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Abstract

This document discusses, among other things, systems, devices, and methods for using surface energy to assist in fluid transport or separation. One example includes removing mucus from a subject's lungs during mechanical ventilation of the subject using a tracheal tube. At least one wicking fluid pickup port is located more distal than a sealing device between the tracheal tube and the trachea. Surface energy assists in introducing mucus into the port. A peristalsis or other pump is used to remove from the subject a substantially contiguous column of the wicked-in liquid. Ventilation of the subject is not impaired by the mucus removal. Safety venting reduces or avoids damage to tissue occluding the port. Other structures may assist in directing the mucus toward the port. Various illustrative examples include single lumen tracheal tubes, double lumen tracheal tubes, two-piece tracheal tubes (having outer and inner cannulas) and bronchial blockers. This document also discusses several other exemplary applications, such as oil/water separation, transportation of a lubricant to a drill bit tip, waste separation and/or solidification.

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First Claim