| 摘要 |
The subject invention pertains to novel medical devices having highly advantageous physical characteristics which can reduce potential injury to patients. The excellent characteristics of the medical devices of the subject invention result, in part, from the use of hydrogel materials. Tubes for endotracheal devices can be formed entirely or partially of a swellable hydrogel material. The hydrogel material swells in the presence of water to form a seal within a tracheal lumen. In one embodiment, the endotracheal device is made fully of hydrogel. In another embodiment, the endotracheal device includes a hollow, pliable tube and a hydrogel sleeve attached to the tube. In another embodiment, the endotracheal device comprises a hollow, pliable tube, an inflatable cuff, and a hydrogel sleeve located over the cuff. In yet another embodiment, the endotracheal device comprises a hollow, pliable tube, and a hydrogel sleeve which acts as a true "gel-cuff". A further aspect of the subject invention concerns novel manufacturing processes used to produce novel hydrogel materials and the corresponding hydrogel materials. In addition, the subject invention relates to a method for delivery of treatments and chemicals substances to a patient. |
