| 摘要 |
<p>A method is disclosed for making a cuff or balloon for use with an endotracheal tube by means of a cold parison blow molding process. The method may be utilized for large quantity production of such cuffs yet affords reliable control of the thickness throughout the cuff. In carrying out the method, a thermoplastic or other elastomeric tube of predetermined dimensions and elasticity is prestretched a predetermined amount in the longitudinal direction. The tube is positioned within a hollow mold or, for quantity production in a series of such molds, having the mold internal configuration in the general shape of the desired end balloon form. The mold or molds are vented to atmosphere. Pressure is applied to the interior of the tube and such predetermined pressure is retained within the tube. The tube and mold(s) are then heated such that the tube softens and expands under the pressure to assume internal configuration of the mold(s). A cooling cycle follows such that the tubing takes on a new memory in the expanded state. The expanded tube, now in the shape of the desired end cuff or balloon is removed from the mold and can then be assembled into the final product endotracheal tube by known means.</p> |
