| 摘要 |
The present invention is directed to an endotracheal tube having an integral bite protector wherein at least that portion of the body of the endotracheal tube that is in contact with an orally intubated patient's teeth is constructed of a bite-resistant polymeric material that is sufficiently rigid that the endotracheal tube does not collapse, puncture or permanently deform with forceful teeth clenching. The present invention is also directed to a bite-resistant endotracheal tube wherein the bite-resistant portion is constructed of a polymeric material that either lacks reinforcing materials or is reinforced by primarily fibrous reinforcement materials, rather than metal or similar rigid reinforcement materials which may cause oral trauma. Further, the bite-resistant endotracheal tube of the present invention has a proximal or machine-end that is constructed of a polymeric material which permits excess tubing extending out of an intubated patient's mouth to be cleaved, thereby, reducing dead space and maximizing ventilation. |
