Bougie Gripping Device for Secure Intubation Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current intubation procedures for patients with difficult airways are hindered by the difficulty in gripping and navigating bougies, leading to inefficiencies and increased risk of aspiration due to the need to switch between devices for suction and intubation, resulting in prolonged airway management and potential complications.
Innovation Solution
A gripping device with a curved channel and locking mechanism for securely holding a bougie, allowing for simultaneous use with suction or oxygen delivery, and enabling telescopic advancement of an endotracheal tube, reducing the need for device exchange and enhancing control over suction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a bougie is made flexible to navigate body passageways, then it can successfully traverse the airway, but it becomes difficult to grip and control
Solution Approach 1:
The bougie is divided into two distinct functional segments: a flexible distal portion for navigating the airway and a rigid proximal portion for gripping and control. This segmentation allows each part to optimize its properties independently - the distal end remains flexible to follow anatomical curves while the proximal end provides a firm grip surface for the operator
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the bougie have different mechanical properties tailored to their specific functions. The distal portion is made flexible with a smaller diameter to navigate tortuous airway paths, while the proximal portion is made rigid with a larger diameter to provide adequate grip and leverage for manipulation during the procedure
2Reliability
If traditional separate devices are used for suction and intubation, then each function can be performed adequately, but time is lost switching between devices
Solution Approach 1:
The device combines multiple intubation functions into a single integrated system. The bougie integrates the guide function, the endotracheal tube provides the airway access, and the connector enables suction capability. This merging eliminates the need to switch between separate suction devices and intubation devices, saving critical time during difficult airway management
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated device performs multiple functions simultaneously - it serves as an airway guide, a suction conduit, and an intubation tool. The connector allows suction to be applied through the same device used for guiding and securing the endotracheal tube, making the system universally applicable for comprehensive airway management
3Object-affected harmful factors
If suction tube is inserted to clear secretions, then airway is cleared effectively, but time is lost removing it and inserting endotracheal tube
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges the suction function and intubation guide function into a single device. The connector allows suction to be applied through the bougie system, and the same device remains in place to guide the endotracheal tube. This eliminates the need to remove a suction device and insert a separate intubation device, maintaining continuous airway management
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for endotracheal intubation. The apparatus allows medical personnel to grip and stabilize a bougie inside the apparatus and maintain a curved orientation during the intubation processes. The apparatus includes a locking ring for retaining the bougie during use.