Endoscopic-Enabled Tongue Depressor and Associated Method of Use

摘要

The invention provides an endoscopic-enabled tongue depressor, as part of a mouth gag unit, with two-grooved design, where the first groove is for intubation, and the second groove accommodates the secure and adjustable placement of an optic device and associated method of use. The inventive tongue depressor enables full endoscopic procedures of the upper airway, such as nasopharynx, by providing a surgeon the ability to operate with both hands and an unobstructed view of a target area in the upper airway, in addition to real-time observation of the surgical field for other surgical staff (such as nursing staff, technicians, students and residents).

主权项

1. An apparatus for opening upper airway during an upper airway procedure with accommodations for both intubation and visualization comprising:
a tongue-covering member with a first groove/indentation on a back portion for placement of intubation tubing and a second groove/indentation on a top portion for placement of an optic means, wherein both grooves/indentations are in the longitude direction along said tongue-covering member, and said first groove is positioned around midline of said tongue-covering member; and a handle member attaching to the proximal end of said tongue-covering member.