the methods and devices disclosed in one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. For purposes of explanation, specific nomenclature is set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that these specific details are not required to practice the disclosed exemplary embodiments. Descriptions of specific exemplary embodiments are provided only as representative examples. Various modifications to the exemplary implementations will be plain to one skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other implementations and applications without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the implementations shown, but is to be accorded the widest possible scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.

[0026] Disclosed herein is an exemplary guide stylet capable of being used in various medical conditions by both professionals and amateurs. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary guide stylet may track an exemplary tracheal pathway by following an exemplary air flow exiting from an exemplary patient’s trachea. In an exemplary embodiment, following an exemplary air flow may be carried out by utilizing several sensors disposed inside an exemplary guide stylet. Referring to the figures, FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view 100 of an exemplary guide stylet 106, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, guide stylet 106 may comprise an exemplary distal end 101 and an exemplary proximal end 103. In an exemplary embodiment, distal end 101 of guide stylet 106 may refer to an exemplary end of guide stylet 106 which is introduced into apatient’s mouth and proceeds towards a patient’s trachea. In an exemplary embodiment, proximal end 103 of guide stylet 106 may refer to an exemplary end of guide stylet 106 which is closer to an exemplary user of guide stylet 106 than distal end 101, and to which auxiliary components and devices, such as auxiliary tubes, ventilation apparatuses, etc., are attached.

[0027] In an exemplary embodiment, guide stylet 106 may further comprise an exemplary stylet tip 108, an exemplary guiding handle 110, and an exemplary tubular section 112. In an exemplary embodiment, stylet tip 108 may be connected to distal end 101 of guide stylet 106. In an exemplary embodiment, guiding handle 110 may be connected to proximal end 103 of guide stylet 106. In an exemplary embodiment, tubular section 112 may extend from distal end 101 of guide stylet 106 towards proximal end 103 of guide stylet 106. In an exemplary embodiment, tubular section 112 may connect stylet tip 108 to guiding handle 110.

[0028] FIG. IB illustrates a longitudinal sectional view 102 of an exemplary guide stylet 106 along section A-A depicted in FIG.1A, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, stylet tip 108 may comprise a plurality of exemplary channels. In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary channels may define various paths inside stylet tip 108 to allow exemplary fluids to flow from a patient’s trachea towards outside the patient’s body. In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary channels may define various paths inside stylet tip 108 to allow exemplary fluids to flow from a patient’s trachea into an exemplary intubation equipment. In an exemplary embodiment, stylet tip 108 may comprise an exemplary first channel 114, an exemplary second channel 116, and an exemplary third channel 118.

[0029] In an exemplary embodiment, with further reference to FIGs. 1A-B, tubular section 112 may comprise an exemplary main channel 122. In an exemplary embodiment, main channel 122 may extend inside of tubular section 112 from distal end 101 of guide stylet 106towards proximal end 103 of guide stylet 106. In an exemplary embodiment, first channel 114, second channel 116, and third channel 118 may connect an exemplary outer surface 120 of stylet tip 108 to main channel 122 of tubular section 112. In an exemplary embodiment, each of the respective first channel 114, second channel 116 and third channel 118 may fluidly communicate with main channel 122. In an exemplary embodiment, guide stylet 106 may have an exemplary central axis 124. In an exemplary embodiment, first channel 114 of stylet tip 108 may align with central axis 124 of guide stylet 106.

[0030] In an exemplary embodiment, with further reference to FIGs. 1A-B, guiding handle 110 may comprise exemplary components to facilitate guidance of guide stylet 106. In an exemplary embodiment, guiding handle 110 may utilize various exemplary actuators and elements to automatically control exemplary motions of guide stylet 106. In an exemplary embodiment, guiding handle 110 may allow a user to manipulate exemplary motions of stylet tip 108.

[0031] FIG. 1C illustrates an enlarged longitudinal sectional view 104 of an exemplary stylet tip 108, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, first channel 114 of stylet tip 108 may comprise an exemplary first opening 114a and an exemplary second opening 114b. In an exemplary embodiment, first channel 114 may connect outer surface 120 of stylet tip 108 to main channel 122 of tubular section 112. In an exemplary embodiment, first opening 114a of first channel 114 may be disposed on outer surface 120 of stylet tip 108. In an exemplary embodiment, second opening 114b of first channel 114 may be disposed on an exemplary circumference 126 of main channel 122.

[0032] In an exemplary embodiment, with continued reference to FIG. 1C, second channel 116 of stylet tip 108 may comprise an exemplary first opening 116a and an exemplarysecond opening 116b. In an exemplary embodiment, second channel 116 may connect outer surface 120 of stylet tip 108 to main channel 122 of tubular section 112. In an exemplary embodiment, first opening 116a of second channel 116 may be disposed on outer surface 120 of stylet tip 108. In an exemplary embodiment, second opening 116b of second channel 116 may be disposed on circumference 126 of main channel 122.

[0033] In an exemplary embodiment, with continued reference to FIG. 1C, third channel 118 of stylet tip 108 may comprise an exemplary first opening 118a and an exemplary second opening 118b. In an exemplary embodiment, third channel 118 may connect outer surface 120 of stylet tip 108 to main channel 122 of tubular section 112. In an exemplary embodiment, first opening 118a of third channel 118 may be disposed on outer surface 120 of stylet tip 108. In an exemplary embodiment, second opening 118b of third channel 118 may be disposed on circumference 126 of main channel 122.

[0034] In an exemplary embodiment, with continued reference to FIG. 1C, first channel 114 may have an exemplary axis 128 which extends between first opening 114a and second opening 114b of first channel 114. In an exemplary embodiment, second channel 116 may have an exemplary axis 130 extending between first opening 116a and second opening 116b of second channel 116. In an exemplary embodiment, third channel 118 may have an exemplary axis 132 extending between first opening 118a and second opening 118b of third channel 118.

[0035] In an exemplary embodiment, with continued reference to FIG. 1C, there may be an angular separation between first channel 114 and second channel 116 such that first channel 114 may be at an exemplary angular distance 138 from second channel 116. In an exemplary embodiment, there may be an angular separation between first channel 114 and third channel 118 such that first channel 114 may be at an exemplary angular distance 140 from thirdchannel 118. In an exemplary embodiment, first openings of first channel 114, second channel116, and third channel 118 (e.g., first openings 114a, 116a, and 118a, respectively) may be disposed non-coplanarly with each other on outer surface 120 of stylet tip 108. In an exemplary embodiment, respective first openings of corresponding second channel 116 and third channel 118 (e.g., first openings 116a and 118a, respectively) may be disposed on either side of first opening 114a of first channel 114 and on opposite exemplary sides of stylet tip 108.

[0036] In an exemplary embodiment, with continued FIG.1C, angular distances 138 and 140 between respective first channel 114 and second channel 116, and first channel 114 and third channel 118 may be in an exemplary range of about 10 degrees (10) to about 35 degrees (3 ). In an exemplary embodiment, all of the respective first openings of corresponding first channel 114, second channel 116, and third channel 118 (e.g., first openings 114a, 116a, and 118a, respectively) may faces distal end 101 of guide stylet 106 (i.e., all of the respective first openings of corresponding first channel 114, second channel 116, and third channel 118 may be oriented in various directions elongated from main channel 122 towards distal end 101 of guide stylet 106.).

[0037] In an exemplary embodiment, with continued reference to FIG. 1C, stylet tip 108 may further comprise an exemplary pointed tip 134, and an exemplary round base 136. In an exemplary embodiment, first opening 114a of first channel 114 may be disposed at pointed tip 134 of stylet tip 108. In an exemplary embodiment, tubular section 112 may be connected to round base 136 of stylet tip 108.

[0038] In an exemplary embodiment, with continued reference to FIG. 1C, guide stylet 106 may further comprise a plurality of exemplary sensors (e.g., sensors 142, 144, and 146). In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary sensors (e.g., sensors 142, 144, and 146) may be utilized to detect an exemplary air flow 316 exhausting from a patient’s trachea. In anexemplary embodiment, a plurality of exemplary sensors may comprise an exemplary first sensor 142, an exemplary second sensor 144, and an exemplary third sensor 146. In an exemplary embodiment, first sensor 142 may be disposed inside first channel 114 of stylet tip 108. In an exemplary embodiment, second sensor 144 may be disposed inside second channel 116 of stylet tip 108. In an exemplary embodiment, third sensor 146 may be disposed inside third channel 118 of stylet tip 108. It should be appreciated that sensors (e.g., first sensor 142, second sensor 144, and third sensor 146) may be disposed on any suitable position of guide stylet 106 to detect at least one parameter of air flow 316 which assist locating trachea and to generate exemplary data that distinguishes or helps to differentiate patient’s trachea from patient’s esophagus. In an exemplary embodiment, parameters which are detectable by sensors (e.g., first sensor 142, second sensor 144, and third sensor 146) may comprise but are not limited to pressure of flow, flow compositions, flow rate, etc.

[0039] FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic view 200 of exemplary guide stylet motions, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, guiding handle 110 may be configured to conduct an insertion of guide stylet 106 into a patient’s trachea. In an exemplary embodiment, guiding handle 110 may be configured to cause desired movements of guide stylet 106 automatically, semi-automatically, and / or manually.

[0040] In an exemplary embodiment, desired movements may include, but are not limited to forward movement, backward movement of tubular section 112, movements of stylet tip 108 in any direction or any angle relative to central axis 124 of guide stylet 106. In an exemplary embodiment, movements of stylet tip 108 may include, but is not limited to linear motion, omnidirectional rotation or combinations thereof.

[0041] In one or more embodiments, guide stylet 106 may be capable of performing steering movements, such as moving in any direction. In an exemplary embodiment, tubular section 112 may be capable of following stylet tip 108. In one or more exemplary embodiments, guide stylet 106 may move in any direction as indicated by X, Y, Z ordinates, as shown in FIG. 2. In an exemplary embodiment, stylet tip 108 may move at any angle, such as a or p. In an exemplary embodiment, tubular section 112 may move forward and / or retract following the lead of stylet tip 108, automatically, semi-automatically and / or manually based on a user's inputs or instructions.

[0042] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary direction of guide stylet 106 in a patient’s body may be adjusted. In an exemplary embodiment, adjusting the exemplary direction of guide stylet 106 may be accomplished by conducting stylet tip 108 in any exemplary direction or any exemplary angle relative to central axis 124 of guide stylet 106 or relative to an exemplary pathway (such as patient’s pharynx, patient’s trachea, patient’s esophagus, etc.). In an exemplary embodiment, adjusting an exemplary direction of movement of guide stylet 106 may be done as guide stylet 106 is moved forward into trachea 310. In an exemplary embodiment, guide stylet 106 may be retracted and / or redirected from an exemplary position where air flow 316 exhausting from trachea 310 is not detected, and adjustment may continue until air flow 316 exhausting from trachea 310 is detected.

[0043] It should be noted that guide stylet 106 may include any suitable component and feature that enables said desired movements and guiding handle 110 may be adapted to any mechanism that enables moving of guide stylet 106. In an exemplary embodiment, guiding handle 110 to facilitate such movements of guide stylet 106 may comprise an exemplary first set of strings 204. In an exemplary embodiment, first set of strings 204 may comprise an exemplary first end 204a and an exemplary second end 204b. In an exemplary embodiment,first end 204a of first set of strings 204 may be connected to an exemplary first side 208 of stylet tip 108 where first opening 116a of second channel 116 is disposed.

[0044] In an exemplary embodiment, guiding handle 110 may further comprise an exemplary second set of strings 206. In an exemplary embodiment, second set of strings 206 may comprise an exemplary first end 206a and an exemplary second end 206b. In an exemplary embodiment, first end 206a of second set of strings 206 may be connected to an exemplary second side 210 of stylet tip 108, opposite first side 208 of stylet tip 108, where first opening 118a of third channel 118 is disposed.

[0045] In an exemplary embodiment, guiding handle 110 may further comprise an exemplary first knob 212 and an exemplary second knob 214. In an exemplary embodiment, second end 204b of first set of strings 204 may be wound around first knob 212. In an exemplary embodiment, second end 206b of second set of strings 206 may be wound around second knob 214. In an exemplary embodiment, when first knob 212 and second knob 214 are turned (i.e., when first knob 212 and second knob 214 are respectively turned in exemplary rotational directions 216a and 216b), stylet tip 108 may rotate at angles a and / or p via first set of strings 204 and second set of strings 206.

[0046] In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary second tube 218 may be connected to main channel 122 for introducing exemplary medicines, inhalation anesthetics, oxygen, etc., into a patient’s body or to conduct waste fluids out of a patient’s body. In an exemplary embodiment, main channel 122 along with first channel 114, second channel 116, and third channel 118 may be utilized to introduce exemplary medicines, inhalation anesthetics, oxygen, etc., into a patient’s body or suction waste fluids therefrom.

[0047] FIG. 3A illustrates a schematic view 300 of an exemplary guide stylet 106 as used to guide an exemplary tracheal tube 303 into an exemplary trachea 310 of an exemplarypatient 301, FIG. 3B illustrates a schematic view 302 of an exemplary guide stylet 106, during alignment with an exemplary trachea 310 of an exemplary patient 301, and FIG. 3C illustrates another schematic view 304 of an exemplary guide stylet 106 aligned with an exemplary trachea 310 of an exemplary patient 301, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, FIGs. 3A-C partially illustrates the anatomy of the airway of patient 301 in which an exemplary oral cavity 306 (i.e., mouth) leads to a patient’s pharynx 308 divided into an exemplary trachea 310 and an exemplary esophagus 312. In an exemplary embodiment, for conducting guide stylet 106 into trachea 310, tracheal tube 303 may be slide on guide stylet 106 towards guiding handle 110 such that stylet tip 108 and an exemplary length of tubular section 112 may freely move to enter into patient’s body 301. In an exemplary embodiment, guide stylet 106 may be introduced into trachea 310 through oral cavity 306. In an exemplary embodiment, guide stylet 106 may be introduced into trachea 310 via an exemplary nasotracheal intubation (i.e., while guide stylet 106 is illustrated in FIGs. 3A-C as having been introduced through oral cavity 306, guide stylet 106 may alternatively be an exemplary nasotracheal stylet introduced into trachea 310 through the patient’s nose). It should be appreciated that when exemplary guide stylet and methods are described here as being used with a tracheal tube, the same guide stylet and methods may be used with a nasotracheal tube.

[0048] In an exemplary embodiment, with continued reference to FIGs. 3A-C, when patient 301 is going to be intubated with the help of guide stylet 106, stylet tip 108 may be advanced through oral cavity 306, past an exemplary epiglottis 314, and may enter into trachea 310. In an exemplary embodiment, when guide stylet 106 is moved forward into pharynx 308, stylet tip 108 may be exposed to an exemplary air flow 316 exhausted from trachea 310 (i.e., stylet tip 108 may be directly in contact with air flow 316), so air flow 316 may pass throughat least one of first channel 114, second channel 116, and third channel 118 (channels are depicted in FIG. 1C).

[0049] In an exemplary embodiment, sensors (e.g., first sensor 142, second sensor 144, and third sensor 146 as shown in FIG.1C) embedded in stylet tip 108 may be capable of detecting at least one parameter associated with air flow 316 which distinguishes patient’s trachea (e.g., trachea 310) from patient’s esophagus (e.g., esophagus 312). In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary data from sensors (e.g., first sensor 142, second sensor 144, and third sensor 146) may assist proper insertion of guide stylet 106. In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary data from sensors (e.g., first sensor 142, second sensor 144, and third sensor 146) may confirm proper placement of guide stylet 106 in trachea 310. In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary distinctive outputs may be generated based on exemplary data from respective first sensor 142, second sensor 144, and third sensor 146.

[0050] In an exemplary embodiment, in order to properly insert guide stylet 106 in trachea 310, guide stylet 106 may be moved forward as long as an exemplary first output based on first sensor 142 is generated. As the exemplary first output stops being generated, proceeding of guide stylet 106 may be hindered; Corresponding to that, guide stylet 106 may be rotated about its central axis 124 (i.e., in either opposite directions 318a and 318b, as shown in FIG. 3B) until either distinctive second or third outputs based on respective second sensor 144 or third sensor 146 is generated. In response to an exemplary output (i.e., either second output or third output), stylet tip 108 of guide stylet 106 will be rotated in a corresponding direction until an exemplary first output is generated again (maybe additional to second output and / or third output). In an exemplary embodiment, stylet tip 108 may be rotated in an exemplary direction from which air flow 316 has entered into stylet tip 108, and because ofthat, corresponding sensor disposed inside corresponding channel has detected an entrance of air flow 316.

[0051] In an exemplary embodiment, in further details with respect to FIGs. 3B-C, as an exemplary first output is not generated, proceeding of guide stylet 106 may be hindered, and guide stylet 106 may be rotated about its central axis 124 (i.e., in direction 318a, as shown in FIG. 3B) until an exemplary distinctive second output based on respective second sensor 144 is generated, so in response to the exemplary distinctive second output, stylet tip 108 of guide stylet 106 will be rotated counterclockwise until an exemplary first output, additional to the exemplary distinctive second and / or third outputs, is generated again. In an exemplary embodiment, stylet tip 108 may be turned via turning first knob 212 and second knob 214 of guiding handle 110 in directions 216a and 216b, respectively, as shown in FIG. 3C. In an exemplary embodiment, as guide stylet 106 founds trachea 310 and has been inserted thereinto, tracheal tube 303 will be pushed towards stylet tip 108, into trachea 310. In an exemplary embodiment, after securely inserting tracheal tube 303 into trachea 310, guide stylet 106 may be pulled out of tracheal tube 303, so tracheal tube 303 is prepared for further actions such as connecting to an exemplary intubation device, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary length of guide stylet 106 may exceed at least twice an exemplary length of tracheal tube 303. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary diameter of guide stylet 106 may be less than that of tracheal tube 303 such that guide stylet 106 can freely moves inside tracheal tube 303 (i.e., guide stylet 106 can slide inside tracheal tube 303, and rotate about its central axis 124).

[0052] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary configuration 400 of various components of an exemplary guide stylet, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, when stylet tip 108 is subjected to air flow 316, at least one of first sensor 142, second sensor 144, and third sensor 146 of sensing unit 402 may detect air flow316. In an exemplary embodiment, sensing unit 402 may be disposed in stylet tip 108 of guide stylet 106. In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary data may be obtained from first sensor 142, second sensor 144, and third sensor 146 sensors which detect air flow 316. In an exemplary embodiment, sensing unit 402 may transmit exemplary data from first sensor 142, second sensor 144, and third sensor 146 to an exemplary control and processing unit 404. In an exemplary embodiment, data transfer between sensing unit 402 and control and processing unit 404 may be based on exemplary wireless and / or wire-based communication protocols.

[0053] In an exemplary embodiment, control and processing unit 404 may transmit corresponding data and information to an exemplary alarm unit 406. In an exemplary embodiment, first output 414, second output 416, and third output 418 may be generated based on corresponding data and information received from control and processing unit 404. In an exemplary embodiment, first output 414, second output 416, and third output 418 may be associated to first sensor 142, second sensor 144, and third sensor 146, respectively. In an exemplary embodiment, when air flow 316 flows through first channel 114 of stylet tip 108, first sensor 142 may detect air flow 316 and first output 414 may be generated based on exemplary data from first sensor 142. In an exemplary embodiment, when air flow 316 flows through second channel 116 of stylet tip 108, second sensor 144 may detect air flow 316 and second output 416 may be generated based on exemplary data from second sensor 144. In an exemplary embodiment, when air flow 316 flows through third channel 118 of stylet tip 108, third sensor 146 may detect air flow 316 and third output 418 may be generated based on exemplary data from third sensor 146. In an exemplary embodiment, first output 414, second output 416, and third output 418 may be mutually distinctive from each other.

[0054] In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary distinctive outputs (e.g., first output 414, second output 416, and third output 418) may comprise at least one of distinctive audiblesounds, various colored LED, and various elements presentable in an exemplary display screen. In an exemplary embodiment, first output 414, second output 416, and third output 418 may be mutually distinctive audible sounds; Therefore, an exemplary user of guide stylet 106 may recognize which output (e.g., first output 414, second output 416, and third output 418) is related to which sensor (e.g., first sensor 142, second sensor 144, and third sensor 146). In an exemplary embodiment, when outputs (e.g., first output 414, second output 416, and third output 418) are mutually distinctive audible sounds, an exemplary user may hear first output 414 and interpret it as air flow 316 is flowing through first channel 114, so guide stylet 106 must be fed forward. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary user may hear either second output 416 or third output 418 and interpret this as air flow 316 is flowing through either second channel 116 or third channel 118, respectively, so stylet tip 108 must be turned in a corresponding direction with either second channel 116 or third channel 118 until the exemplary user can hear first output 414 again (alone or additional to second output 416 and / or third output 418).

[0055] In an exemplary embodiment, conducting guide stylet 106 into a patient’s body may be managed via an exemplary motion unit 420. In an exemplary embodiment, motion unit 420 may be configured to cause desired movements of guide stylet 106 automatically and / or semi-automatically and may include one or more motors, drives, etc.

[0056] In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary data and information from sensing unit 402 may be transferred to motion unit 420 via control and processing unit 404 and / or alarm unit 406. In an exemplary embodiment, motion unit 420 may conduct guide stylet 106 based on mutually distinctive outputs (e.g., first output 414, second output 416, and third output 418) received from control and processing unit 404 and / or alarm unit 406.

[0057] In an exemplary embodiment, motion unit 420 may receive first output 414 and interpret it as air flow 316 is flowing through first channel 114, so guide stylet 106 must be fed forward. In an exemplary embodiment, motion unit 420 may receive either second output 416 or third output 418 and interpret this as air flow 316 is flowing through either second channel 116 or third channel 118, so stylet tip 108 must be turned in a corresponding direction with either second channel 116 or third channel 118 until first output 414 can be received again (alone or additional to second output 416 and / or third output 418).

[0058] In an exemplary embodiment, sensing unit 402 may comprise at least one of flow sensor, pressure sensor, carbon dioxide (CO2) sensor, oxygen (O2) sensor, and nitrogen (N2) sensor. In an exemplary embodiment, sensing unit 402 may comprise at least one of contact or non-contact microphone, and acoustic sensor. In an exemplary embodiment, each of first sensor 142, second sensor 144, and third sensor 146 may comprise at least one of CO2 sensor, O2 sensor, N2 sensor, pressure sensor, and flow sensor. In an exemplary embodiment, each of first sensor 142, second sensor 144, and third sensor 146 may comprise at least one of contact or non-contact microphone, and acoustic sensor.

[0059] While the foregoing has described what are considered to be the best mode and / or other examples, it is understood that various modifications may be made therein and that the subject matter disclosed herein may be implemented in various forms and examples, and that the teachings may be applied in numerous applications, only some of which have been described herein. It is intended by the following claims to claim any and all applications, modifications and variations that fall within the true scope of the present teachings.

[0060] Unless otherwise stated, all measurements, values, ratings, positions, magnitudes, sizes, and other specifications that are set forth in this specification, including in the claims that follow, are approximate, not exact. They are intended to have a reasonable range that isconsistent with the functions to which they relate and with what is customary in the art to which they pertain.

[0061] The scope of protection is limited solely by the claims that now follow. That scope is intended and should be interpreted to be as broad as is consistent with the ordinary meaning of the language that is used in the claims when interpreted in light of this specification and the prosecution history that follows and to encompass all structural and functional equivalents. Notwithstanding, none of the claims are intended to embrace subject matter that fails to satisfy the requirement of Sections 101, 102, or 103 of the Patent Act, nor should they be interpreted in such a way. Any unintended embracement of such subject matter is hereby disclaimed.

[0062] Except as stated immediately above, nothing that has been stated or illustrated is intended or should be interpreted to cause a dedication of any component, step, feature, object, benefit, advantage, or equivalent to the public, regardless of whether it is or is not recited in the claims.

[0063] It will be understood that the terms and expressions used herein have the ordinary meaning as is accorded to such terms and expressions with respect to their corresponding respective areas of inquiry and study except where specific meanings have otherwise been set forth herein. Relational terms such as first and second and the like may be used solely to distinguish one entity or action from another without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions. An element proceeded by “a” or “an” does not, without further constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element.

[0064] It will be understood that the terms and expressions used herein have the ordinary meaning as is accorded to such terms and expressions with respect to their corresponding respective areas of inquiry and study, except where specific meanings have otherwise been setforth herein. Relational terms such as “first” and “second” and the like may be used solely to distinguish one entity or action from another without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions.

[0065] The Abstract of the Disclosure is provided to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the foregoing Detailed Description, it may be seen that various features are grouped together in various implementations. This is for purposes of streamlining the disclosure, and is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed implementations require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed implementation. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separately claimed subject matter.

[0066] While various implementations have been described, the description is intended to be exemplary, rather than limiting and it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many more implementations and implementations are possible that are within the scope of the implementations. Although many possible combinations of features are shown in the accompanying figures and discussed in this detailed description, many other combinations of the disclosed features are possible. Any feature of any implementation may be used in combination with or substituted for any other feature or element in any other implementation unless specifically restricted. Therefore, it will be understood that any of the features shown and / or discussed in the present disclosure may be implemented together in any suitable combination. Accordingly, the implementations are not to be restricted except in light of theattached claims and their equivalents. Also, various modifications and changes may be made within the scope of the attached claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A guide stylet, comprising: a tubular section comprising a main channel extending from a proximal end of the guide stylet towards a distal end of the guide stylet; a stylet tip connected to the distal end of the guide stylet, the stylet tip comprising: a first channel; a second channel; and a third channel, wherein each of the respective first channel, second channel and third channel comprises: a first opening disposed on an outer surface of the stylet tip; and a second opening disposed on a circumference of the main channel, wherein each of the respective first channel, second channel and third channel connects the outer surface of the stylet tip to the main channel of the tubular section, and the respective first openings of the corresponding first channel, second channel and third channel are disposed non-coplanarly on the outer surface of the stylet tip such that the respective first openings of the corresponding second channel and third channel are disposed on either side of the first opening of the first channel and on opposite sides of the stylet tip; and a plurality of sensors comprising: a first sensor disposed inside the first channel; a second sensor disposed inside the second channel; and a third sensor disposed inside the third channel, wherein when the stylet tip is exposed to an air flow exhausting from a trachea, at least one of the first sensor, second sensor, and third sensor detects the air flow, and at least one of acorresponding first output, second output, and third output is generated based on the air flow detected via the at least one of the first sensor, second sensor, and third sensor.

2. The guide stylet of claim 1 further comprising a guiding handle connected to the proximal end of the guide stylet.

3. The guide stylet of claim 2, wherein the guiding handle is configured to conduct an insertion of the guide stylet into the trachea, the guiding handle comprises: a first set of strings comprising a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the first set of strings is connected to a first side of the stylet tip where the first opening of the second channel is disposed; a second set of strings comprising a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the second set of strings is connected to a second side of the stylet tip, opposite the first side of the stylet tip, where the first opening of the third channel is disposed; a first knob around which the second end of the first set of strings is wound; and a second knob around which the second end of the second set of strings is wound, wherein when the first and second knobs are turned, the stylet tip rotates via the first and the second sets of strings.

4. The guide stylet of claim 1, wherein the first channel extends coaxially to the main channel.

5. The guide stylet of claim 1, wherein each of the respective first channel, second channel and third channel fluidly communicates with the main channel.

6. The guide stylet of claim 1, wherein the stylet tip further comprises: a pointed tip at which the first opening of the first channel is disposed; and a round base to which the tubular section is connected.

7. The guide stylet of claim 1, wherein each of the first, second, and third sensors comprises at least one of flow sensor, pressure sensor, carbon dioxide (CO2) sensor, oxygen (O2) sensor, and nitrogen (N2) sensor.

8. The guide stylet of claim 1, wherein each of the first, second, and third sensors comprises at least one of contact or non-contact microphone, and acoustic sensor.

9. The guide stylet of claim 1, wherein the first output, second output, and third output are mutually distinctive from each other indicating the corresponding first sensor, second sensor, and third sensor which has detected the air flow.

10. The guide stylet of claim 9, wherein the first output, second output, and third output are mutually distinctive audible sounds.

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