Source: http://www.freepatentsonline.com/y2013/0276780.html
Timestamp: 2019-10-14 13:24:22
Document Index: 224927771

Matched Legal Cases: ['Application No. 61', 'Application No. 61', 'Application No. 61', 'Application No. 61', 'Application No. 61', 'Application No. 61']

United States Patent Application 20130276780
Tobia, Ronald (Sun Prairie, WI, US)
Levi, Andrew (Madison, WI, US)
Choncholas, Gary (Madison, WI, US)
Bluemner, Erik J. (Verona, WI, US)
Schoepke, Ben (Madison, WI, US)
Flanagan, Patrick (Colgate, WI, US)
Dalgety, Lee (Middleton, WI, US)
Roberts, Sheldon (Sun Prairie, WI, US)
Lust, Dorian (McFarland, WI, US)
13/651337
128/203.12, 128/205.24, 340/815.65
A61M16/00; A61M16/01; A61M16/20
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20090090365 BALLOON CUFF TRACHEOSTOMY TUBE WITH GREATER EASE OF INSERTION April, 2009 Cuevas et al.
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20060089540 Device for diabetes management April, 2006 Meissner
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2. A user interface alarm limit revert feature for use in anesthesia delivery systems, said anesthesia delivery system comprising an “auto-limit” function activation that automatically adjusts said system's alarm limits around currently monitored values based on a predefined algorithm, wherein said revert feature reverts the alarm(s) and alarm limits, into a pre-auto-limit activation state.
23. The anesthesia delivery system of claim 22, further comprising a user interface alarm limit revert feature, wherein said anesthesia delivery system comprises an “auto-limit” function activation that automatically adjusts said system's alarm limits around currently monitored values based on a predefined algorithm, further wherein said revert feature reverts the alarm(s) and alarm limits, into a pre-auto-limit activation state.
The present application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/546,930, entitled “Integrated, Extendable Anesthesia System”, and filed on Oct. 13, 2011, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
In addition, the present application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/559,433, entitled “Integrated, Extendable Anesthesia System”, and filed on Nov. 14, 2011, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
The present application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/329,186, entitled “Integrated, Extendable Anesthesia System”, filed on Dec. 16, 2011 and assigned to the applicant of the present invention, which, in turn, claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/424,312, entitled “Integrated, Extendable Anesthesia System”, and filed on Dec. 17, 2010 and assigned to the applicant of the present invention, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
The present application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/329,219, entitled “Dynamic Graphic Respiratory Communication System”, filed on Dec. 17, 2011 and assigned to the applicant of the present invention, which, in turn, relies on U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/424,306, entitled “Animated Display Icons for Use in Anesthesia Systems”, filed on Dec. 17, 2010 and assigned to the applicant of the present invention, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
The present application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/329,259, entitled “Sliding Track and Pivot Mounting System for Display on Anesthesia Machines”, filed on Dec. 17, 2011 and assigned to the applicant of the present invention, which, in turn, relies on U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/424,298, entitled “Sliding Track and Pivot Mounting System for Display on Anesthesia Machines”, filed on Dec. 17, 2010 and assigned to the applicant of the present invention, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
The present application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/906,081, entitled “Integrated, Extendable Anesthesia System”, filed on Oct. 16, 2010 and assigned to the applicant of the present invention, which, in turn, relies on United States Provisional Patent Application No. 61/252,269, entitled “Integrated Anesthesia System”, filed on Oct. 16, 2009 and assigned to the applicant of the present invention, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
Further, PCT/US2010/52977, entitled “Integrated, Extendable Anesthesia System”, and filed on Oct. 16, 2010 is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.
Further, PCT/US2011/65676, entitled “Integrated, Extendable Anesthesia System”, and filed on Dec. 16, 2011 is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.
Further, PCT/US2011/65678, entitled “Dynamic Graphic Respiratory Communication System”, and filed on Dec. 17, 2011 is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.
Further, PCT/US2011/65685, entitled “Sliding Track and Pivot Mounting System for Display on Anesthesia Machines”, and filed on Dec. 17, 2011 is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.
In one embodiment, the port housing is cylindrical in shape and defines a space for receiving a gas. In embodiment, the external diameter of the cylindrical port housing is in the range of 17 mm to 27 mm while the inner diameter of the cylindrical port housing is in the range of 10 mm to 20 mm. In one embodiment, the cylindrical port housing is radially sealed using at least one O-ring.
In another embodiment, the present specification is directed toward a user interface alarm lighting feature for use in anesthesia delivery systems, comprising a lighting strip provided on a graphical user interface (GUI) of said anesthesia system to enable a user to quickly determine if an alarm is active and the priority level of said active alarm, further wherein the location and color of said lighting strip determine said priority of said alarm.
In another embodiment, the present specification is directed toward a user interface alarm limit revert feature for use in anesthesia delivery systems, said anesthesia delivery system comprising an “auto-limits” function activation that automatically adjusts said system's alarm limits around currently monitored values based on a predefined algorithm, wherein said revert feature reverts the alarm(s) and thus, alarm limits, into a pre-auto-limit activation state.
In another embodiment, the present specification is directed toward an emergency bypass valve system for use in anesthesia delivery systems, comprising a dual position knob which, in a first position, corresponds to an active electronic mixing control and, in a second position, corresponds to an active emergency bypass valve, further wherein a pre-determined amount of oxygen flow is provided when said dual position knob is moved into said second position.
In another embodiment, the present specification is directed toward a self-activating auxiliary common gas outlet (ACGO) port for use in anesthesia delivery systems, wherein said ACGO port is in an inactive state when said ACGO port is in a first vertical, downward facing position and said AGCO port is activated by rotation of said ACGO port into a second horizontal, forward facing position. In one embodiment, the auxiliary common gas outlet (AGCO) port is illuminated when said ACGO port is in said second position.
The present specification is also directed toward an anesthesia delivery system, comprising: a first section comprising housing for at least one clinical control and at least one patient connection for providing therapy to a patient, wherein said at least one patient connection includes a breathing circuit connection, comprising at least one limb, wherein the at least one limb may be inspiratory or expiratory or a combination thereof; a second section, comprising a base portion for supporting the first section, a planar workspace surface, at least one pneumatic connection and at least one electrical connection, wherein the second section is pneumatically connected to the first section by a suction supply line and at least one anesthesia gas supply line and wherein the first section is movable relative to the second section; and, wherein the first section, the second section, or both the first section and the second sections contain means for ensuring that at least one planar workspace surface remains free of contaminants.
In one embodiment, the means for ensuring at least one planar workspace surface remains free of contaminants comprises close tolerance or flexible seals at the point(s) where the first section is movable relative to the second section. In one embodiment, the close tolerance or flexible seals comprise one of the following types: bulb seals, wiper type seals, or flexible foam seals.
In another embodiment, the means for ensuring at least one planar workspace surface remains free of contaminants comprises antimicrobial treatment(s), further wherein said antimicrobial treatment(s) is applied to said at least one planar surface. In another embodiment, the means for ensuring at least one planar workspace surface remains free of contaminants comprises a removable decal affixed to said at least one planar surface, further wherein said decal is treated with an antimicrobial treatment. In one embodiment, the antimicrobial treatment comprises silver ion.
In another embodiment, the means for ensuring at least one planar workspace surface remains free of contaminants comprises a film-based solution having an intrinsic micro-geometry which when applied on a surface makes said surface resistant to microbe growth, wherein said solution is applied to said at least one planar workspace.
In another embodiment, the means for ensuring at least one planar workspace surface remains free of contaminants comprises at least one ultraviolet (UV) light source. In one embodiment, the at least one ultraviolet (UV) light source is attached within or onto said anesthesia delivery system. In one embodiment, the at least one ultraviolet (UV) light source is activated when said first section is moved relative to said section and/or at predetermined intervals. In another embodiment, the at least one ultraviolet (UV) light source comprises a wand-like device and the anesthesia system further comprises access holes and/or removable covers, wherein said wand-like device can be inserted into said access holes and/or waved over components exposed by removal of said removable covers.
In another embodiment, the means for ensuring at least one planar workspace surface remains free of contaminants comprises a flexible antibacterial pad attached to the bottom of said first section, wherein said pad is conditioned with an antibacterial cleanser, and wherein sad pad rubs and thereby cleanses said at least one planar surface as said first section is moved relative to said second section. In one embodiment, the antibacterial cleanser comprises isopropyl alcohol.
In one embodiment, the antibacterial pad is temporary and is periodically replaced. In another embodiment, the antibacterial pad is permanent and is periodically reconditioned with said antibacterial cleanser.
The present specification is also directed toward an anesthesia delivery system, comprising: a first section comprising housing for at least one clinical control and at least one patient connection for providing therapy to a patient, wherein said at least one patient connection includes a breathing circuit connection, comprising at least one limb, wherein the at least one limb may be inspiratory or expiratory or a combination thereof; a second section, comprising a base portion for supporting the first section, a planar workspace surface, at least one pneumatic connection and at least one electrical connection, wherein the second section is pneumatically connected to the first section by a suction supply line and at least one anesthesia gas supply line and wherein the first section is movable relative to the second section; and, a user interface alarm lighting feature, wherein a lighting strip is provided on a graphical user interface (GUI) of said anesthesia system to enable a user to quickly determine if an alarm is active and the priority level of said active alarm, further wherein the location and color of said lighting strip determine said priority of said alarm.
In one embodiment, the anesthesia delivery system further comprises a user interface alarm limit revert feature, wherein said anesthesia delivery system comprising an “auto-limits” function activation that automatically adjusts said system's alarm limits around currently monitored values based on a predefined algorithm, further wherein said revert feature reverts the alarm(s) and thus, alarm limits, into a pre-auto-limit activation state.
In one embodiment, the anesthesia delivery system further comprises an emergency bypass valve system which enables a user to set a flow of oxygen in the event of a mixer failure, wherein said emergency bypass valve system comprises a dual position knob, which, in a first position, corresponds to an active electronic mixing control and, in a second position, corresponds to an active emergency bypass valve, further wherein a pre-determined amount of oxygen flow is provided when said dual position knob is moved into said second position.
In one embodiment, the anesthesia delivery system further comprises a self-activating auxiliary common gas outlet (ACGO) port. In one embodiment, the auxiliary common gas outlet (ACGO) port measures in the range of 17 to 27 mm in external diameter. In one embodiment, the auxiliary common gas outlet (ACGO) port measures in the range of 10 to 20 mm in internal diameter. In one embodiment, the auxiliary common gas outlet (ACGO) port is in an inactive state when said ACGO port is in a first vertical, downward facing position and said AGCO port is activated by rotation of said ACGO port into a second horizontal, forward facing position. In one embodiment, the auxiliary common gas outlet (AGCO) port is illuminated when said ACGO port is in said second position.
The present specification is also directed toward a user interface alarm lighting feature for use in anesthesia delivery systems, wherein a lighting strip is provided on a graphical user interface (GUI) of said anesthesia system to enable a user to quickly determine if an alarm is active and the priority level of said active alarm, further wherein the location and color of said lighting strip determine said priority of said alarm.
FIG. 2B illustrates a bulb type seal applied to the anesthesia system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;
FIG. 2C illustrates an ultraviolet (UV) light source employed in the anesthesia system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;
FIG. 2D illustrates an antimicrobial pad permanently attached to the anesthesia system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;
FIG. 2E depicts the anesthesia system of the present specification in a second configuration, fully telescoped, but not rotated;
FIG. 2F depicts the movement of anesthesia system of the present specification in a third configuration, as the clinical center (CC) is compressed and collapsed back into the anesthesia office (AO) and thus in a partially telescoped position;
FIG. 2G depicts the movement of anesthesia system of the present specification in a fourth configuration, as the clinical center (CC) is compressed and collapsed back into the anesthesia office (AO) and thus in a fully collapsed position;
FIG. 2H depicts the incremental angular motion of the clinical center (CC) as it is partially rotated away from the anesthesia office (AO), in a fifth configuration;
FIG. 2I depicts the incremental angular motion of the clinical center (CC) as it is fully rotated away from the anesthesia office (AO), in a sixth configuration;
FIG. 2J is an illustration of one embodiment of at least one swiveling breathing circuit attachment port in a first, default configuration, having a breathing tube connection outlet positioned perpendicular to the front of the clinical center (CC);
FIG. 2K is an expanded, front view of the swiveling breathing circuit attachment port of the present invention, shown in FIG. 2J;
FIG. 2L is an expanded, back view of the swiveling breathing circuit attachment port of the present invention, shown in FIGS. 2J and 2K;
FIG. 2M is an illustration depicting one embodiment of at least one swiveling breathing circuit attachment port in a second configuration, having a breathing tube connection outlet rotated fully toward the right side of the clinical center (CC);
FIG. 2N is an illustration depicting one embodiment of at least one swiveling breathing circuit attachment ports in a third configuration, having a breathing tube connection outlet rotated fully toward the left side of the clinical center (CC);
FIG. 11A illustrates an exemplary graphical user interface (GUI) screen of the anesthesia system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;
FIG. 11B illustrates another exemplary GUI screen of the anesthesia system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;
FIG. 11C illustrates yet another exemplary GUI screen of the anesthesia system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;
FIG. 12A illustrates a monitor screen displaying a plurality of icons for setting alarms, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;
FIG. 12B illustrates another exemplary monitor screen displaying a plurality of icons for setting alarms, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;
FIG. 12C illustrates yet another exemplary monitor screen displaying a plurality of icons for setting alarms, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;
FIG. 13A is a diagram showing some basic elements of a conventional circle breathing circuit indicating which major elements have been eliminated, or are not required, in the circle-less breathing circuit of the anesthesia system of the present specification;
FIG. 13B illustrates a circle-less breathing circuit, in accordance with an embodiment of the anesthesia system of the present specification;
FIG. 13C illustrates an optimally shaped anesthetic gas pulse so that a pulse train of anesthetic gas may be injected in real-time into the inspiratory flow stream of a patient;
FIG. 14A illustrates a first position of a bypass actuation knob of the anesthesia system in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;
FIG. 14B illustrates a second position of a bypass actuation knob of the anesthesia system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;
FIG. 14C illustrates a user adjusting a bypass actuation knob of the anesthesia system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;
FIG. 14D illustrates an active bypass actuation knob of the anesthesia system when the anesthesia system is in an ‘off’ state, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;
FIG. 15A illustrates an auxiliary common gas outlet (ACGO) port of the anesthesia system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;
FIG. 15B illustrates an inactive position of the auxiliary common gas outlet (ACGO) port of the anesthesia system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification;
FIG. 15C illustrates an active position of the auxiliary common gas outlet (ACGO) port of the anesthesia system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification; and
FIG. 15D illustrates an active position of the auxiliary common gas outlet (ACGO) port with a breathing circuit attached, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification.
In various embodiments, it is essential to prevent debris, such as waste material, pens, needles, syringes, etc., from being drawn into interior, non-user accessible portions of the anesthesia system. If such debris is allowed to slide under the main AO 204 work surface 207 or work surface 210 of CC 202, it could cause a refraction or extension jam or otherwise clutter and obstruct the internal portions of the anesthesia system. Also, it is essential to ensure that portions of the system that move into the interior during retraction/collapse, such as work surface 210 that moves under the main AO 204 work surface 207 when retracted, do not cause internal microbial contamination that could be a source of recontamination of extendible work surface 210, even if the surfaces have been previously cleaned.
As described above, the surfaces of the anesthesia system which move over or under each other, such as surfaces 210 and 207, have close tolerance or flexible seals at their interfaces 211 to avoid having materials sitting on the surfaces being jammed into the gap or stuck between surfaces. In one embodiment, the flexible seals employed are “bulb seals” such as those well-known to those of ordinary skill in the art. After application and when surface 210 is refracted or collapsed into the system, the bulb type seals flex to completely fill the gap between the top of surface 210 and the bottom of surface 207.
FIG. 2B illustrates a bulb type seal 225 applied to the anesthesia system of the present specification. As illustrated in FIG. 2B, at least one bulb type seal 225 and preferably a plurality of bulb type seals 225 are provided at interfaces 211 of the surfaces 207 and 210. In various embodiments, other seals commonly known in the art, such as wiper type seals or flexible foam, may be used in the anesthesia system of the present specification.
In an embodiment, the employed seals comprise antimicrobial treatments to ensure that surface 210 is free of microbial contamination as it slides by the flexible seal at interface 211. Such antimicrobial treatments are commonly known in the art. For example, antimicrobial silver ion surface treatments known in the art may be used with the present specification. In another embodiment, the employed seal may be of a foam type that is immersed in an antimicrobial solution before application. Various other antimicrobial seals commonly known in the art may be employed in the anesthesia system.
In order to further reduce the chance of cross-contamination, in an embodiment, the top surface of work surface 210 and the top and bottom surfaces of AO work surface 207, are coated with antimicrobial treatments such as silver ion. In yet another embodiment, the antimicrobial treatment are in the form of treated surface decals which are applied on the top surface of work surface 210 and the top and bottom surfaces of AO work surface 207. A decal (or transfer) is a plastic, cloth, paper or ceramic substrate that can be moved to another surface upon contact, usually with the aid of heat or water. In an embodiment, surface decals are coated with antimicrobial treatments by using any suitable surface coating methods known in the art, before applying the decals on one or more surfaces of the anesthesia system. The antimicrobial treatment coated surface decals may be periodically changed by users of the anesthesia system. Further, as would be apparent to persons of ordinary skill in the art, various other commercially available antimicrobial treatments and coatings may be used for the purposes described above.
In an alternate embodiment, the top surface of work surface 210 and the top and bottom surfaces of AO work surface 207 are rendered permanently sterile by using commercially available antimicrobial treatments. For example, a film-based solution having an intrinsic micro-geometry which, when applied on a surface makes the surface resistant to microbe growth, may also be employed.
In an alternate embodiment, in order to prevent contamination, the anesthesia system is further equipped with at least one Ultra-Violet (UV) light source, which is known in the art to have an anti-microbial effect. For example, UV light sources designed to disinfect surfaces, including those used in the medical industry, may be employed. As would be apparent to persons of ordinary skill in the art, any other commonly available UV light sources suitable for the mentioned application may be employed to disinfect the anesthesia system. In an embodiment, a UV light source is arranged at one or more positions in the interior of the anesthesia system and is activated when the anesthesia system's work surfaces 210 are extended or retracted. In another embodiment, the employed UV light source is activated either continuously or periodically for predefined intervals of time. FIG. 2C illustrates a UV light source 235 employed in the anesthesia system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As illustrated, a UV light source 235 is placed below the main AO work surface 207 for illuminating internal surfaces of the anesthesia system when the CC is extended and the work surface 210 is exposed. The UV light source 235 illuminates and disinfects, among other parts, the gap created under the work surface 207 when the surface 210 extends out.
In another embodiment, a low cost system for disinfecting the anesthesia system, which may be applied to multiple systems employed in a hospital environment, is provided. In the embodiment, instead of having a UV source built into the anesthesia system, a UV light “wand” is provided which is introduced into the interior of the anesthesia (and other) system(s) periodically for disinfecting the system(s). The “wand” is a thin, UV light source element that, in an embodiment, is provided as a specialized service tool for the anesthesia system. The wand may be introduced into interiors of the anesthesia system on a routine basis by a user for the purposes of disinfecting the interiors of the system. In an embodiment, the anesthesia system is provided with access holes for inserting the UV light wand. In another embodiment, one or more pre-determined covers of the anesthesia system may be removed in order to introduce the UV light wand to the interiors of the system.
In yet another embodiment, the interior of the anesthesia system is periodically cleaned by using an antimicrobial pad, or a general purpose pad soaked in antimicrobial cleanser, for disinfection. In this embodiment, an antimicrobial pad is temporarily attached to the work surface 210 and is introduced into the interiors of the anesthesia system under the main AO work surface 207 as the system is refracted. The antimicrobial pad is flexible and rubs on the bottom surface of AO work surface 207 as the work surface 210 is retracted. In an embodiment, the antimicrobial pad is made of flexible cotton material that compresses downward as it is moved into the anesthesia system and provides a “wipe” action as it is moved laterally across the interior surfaces of the system. In an embodiment, the antimicrobial pad is soaked with isopropyl alcohol or any other available disinfectant agent. The antimicrobial pad can provide multiple wipe actions, to ensure anti-microbial treatment, via successive extensions and retractions of the anesthesia system.
In an alternate embodiment, the pad is permanently installed on an edge of work surface 210 and remains under the AO work surface 207, and is periodically conditioned with commercially available anti-microbial solutions via a wicking action at interface 211. FIG. 2D illustrates an antimicrobial pad permanently attached to the anesthesia system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As illustrated, an antimicrobial pad 245 is attached to the surface 210 such that the pad 245 wipes an interior surface of the AO main surface 207 when the CC is extended. In an embodiment, users or biomedical service personnel may periodically pour isopropyl alcohol or any other suitable disinfectant solution onto the pad 245 in order to refill the pad 245 and disinfect the internal surfaces of the anesthesia system.
Further, as would be apparent to persons of ordinary skill in the art, alternate embodiments of commercially available surface and material treatments may be used within the spirit of this specification as means to limit microbial growth on the exposed and interior surfaces of the anesthesia system.
In one embodiment, a rotational movement can be used to rotate CC 202 away from or towards AO 204 at junction 295, in incremental angles. FIGS. 2A and 2E depict the anesthesia system of the present specification in various configurations. FIG. 2A begins with the anesthesia system 200 of the present specification in a fully extended and rotationally open position, with the rotational angle 275 in a fully open position of 45 degrees. Angle 275 is rotated from a maximum of 45 degrees to a minimum of zero degrees, in increments, until the CC portion 202 of the anesthesia system 200 is in a rotationally closed or collapsed position and is thus rotationally flush with the system, with angle 275 at zero degrees, as shown in FIG. 2E. In one embodiment, the rotational increments are indexed at preset angles, such as at every 5 degrees, or controlled continuously using a friction bearing to be any selected angle. In a preferred embodiment, there is a detent at the zero degree angle (that is, closed or collapsed position of system 200) so that when the system 200 is rotated fully closed it “clicks” shut in a positive manner.
In another embodiment, a translational movement at junction 296 is available to telescopically or linearly compress and collapse the CC 202 back into AO 204 or extend CC 202 away from AO 204. FIGS. 2F and 2G depict the range of translational movement of the system 200 at junction 296 as the CC 202 is compressed and collapsed back into the AO 204. In one embodiment, the translational movement range available to compress and collapse CC 202 back into the AO 204 is 14.5 inches. It should be noted herein that a translational movement at point 296 also results in a translational movement 298 at junction 297.
It should be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that the rotational and translational movements can be combined to have a plurality of positions of the CC 202 relative to the AO 204. Thus, in one embodiment, a workspace 299 can be accessed by either rotating or translating CC 202 away from AO 204 at junction 297, as shown in FIGS. 2H and 2I. FIG. 2H depicts the angular motion of the CC 202 as it is moved in at least one increment, away from AO 204, at an angle of, for example, 5 degrees. FIG. 2I depicts the angular motion of the CC 202 as it is fully rotated away from AO 204 at an angle of 45 degrees, in accordance with one embodiment, but when the anesthesia system 200 has not been expanded or telescoped for extra workspace. In addition, the CC may be telescoped out from the AO (translational motion), creating or exposing additional workspace, as described above.
FIG. 2J is an illustration of one embodiment of at least one swiveling breathing circuit attachment port 232 in a first, default configuration, having a breathing tube connection outlet positioned perpendicular to the front surface 240 of the clinical center (CC).
FIG. 2K is an expanded, front view of the swiveling breathing circuit attachment port of the present invention, shown in FIG. 2J.
FIG. 2L is an expanded, back view of the swiveling breathing circuit attachment port of the present invention, shown in FIGS. 2J and 2K.
Referring simultaneously to FIGS. 2J, 2K, and 2L, breathing circuit attachment port 232 comprises a rotating body having a rotating cap 234 that is embedded within a planar surface 233 on a bottom portion 202b of the clinical center (CC) 202 and a port housing 236 extending downward from the rotating cap 234, where the port housing 236 is, in one embodiment, cylindrical in shape and defines a space for receiving a gas. The rotating body is inset into the CC 102 so that rotating cap 234 is flush with the top planar surface 233 and therefore, in the same plane as the top planar surface 233 of CC 202, while the remainder of the rotating body is positioned beneath the top planar surface 233 of CC 202. The entire rotating body breathing circuit attachment port 232 moves with movement of any portion of the port 232.
Further, breathing circuit attachment port 232 comprises at least one limb, which is inspiratory, expiratory, or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, the at least one limb on breathing circuit attachment port 232 is an inlet connected to an anesthesia gas supply line for receiving gas and an outlet for connecting a proximal end of a breathing tube with the distal end of the breathing tube connected to a patient. In one embodiment, the inlet 239 (shown in FIG. 2L) and outlet 238 (shown in FIG. 2K) are positioned perpendicular to an exterior portion of the port housing 236 such that they are directly opposite one another (positioned 180 degrees from one another) and such that the outlet 238 is positioned perpendicular to the exterior, vertical portion of the port housing 236 such that it protrudes from the front surface 240 of the system while the inlet 239 remains in the interior portion of the system.
It should be noted herein that any range of angles may be envisioned for the swiveling breathing circuit ports of the present invention. The range of −15 degrees to +15 degrees is selected to allow the patient circuit tubing to exit from the breathing circuit while avoiding tubing trapment or pinch issues. In some cases, use of larger angles may cause filters to be jammed against the front of the breathing circuit as the ports are rotated, depending upon filter size. As shown in and referring back to FIG. 2J, in a default configuration, swiveling breathing circuit attachment ports 232 are positioned such that the breathing tube connection outlet 238 is perpendicular to the front face 240 of CC 202.
FIG. 2M is an illustration depicting one embodiment of swiveling breathing circuit attachment ports 232 in a second configuration, having a breathing tube connection outlet 238 rotated toward the right side of the clinical center (CC) 202. Thus, in one embodiment, the breathing circuit attachment ports are rotated 15 degrees toward the right side of the CC 202 about a vertical axis through the center of breathing circuit port 232.
FIG. 2N is an illustration depicting one embodiment of swiveling breathing circuit attachment ports 232 in a third configuration, having a breathing tube connection outlet 238 rotated toward the left side of the clinical center (CC) 202. Thus, in one embodiment, the breathing circuit attachment ports are rotated 15 degrees toward the left side of the CC 202 about a vertical axis through the center of breathing circuit port 232.
In an embodiment, the present specification is directed toward an anesthesia delivery system which provides a user interface alarm lighting feature. The feature provides a lighting strip on a graphical user interface (GUI) of the anesthesia system to enable a user to quickly determine not only if an alarm is active, but also a priority level of the active alarm. In an embodiment, an illuminated strip of colored light is presented to a user at a top corner of the GUI in order to draw the user's attention to an alarm condition. Further, in an embodiment, the color of the illuminated strip is associated with a priority level of the alarm condition. For example, a yellow color illuminated strip may be displayed to indicate a medium priority alarm whereas a red color illuminated strip may be associated with a high priority alarm. Hence, the user interface alarm lighting feature enables users to quickly determine an alarm condition, and can be especially beneficial when a user, such as an anesthesiologist, is too far from the anesthesia system to actually read an alarm message.
FIG. 11A illustrates an exemplary GUI screen of the anesthesia system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. In an embodiment, a GUI screen 1100 comprises an alarm block area 1110 at a top left corner. In other embodiments, the alarm block area 1110 is provided at any convenient location on the GUI 1100. As illustrated in FIG. 11A, the alarm block area 1110 has no coloration (appears black), conveying that no alarm condition is present, and hence, there is no alarm message being displayed.
FIG. 11B illustrates another exemplary GUI screen of the anesthesia system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As illustrated in FIG. 11B, an alarm block area 1112 of a GUI screen 1114 displays a colored (yellow) alarm line and an alarm message stating “Check Sample Line”. In an embodiment, the displayed yellow alarm line conveys a medium priority alarm. Further, in an embodiment, the displayed alarm line fades out after a predetermined interval of time, whereas in another embodiment, the alarm line is displayed intermittently at predetermined intervals. In yet another embodiment, the alarm line is displayed as a solid line until a corresponding alarm condition passes or a predefined action is taken by a user. Also depicted in FIG. 11B, across the top center portion of the screen 1114, is a colored alarm bar 1115. In one embodiment, the alarm bar 1115 matches the color (i.e. yellow) of the alarm line in the alarm block area 1112. The alarm bar 1115 occupies a greater area of the screen 1114 and is more prominently displayed than the alarm line of the alarm block 1112, thereby assisting in visualization by caregivers.
FIG. 11C illustrates yet another exemplary GUI screen of the anesthesia system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As illustrated in FIG. 11C, a first colored (red) alarm line is displayed in a first alarm block area 1116 (displayed partially) of a GUI screen 1118. In an embodiment, the displayed red alarm line is associated with a high priority alarm condition. FIG. 11C also illustrates a second colored (yellow) alarm displayed in a second alarm block area 1120. In one embodiment, the color of the alarm bar 1125 is associated with the highest priority of alarms currently occurring. According to this embodiment, in FIG. 11C, the alarm line is red and is associated with a high priority alarm since both high and medium priority alarms are active. In various embodiments, a plurality of alarm lines conveying the same or different alarm priority levels may be displayed simultaneously on a GUI screen of the anesthesia system.
As is commonly known in the art, when using anesthesia delivery systems that employ alarms, it is desirable to have an “auto-limits” function that automatically adjusts the system's alarm limits around currently monitored values based on a predefined algorithm. This function aids a clinician by enabling a rapid setting of all alarms to appropriate levels and eliminates the need for the clinician to individually and tediously adjust high and low values for each alarmed parameter. Thus, it is also desirable to have an “undo” or “revert” function available, in order to put the alarms back to a state in which they were prior to the auto-limit activation to allow for situations in which, for example, the alarm auto-limit values are inadvertently activated, the clinician does not want to hold the limits that were generated automatically, and/or the clinician desires to manually set alarm limits.
The present specification provides a ‘revert from auto limits’ functionality incorporated in the anesthesia system which may be used in an intuitive and predictable fashion, thereby increasing the usability of ‘auto-limits’ and ‘revert from auto-limit’ functions as compared to prior art anesthesia systems. FIG. 12A illustrates a monitor screen 1200 displaying a plurality of icons for setting alarms, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As illustrated, the monitor screen 1200 displays icons for individually setting alarm limits corresponding to a plurality of medical functions, including but not limited to ‘pressure (plimit)’ 1202, ‘end tidal CO2 (EtCO2)’ 1204, and ‘apnea’ 1206. The monitor screen 1200 also displays an icon ‘auto-set limits’ 1208 for automatically setting alarm limits. By clicking on icons 1202, 1204, or 1206, a user can set alarm limits for individual parameters and by clicking on the ‘auto-set limits’ icon 1208, the user can cause automatic adjustment of a plurality of predefined parameters.
FIG. 12B illustrates another instance of a monitor screen displaying a plurality of icons for setting alarms, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. Once the ‘auto-set limits’ icon 1208 is clicked, a plurality of predefined alarm parameters are automatically adjusted. In an embodiment, clicking of the ‘auto-set limits’ icon 1208 causes a change in the EtCO2 1204 parameter which is illustrated as having a limit of 80 in FIG. 12A to having a limit of 110 as illustrated in FIG. 12B. Once the ‘auto-set limits’ icon 1208 is clicked, an undo icon 1210 is displayed. A user may click on the undo icon 1210 in order to revert to the values of the plurality of alarm parameters that existed before the ‘auto-set limits’ icon 1208 was clicked. The undo icon 1210 may be clicked by a user to undo the effects of ‘auto-set limits’ function in cases where the function causes one or more alarm parameters to change in an undesired manner. The undo function increases the usability of the ‘auto-set limits’ function as a user is not required to individually adjust the value of one or more alarm parameters to their original values. A user may click on the ‘auto-set limits’ icon 1208 in order to observe the adjusted alarm parameter values and in case said values are undesirable, may click the undo icon 1210 to revert to the original values easily. If the undo icon 1210 is not clicked, the adjusted alarm parameter values continue to be used as the existing alarm limits. Once the alarm menu is exited, the undo icon 1210 is removed and a future return to the alarm menu would display a screen similar to that in FIG. 12A, without an undo icon but with the EtCO2 set to a value of 110 mmHg.
FIG. 12C illustrates yet another instance of a monitor screen displaying a plurality of icons for setting alarms, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As illustrated in FIG. 12C, once the undo icon 1210 is clicked the values of alarm parameters adjusted by the clicking of the ‘auto-set limits’ icon 1208 revert to their original state. In an embodiment, clicking of the undo icon 1210 causes the EtCO2 1204 parameter, which is illustrated as 110 in FIG. 12B, to revert back to its original value of 80 as illustrated in FIG. 12C.
FIG. 13A illustrates some basic elements of a conventional circle breathing circuit indicating which major elements have been eliminated, or are not required, in the circle-less breathing circuit of the present specification. Absorber element 1302 and bellows 1304 have been eliminated in the circle-less breathing circuit provided by the present specification. Further, check valves used in the circuit illustrated in FIG. 13A are also replaced with active valves such as those used in typical, flow valve controlled ICU ventilators.
FIG. 13B illustrates a circle-less breathing circuit 1300, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As shown, fresh gas is injected through an inspiratory valve 1308, mixed with an injected agent 1312, delivered to a patient 1310 and then led out via an expiratory valve 1314. In an embodiment, the fresh gas can be oxygen or air, thus requiring only a single control valve for inspiration. In another embodiment, the inspiratory valve 1308 comprises multiple control valves designed to blend oxygen, air and nitrous oxide directly into the circuit. In an embodiment, the source of the fresh gas may be a high pressure pipeline or cylinder supply and the function of the inspiratory valve 1308 may be accomplished with proportional solenoid valves such as those used on conventional ICU ventilators. Alternatively, a low pressure fresh gas source such as room air or oxygen concentrator may be employed and the inspiratory valve 1308 function may be accomplished by employing a turbine or piston device to generate the necessary patient circuit pressures.
In one embodiment the injected agent device 1312 utilizes gaseous anesthetic agent and is designed to control the injection of the agent to just the portions of the gas being delivered to the patient's lungs, since the circle-less circuit does not cause the gas provided through the inspiratory valve to be re-breathed. In an alternate embodiment, the agent is metered as a liquid and is vaporized into the gas stream utilizing a wick arrangement within the inspiratory portion of the breathing circuit tubing 1306.
Using the circle-less breathing circuit 1300, a pulse train of anesthetic gas may be injected in real-time into the inspiratory flow stream of a patient. The goal is to “phase” the pulse train of agent so that a required portion of the pulse lands in the patient's lung and the dead-space receives no agent. In accordance with an embodiment of the present specification, an optional technique to minimize agent usage is to shape the anesthetic gas pulse so the dead-space receives no agent. Typically, dead-space comprises about 20% of the tidal volume. At the end of inspiration, the dead-space is filled with fresh gas; “phasing” the pulse train of the agent can help ensure that this trailing gas contains no anesthetic agent.
Also, since the patient is lying down, most of the posterior portion of the lung is perfused while the anterior portion is relatively less perfused. Hence, an optimal shape of the pulse 1321 is square with some taper towards the end, as illustrated in FIG. 13C. In an embodiment, a gas monitor is employed to help with the dead-space and pulse phasing. Thus, the volume of patient-generated carbon dioxide (VCO2) and end-tidal carbon dioxide (EtCO2) can be used to determine the dead-space which is about equal to the volume of the endotracheal tube (ETT).
Hence, the anesthesia system of the present specification provides a circle-less breathing system at a lower cost than conventional circular breathing circuits as a plurality of elements of conventional circuit such as bellows, absorber, replaceable absorber canister, mixer and conventional vaporizer have been eliminated. Further, by using the present circle-less breathing circuit 1300, soda lime (or substitutes) are removed from the environmental waste streams, and drive gas (or another form of energy) is not necessarily required, thereby making the use of an oscillating pump for air and an oxygen concentrator unnecessary as less power is required to run the circuit. Since, in the present circuit, the inspired gas is always clean, the circuit is optimal as far as infection control is concerned and is also easier to maintain, resulting in a lower cost of ownership. Further, it has been observed that clinicians are frequently confused regarding the dilution effects of the circle circuit, thereby resorting to inspired gas control (IGC) or expired gas control (EGC) systems. The present circle-less breathing circuit 1300 provides IGC automatically, since there is no dilution effect. In an embodiment, the inspiratory valve feature can be implemented entirely in software and flows much higher than those provided by a traditional mixer can be achieved.
As is commonly known in the art, anesthesia systems with electronic mixing control usually also comprise an emergency bypass valve system that enables a user to set a flow of oxygen in the event of a mixer failure. Some prior art anesthesia systems employ dedicated needle valves to provide the bypass functionality, while others use dedicated mechanical-pneumatic switches to turn on a bypass valve or to revert to an electronic mixer control.
In one embodiment, the present specification is directed toward an anesthesia delivery system comprising a dual position knob which, in a first position, corresponds to an active electronic mixing control and, in a second position, corresponds to an active emergency bypass valve. In the second position, the dual position knob “pops out” and simultaneously engages a mechanical needle valve when an emergency bypass valve is activated while the flow from the electronic mixer is discontinued. The dual position knob provides a single point of oxygen adjustment which enables a user to quickly adjust oxygen flow in case of failure of the electronic mixing control of the anesthesia system and, also in cases where the user is unaware of the type of failure occurring in the anesthesia system. Further, by pushing the dual position knob back into the first position, the electronic mixing control of the anesthesia system is re-engaged. The present specification also provides for pre-setting a predetermined amount of oxygen flow from the bypass needle valve when the emergency bypass is activated, causing a known amount of oxygen flow to occur automatically in the event of electronic mixer control failure, without requiring any user interaction.
FIG. 14A illustrates a first position of a bypass actuation knob 1406 of the anesthesia system in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. The anesthesia system comprises gas control knobs 1402, 1404 and a dual position bypass actuation knob 1406. The knobs 1402, 1404 and 1406 engage with an electronic encoder (not shown in FIG. 14A) and are used to electronically control gas flow rates in the anesthesia system. The flow of gases in the anesthesia system is displayed graphically on an electronic screen 1408 and via a floating ball type flow meter 1410. As illustrated in FIG. 14A, the bypass actuation dual position knob 1406 is in a first position being flush with a side surface of the anesthesia system, indicating that electronic mixing control of the anesthesia system is engaged.
FIG. 14B illustrates a second position of a bypass actuation knob 1406 of the anesthesia system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As illustrated in FIG. 14B, the bypass actuation dual position knob 1406 is in a second “popped out” active position, indicating an activated emergency oxygen bypass function in the anesthesia system. In the active position, the knob 1406 is directly engaged with a needle valve (not shown in FIG. 14B) that controls the flow of oxygen directly, bypassing the electronic mixer control of the anesthesia system.
FIG. 14C illustrates a user adjusting a bypass actuation knob 1406 of the anesthesia system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As illustrated in FIG. 14C, a user 1412 may adjust the flow of oxygen in the anesthesia system by adjusting the bypass actuation dual position knob 1406 manually based on the oxygen flow being depicted graphically on electronic screen 1408. Hence, the present specification enables a user to adjust the bypass oxygen flow by observing a graphical display 1408 of the flow values. Further, the floating ball type flow meter 1410 also registers all the gas flow being provided to a patient.
FIG. 14D illustrates an active bypass actuation knob 1406 of the anesthesia system even when the anesthesia system is in an ‘off’ state, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. In an embodiment, even when the anesthesia system's electronics are in a state simulating an electronic failure, the bypass actuation dual position knob 1406 remains in an active state as illustrated in FIG. 14D and causes a continuous flow of oxygen to be delivered to a patient. The flow of oxygen may be manually adjusted in such a situation by observing a representation of the flow values on the floating ball type flow meter 1410.
Conventional anesthesia systems are typically equipped with an auxiliary common gas outlet (ACGO) that enables mixed “fresh gas flow” (FGF) to be diverted from a circle system to an external circuit, which is typically of a non-rebreathing type anesthesia system. In prior art anesthesia systems, the ACGO is typically a horizontal 22 mm port that is activated through a mechanical lever or via an electrical control provided on a user interface. Prior art anesthesia systems do not provide a clear indication of an active ACGO, thereby causing confusion regarding whether the ACGO is active or not and in some cases, even causing the ACGO to be activated inadvertently by a user.
In one embodiment, the present specification is directed toward an anesthesia delivery system which provides an ACGO as a 22 mm port such that the port itself may be used for activation. In an embodiment, the ACGO is turned off by rotating the port downwards such that the port rests vertically and the port opening faces the floor and its plane is parallel with the floor. This positioning reduces significantly the chances of the ACGO port being mistakenly treated as a source of fresh gas flow by a user. In this position, the FGF is automatically directed to an internal fresh gas flow port within the system's circle breathing circuit. The AGCO is activated by rotating the port upwards by 90 degrees such that the port rests horizontally and the port opening faces the user and its plane is perpendicular with the floor. This positioning enables attachment of tubes to the port. In an embodiment, the AGCO port is provided as a bi-stable switch that can either be turned upwards or downwards corresponding to an active or inactive state, respectively. The port cannot be set in an intermediate position. Also, in an embodiment, the information projection lighting feature of the present specification is incorporated into the AGCO port which is illuminated with a green pulsing light when the port is up and active.
FIG. 15A illustrates an auxiliary common gas outlet (ACGO) port 1502 of the anesthesia system 1500, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. FIG. 15B illustrates an inactive position of the auxiliary common gas outlet (ACGO) port 1502 of the anesthesia system 1500, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As illustrated, the AGCO 1502 is in an inactive state as it is turned vertically downwards. FIG. 15C illustrates an active position of the auxiliary common gas outlet (ACGO) port 1502 of the anesthesia system 1500, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As illustrated in FIG. 15C, the AGCO 1502 is in an active state as it is turned upwards in a horizontal position. When the AGCO port 1502 is active, fresh gas, from a gas mixing system of the anesthesia system 1500, flows out from the AGCO port 1502.
FIG. 15D illustrates an active position of the auxiliary common gas outlet (ACGO) port 1502 with a breathing circuit attached, in accordance with an embodiment of the present specification. As illustrated in FIG. 15D, a breathing circuit 1504 may be attached to the AGCO port 1502 when the port 1502 is in an active horizontal position. In an embodiment, the breathing circuit 1504 is used for hand ventilating patients (bag is not shown for clarity) using the fresh gas flow from the ACGO port 1502. In an embodiment, the AGCO port 1502 in its active upwards horizontal position may support a load of a 5 lb breathing circuit.
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