Patent ID: 6014972
Filing Date: 2000-01-18
Classification: A61M

Abstract:
Apparatus for introducing a measured dose of minute, dry medication particles into an inspiratory stream of a ventilator system including an inspiratory tube, a Y connector, and an endotracheal tube intubated in a patient, the apparatus comprising:(a) a connector having an inlet port and first and second ports coupled to conduct the inspiratory stream through the connector;(b) a medication dispensing device actuatable to eject a plume constituting a measured dose of minute, dry medication particles, the medication dispensing device including a mouthpiece, an internal nozzle structure for electing an expanding plume of medication particles toward the mouthpiece, a boot portion having an open end in fluid communication with the mouthpiece, and an MDI canister within the boot portion and having a stem inserted into an inlet of the nozzle structure; and(c) a closed plume-containing structure receiving an expanding plume of minute dry medication particles from the mouthpiece, the plume-containing structure having a first port for insertion into the inlet port to direct the expanding plume to flow through the inlet port into the inspiratory stream, through the endotracheal tube, and into the lungs of the patient.