Apneic Oxygenation Conduit

Project Background

This device was invented by Dr. Michael Steuerwald, who determined there was a need for an improved nasopharyngeal airways device that can provide provide positive air flow.

Product Opportunity

In patients who have suffered maxillofacial trauma or others for whom an airway cannot be readily established, a nasal trumpet or jet intubation are sometimes the only options to establish a reliable airway. Dr. Steuerwald approached me with the idea of a simple, low cost nasal trumpet that provides the capacity to attach a positive pressure air delivery system like those used for jet intubation.

Product Solution

This hybrid device combines a flexible, atraumatic nasopharyngeal airway (NPA) with a concentric connector to which a source of pressurized oxygen could be connected. The design incorporates these features in a single, simple design with a split passage that allows the NPA to be used as a passive airway or in the event that a pressurized air source is required.

In use, the device would be inserted into the nasal passageway and a source of air would be connected to the free end. Hypoxic patients would receive 100% oxygen in intermittent bursts to provide regular insufflation and expiration, until they reach a facility capable of establishing a more permanent airway.