Patent ID: 6254591
Filing Date: 2001-07-03
Classification: A61B,A61M

Abstract:
An elongate suction tube assembly, comprising:a primary tube member having an open proximal end, a distal end and a generally cylindrical sidewall extending therebetween, and having a diameter in the range of about 5 to 10 mm; andat least two primary tube extension members extending from the distal end of the primary tube member, each of the extension members having a different length, a diameter in the range of about 1 to 4 mm, and a sidewall with at least one suction port formed therein,wherein at least a portion of the assembly is insertable into a patient's oropharynx to suction airborne matter therefrom, wherein the primary tube member and the at least two extension members are integrally formed within an endotracheal tube having an outer sidewall and an inner sidewall, such that the primary tube member and the at least two extension members are disposed between the outer and inner sidewalls of the endotracheal tube, and wherein each of the at least two extension members directly communicates with a region outside of the endotracheal tube and within the patient's oropharynx.