Importance

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Abstract

An apparatus for ventilating and aspirating the respiratory system of a patient, the apparatus having a patient module, a disposable center module, and a vacuum module. The patient module includes tubular connecting means connectable to a supply of air and to the trachea of the patient for involuntarily supplying air to and withdrawing air from the lungs of the patient. The center module includes a first end element connected to the patient module, a second end element, an elongated flexible tubular catheter element permanently connected to the second end element and extending slidably and sealingly through the first end element, and an elongated, collapsible, tubular plastic sleeve connected to the first and second end elements and extending therebetween around the catheter element. The vacuum module is connected to the second end element and adapted to be connected to a source of vacuum for applying vacuum to the catheter element. The vacuum module includes means for controlling the application of vacuum to the catheter element. The first end element is releasably connected to the patient module and the second end element is releasably connected to the vacuum module. The first and second end elements are also connectable one with the other to coact with the sleeve in enclosing and isolating the catheter from the surrounding environment.

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First Claim