Patent Description:
There are a number of medical procedures that require placement of a tracheostomy or endotracheal tube into the windpipe of a patient to deliver air directly into the lungs. For example, such patients may be connected to a ventilator to assist with breathing.

Over time, condensation, secretions, particulate matter and the like may accumulate within the system. A catheter mount can be positioned between the ventilator and the patient interface. The catheter mount allows access to the patient interface using a suction catheter. Unfortunately, however, catheter mounts are not currently configured to provide easy access to the components between the catheter mount and the ventilators.

<CIT> discloses a patient ventilating and aspirating system that has a suction tube and connector for connecting to a catheter mount that has a sealed passageway. The catheter mount passageway is sealed with an elastomeric seal including a perforation or slit. A connector with a piercing member is associated with the suction tube. When the connector is attached to the catheter mount the piercing member pierces the seal such that the suction tube can pass through the connector and catheter mount.

According to the present invention there is provided a catheter mount configured to be attached to a respiratory assistance system, the catheter mount comprising: a plurality of ports in fluid communication with each other, the plurality of ports comprising: an interface port configured to connect to an interface tube and comprising an interface axis; a conduit port configured to connect to a conduit tube and comprising a conduit axis; and, a suction port configured to allow insertion of a suction catheter; and, a valve associated with the suction port and configured to allow the suction catheter direct access to the interface tube through the suction port, wherein the interface axis of the interface port intersects the valve; characterized in that, the valve is configured to allow the suction catheter direct access to the conduit tube and the conduit axis intersects the valve.

Certain features, aspects and advantages relate to a catheter mount configured to facilitate easy access for a suction catheter to portions of the system upstream and downstream of the catheter mount. As such, certain features, aspects and advantages facilitate suctioning of secretions and condensate from the intermediate tube using standard suction catheters. In some configurations, the catheter mount features a head geometry that is designed to have one or more access points that facilitate insertion of the catheter tube along the endotracheal tube axis and the intermediate tube axis. In some configurations, the head geometry comprises a dual valve feature and in some configurations the head geometry comprises a single valve angled to provide access to both axes. In some configurations, the valve extends in a plane that is at other than about <NUM> degrees and <NUM> degrees relative to one or more of the axes. In some configurations, the axes may be at other than about <NUM> degrees relative to each other and the valve may extend in a plane that is at about <NUM> degrees relative to one of the axes. In some configurations, two valves are used, the two axes are at about <NUM> degrees relative to each other and the two valves extend in planes that are at about <NUM> degrees relative to each other. In some configurations, one valve is in a plane that is about <NUM> degrees relative to one of the axes but the two axes are adjustable relative to each other. In some configurations, a diverting feature can be movable into an air passage to divert the catheter from a first direction toward a second direction.

A catheter mount arranged and configured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention can be configured to be attached to a respiratory apparatus. The catheter mount can comprise a plurality of ports in fluid communication with each other. The plurality of ports can comprise an interface port configured to connect to an interface tube, a conduit port configured to connect to a conduit tube and at least one suction port configured to allow insertion of a suction catheter. In some configurations, the at least one suction port is positioned to allow the suction catheter, when inserted, access to both the interface port and conduit port.

In some configurations, the angle between the interface axis and the conduit axis is less than <NUM> degrees and the at least one suction port is substantially centered axially with either the interface port or the conduit port.

In some configurations, the angle between the interface axis and the conduit axis is approximately <NUM> degrees.

In some configurations, the at least one suction port is at an intermediate angle with respect to the interface port and the conduit port.

In some configurations, the intermediate angle is approximately <NUM> degrees with respect to the interface port and the conduit port.

In some configurations, the at least one suction port is larger than either the interface port or the conduit port.

In some configurations, the at least one suction port is at least about <NUM> times larger than either the interface port or the conduit port.

In some configurations, the catheter mount also comprises a switch with the at least one suction port being substantially centered axially with either the interface port or the conduit port and the switch having a first position configured to not interfere with the trajectory of the suction catheter inserted into the at least one suction port and a second position configured to alter the trajectory of a suction catheter inserted into the at least one suction port.

In some configurations, the switch comprises a button located on the exterior of the catheter mount.

In some configurations, a first suction port of the at least one suction port is substantially centered axially with the interface port and wherein a second suction port of the at least one suction port is substantially centered axially with the conduit port.

In some configurations, at least one of the conduit port or the interface port are attached to a rotatable assembly.

In some configurations, the rotatable assembly is a ball-joint assembly.

In a further aspect the invention consists in components as herein described with reference to any one or more of the drawings.

The term "comprising" as used in this specification and claims means "consisting at least in part of". When interpreting each statement in this specification and claims that includes the term "comprising", features other than that or those prefaced by the term may also be present. Related terms such as "comprise" and "comprises" are to be interpreted in the same manner.

The invention is defined in the independent claim <NUM>, with the preferred embodiments being matter of the dependent claims, and envisages constructions of which the following gives examples only.

Further aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the ensuing description which is given by way of example only.

<FIG> shows a simple, closed-loop respiratory assistance system 100a. The system 100a can include a catheter mount <NUM>, a mechanical ventilator <NUM> and an interface <NUM>. For purposes of this description, all tubing between the mechanical ventilator <NUM> and the catheter mount <NUM> will be termed conduit tubing <NUM> and all tubing between the catheter mount <NUM> and the interface <NUM> will be termed interface tubing <NUM>. The mechanical ventilator <NUM> can include an inspiratory port <NUM> that supplies a flow to the interface <NUM> and an expiratory port <NUM> that receives a flow from the interface <NUM>. <FIG> shows a system 100b similar to <FIG> with a different connection to the patient and a different suction system <NUM> (i.e., a closed bag-type suction system) relative to <FIG> that connects to catheter suction port <NUM>. <FIG> shows part of a system similar to <FIG> with a closed bag-type suction system <NUM>, including a suction catheter <NUM> provided in a flexible sheath <NUM>, attached to the catheter mount <NUM>.

In the embodiment shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the mechanical ventilator <NUM> assists a user by cycling through periods of relatively high positive pressure (i.e., pressures above ambient pressure) during inhalation and periods of relatively low pressure during exhalation. The inspiratory port <NUM> can be connected to the inspiratory tube <NUM> of a breathing circuit assembly <NUM> and the expiratory port <NUM> can be connected to the expiratory tube <NUM> of the breathing circuit assembly <NUM>. The inspiratory tube <NUM> and the expiratory tube <NUM> may be cylindrical in shape and therefore have a generally circular cross-section; however, other tube cross-sectional shapes, such as ellipses, ovals, or polygons may be also be used, for example but without limitation. The tubes <NUM>, <NUM> can be manufactured from any type of material, such as, but not limited to, plastics, metals, composites, or other polymers. Additionally, in some embodiments, the tubes <NUM>, <NUM> may be corrugated, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, to further improve the flexibility of the tubes. In other embodiments, at least a portion of at least the inner bores of the tubes can be smooth to inhibit the collection of condensates, secretions, and other materials in the tubes.

At the opposite end of the breathing circuit assembly <NUM> is a connector <NUM>, such as a 'Y' or 'T' connector. The connector <NUM> can merge the inspiratory tube <NUM> and the expiratory tube <NUM> with a single collector port <NUM>. The collector port <NUM> enables the use of a single tube downstream of the connector <NUM>. The single tube can connect the connector <NUM> to the interface <NUM>. Thus, both inhalation gases and exhalation gases may pass through the single tube during a patient's breathing cycle. The connector <NUM> may be made of the same materials as those used for the inspiratory and expiratory tubes <NUM>, <NUM> or may be made of different materials. As shown, unlike the inspiratory and expiratory tubes <NUM>, <NUM>, the connector <NUM> may be formed without corrugation such that the connector <NUM> exhibits a greater degree of rigidity and resistance to flexing. In other embodiments, one or more portion of the connector <NUM> may include corrugations.

With continued reference to the embodiment of the system 100a shown in <FIG>, a catheter mount <NUM> couples the conduit tube <NUM> with an interface tube <NUM>. The illustrated catheter mount <NUM> includes a mount body <NUM>, a conduit tube reverse connector <NUM>, an interface tube reverse connector <NUM>, and a valve <NUM> that is configured to allow insertion of a suction catheter <NUM> for removal of any condensates, particulates or other matter located in either the conduit or the interface tubes <NUM>, <NUM>, for example but without limitation. In some configurations, as shown in <FIG>, the catheter <NUM> can be part of a closed bag-type suction system where the catheter <NUM> is surrounded by and moveable within a bag or other enclosure that is permanently or semi-permanently coupled to the catheter mount proximate the valve <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. The arrangement shown in <FIG> may be connected to an interface <NUM> and a breathing circuit assembly <NUM> in a similar manner to that shown in <FIG> and <FIG>.

The conduit tube <NUM>, such as an intermediate tube as shown in <FIG>, may couple the breathing circuit assembly <NUM> and the catheter mount <NUM>. The conduit tube <NUM> can be attached to the connector <NUM> at the collector exit port <NUM> via a collector connector <NUM> and can be connected to the catheter mount <NUM> at the reverse conduit tube connector <NUM> using the mount connector <NUM>. In the embodiment of system <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, the two connectors <NUM>, <NUM> are directly attached to each other with an interference fit, a press fit, or a friction fit due to the elasticity of the materials used for the two components <NUM>, <NUM>. However, other types of coupling mechanisms, such as a snap fit, a bayonet socket, threads, screws, tightening collars, retention collars, or other similar mechanisms may be used to secure the two components <NUM>, <NUM> to each other. In some embodiments, the construction of the conduit tube <NUM> is similar to that of the construction of the inspiratory and/or expiratory tubes <NUM>, <NUM>. However, in other embodiments, the construction may differ depending on operational requirements or desired operating characteristics of the conduit tube <NUM>, such as an intermediate tube as shown in <FIG>. For example, the conduit tube <NUM> may be made of a smooth, rather than corrugated, material to inhibit the collection of condensates, secretions, and other materials in the conduit tube <NUM>.

The interface tube <NUM> couples the interface mechanism <NUM>, such as the endotracheal tube as illustrated in <FIG>, with the catheter mount <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, in some configurations, the catheter mount <NUM> can directly connect to the interface mechanism <NUM>, such as the endotracheal tube as illustrated in <FIG>, without the interface tube <NUM> shown in <FIG>. As with the intermediate tube <NUM>, the interface tube <NUM> is attached to the catheter mount <NUM> at the reverse interface tube connector <NUM> via the mount connector <NUM> and attached to the interface <NUM> at interface inlet <NUM> via an interface connector <NUM>. Similar to the conduit tube <NUM>, in the embodiment of system 100a illustrated in <FIG>, the two connectors <NUM>, <NUM> can be directly attached to each other with an interference fit, a press fit, or a friction fit due to the elasticity of the materials used for the two components <NUM>, <NUM>. However, other types of coupling mechanisms, such as a snap fit, a bayonet socket, threads, screws, tightening collars, retention collars, or other similar mechanisms may also be used. In some embodiments, the construction of the interface tube <NUM> is similar to that of the construction of the inspiratory and/or expiratory tubes <NUM>, <NUM> or the conduit tube <NUM>. However, in other embodiments, the construction may differ depending on operational requirements or desired operating characteristics of the interface tube <NUM>. For example, the interface tube <NUM> may be made of a smooth, rather than corrugated, material to inhibit the collection of condensates, secretions, and other materials in the interface tube <NUM>.

The catheter mount <NUM> need not be limited to uses with the closed-loop respiratory assistance system 100a as shown in <FIG>. In addition, the placement of the catheter mount <NUM> need not be limited to coupling the interface tube <NUM> with the conduit tube <NUM>. Rather, the catheter mount <NUM> can be used in any type of system that couples two tubes and/or a tube to an interface. Furthermore, for breathing circuits, other devices may also be included and placed anywhere in the system such as, but not limited to, humidifiers, vaporizers, filters, valves, CO2 sensors and the like. In addition, some system components shown in <FIG> or described above may be omitted in alternative embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, the mechanical ventilator <NUM> may be omitted or replaced with another component. In addition, other interfaces <NUM>, such as nasal cannulas, vented or nonvented face masks, and tracheostomy tubes can be used, for example but without limitation.

<FIG> are illustrations of an embodiment of an angled catheter mount 200a. The angled catheter mount 200a comprises a conduit port 250a and an interface port 300a that are oriented at such an angle as to allow a suction catheter <NUM> access to both connectors and the corresponding tubes attached thereto. As illustrated in <FIG>, this embodiment of the angled catheter mount 200a also has a suction port 350a positioned generally opposite the interface port 300a. In other embodiments, the suction port 350a can be oriented opposite the conduit port 250a. The angled catheter mount 200a has a mount body 210a configured to allow fluid communication between the conduit port 250a and the interface port 300a through an interior flow channel 212a (see <FIG>). The suction port 350a allows selective access to the interior flow channel 212a.

The conduit port 250a can be configured to receive a conduit tube <NUM> from a respiratory assistance system as described above. In some embodiments, the conduit tube <NUM> is an intermediate tube that serves as an intermediary connector between the angled catheter mount 200a and the remaining conduit tubing <NUM>. In some embodiments, the conduit port 250a of the angled catheter mount 200a can receive a conduit tube reverse connector 280a configured to receive a conduit tube <NUM>, such as an intermediate tube, from the system 100a, 100b. The reverse connector 280a can be attached to the angled catheter mount 200a to facilitate connecting the angled catheter mount 200a with a conduit tube <NUM> and to potentially create a more advantageous seal between the attached conduit tubing <NUM> and the catheter mount 200a. As will be discussed in greater detail below, the conduit tube reverse connector 280a may be made of a material different from that of the mount body 210a, which could provide greater elasticity and therefore form a better seal around both the mount body 210a and the conduit tube <NUM>.

In alternative embodiments, the conduit tube <NUM> is attached directly to the mount body 210a. In one such embodiment, the conduit tube <NUM> is attached to the mount body 210a via an interference fit, a press fit, or a friction fit, for example, caused by the elasticity of the materials used for either or both of the two components <NUM>, 210a. However, other types of coupling mechanisms, such as a snap fit, a bayonet socket, threads, screws, tightening collars, retention collars, or other similar mechanisms could also be used for attachment. In some embodiments, the conduit tube <NUM> may have a female mount connector <NUM>, which is illustrated in <FIG>. In some embodiments, the conduit tube <NUM> may have a male mount connector that can be inserted into the channel 260a (see <FIG>).

The interface port 300a can be configured to receive an interface tube <NUM> from the respiratory assistance system 100a, 100b, for example. In some embodiments, the interface tube <NUM> can be attached to an interface <NUM>, such as an endotracheal tube. In some embodiments, the interface tube <NUM> may be attached to nasal cannulas, vented or nonvented face masks, tracheostomy tubes and the like. As with the conduit port 250a, in some embodiments, an interface tube reverse connector 330a can be attached at the interface port 300a of the angled catheter mount 200a, which is configured to receive an interface tube <NUM> of the system 100a, 100b, for example. The reverse interface connector 330a can facilitate connecting the angled catheter mount 200a to an interface tube <NUM> and may also create a better seal between the catheter mount 200a and the interface tube <NUM>. The interface tube reverse connector 330a can be similar in construction to the conduit tube reverse connector 280a. In some embodiments, the interface tube reverse connector 330a is of the same dimensions and materials as the conduit tube reverse connector 280a. In other embodiments, the interface tube reverse connector 330a has different dimensions and/or materials.

In some embodiments, the optional interface tube reverse connector 330a is not used and the interface tube <NUM> is directly attached to the catheter mount body 210a. In one such embodiment, the interface tube <NUM> can be attached to the mount body 210a via an interference fit, a press fit, or a friction fit caused by the elasticity of the materials used for either or both of the two components <NUM>, 210a. However, other types of coupling mechanisms, such as a snap fit, a bayonet socket, threads, screws, tightening collars, retention collar, or other similar mechanisms known in the art also could be used. In some embodiments, the interface tube <NUM> may have a female mount connector <NUM>, such as that illustrated in <FIG>. In some embodiments, the interface tube <NUM> may have a male mount connector that can be inserted into the channel 310a (see <FIG>). While it is preferable that the coupling mechanism for both the conduit port 250a and the interface port 300a be the same, some embodiments can include ports 250a, 300a that have different coupling mechanisms.

The suction port 350a can be configured to selectively receive a suction catheter <NUM>. The catheter <NUM> can be used, when necessary or desired, to suction condensate, secretions, and other matter from within the passages defined by one or more of the mount body 210a, the conduit port 250a and any attached tubing thereto such as the conduit tube <NUM>, and the interface port 300a and any attached tubing thereto such as the interface tube <NUM>. Removal of condensate, secretions, and other such matter from the tubes of the respiratory assistance system can be desired for many reasons. The suction section can include a valve 380a that generally seals the angled catheter mount 210a and reduces the likelihood of fluid flowing into or out of the suction port 350a when a suction catheter <NUM> is not being used. The valve 380a will be discussed in greater detail below.

<FIG> and <FIG> are illustrations of the angled catheter mount 200a of <FIG> showing the mount body 210a without the conduit tube reverse connector 280a, the interface tube reverse connector 330a, and the valve 380a. The connectors can be swivel-type connectors that engage about, or that receive, the catheter mount ports. Traditionally, the catheter mount receives the connectors. By having the connectors receive the ports, it is easier to connect and disconnect tubing and the interface from the catheter mount.

As shown most clearly in <FIG>, the mount body 210a can be hollow and can be configured to allow fluid communication between the conduit port 250a and the interface port 300a. The suction port 350a can allow selective access to the flow channel 212a. The flow channel 212a generally can be defined by the channel 260a of the conduit port 250a and the channel 310a of the interface port 300a.

With continued reference to <FIG>, the conduit port 250a of the mount body 210a can include a generally cylindrical tubular member 252a that is rotated about the conduit axis 202a. The channel 260a can be centered along the conduit axis 202a and can extend along the length of the tubular member 252a. The channel 260a of the conduit port 250a can define the inner surface 262a of the tubular member 252a. The channel 260a can have a circular cross-sectional shape that generally tapers with a decreasing radial dimension about the conduit axis 202a when moving from the end 254a of the tubular member 252a toward the suction port 350a. The tapering enables tubes inserted into the channel 260a to be subject to a decreased radial dimension with further insertion. Such a decrease in radial dimension can provide a better seal.

In some embodiments, this radial dimension of the channel 260a remains constant throughout the length of the channel 260a. In some embodiments, this radial dimension of the passage 260a increases when moving from the end 254a to the suction port 350a. The radial dimension of the channel 260a and the degree of tapering, if any, of the channel 260a can be dependent upon the desired flow characteristics through the flow channel 212a of the mount body 210a as well as considerations regarding sealing for tubes inserted into the channel 260a. Furthermore, other embodiments of the mount body 210a have channels 260a of different cross-sectional shapes such as, but not limited to, ovals, ellipses, or polygons. In yet other embodiments, the channel 260a is offset from the conduit axis 202a.

In some embodiments, the inner surface 262a of the tubular member 252a can be relatively smooth with no protrusions or other abrupt changes in diameter. A presence of protrusions or other abrupt changes in diameter can potentially accelerate the accumulation of condensates, secretions, and other matters by obstructing flow and by providing a surface upon which such condensate, secretions, and other matter can collect. In some embodiments, such protrusions along the inner surface 262a may exist for other beneficial purposes such as, but not limited to, coupling mechanisms for either the conduit tube reverse connector 280a or the conduit tube <NUM>. For example, in embodiments where the conduit tube <NUM> is directly attached to the tubular member 252a of the mount body 210a, the mount end of the conduit tube <NUM> may be a male connector that is inserted into the channel 260a. Under such circumstances, it could potentially be beneficial to include an annular protrusion on the inner surface 262a to provide a better seal and to reduce the likelihood of the accumulation of condensate, secretions, and material on the tip of the conduit tube <NUM>. Such an annular protrusion can also be used with the conduit tube reverse connector 280a, which has an inner tubular member <NUM> that is inserted into the channel 260a.

In contrast, in some embodiments of the angled catheter mount 200a, the outer surface of the tubular member 252a can have multiple protrusions that are configured to attach to the conduit tube reverse connector 280a or that are configured to attach to the mount connector <NUM> of the conduit tube <NUM>. Moving from the end 254a of the tubular member 252a to the suction port 350a, the outer surface 264a of this embodiment has an annular slot 266a, an intermediate annular protrusion 270a, an annular locking protrusion 274a, and an annular depression 278a. The annular slot 266a has a first radial dimension about the conduit axis 202a. The intermediate annular protrusion 270a has a second radial dimension about the conduit axis 202a. The annular locking protrusion 274a a third radial dimension about the conduit axis 202a. Lastly, the annular depression 278a has a fourth radial dimension about the conduit axis 202a.

In the embodiment as illustrated in <FIG>, the first radial dimension is less than the second and third radial dimensions. The fourth radial dimension is less than the third radial dimension and approximately equal to the second radial dimension. Preferably, the fourth radial dimension is chosen such that locking ramps <NUM> of the interlock section <NUM> (Figs. 4A-4C) contained on the conduit tube reverse connector 280a are able to sufficiently latch onto the annular locking protrusion 274a when the reverse connector 280a is attached to the tubular member 252a.

In other embodiments, when directly attached to the conduit tube <NUM>, the first radial dimension corresponds to an inner radial dimension of a mount connector <NUM> of the conduit tube <NUM>. In such configurations, the first radial dimension may be chosen to be equal to, or slightly greater than, the inner radial dimension of the mount connector <NUM> in order to provide an efficacious seal. In such configurations, because the first radial dimension is smaller than the second radial dimension, a directly connected conduit tube can abut the edge 268a formed at the intersection of both sections 266a, 270a.

In some embodiments, the changes in radial dimension about the conduit axis 202a along the outer surface 264a of the tubular member 252a are not as defined and abrupt. Rather, the radial dimension may remain constant throughout the length of the tubular member 252a or may gradually increase when moving along the length of the tubular member 252a from the end 254a toward the suction port 350a. In such an embodiment, a more efficacious seal can be formed, for example, by a friction fit, an interference fit, or a press fit. In some embodiments, other types of coupling mechanisms, such as a snap fit, a bayonet socket, threads, screws, tightening collars, retention collars, or other suitable mechanisms can also be used.

With continued reference to <FIG>, the interface port 300a of the mount body 210a can be similar in construction to the conduit port 250a. The interface port 300a can include a generally cylindrical tubular member 302a that is rotated about the interface axis 204a. A channel 310a, which can be centered along the interface axis 202a, can extend along the length of the tubular member 302a. The channel 310a of the interface port 300a can define the inner surface 312a of the tubular member 302a. In some embodiments, the channel 310a has a generally circular cross-sectional shape that tapers when moving from the end 304a of the tubular member 302a toward the suction port 350a. This tapering enables tubes inserted into the channel 310a to be subject to a decreasing radial dimension as the tubes are inserted. Such a decrease in radial dimension can provide a more efficacious seal.

In some embodiments, the radial dimension of the channel 310a remains generally constant throughout the length of the channel 310a. In yet other embodiments, the radial dimension of the channel 310a increases when moving from the end 304a of the tubular member 302a toward the suction port 350a. The radial dimension of the channel 310a and the degree of tapering, if any, of the channel 310a can be dependent upon the desired flow characteristics through the flow channel 212a of the mount body 210a as well as considerations regarding sealing for tubes inserted into the channel 310a. Furthermore, other embodiments of the mount body 210a have channels 310a of different cross-sectional shapes such as, but not limited to, ovals, ellipses, or polygons. In some embodiments, the channel 310a is offset from the interface axis 204a.

As with the conduit port 250a, in some embodiments, the inner surface 312a of the tubular member 302a can be relatively smooth with no protrusions or other abrupt changes in diameter. Presence of protrusions or other abrupt changes in diameter could potentially accelerate the accumulation of condensate, secretions, and other matter by obstructing flow and providing a surface upon which such condensate, secretions, and other matter can collect. In some embodiments, such protrusions along the inner surface 312a may exist for other beneficial purposes such as, but not limited to, coupling mechanisms for either the interface tube reverse connector 330a or the interface tube <NUM>. For example, in embodiments where the interface tube <NUM> is directly attached to the tubular member 302a of the mount body 210a, the mount end of the conduit tube <NUM> may be a male connector that is inserted into the channel 310a. Under such circumstances, it could potentially be beneficial to include an annular protrusion on the inner surface 312a to provide a more advantageous seal and to prevent accumulation of condensates, secretions, and materials on the tip of the interface tube <NUM>. Such an annular protrusion can also be used with the interface tube reverse connector 330a, which has an inner tubular member <NUM> that is inserted into the channel 310a.

In some embodiments of the angled catheter mount 200a, the outer surface 314a of the tubular member 302a can have multiple protrusions that are configured to attach to the conduit tube reverse connector 330a or the mount end <NUM> of the interface tube <NUM>. Moving from the end 304a of the tubular member 302a toward the intersection area 214a, the outer surface 314a can have an annular slot 316a, an intermediate annular protrusion 320a, an annular locking protrusion 324a, and an annular depression 328a. Annular slot 316a, intermediate annular protrusion 320a, annular locking protrusion 324a, and annular depression 328a can have radial dimensions about the interface axis 204a. These radial dimensions can be similar to those of the conduit port 250a; however, the radial dimensions may differ depending on the connectors used. In some embodiments, the radial dimensions of the two ports can be equivalent to ensure the interchangeability of the two reverse connectors 280a, 330a. In some embodiments, the radial dimensions are different due to differences in the designs of the reverse connectors 280a, 330a. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the tubular members 252a, 302a may have cross-sectional shapes that differ from circles. Other non-limiting examples of other cross-sectional shapes can include ovals, ellipses, and polygons such as squares, pentagons, and hexagons.

<FIG> are illustrations of a reverse connector that can be used with the catheter mounts described herein. For purposes of illustration, the description below will be in reference to the conduit tube reverse connector 280a shown in combination with the angled catheter mount 200a in <FIG>, which may be reversibly attached to the tubular member 252a (see <FIG>) of the conduit port 250a. The design of the interface tube reverse connector 330a can be similar to that of the conduit tube reverse connector 280a. As such, the description contained herein is also applicable to the interface tube reverse connector 330a and the reverse connectors of other embodiments, although the shapes and dimensions would correspond to the interface port 300a rather than the conduit port 250a. In addition, the design of the conduit and interface tube reverse connectors for other embodiments of the catheter mount, such as, but not limited to, the dual-valve catheter mount 200b, the switch catheter mount 200c, and the wide-range valve catheter mount 200d, are also similar to that of the conduit tube reverse connector 280a. As such, the description contained herein, is also applicable to the design of the conduit and interface tube connectors for such other embodiments.

In some embodiments, the conduit tube reverse connector 280a is manufactured from the same materials as that of the mount body 210a. In some embodiments, the conduit tube reverse connector 280a is manufactured from materials that allow for the formation of a more advantageous seal, such as more elastic materials, when adjacent to another surface. Embodiments may be manufactured from materials, such as, but not limited to, plastics such as polyvinyl chloride, metals such as brass, stainless steel, and titanium, rubbers, or other polymers or composites.

The reverse connector 280a has both a mount connector <NUM> configured to be reversibly attached to the mount body 210a and a tube connector <NUM> configured to be reversibly attached to the conduit tube <NUM>, such as an intermediate tube. These connectors <NUM>, <NUM> meet at intersection <NUM>. The reverse connector 280a is configured to allow fluid communication between both the mount connector <NUM> and the tube connector <NUM> via a flow channel <NUM> comprised of the channel <NUM> of the mount connector <NUM> and the channel <NUM> of the tube connector <NUM>. The shape of the mount connector <NUM> generally corresponds to the outer surface 264a of the tubular member 252a. As such, when moving along the length of the mount connector <NUM> from the intersection <NUM> to the end <NUM> of the mount connector <NUM>, the mount connector <NUM> has a slot receiving section <NUM>, an intermediate seat section <NUM>, a neck section <NUM>, and an interlock section <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the components of the reverse connector 280a are generally cylindrical and formed about a central longitudinal axis <NUM>. However, in other embodiments, the reverse connector could take on other shapes based on the shape of the tubular member 252a and the shape of the mount connector <NUM>.

At the slot receiving section <NUM>, the mount connector <NUM> is comprised of an outer tubular member <NUM>, an inner tubular member <NUM>, and an annular seat <NUM>. In this configuration, an annular space <NUM> is defined between the inner surface <NUM> of the outer tubular member <NUM>, the outer surface <NUM> of the inner tubular member <NUM>, and the seat <NUM>. The annular space <NUM> can be sized to receive the annular slot 266a and, in some embodiments, provides a generally hermetic seal to reduce the likelihood of entry of outside air into the mount body 210a. As such, the annular space <NUM> can have the same dimensions of the annular slot 266a or, in other embodiments, can be smaller. The dimensions can be based upon the type of material being used, the amount of sealing desired, and the amount of force desired to insert and remove the mount connector <NUM> from the tubular member 252a. In some embodiments, upon insertion of the annular slot 266a into the annular space <NUM>, the end 254a of the tubular member 252a can be pressed against the annular seat <NUM> to provide a more efficacious seal. In some embodiments, the inner tubular member <NUM> can be tapered at its end to facilitate insertion into the channel 260a of the conduit port 250a.

The intermediate seat section <NUM> generally can correspond to the dimensions of the intermediate annular protrusion 270a of the tubular member 252a. In some embodiments, the radial dimension of the inner surface <NUM> about the longitudinal axis <NUM> is equal to, or slightly less than, the radial dimension of the intermediate annular protrusion 270a about the conduit axis 202a. As such, when the conduit tube reverse connector 280a is attached to the mount body 210a, the intermediate annular protrusion 270a of the tubular member 252a and the inner surface <NUM> of the reverse connector 280a may provide an additional seal. In some embodiments, the radial dimension of the inner surface <NUM> may be slightly greater than the radial dimension. For example, this may be the case when the seal provided at the connection between the annular slot 266a and the slot receiving section <NUM> is deemed sufficient. Under such circumstances, the radial dimension of the inner surface <NUM> of the intermediate seat section <NUM> may provide little interference and thus allow a user of the mount to more easily connect the conduit tube reverse connector 280a to the tubular member 252a. In some embodiments, when the conduit tube reverse connector 280a is attached to the mount body 210a, the edge <NUM> formed at the intersection of the intermediate seat section <NUM> and the slot receiving section <NUM> abuts the edge 268a on the tubular member 252a.

The neck section <NUM> generally corresponds with the dimensions of the annular locking protrusion 274a of the tubular member 252a. In some embodiments, the radial dimension of the inner surface <NUM> about the longitudinal axis <NUM> is generally equal to, or slightly greater than, the radial dimension of the annular locking protrusion 274a about the conduit axis 202a. The neck section <NUM> can be configured to deform more freely compared to other sections of the mount connector <NUM>, particularly when the reverse connector 280a is in the process of being attached to the tubular member 252a of the mount body 210a. As will be discussed in greater detail with respect to the interlock section <NUM>, deformation of the mount connector <NUM> can occur as the interlock ramps <NUM> encounter and slide across the annular locking protrusion 274a. As such, this deformation can be facilitated by having the neck section <NUM>, which is adjacent to the interlock section <NUM>, have greater flexibility.

In some embodiments, the radial thickness of the neck section 440a about the longitudinal axis <NUM> is less than the radial thickness of the other sections of the mount connector <NUM>. The reduced thickness, particularly when an elastic material is used for the reverse connector 280a, increases the flexibility of the section <NUM>. In some embodiments, a plurality of spaced apertures <NUM> can be included along the circumference of the neck section <NUM>. In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, four equally spaced apertures <NUM> can be formed with a generally rectangular shape. In some embodiments, more apertures may be used that have a smaller cross-sectional area. In some embodiments, fewer apertures may be used that have a larger cross-sectional area. Any shape, such as ellipses, ovals, or other polygons, may be used for the apertures and any number of such apertures may be placed along the circumference of the neck section <NUM> taking into consideration the desired structural integrity of the reverse connector 280a and the amount of flexibility sought in the neck section <NUM>. In some cases, no such apertures <NUM> are used because the reduced thickness of the neck section <NUM> may be sufficient to provide the required flexibility. In some embodiments, more apertures may be used because the neck section <NUM> does not have a reduced thickness.

The interlock section <NUM> generally corresponds with the dimensions of the annular depression 278a of the tubular member 252a. The interlock section <NUM> can be configured to lock the reverse connector 280a with the tubular member 252a via the annular locking protrusion 274a. As such, in some embodiments, the interlock section <NUM> can include a plurality of interlock ramps <NUM> that are configured to contact and slide across the outer surface of the locking protrusion <NUM> and that can serve as the connection mechanism. In some embodiments, the interlock ramps <NUM> can have a generally triangular cross-section along a plane that extends parallel to and that runs through the longitudinal axis <NUM>. The interlock ramps <NUM> can taper from the trailing edge <NUM> to the leading edge <NUM>. As such, the radial dimension of the leading edge <NUM> of the interlock ramps <NUM> about the longitudinal axis <NUM> can be substantially equivalent to the radial dimension of the inner surface of the interlock section <NUM> about this axis <NUM>. In some embodiments, the radial dimension of the trailing edge <NUM> about the longitudinal axis <NUM> can be substantially less than that of the leading edge <NUM> forming locking edges <NUM>.

During operation, when the reverse connector 280a is attached, the leading edges <NUM> of the interlock ramps <NUM> can contact the annular locking protrusion 274a. As the tubular member 252a is inserted further into the mount connector <NUM> of the reverse connector 280a, the mount connector <NUM> deforms in response to the increased force caused by contact between the outer surface the annular locking protrusion 274a and the contact surface <NUM> of the interlocking ramps <NUM> caused by the decrease in radial dimension towards the trailing edge <NUM>. Upon being fully inserted, the mount connector <NUM> returns substantially to its original shape and the locking edge <NUM> abuts the corresponding locking edge 276a of the tubular member 252a.

In some embodiments, there are four interlocking ramps <NUM>. In some embodiments, there may be a greater number of such ramps or a lesser number of ramps <NUM> as desired. In some embodiments, in lieu of the locking ramps <NUM>, other cross-sectional shapes such as spherical domes or raised ridges can be used to secure the reverse connector 280a to the tubular member 252a. In some embodiments, the structure may use threads, bayonet collars, or slot connectors for connection onto the mount body 210a.

With continued reference to <FIG>, the tube connector <NUM> has a generally cylindrical tubular member <NUM> formed around the longitudinal axis <NUM> with the channel <NUM> running therethrough. In the illustrated embodiment, the channel <NUM> defines the inner surface <NUM>, which tapers moving from the end <NUM> of the tube connector to the intersection <NUM>. In some embodiments, the inner surface <NUM> can have a generally constant radial dimension about the longitudinal axis <NUM> throughout the length of the tubular member <NUM>. In some embodiments, the radial dimension about the longitudinal axis <NUM> can increase when moving from the end <NUM> toward the intersection <NUM>. In some embodiments, the outer surface <NUM> can be of relatively constant radial dimension and can be configured to receive a mount connector <NUM> from the conduit tube <NUM>. Some embodiments of the reverse connector 280a can have outer surfaces <NUM> that increase in radial dimension whereas some embodiments may decrease in radial dimension. In some embodiments, a generally hermetic seal can be formed, for example, by a friction fit, interference fit, or press fit. In some embodiments, other types of coupling mechanisms, such as a snap fit, a bayonet socket, threads, screws, tightening collars, retention collars, or other similar mechanisms can be used.

Referring back to <FIG>, the suction port 350a of the angled catheter mount 200a can comprise an opening 360a on the outer surface 370a of the suction port 350a. The opening 360a can be configured to allow insertion of a suction catheter <NUM> into the mount body 210a and into the flow channel 212a. In some embodiments, the opening 360a is circular. In some embodiments, the opening 360a may be of different shapes such as ovals, ellipses, and polygons. Circumscribing the opening 360a is engagement lip 362a that is configured to be received within an annular locking slot <NUM> of the valve 380a.

As illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, a desired placement of the single opening 360a allows the suction catheter <NUM> to access both, as illustrated in <FIG>, the interior of the conduit port 250a and possibly any attached tubing and, as illustrated in Figure 3D, the interior of the interface port 300a and possibly any attached tubing. Therefore, placement of the opening 360a advantageously allows direct access to both tubes without having to remove the catheter mount 200a from the system. Such a configuration reduces the amount of time necessary in maintaining the interior surfaces of a respiratory assistance system, such as those or the part thereof shown in <FIG>, since the catheter mount 200a need not be removed from the system for routine removal of condensate or the like.

In some embodiments, the opening 360a is opposite the interface port 300a and is centered on the interface axis 204a. In some embodiments, the opening 360a is parallel to a plane that is generally perpendicular to the interface axis 204a. As such, in the illustrated embodiment, the opening angle Oa is equal to about <NUM>°. In some embodiments, the opening angle Oa can range from about <NUM>° to about <NUM>°. In some embodiments, the opening angle Oa can range from about <NUM>° to about <NUM>°. In some embodiments, the opening angle Oa can range from about <NUM>° to about <NUM>°. The opening angle Oa may vary based on other design features, such as, but not limited to, the intersection angle Ia, the offset distance Da from the conduit axis 202a, and the offset distance Ha from the interface axis 204a, and the like as described in more detail below.

Additionally, in some embodiments, there can be an offset distance Da, defined as the distance between the conduit axis 202a and an axis parallel to the conduit axis 202a running through the center of opening 360a. This offset distance Da can allow a conduit tube <NUM> sufficient space to access the conduit port 250a. In some embodiments, the offset distance Da varies from about <NUM> to about <NUM>. In some embodiments, the offset distance Da can vary from about <NUM> to about <NUM>. In some embodiments, the offset distance Da can vary from about <NUM> to about <NUM>. In some embodiments, the offset distance can be equal to about <NUM>. The offset distance Da can vary based on other design features, such as, but not limited to, the opening angle Oa, the intersection angle Ia, and the offset distance Ha from the interface axis 204a, and the intended application. The offset distance Da may be about <NUM> for an adult catheter mount and about <NUM> for an infant catheter mount, for example.

In some embodiments, there is an offset distance Ha, defined as the distance between the interface axis 204a and an axis parallel to the interface axis 204a tangential to the uppermost part of the opening 360a. This offset distance Ha can allow a conduit tube <NUM> sufficient space to access the conduit port 250a. In some embodiments, the offset distance Ha varies from about <NUM> to about <NUM>. In some embodiments, the offset distance Ha can vary from about <NUM> to about <NUM>. In some embodiments, the offset distance Ha can vary from about <NUM> to about <NUM>. In some embodiments, the offset distance can be equal to about <NUM>. The offset distance Ha can vary based on other design features, such as, but not limited to, the opening angle Oa, the intersection angle Ia, and the offset distance Da from the conduit axis 202a, and the intended application. The offset distance Ha may be <NUM> for an adult catheter mount and about <NUM> for an infant catheter mount, for example.

The intersection of the conduit axis 202a and the interface axis 204a form an intersection angle Ia which in a preferred embodiment, is an acute angle. In some embodiments of the angled catheter mount <NUM>, the intersection angle Ia ranges from about <NUM>° to about <NUM>°. In some embodiments, the intersection angle Ia ranges from about <NUM>° to about <NUM>°. In some embodiments, the intersection angle Ia ranges from about <NUM>° to about <NUM>°. In some embodiments, the intersection angle Ia is about <NUM>°. The offset distance Ha can vary based on other design features, such as, but not limited to, the opening angle Oa, the offset distance Da from the conduit axis 202a, and the offset distance Ha from the interface axis 204a.

As a non-limiting example, in other embodiments, the opening 360a may be raised vertically along the outer surface 370a, thereby increasing the offset distance Ha as the opening angle Oa is increased or decreased from <NUM>°. In some embodiments, the offset distance Ha and/or Da can be reduced as the intersection angle Ia is decreased. Furthermore, the opening 360a is not limited to placement opposite the interface section 300a. In some embodiments, the opening 360a may be placed opposite the conduit section <NUM> with the same general placement principals being applicable.

In order to provide a generally hermetic seal when a suction catheter <NUM> is not being used, a valve 380a can be provided and received within the opening 360a of the suction port 350a. <FIG> are illustrations of an embodiment of the valve 380a which can be placed in the opening 360a. The design of the valves for other embodiments of the catheter mount, such as, but not limited to, the dual-valve catheter mount 200b and the switch catheter mount 200c, are similar to that of the valve 380a. As such, the description contained herein, can be applicable to the design of the valves for such other embodiments.

The valve 380a can be manufactured from any suitable materials. In some embodiments, the valve 380a can be manufactured from materials with sufficient elasticity such that the valve 330a can deform and conform to the shape of the opening 360a to provide a more effective seal.

Referring to <FIG>, the valve 380a has an insertion member <NUM>, an annular locking slot <NUM>, an end cap <NUM>, and inner channel <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the valve 380a has a generally circular shape rotated about a central longitudinal axis <NUM>. The insertion member <NUM> is configured to be received within the mount body 210a when fully assembled. In some embodiments, the radial dimension of the outer surface <NUM> at the trailing end <NUM> of the insertion portion <NUM> about the longitudinal axis <NUM> is greater than the radial dimension of the opening 360a. In order to facilitate insertion of the insertion portion <NUM> into the opening 360a due to the differences in size, the insertion portion <NUM> is preferably tapered at the leading end <NUM>. In some embodiments, the radial dimension of the outer surface <NUM> at the leading end <NUM> is equal to, or slightly less than, the diameter of opening 360a.

The annular locking slot <NUM> can be configured to reduce the likelihood of undesired movement of the valve 380a when the valve has been attached to the mount body 210a. The dimensions of the annular locking slot <NUM> generally correspond to the dimensions of the engagement lip 362a. As such, the radial dimension of the outer surface <NUM> of the locking slot <NUM> is generally equal to, or slightly greater than, the radial dimension of opening 360a. The radial dimension of the outer surface <NUM> can be sized slightly greater than the radial dimension of the opening 360a in order to provide a more airtight seal. In some embodiments, the width of the locking slot <NUM> in the longitudinal direction may be equal to, or slightly less than, the width of the engagement lip 362a. The size of the annular locking slot <NUM> can be based upon the amount of sealing required, the elasticity of the material, and any concerns of ease of placement and replacement.

The end cap <NUM> can be configured to control fluid communication through the inner channel <NUM>. End cap <NUM> can be comprised of a generally flat surface <NUM> configured to abut the outer surface 370a of the suction port 350a when the valve is fully inserted within the mount body 210a. In the illustrated embodiment, the end cap <NUM> can be tapered from the leading edge to the trailing edge. Other embodiments need not have the reduction in diameter and can be tapered or of constant diameter.

In the illustrated embodiment, the end cap has detent <NUM> configured to allow insertion of a suction catheter <NUM> or the like. Such detent may include a slit. In some configurations, the slit extends the center of the detent to allow a suction catheter <NUM> to be inserted into the valve 380a and into the inner channel <NUM> without the need to remove the valve 380a. In some configurations, the slit runs generally vertically such that the catheter can be moved along at least a portion of the slit in a generally vertical direction. When a suction catheter <NUM> is removed from the slit, the slit can return to its original shape and provide a generally hermetic seal.

<FIG> are illustrations of an embodiment of a dual-valve catheter mount 200b that is configured to allow a suction catheter <NUM> to access to both the conduit port 250b and the interface port 300b and possibly the corresponding tubes attached thereto due to the provision of two suction ports 350b, 351b. Dual-valve catheter mount 200b can be comprised of a conduit port 250b, an interface port 300b, and two suction ports 350b, 351b.

The dual-valve catheter mount 200b has a mount body 210b configured to allow fluid communication between the conduit port 250b and the interface port 300b via flow channel 212b. The construction of the dual-valve catheter mount 200b is similar to that of the angled catheter mount 200a with the main exception that the interface angle Ia is <NUM>° and that the catheter mount 200b includes a dual-suction port 350b, 351b design. As such, reference should be made to the description of the angled catheter mount 200a for a description of the components contained in the dual-valve catheter mount 200b such as those for the conduit port 250b, the interface port 300b, the design of the reverse connectors 280b and 330b as shown in <FIG>, and the design of the valves 380b and 381b as shown in <FIG>.

With reference to <FIG>, the dual-valve catheter mount 200b has a conduit suction port 351b directly opposite the conduit port 250b and an interface suction port 350b directly opposite the interface port 300b. Both the interface suction port 350b and the conduit suction port 351b have openings 360b, 361b respectively configured to permit insertion of a suction catheter <NUM> into the mount body 210b and into the flow channel 212b. In the illustrated embodiment, the suction ports 350b, 351b and the associated openings 360b, 361b have generally circular shapes that are centered about the conduit axis 202b and the interface axis 204b respectively. Furthermore, circumscribing the openings 360b, 361b are engagement lips 362b, 363b configured to be received within a locking slot <NUM> of the valves being used. In the illustrated embodiment, the size and shape of both ports 350b, 351b and their respective openings 360b, 361b are generally the same. In some embodiments, the size and shape of the ports may be dissimilar and may take on other shapes. For example, ports and openings may also be elliptical, such as an oval, or polygonal, such as a square, rectangle, pentagon, hexagon or the like.

In order to reduce the likelihood of interference between the valves used, in the illustrated embodiment, the interface suction port 350b is extended beyond the outer wall of tubular member 252b of the conduit port 250b. However, in the illustrated configuration, the conduit suction port 351b is not extended beyond the outer wall of tubular member 302b of the interface port 300b. In some embodiments, both of the suction ports 350b, 351b may be extended beyond the outer wall of the tubular members 302b, 252b in order to reduce the likelihood of interference or obstruction to flow within the fluid channel 212b of the mount body 210b. In some embodiments, both suction ports, 351b may not be extended beyond the outer wall of the tubular members 302b, 252b.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, placement of openings 361b, 360b allows the suction catheter <NUM> to access both, as illustrated in <FIG>, the interior of the conduit port 250b and possibly any attached tubing and, as illustrated in <FIG>, the interior of the interface port 300b and possibly any attached tubing. Therefore, placement of the openings 360b, 361b advantageously allows direct access to both tubes without removal of the catheter mount 200b from the system. Such a configuration reduces the amount of time necessary in maintaining the interior surfaces of a respiratory assistance system because the catheter mount 200b need not be removed from the system in order to perform routine maintenance.

In some embodiments, the intersection of the conduit axis 202b and the interface axis 204b form an intersection angle Ib. In some embodiments of the dual-valve mount 200b, the intersection angle Ib could be any angle from about <NUM>° to about <NUM>°. In some embodiments, the intersection angle Ib ranges from about <NUM>° to about <NUM>°. In some embodiments, the intersection angle Ib ranges from about <NUM>° to about <NUM>°. Finally, in some embodiments, such as that illustrated in <FIG>, the intersection angle Ib is about <NUM>°. The intersection angle Ib used for a particular embodiment of the dual-valve catheter mount 200b can be based on other design parameters such as, but not limited to, the offset angle Ob and the placement of the two suction ports 350b, 351b.

<FIG> are illustrations of an embodiment of a switch catheter mount 200c that is configured to allow a suction catheter access to both the conduit port 250c and the interface port 300c and the corresponding tubes attached thereto due to the valve 380c and the switch 390c. The switch catheter mount 200c can comprise a conduit port 250c, an interface port 300c, and a suction port 350c. The switch catheter mount 200c has a mount body 210c configured to allow fluid communication between the conduit port 250c and the interface port 300c via the flow channel 212c. The construction of the switch catheter mount 200c can be similar to that of the dual-valve catheter mount 200b with the main exception that, rather than having a dual suction port design, the switch catheter mount 200c of the illustrated embodiment replaces one of the valves with a switch 390c. As such, reference should be made to the description of the dual-valve catheter mount 200b for a description of the components contained in the switch catheter mount 200a such as those for the conduit port 250c, the interface port 300c, the design of the reverse connectors 280c and 330c as shown in <FIG>, and the design of the valves 380c as shown in <FIG>.

With reference to <FIG>, the suction port 250c of the switch catheter mount 200c can be comprised of a suction port 350c directly opposite the interface port 300c and the switch 390c directly opposite the conduit port 250c. The suction port 350c can have an opening 360c configured to permit insertion of a suction catheter <NUM> into the mount body 210c and into the flow channel 212c. In the illustrated embodiment, the suction port 350c and opening 360c have a generally circular shape formed about the interface axis 204c. Furthermore, circumscribing the opening 360c is an engagement lip 362c configured to be received within a locking slot <NUM> of the valve 380c being used. In some embodiments, the size and shape of the port 350c and the opening 360c may vary. For example, ports and openings may also be elliptical, such as an oval, or polygonal, such as a square, rectangle, pentagon, hexagon or the like.

The switch 390c can be configured to redirect the suction catheter depending upon the positioning of the switch 390c. As such, the switch 390c generally could be constructed of a material that would not substantially deform when contacting the suction catheter <NUM>. Such materials could include, but are not limited to, plastics such as ABS, polycarbonate, polypropylene, HTPE, metals, composites, polymers, or other suitable materials. In the illustrated embodiment, the switch 390c has a top portion 392c and a rod-shaped redirection portion 394c that is configured to redirect the suction catheter <NUM>. Because the redirection portion 394c is configured to redirect the suction catheter <NUM>, in some embodiments, the redirection portion 394c generally has a large cross-sectional area to facilitate contact with a suction catheter <NUM> that has been inserted into the mount body 210c. If the cross-sectional area is not sufficiently wide in a direction perpendicular to the cross-sectional plane shown in <FIG>, a user of the device may find it difficult to redirect a suction catheter <NUM> into the conduit port 250c. In some embodiments, the redirection portion 394c may have at least a portion with a rectangular cross-sectional area. In some embodiments, the redirection portion could encompass other elliptical shapes, such as ovals and polygonal shapes, such as pentagons, hexagons, and the like. In some configurations, the redirection portion 394c is sufficiently wide to increase the likelihood of contact with the catheter while also enabling flow through the flow path within the catheter mount. As such, the redirection portion 394c preferably does not totally obstruct the flow path. In some applications, the redirection portion 394c can extend the full width of the flow path but, because it is positioned inline with the inlet flow passage, the redirection portion will not fully occlude the flow. In some embodiments, the redirection portion 394c will only extend a portion of each of the flow paths.

In addition, in some embodiments such as that in <FIG> and <FIG>, the switch may also have a biasing mechanism 396c, such as a spring, which forces the switch 390c into an "interface access" position when no forces are placed on the switch 390c. In some embodiments, a locking mechanism may be added to maintain the switch in the desired position. In some embodiments, the switch can remain in the desired position solely due to friction between the mount body 210c and the redirection portion 394c.

In operation, when the switch 394c is not depressed and remains in an "interface access" position, a suction catheter <NUM> inserted into the mount body 210c is not impeded and is capable of accessing the interior of the interface port 300c and possibly any attached tubing. When the switch 394c is depressed and in the "conduit access" position, a suction catheter <NUM> inserted into the mount body 210c is impeded from entering the interface port 300c of the mount body. As such, the suction catheter can be redirected into the conduit port 250c where it is capable of accessing the interior of the conduit port 250c and possibly any attached tubing. Therefore, placement of the opening 360c and use of the switch 390c advantageously allows direct access to both tubes without removing the catheter mount 200c from the system. This reduces the amount of time necessary in maintaining the interior surfaces of a respiratory assistance system since the catheter mount 200c need not be removed from the system in order to perform this routine maintenance.

In a preferred embodiment, the intersection of the conduit axis 202a and the interface axis 204a form an intersection angle Ic. In some embodiments of the switch catheter mount 200c, the intersection angle Ic could be any angle from about <NUM>° to about <NUM>°. In some embodiments, the intersection angle Ic ranges from about <NUM>° to about <NUM>°. In some embodiments, the intersection angle Ic ranges from about <NUM>° to about <NUM>°. Finally, in some embodiments, such as that illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the intersection angle Ic is about <NUM>°. The intersection angle Ic used for a particular embodiment of the switch catheter mount 200c can be based on other design parameters such as, but not limited to, the offset angle Oc, the offset distance Hc, the length of the redirection portion 394c, and the projection distance Pc of the switch 390c.

In addition to the other parameters, such as the offset distance Hc, the offset distance Da, and the offset angle Oa, discussed above with respect to the angled catheter mount 200a, additional design parameters include the length of the redirection portion 394c. In some embodiments, the length of the redirection portion can be between about <NUM> and about <NUM>. In some embodiments, the length of the redirection portion can be between about <NUM> and about <NUM>. In some embodiments, the length of the redirection portion can be between about <NUM> and about <NUM>. Finally, in some embodiments, the length of the redirection portion is about <NUM>.

Furthermore, another parameter that can also be configured is the projection distance Pc defined as the distance between the conduit axis 250c and a parallel line tangential to the part of the redirection portion closest to the suction port 350c. In some embodiments, the projection distance Pc can be between about <NUM> and about <NUM>. In some embodiments, the projection distance Pc can be between about <NUM> and about <NUM>. In some embodiments, the projection distance Pc can be between about <NUM> and about <NUM>. Finally, in some embodiments, the projection distance Pc is about <NUM>.

<FIG> show an exemplary embodiment of the invention and are illustrations of an embodiment of a wide-range valve catheter mount 200d that is configured to allow a suction catheter <NUM> to access both ports and possibly the corresponding tubes attached thereto due to the wide-range valve <NUM>. The wide-range valve catheter mount 200d comprises a conduit port 250d, an interface port 300d, and a suction port 350d. The catheter mount 200d has a mount body 210d configured to allow fluid communication between the conduit port 250d, the interface port 300d, and the suction port 350d. The construction of the catheter mount 200d is similar to the preceding catheter mounts 200a, 200b, 200c with the main exception being that the wide-range valve catheter mount 200d uses a larger, wide-range valve <NUM> rather than the smaller valve <NUM> of the other catheter mounts. As such, reference should be made to the description of the angled catheter mount 200a for a description of the components contained in the wide-range valve catheter mount 200d such as those for the conduit port 250d, the interface port 300d, and the design of the reverse connectors 280d and 330d as shown in <FIG>.

In the embodiment illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the suction port 350d of the wide range catheter mount 200d is comprised of a flat top surface 364d having a semi-circular shape, a flat chamfered surface 366d with a rectangular shape, a flat trailing surface 368d with a semicircular shape. Other configurations are possible.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, an opening 360d can be defined through one or more of the surfaces 364d, 366d, 368d. In the illustrated embodiment, the shape of the opening 360d can vary along the surfaces 364d, 366d, 368d. Along both the top and trailing surfaces 364d, 368d, the opening 360d can have a generally semicircular shape and, along the chamfered surface 366d, the opening 360d can have a generally rectangular shape.

In the illustrated embodiment, the area of the opening 360d is approximately <NUM> times greater than the area of the conduit port 250c or the interface port 300d. In some embodiments, the area of the opening 360d can be greater than or less than the area of the ports 250c, 300c.

The opening 360d can be centered on these surfaces such that an engagement lip 362d is formed and defined by the shape of the opening 360d. The engagement lip 362d can be configured to be received within an annular locking slot <NUM> of the wide-range valve <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the location and configuration of the opening 360d allows the suction catheter <NUM> to access both, as illustrated in <FIG>, the interior of the conduit port 250d and possibly any attached tubing and, as illustrated in <FIG>, the interior of the interface port 300d and possibly any attached tubing. Accordingly, the illustrated configuration advantageously allows direct access to both tubes without having to remove the catheter mount 200d from the system. This reduces the amount of time spent in maintaining the interior surfaces of a respiratory assistance system because the catheter mount 200d facilitates this routine maintenance without requiring removal.

In some embodiments, the intersection of the conduit axis and the interface axis 204d form an intersection angle Id. In some embodiments of the wide-range valve catheter mount 200d, the intersection angle Id could range from about <NUM>° to about <NUM>°. In some embodiments, the intersection angle Id ranges from about <NUM>° to about <NUM>°. In some embodiments, the intersection angle Id ranges from about <NUM>° to about <NUM>°. In some embodiments, such as that illustrated in <FIG>, the intersection angle Id is about <NUM>°. The intersection angle Id used for a particular embodiment of the wide-range catheter mount 200d can be based on other design parameters such as, but not limited to, the size and placement of the opening 360d and the wide-range valve <NUM>.

In order to allow access to both the conduit port 250d and the interface port 300d, the opening 360d can be of sufficient size such that both the conduit axis and the interface axis 204d pass through the aperture 360d along the top surface 364d and the trailing surface 368d respectively. Furthermore, to facilitate the use of a suction catheter <NUM> with this embodiment of the wide-range catheter mount 360d, the chamfered surface 366d is angled such that: (<NUM>) the first intermediate angle B<NUM>, defined as the angle of intersection between the conduit axis 202a and a line both coplanar with the conduit axis 202a and perpendicular to the chamfered surface 366d, is approximately equal to <NUM>° and (<NUM>) the second intermediate angle B<NUM>, defined as the angle of intersection between the interface axis 204a and a line both coplanar with the interface axis 202a and perpendicular to the chamfered surface 366d, is approximately equal to <NUM>°. As such, in the illustrated embodiment, both intermediate angles are generally equal. In other embodiments, the intermediate angles may differ. In some embodiments, such as those where the intersection angle Id is not equal to <NUM>°, the angles may differ. In general, the angles can be determined using the equation Id = B<NUM>+ B<NUM>.

Other embodiments of the wide-range valve catheter mount 200d may have openings 360d of different sizes, shapes and placements. In some embodiments, the chamfered surface 366d may be omitted such that the two surfaces, 364d and 368d, are directly connected. In some embodiments, the top surface 364d and the trailing surfaces 368d may be omitted such that only the chamfered surface 366d exists. The placement of the opening 360d may also be changed such that the opening 360d along the top and trailing surfaces 364d and 368d is placed further back such that the opening is not intersected by one or more of the conduit axis and interface axis 204d. In yet other embodiments, the opening 360d may be moved forward such that the opening 360d along the chamfered surface 366d is intersected by either of the interface axis 204d, conduit axis or both.

In order to provide a generally hermetic seal when a suction catheter <NUM> is not being used and a reduced flow through the port when the suction catheter <NUM> is being used, a wide-range valve <NUM> can be used in conjunction with the wide-range valve catheter mount 200d and received within the opening 360d of the suction port 350d. <FIG> are illustrations of an embodiment of the wide-range valve <NUM> which can be used to provide a generally hermetic seal. The valve <NUM> can be manufactured from any suitable materials keeping in mind the desire to allow the valve to accommodate the suction catheter <NUM>. Preferably, the valve <NUM> is manufactured from materials with sufficient elasticity such that the valve <NUM> can deform and conform to the shape of the opening 360d to provide a more effective seal.

With reference to <FIG>, the wide-range valve <NUM> has an insertion member <NUM>, a locking slot <NUM>, an end cap <NUM>, and inner channel <NUM>. The insertion member <NUM> is configured to be received within the mount body 210d when fully assembled. The shape of the insertion member <NUM> generally corresponds to the shape of the opening 360d being used for the wide-range catheter mount 200d. In a preferred embodiment, the insertion member <NUM> is sized such that, at least at the trailing end <NUM>, the insertion member <NUM> has dimensions greater than those of the opening 360d. In the illustrated embodiment, the shape of the insertion member <NUM> remains generally constant throughout its length from the leading edge <NUM> to the trailing edge <NUM>. In other embodiments, in order to facilitate insertion of the insertion portion <NUM> into the aperture 360d due to the differences in size, the insertion portion <NUM> can be tapered along the leading end <NUM>. In some embodiments, the size and shape of the leading end <NUM> is equal to, or slightly smaller than, the size and shape of the opening 360d in order to facilitate insertion into the catheter mount 200d.

The locking slot <NUM> can be configured to reduce or eliminate the likelihood of movement of the wide-range valve <NUM> when attached to the mount body 210d. The dimensions of the annular locking slot <NUM> generally correspond to the dimensions of the engagement lip 362d. The annular locking slot <NUM> can be sized and shaped to be slightly larger than the opening 360d in order to provide a more generally hermetic seal. The size and shape can be slightly greater depending on the elastic properties of the wide-range valve <NUM>. When fully inserted, the sections of the wide-range valve <NUM> in contact with the mount body 210d surfaces are compressed and form a more advantageous seal. In some embodiments, the dimensions chosen are based on the type of material being used, the amount of sealing required, and considerations of difficulty of insertion and removal of the valve.

The end cap <NUM> is configured to control fluid communication to the inner channel <NUM>. At the leading end <NUM> end cap <NUM> is comprised of a flat surface <NUM> configured to abut the top surface 364d, the chamfered surface 366d, and the trailing surface 368d, of the mount body 210d when the valve <NUM> is fully inserted within the mount body 210d. The size and shape of the end cap <NUM> generally corresponds to the size and shape of surfaces 364d, 366d, 368d. The end cap <NUM> has slit <NUM> running through the end cap <NUM> and into the inner channel <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, a single slit <NUM> runs through a central section of the top portion <NUM>, an entire central section of the chamfered portion <NUM>, and a central section of the trailing portion <NUM> of the valve. The slit <NUM> allow a suction catheter <NUM> to be inserted into the valve <NUM> and into the inner channel <NUM> without removal of the valve <NUM>. When a suction catheter <NUM> is removed from the slit <NUM>, the slit can return to its original shape and provide a generally hermetic seal. In some embodiments, the slit runs solely through the chamfered portion <NUM>. In some embodiments, multiple slits may be used. In one non-limiting example, a first slit can exist along a central part of the top portion <NUM> and a second slit can exist along a central part of the trailing portion <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an embodiment of a ball-joint catheter mount 200e with a conduit port 250e and an interface port 300e. The conduit portion 250e and the interface port 300e can rotate relative to each other to allow a suction catheter <NUM> to access to both connectors and possibly the corresponding tubes attached thereto. In the embodiment shown, the ball-joint catheter mount 200e also has a suction port 350e opposite the interface port 300e. The ball-joint catheter mount 200e has a mount body 210e configured to allow fluid communication between the conduit port 250e, the interface port 300e, and the suction port 350e through an interior flow channel 212e. Additionally, the conduit port 250e is attached to a ball-joint assembly <NUM> allowing the conduit port 250e to be rotated. In some embodiments, the suction port 350a is oriented opposite the conduit port 250a with the interface port 300e attached to the ball-joint assembly <NUM>. The construction of the ball-joint catheter mount 200e is similar to that of the above-described catheter mounts such as the angled catheter mount 200a with the main exception that, rather than being fixed, the ball-joint catheter mount 200e can be rotated thereby changing the interface axis 204e and resulting in a modifiable intersection angle Ie. As such, reference should be made to the description of the dual-valve catheter mount 200b for a description of the components contained in the switch catheter mount 200a such as those for the conduit port 250c, the interface port 300c, the design of the reverse connectors 280c and 330c as shown in <FIG>, and the design of the valves 380c as shown in <FIG>.

During normal operation, ball-joint catheter mount 200e can have an intersection angle Ie of <NUM>° or greater to facilitate placement near the interface <NUM>. When necessary, the ball-joint catheter mount can be rotated at the ball-joint assembly <NUM> to decrease the intersection angle Ie and, similar to the angled catheter mount 200a, allow a suction catheter <NUM> to access both the conduit port 250e and the interface port 300e. In some configurations, the ball-joint assembly includes an arcuate inner surface such that the catheter can be better directed toward the conduit port 250e. In the illustrated configuration, the suction port 350e is non-movably positioned relative to an axis of the interface port 300e while being movably positioned relative to an axis of the conduit port 250e.

In some configurations, a connector (e.g., an intermediate suction tube connector) can be provided with a port and valve assembly. In such configurations, the port and valve assembly can be angled to provide each of access to one or more components between the flow generators (e.g., ventilator) and the catheter mount. In such configurations, it is possible to use the connector in combination with a standard catheter mount.

All features of the embodiments described above can be combined and integrated. Thus, as one non-limiting example, a dual-valve catheter mount 200b may also have a narrow intersection angle Ib akin to the angled catheter mount 200a. As another non-limiting example, the ball-joint catheter mount 200e can also have a wide-range valve <NUM> of the wide-range valve catheter mount 200d rather than the smaller valve 380e. The remaining combinations and permutations are also included herein as embodiments.

Claim 1:
A catheter mount (200d) configured to be attached to a respiratory assistance system (100a, 100b), the catheter mount (200d) comprising:
a plurality of ports (250d, 300d, 350d) in fluid communication with each other, the plurality of ports (250d, 300d, 350d) comprising:
an interface port (300d) configured to connect to an interface tube (<NUM>) and comprising an interface axis (204d);
a conduit port (250d) configured to connect to a conduit tube (<NUM>) and comprising a conduit axis ; and,
a suction port (350d) configured to allow insertion of a suction catheter (<NUM>); and,
a valve (<NUM>) associated with the suction port (350d) and configured to allow the suction catheter (<NUM>) direct access to the interface tube (<NUM>) through the suction port (350d), wherein the interface axis (204d) of the interface port (300d) intersects the valve (<NUM>);
characterized in that, the valve (<NUM>) is configured to allow the suction catheter (<NUM>) direct access to the conduit tube (<NUM>) and the conduit axis intersects the valve (<NUM>).