Patent ID: 7018359
Filing Date: 2006-03-28
Classification: A61M

Abstract:
1. An inner pressure indicator capable of indicating inner pressure of an inflatable cuff of a tracheostomy or endotracheal tube, said indicator comprising an elongated housing having an axis extending between one end having a first opening for connection to a cuff inflating tube, and an opposing end having a second opening to which is connected a valve whereby said inner pressure is regulated, wherein said housing is characterized by being equipped with an inner pressure indicating means comprising an in-line elastic bellows axially aligned with said axis, said bellows being within said housing and responsive to the inner pressure of said cuff exerting pressure thereon, said in-line bellows having a first closed end adjacent to said first opening and a structure cap over said first closed end, a second open end adjacent to said second opening, and a branch cap over said open end of said in-line bellows providing means whereby air within said bellows is permitted to pass freely outside of said housing in response to pressure from within said cuff exerted on said structure cap when said inner pressure of said cuff exceeds a prescribed pressure thereby expelling air from within said in-line bellows through said branch cap, and said valve is adapted to cooperate with a syringe whereby the inner pressure of said cuff is regulated through said housing by opening said valve whereby a constant reading of said inner pressure of said cuff is provided.