LARYNGEAL MASK WITH LARGE-BORE GASTRIC DRAINAGE

摘要

An artificial airway device (20) for use in unconscious patients comprises a laryngo-pharyngeal mask (52) including a roughly elliptical expandable masking ring (55). The expandable mask sealingly surrounding the laryngeal inlet (50) when expanded to obstruct communication between the laryngeal inlet and oesophagus (37). One or more airway tubes (125, 127) connected to the mask provide for fluid flow to a portion of the mask facing the laryngeal inlet when the mask sealingly surrounds the laryngeal inlet. A gastro-tube (75) connected to the mask is bonded along most of its length to the airway tube(s) and provides a fluid flow-path to the surface of the mask facing the oesophagus when the mask sealingly surrounds the laryngeal inlet. The cross-section area of the gastro-tube is at least as great as that of the airway tube(s). The distal end of the gastro tube passes through the masking ring at its narrower distal region (62) where, when installed in a patient, it abuts the oesophagus; and the distal portion (80) of the gastro-tube (75) flattens when the mask is deflated to facilitate smooth passage behind the larynx during insertion through the patient's airway (22).