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Information about the
Automatic Tracheotomy/Cricothyrotomy Device
Apparatus
Automatic Trachea Injector
This device will automate the process of performing a tracheotomy or cricothyrotomy (emergency airway puncture).
It consists of a compact housing "box" that will contain a tear off cover. When this cover removed, it will expose a cleaning pad to help sterilize the area as it is placed on the patients throat and moved around to find proper placement. The enclosed Ultrasonic or other density sensing instrument would be able to detect the cricothyroid membrane and detect proper placement for the enclosed trachea tube. When placed in the correct position, a beeping tone and light will be emitted. The unit will also feature a pressure transducer that would be able to gauge when the correct level of pressure would be applied to the unit on the patients neck. Another beep and light will show that this proper pressure is being applied. When both indicators show correct placement and pressure, within 3 seconds, the device will go into action and automatically activate the injection of the circular punch type cutting implement linked to an actuator. Concentrically contained within it would be an endotracheal tube. After insertion into airway, the Endotracheal tube clicks into the flange and the cutting implement is retracted back into the Box leaving the Endotracheal tube behind. Attached ribbons are then tied to hold trachea tube in place. This would be subsequently attached to an emergency oxygen supply. The "box" is disposed of in Sharps container.
Three Versions
There are three versions of the ATI.
The First Version is a totally disposable version.
It will be offered in a tear open bag for easy sterile storage and use. The Handle bar design will have permanent attachment of the "box" and when used is fully disposable into a sharps container or biohazard collection box.
The Second Version is partially disposable an partly reusable after sanitized.
It will be offered also in a tear open bag for easy sterile storage and use. However the handlebar will contain 4 "clips" that will hold the box securely during use. When the injection is completed the box may be unclipped from the handlebars, then box disposed of in sharps container or biohazard collection box and the handlebar may be sterilized and used again and again. This will decrease the cost of the unit by only then purchasing new sterile "boxes" to use and recycling the handlebar.
The Third Version is specifically intended for Military use.
This Version consists of only the Box. No handlebar required for use. It would allow for easy packing and storage. multiple units could be held in a single back pack for field emergency use or in MASH tents. Each box will be sterile in bag. Training will be required to use this Version.
Functions and Appealing Features
This new device will largely automate the process of performing a tracheotomy/cricothyrotomy. Its small size, ease of use, and reliability is appealing. Cricothyrotomy is a last resort means of establishing an airway when conventional forms of intubation or surgical tracheotomy are not possible. Generally, a significant amount of training is required in order to perform this type of procedure under emergency conditions. This device would provide a means of largely automating this process. Specifically, it would provide a detection system that would help locate the cricothyroid membrane and a feedback system that would ensure the user would apply the correct level of pressure. It would then automatically perform the required incision/puncture and place an endotracheal tube. As such, the amount of training required could be greatly reduced and it would greatly increase chances of success, particularly in case of a user with limited or no medical training. Also, this device could be preplaced where currently there are no possibility for this emergency procedure. Mortality in those areas is 100%.
Just think... that child on the playground stung by a bee...throat closes, breathing stopped...emergency airway inserted...child survives.
Sterile Packaging
Easy to open, sterile, and ready to use. Peel to open bag and cleaning pad. When open, snap flange is exposed.
When flange is exposed it contains an adhesive pad to stick and seal around the airway and ribbons to tie around patient neck to secure endotracheal tube.