Video Laryngoscope Window Clearing With Fluid Jet and Suction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing video laryngoscopy apparatuses are hindered by obstructions from patient liquids and solids that obscure the viewing window during emergency intubation, risking improper tube placement and potential life-threatening complications.
Innovation Solution
A laryngoscopy apparatus with integrated channels for fluid ejection and suction to clear obstructions from the viewing window, allowing for clear visualization of the airway during intubation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a video laryngoscope is used for emergency intubation, then the ability to visualize the airway is improved, but the viewing window becomes obscured by patient liquids and solids
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the harmful obstructions (liquids and solids) from the viewing window by introducing a separate suction channel that removes these materials away from the camera view, thereby maintaining clear airway visualization without interfering with the video laryngoscope's primary function
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary fluid (saline or air) delivered through a separate channel that acts as a mediator to flush and clear obstructions from the viewing window, enabling the camera to maintain a clear view of the airway during intubation procedures
2Loss of information
If the viewing window is cleared of obstructions, then airway visualization is maintained, but the device complexity increases with additional channels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions (video capture, fluid delivery, and suction) into a single integrated laryngoscope device, where the camera and additional channels share the same housing and operational space, thereby managing complexity through functional integration rather than separate devices
Solution Approach 2:
The laryngoscope blade is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a visual guide for intubation and as a conduit for fluid delivery and suction channels, allowing a single device to perform multiple functions without proportionally increasing overall device complexity
3Loss of information
If fluid is ejected to clear the viewing window, then obstructions are removed, but fluid may enter the airway
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by positioning the suction channel to activate simultaneously with or immediately after fluid ejection, creating a counter-action that prevents fluid from entering the airway by establishing a protective suction field that captures and removes excess fluid before it can be aspirated
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through the coordinated operation of ejection and suction channels, where the suction system responds to the fluid ejection by actively removing excess fluid, thereby creating a self-regulating system that maintains viewing window clarity while preventing fluid aspiration
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Ensures timely and accurate placement of breathing tubes by maintaining a clear view of the airway, reducing risks of hypoxemia and death by enabling rapid and effective intubation.
Implementation Method 1
a second channel that facilitates clearing of the viewing window of the laryngoscopy apparatus with a jet of fluid
Implementation Method 2
a third channel that can be used to remove the ejected fluid and any material that has been cleared by the jet
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a laryngoscopy apparatus includes a handle configured for gripping by an operator, a blade extending from the handle configured for insertion into the trachea of a patient, a clear viewing window provided on the blade that enables a patient's airway to be viewed, and means for clearing material from the viewing window that could obscure the view of the airway.