Tracheostomy Support Pad With Closed-Loop Pressure Offloading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tracheostomy systems and ventilator circuits exert undesirable torques and pressure forces on the tracheostomy tube and neck skin, leading to skin breakdown, bleeding, infection, and potential erosion of esophagus or large blood vessels.
Innovation Solution
A tracheostomy support system with a multilayered pad comprising a first layer for contact with the neck, a second layer for contact with the tracheostomy tube shield, and an expandable compartment between the layers, which can be adjusted using a closed-loop feedback system to minimize torque and pressure on the neck skin.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ventilator circuit tubing or ventilator machine components are used to aid in breathing, then breathing support is improved, but torques and pressure forces are increased causing skin breakdown and tissue damage
Solution Approach 1:
A support device is introduced as an intermediary element between the tracheostomy tube and the patient's neck. This device includes a pad with a cavity that receives the tracheostomy tube, distributing the torques and pressure forces over a larger surface area of the neck, thereby preventing direct contact between the harmful forces and the neck skin while maintaining effective breathing support
2Object-affected harmful factors
If tracheostomy tube is made softer to reduce harm, then skin breakdown is reduced, but structural support and connection stability are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The support device is divided into distinct functional segments: a soft pad layer for comfort and pressure distribution, a cavity structure for tube reception and positioning, and a fastening mechanism for secure attachment. This segmentation allows each component to optimize its specific function without compromising the others, providing both comfort and structural support
3Reliability
If devices are used to prevent ventilator tubing disconnection, then connection stability is improved, but torques and pressure forces on the tracheostomy tube are not addressed
Solution Approach 1:
The support device performs multiple functions simultaneously: it prevents disconnection of the ventilator tubing through secure fastening, distributes torques and pressure forces to prevent skin breakdown, and provides structural support for the tracheostomy tube. This multi-functionality addresses all the identified problems with a single integrated solution
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
The system effectively reduces torque and pressure on the neck skin, minimizing the risk of ulcers and infections by distributing the force more evenly and providing automatic adjustment based on pressure sensors.
Implementation Method 1
at least one expandable compartment disposed between the first layer of material and the second layer of material
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are materials, articles, devices, and methods for manufacture thereof that pertain to a tracheostomy support system. The tracheostomy support system can eliminate torque on the tracheostomy tube and offload pressure caused by the tracheostomy tube on the neck skin of a patient. Additionally, the tracheostomy support system can indicate when pressure or moisture on the skin is at an unsafe level that may predispose the patient to neck skin ulceration, breakdown, or infection. The tracheostomy support system can be automatically adjusted through a closed-loop feedback system or can be manually adjusted.