Endotracheal Tube Pointer for Accidental Extubation Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Accidental extubation of endotracheal tubes is a common issue, leading to costly re-intubation procedures and patient complications, with existing detection methods being costly and not widely adopted due to high upfront expenses and complex equipment requirements.
Innovation Solution
An endotracheal tube assembly featuring an inflatable annular air cuff, annular slider cuff, air cuff tubing, and a pointer with a visual indicator, which allows for easy detection of tube displacement through axial movement of the slider cuff, indicating when the tube is no longer in an acceptable position within the trachea.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electronic devices using sound waves are used to monitor endotracheal tube movement, then detection capability is improved, but upfront costs and equipment setup complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the detection function from complex electronic equipment and implements it through a simple mechanical pointer system that moves with the endotracheal tube. The pointer attached to the air cuff tubing provides direct visual indication of tube position through movement relative to the tube exterior, eliminating the need for sound wave monitoring devices while maintaining detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses inexpensive, simple mechanical components (pointer, air cuff tubing, slider cuff) that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed, contrasting with expensive electronic monitoring devices. The pointer system costs minimal amounts to produce and provides continuous visual feedback without requiring costly electronic equipment or complex setup procedures.
2Reliability
If electronic devices using sound waves are used to monitor endotracheal tube movement, then detection capability is improved, but upfront costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a cost-effective detection system using inexpensive mechanical components including a pointer attached to air cuff tubing, a slider cuff that moves with the tube, and visual indicators on the tube exterior. These components can be manufactured at minimal cost compared to electronic monitoring devices, reducing upfront expenses while maintaining reliable detection of tube displacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention removes the need for expensive electronic sound wave monitoring equipment by extracting the detection function and implementing it through simple mechanical means. The pointer system provides direct visual indication of tube position through movement relative to the tube, eliminating costly electronic equipment while maintaining detection capability.
3Reliability
If re-intubation procedures are performed, then patient airway is restored, but patient injury and prolonged ICU stay occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent provides continuous visual feedback through a pointer system that indicates when the endotracheal tube is displaced from its correct position. The pointer moves relative to visual indicators on the tube exterior, giving real-time information about tube position to healthcare providers, enabling early detection and prevention of extubation before patient harm occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention applies preliminary anti-action by providing advance warning through the pointer system before actual extubation occurs. The visual indicator system detects tube displacement early, allowing healthcare providers to take corrective action to maintain proper tube positioning and prevent the harmful effects of extubation, including patient injury and the need for re-intubation.
Data Source
AI summary
Various implementations include an endotracheal tube assembly including an endotracheal tube, an inflatable annular air cuff, an annular slider cuff, an air cuff tubing, and a pointer. The tube includes a visual indicator portion adjacent the proximal end of the endotracheal tube. The inflatable annular air cuff is disposed around the exterior surface of the endotracheal tube and is affixed to the distal end of the endotracheal tube. The annular slider cuff is slidably disposed around the endotracheal tube, and the slider cuff is affixed to the air cuff. The air cuff tubing is coupled to the slider cuff, and the pointer is coupled to the air cuff tubing proximal to the visual indicator portion. Axial movement of the slider cuff causes movement of the pointer relative to the visual indicator portion indicates movement of the endotracheal tube within the trachea during use.