Optical system for intubation - uses optical fibres or opto-electronic system for visual control of tube insertion

摘要

The optical system (2) used for introducing a tube into the trachea, is installed in the centre of the tube (1) to provide visual control of the intubation procedure. The optical system (2) may use optical fibres extending between an objective lens (3) at the distal ends of the tube (2) and an eyepiece (5) at the proximal end of the tube, or an electronic micro-camera coupled to a monitor. The optical system is pref. centred within the tube via a spacing system. ADVANTAGE - Eliminates need for expensive and complex bronchoscope.