Endobronchial tube with integrated image sensor and a cleaning nozzle arrangement

Abstract

An endobronchial tube which contains an integrated camera and light source and a cleaning nozzle arrangement disposed within dedicated peripheral lumen within the tube's wall.

Claims

1. An endobronchial tube comprising: an outer wall defining a first lumen having an open distal end, a second lumen having an open distal end, a dedicated image sensor lumen, and a dedicated cleaning lumen; wherein the outer wall defines a first section extending from a proximal end of the outer wall to the distal end of the first lumen and a second section extending from the distal end of the first lumen to the distal end of the second lumen; wherein the second section has a smaller outer circumference than the first section; a first inflatable cuff mounted to the first section of the outer wall; a second inflatable cuff mounted to the second section of the outer wall; an image sensor and an illumination source disposed entirely within said dedicated image sensor lumen, wherein the dedicated image sensor lumen has a distal end adjacent the distal end of said first lumen; said dedicated cleaning lumen having a plurality of cleaning nozzles positioned distal to the image sensor and illumination source, the plurality of cleaning nozzles comprising a primary cleaning nozzle and a secondary cleaning nozzle disposed axially distal of the primary cleaning nozzle; wherein said cleaning nozzles comprise apertures extending from said dedicated cleaning lumen through a thickness of the outer wall and opening through an exterior surface of the second section of the outer wall to direct fluid substantially perpendicular to a long axis of the outer wall adjacent to said image sensor and said illumination source; and an image sensor connector communicatively coupled with the image sensor and disposed at said proximal end of said outer wall.

2. The tube of claim 1, wherein said dedicated cleaning lumen provides for suctioning or flushing a field of view of the image sensor.

3. The tube of claim 2 wherein said plurality of cleaning nozzles are each provided with a diameter from about 0.1 mm to about 2 mm.

4. The tube of claim 1, wherein said plurality of cleaning nozzles comprises said primary cleaning nozzle and secondary cleaning nozzles including said secondary cleaning nozzle, wherein a diameter of said primary cleaning nozzle is larger than diameters of said secondary cleaning nozzles.

5. The tube of claim 4, wherein said diameter of said primary cleaning nozzle is about 0.8 mm and said diameters of said secondary cleaning nozzles are about 0.5 mm.

6. The tube of claim 4, wherein said secondary cleaning nozzles are arranged in a linear fashion distally to said primary cleaning nozzle.

7. The tube of claim 4, wherein said secondary cleaning nozzles consist of three cleaning nozzles.

8. The tube of claim 1 wherein said dedicated image sensor lumen is disposed within said outer wall of said tube between said first lumen and said second lumen.

9. The tube of claim 1 further comprising a second dedicated image sensor lumen, a second image sensor and a second illumination source, the second image sensor and the second illumination source disposed in the second dedicated image sensor lumen adjacent to the open distal end of said second lumen.

10. The tube of claim 9 wherein said image sensor and said second image sensor are a CCD image sensor or CMOS image sensor.

11. The tube of claim 9 wherein said illumination source and said second illumination source are selected from the group consisting of a LED, optical fiber, waveguide, light guide, and any combination thereof.

12. The tube of claim 1 adapted for non-invasive insertion through an oral cavity or nasal cavity.

13. The tube of claim 1 adapted for insertion through an external port or incision.

14. The tube of claim 1 adapted for insertion through surgery or other invasive procedure.

15. The tube of claim 1, wherein said outer wall comprises a medial curvature with an angle from 100 degrees to 160 degrees.

16. The tube of claim 1, wherein said outer wall comprises a distal curvature with an angle from 25 degrees to 70 degrees.

17. The tube of claim 1, wherein said image sensor connector has a diameter not exceeding 10.5 mm.

18. A system adapted for respiratory intubation of a patient, said system comprising: a. an endobronchial tube comprising: an outer wall defining a first lumen having an open distal end, a second lumen having an open distal end, a dedicated image sensor lumen, and a dedicated cleaning lumen; wherein the outer wall defines a first section extending from a proximal end of the outer wall to the distal end of the first lumen and a second section extending from the distal end of the first lumen to the distal end of the second lumen; wherein the second section has a smaller outer circumference than the first section; a first inflatable cuff mounted to the first section of the outer wall; a second inflatable cuff mounted to the second section of the outer wall; an image sensor having an image sensor connector disposed at a proximal end of said outer wall; an illumination source, wherein the image sensor and the illumination source are disposed entirely within the dedicated image sensor lumen adjacent to the open distal end of the first lumen; said dedicated cleaning lumen having a plurality of cleaning nozzles positioned distal to said image sensor and said illumination source, wherein said plurality of cleaning nozzles comprises a primary cleaning nozzle and a secondary cleaning nozzle disposed axially distal of the primary cleaning nozzle, wherein said cleaning nozzles comprise apertures extending from said dedicated cleaning lumen through a thickness of the outer wall and opening through an exterior surface of the second section of the outer wall to direct fluid substantially perpendicular to a long axis of the outer wall adjacent to said image sensor and said illumination source; an image viewer connected to said image sensor; and a laryngeal mask; wherein said image sensor connector is adapted to pass through said laryngeal mask.

19. The system of claim 18 further comprising: inflation lumens for inflating said first and second inflatable cuffs; and a respirator connected to said first and second lumens.

20. An endobronchial tube comprising: an outer wall defining a first lumen having an open distal end, a second lumen having an open distal end, a dedicated image sensor lumen, and a dedicated cleaning lumen; wherein the outer wall defines a first section extending from a proximal end of the outer wall to the distal end of the first lumen and a second section extending from the distal end of the first lumen to the distal end of the second lumen; wherein the second section has a smaller outer circumference than the first section; a first inflatable cuff mounted to the first section of the outer wall; a second inflatable cuff mounted to the second section of the outer wall; said dedicated image sensor lumen disposed between the first lumen and the second lumen and enclosing an image sensor and an illumination source disposed adjacent to the distal end of said first lumen, wherein the image sensor and the illumination source are disposed entirely within the dedicated image sensor lumen; said dedicated cleaning lumen having a plurality of cleaning nozzles positioned distal to the image sensor and illumination source, said plurality of cleaning nozzles comprising a primary cleaning nozzle and a secondary cleaning nozzle disposed axially distal of the primary cleaning nozzle, wherein said cleaning nozzles comprise apertures extending from said dedicated cleaning lumen through a thickness of the outer wall and opening through an exterior surface of the second section of the outer wall to direct fluid substantially perpendicular to a long axis of the outer wall adjacent to said image sensor and said illumination source; an image sensor connector disposed at a proximal end of said outer wall; wherein said tube is adapted for use with a laryngeal mask; and wherein said connector comprises rounded sides and a diameter not exceeding 10.5 mm such that said connector is adapted to pass through said laryngeal mask.

21. The tube of claim 20 wherein said dedicated image sensor lumen is disposed within said outer wall of said tube between said first lumen and said second lumen.

22. The tube of claim 20 wherein said image sensor is a CCD image sensor or CMOS image sensor.

23. The tube of claim 20 wherein said illumination source is selected from the group consisting of a LED, optical fiber, waveguide, light guide, and any combination thereof.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) The invention is herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of the preferred embodiments of the present invention only, and are presented in order to provide what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood description of the principles and conceptual aspects of the invention. In this regard, no attempt is made to show structural details of the invention in more detail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding of the invention, the description taken with the drawings making apparent to those skilled in the art how the several forms of the invention may be embodied in practice.

(2) In the drawings:

(3) FIGS. 1A-B show schematic illustrations of an exemplary endobronchial tube according to an optional embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 1A shows the endobronchial tube within the right bronchi; FIG. 1B shows the endobronchial tube within the left bronchi;

(4) FIG. 2 shows a schematic sectional view of the Tracheal Carina as seen from the endobronchial tube according to an optional embodiment of the present invention;

(5) FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of an exemplary endobronchial tube according to an optional embodiment of the present invention;

(6) FIG. 4A shows a perspective view of an exemplary endobronchial tube according to an optional embodiment of the present invention;

(7) FIG. 4B shows a close up view of notch exit point for the image sensor connector according to the present invention;

(8) FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of an exemplary endobronchial tube according to an optional embodiment of the present invention;

(9) FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of an exemplary endobronchial tube according to an optional embodiment of the present invention, depicting the curvature of the tube;

(10) FIGS. 7A-F shows varying close up views of the distal end of the endobronchial tube according to optional embodiments of the present invention;

(11) FIGS. 7G-H show a preferred embodiment of the cleaning nozzle arrangement according to the present invention;

(12) FIG. 7I shows an optional embodiment according to the present invention;

(13) FIGS. 8A-B show cross-sectional views about different portions of the endobronchial tube according to optional embodiments of the present invention;

(14) FIG. 9 shows a close up view of the image sensor with integrated light source within a dedicated lumen disposed within the wall of the endobronchial tube according to an optional embodiment of the present invention;

(15) FIG. 10a shows a perspective view of an exemplary endobronchial tube inserted into a laryngeal mask according to an optional, illustrative embodiment of the present invention; and

(16) FIGS. 10b and 10c respectively show perspective and frontal views of an exemplary image sensor connector according to an optional, illustrative embodiment of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

(17) The principles and operation of the present invention may be better understood with reference to the drawings and the accompanying description. The following reference labels listed below are used throughout the drawings to refer to objects having similar function, meaning, role, or objective. 10 Stylet; 12 Y-connector; 14 Air Balance Cap; 20 Endobronchial Tube connector assembly; 22 Endobronchial Tube connector proximal end; 24 Tracheal lumen connector portion; 26 Bronchial lumen connector portion; 28 Endobronchial Tube connector distal end; 50 endobronchial tube system; 100 endobronchial tube; 100w tube external wall; 101 sectional view; 102 tube proximal end; 104 tube distal end; 104a distal curvature; 106 tube medial portion; 106a medial curvature; 108 midline partition; 110 tracheal lumen; 111 tracheal lumen connector; 112 tracheal cuff; 112n tracheal cuff notch; 114 tracheal lumen distal end; 116 tracheal lumen proximal end; 118 tracheal cuff connector; 120 bronchial lumen; 122 bronchial cuff; 124 bronchial lumen distal end; 126 bronchial lumen proximal end; 128 bronchial cuff connector; 130 injection tube connector; 150 image sensor arrangement; 150c image sensor; 150d image sensor lumen distal end; 150I illumination source; 150L image sensor lumen; 152 image sensor notch; 154 image sensor conductor; 156 image sensor single cleaning nozzle; 158 image sensor connector; 160 cleaning lumen; 160d cleaning lumen distal end; 162 cleaning nozzle arrangement; 164 four cleaning nozzle arrangement; 166 primary cleaning nozzle; 168 secondary cleaning nozzles; 180 laryngeal mask 182 mask opening TR Trachea; TC Tracheal Carina; BR Right Bronchi; BL Left Bronchi.

(18) FIG. 1A shows a schematic illustration of an exemplary endobronchial tube 100 according to an optional embodiment of the present invention placed within the right bronchi (BR). FIG. 1B shows a schematic illustration of an endobronchial tube 100 within the left bronchi (BL).

(19) Endobronchial tube 100 is a dual lumen tube comprising an external wall 100w, a first tracheal ventilation lumen 110 and a second bronchial ventilation lumen 120. Most preferably wall 100w is a common to both tracheal lumen 110 and bronchial lumen 120 wherein wall 100w most preferably defines the external surface of tube 100. Most preferably an internal septum and/or midline partition 108 defines the individual lumen into tracheal lumen 110 and bronchial lumen 120, FIGS. 8A-B. Tracheal lumen 110, most preferably, has a distal end 114 ending within the trachea while the bronchial lumen 120 has a distal end 124 ending within the bronchi, left or right. Therein tracheal lumen 110 and bronchial lumen 120 are configured to have different lengths, wherein the bronchial lumen 120 extends past and/or distally to tracheal lumen 110.

(20) Most preferably each ventilation lumen comprising an inflatable cuff respectfully, tracheal cuff 112 and bronchial cuff 122. Optionally and preferably cuffs 112 and 122 are individually controllable. Tube 100 is places such that the tracheal lumen 110 is placed within the Trachea by way of cuff 112 proximally, above, the tracheal carina (TC). Most preferably the tracheal carina may be continually visualized with an image sensor 150c and light source 150I, FIG. 9.

(21) Most preferably wall 100w of tube 100 comprises a plurality of dedicated peripheral lumen dispersed about the periphery of wall 100w, FIGS. 8A-B. Most preferably tube 100 comprises at least two or more dedicated peripheral lumen; a first dedicated peripheral lumen provided as a dedicated image sensor lumen 150L provided for imaging the TC; and a second dedicated peripheral lumen provided in the form of a dedicated cleaning lumen 160 for clearing and/or cleaning the view of image sensor disposed in image sensor lumen 150L.

(22) Most preferably tube 100 according to the present invention is characterized in that it comprises a cleaning nozzle arrangement 162 about distal end 160d, FIGS. 7G-H. Most preferably cleaning nozzle arrangement 162 comprises a plurality of cleaning nozzles arranged about the distal end 160d and distally to image sensor arrangement 150 so as to ensure that a tube 100 is provided with a clear and unobstructed view of the TC, for example as shown in FIG. 2. Most preferably cleaning nozzle arrangement are optionally and preferably directed and/or aimed to clear the field of view immediately distal to image sensor arrangement 150 about the distal end 114 of tracheal ventilation lumen 110.

(23) Optionally and most preferably cleaning nozzle arrangement 162 may comprise at least two or more cleaning nozzles about distal end 160d. Most preferably a cleaning nozzle arrangement 162 comprising a plurality of cleaning nozzles about distal end 160d provides sufficient flushing and/or cleaning power and/or force and/or pressure so as to provide image sensor arrangement 150 with an unobstructed view by evacuating biological debris for example mucus or the like biological builds up in and about distal end 114, 150d and 160d.

(24) Most preferably cleaning nozzle arrangement 162 comprises a four cleaning nozzle arrangement 164 about image sensor arrangement 150. Four cleaning nozzle arrangement 164 includes a first primary cleaning nozzle 166 and at least three secondary cleaning nozzles collectively referred to as 168, as shown in FIGS. 7G-H.

(25) Most preferably arrangement 164 may be arranged distally to one another in a linear sequential manner for example as shown in FIG. 7G-H. Most preferably primary cleaning nozzle 166 may be configured to have a nozzle opening of about 0.8 mm, and is most preferably disposed immediately and/or directly adjacent to the image sensor arrangement 150. Most preferably secondary cleaning nozzles 168 may be configured to have a nozzle opening of about 0.6 mm, and a disposed distally to primary cleaning nozzle 166.

(26) Optionally secondary cleaning nozzles 168 may optionally be spaced apart equally, for example about 0.5 mm. Optionally secondary cleaning nozzles 168 may be spaced unequally distal to primary cleaning nozzle 164.

(27) Optionally cleaning nozzle arrangement 162 about distal end 160d may be configured in optional geometric arrangements, wherein primary cleaning nozzle 166 is disposed nearest to image sensor arrangement 150 providing a first flushing and/or cleaning activity, while a plurality of secondary cleaning nozzle 168 are arranged distally thereto to provide a secondary flushing and/or cleaning activity, FIG. 7I.

(28) Optionally cleaning nozzles 166, 168 may be provided with an opening having a diameter from about 0.1 mm to about 2 mm. Optionally primary cleaning nozzle 166 has a larger nozzle opening diameter than do secondary cleaning nozzles 168.

(29) Most preferably image sensor 150c and light source 150I are disposed within a first dedicated peripheral image sensor lumen 150L that is most preferably disposed within wall 110w. Optionally and most preferably image sensor lumen 150L comprising image sensor 150c and light source 150I may be integrated within tracheal lumen 110 about distal end 114, such that the distal end 150d is adjacent to distal end 114. Optionally and most preferably the image sensor arrangement 150 remains within its dedicated peripheral image sensor lumen 150L. Optionally and most preferably image sensor arrangement 150, FIG. 9, comprising an image sensor 150c and a light source 150I may be integrated within a dedicated channel or peripheral image sensor lumen 150L within a wall of the tracheal lumen 110. Most preferably image sensor arrangement 150 provides a cross sectional view 101, for example as shown in FIG. 2.

(30) Most preferably image sensor arrangement 150 are provided in the form of at least one or more light emitting diode (LED) 150I and image sensor 150c for example including but not limited to a CCD or CMOS, (FIG. 9) providing a view 101 showing the status of the bronchi, FIG. 2.

(31) FIG. 2 shows a schematic sectional view of the Tracheal Carina as seen from endobronchial tube 100, provided by image sensor and light source 150, allowing the visualization of bronchial cuff 122 disposed within the left bronchi BL, the patency of the left bronchi, the patency of the right bronchi, the tracheal carina, bronchial bifurcation, in a single field of view 101. Optionally a similar view may be provided with image sensor arrangement 150 when tube 100 is disposed with the right Bronchi BR as shown in FIG. 1A.

(32) FIG. 3 shows endobronchial double lumen tube system 50 comprising endobronchial tube 100 and optional various auxiliary devices that may be used in conjunction with and/or facilitate the use of tube 100.

(33) Optionally auxiliary devices may for example include but are not limited to stylet 10, Y-connector 12, air balance caps 14, an endobronchial tube connector assembly 20, straight or curved suction catheters (not shown) for cleaning secretions, or the like adjunct devices facilitating the use of tube 100 as is known in the art.

(34) Stylet 10 most preferably is utilized to facilitate placement of tube 100, as is known and accepted in the art.

(35) Y-connector 12 most preferably provides for simultaneously connecting both lumens of double lumen tube 100 to a single ventilation source.

(36) Endobronchial Tube connector assembly 20 provides for individually connecting to tracheal lumen 110 and bronchial lumen 120. Connector assembly 20 comprises a proximal end 22, distal end 28, and respective tracheal lumen connector portion 24 and bronchial connector portion 26. In an optional embodiment, bronchial connector portion 26 is a different color to tracheal connector portion 24 to ease the connection process of external equipment by medical staff.

(37) Most preferably proximal end 22 provides for connecting and/or otherwise associating the tube 100 at proximal end 102 at about the individual lumen tracheal lumen 110 and bronchial lumen 120 to auxiliary devices for example including but not limited to ventilation sources.

(38) Most preferably distal end 24 provides for coupling and/or otherwise associating with tube 100.

(39) FIG. 3 further provides a perspective view of a preferred double lumen endobronchial tube 100 comprising tracheal lumen 110 having a tracheal lumen distal end 114 and bronchial lumen 120 having a bronchial lumen distal end 124.

(40) Tube 100 further comprises tracheal cuff 112, shown in its expanded state, provided for securely placing and/or anchoring tube 100 within the trachea while ventilating the lungs through tracheal lumen 110.

(41) Tube 100 further comprises bronchial cuff 122, shown in its expanded and/or inflated state, provided for securely placing and/or anchoring tube 100 within the bronchi, left or right. Most preferably cuff 122 provides for selectively controlling the ventilation to the bronchial arch wherein it is placed (left or right). For example ventilation to either the left or right bronchi may be completely blocked so as to allow a procedure on the respective lung (for example right) while allowing the ventilation of the other lung (for example left) via tracheal lumen 110.

(42) Most preferably tracheal cuff 112 may be inflated and/or deflated via cuff tracheal connector 118.

(43) Most preferably bronchial cuff 122 may be inflated and/or deflated via cuff bronchial connector 128.

(44) Most preferably injection tube connector 130 provides an access point to a dedicated lumen about each of the tracheal tube 110 and bronchial tube 120, preferably for delivering drugs, suctioning, or liquids about tracheal distal 114 and/or bronchial lumen distal end 124.

(45) FIG. 4A provides a further perspective view of endobronchial tube 100, showing image sensor connector 158. Most preferably image sensor connector 158 is provided in the form of a USB connector that provides both for image and power supply to image sensor arrangement 150 disposed in a dedicated lumen near distal end 114. Optionally and preferably image sensor 150c and illumination source 150I may be rendered functional when connected to a display and power source (not shown) via connector 158. Optionally, connector 158 is provided with a ridged surface to enable better grip and easier connection or disconnection to/from peripheral equipment.

(46) FIG. 4B provides a close up view showing the image sensor notch 152 disposed about the proximal end of image sensor lumen 150L providing an exit point for image sensor conductors 154, most preferably provided for both image transfer and power supply to image sensor 150c and illumination source 150I. Image sensor notch 152 is preferably disposed 22.5 mm from the proximal end 102 of tube 100 and preferably has a diameter of about 1.5 mm.

(47) FIG. 5 provides a further perspective view of tube 100 provided from a face on view showing the separation of tracheal lumen 110 and bronchial lumen 120 at distal end 104 of tube 100.

(48) FIG. 6 provides a further schematic illustrative depiction of tube 100 showing a perspective view of tube 100 with the bronchial cuff 122 and tracheal cuff 112 removed. FIG. 6A shows the curvature provided at both the medial section 106 and distal end 104 therein defining a medial curvature 106a and a distal curvature 104a. Curvatures 104a and 106a are provided to so that tube 100 fits within the upper airway tract's anatomy.

(49) Most preferably medial curvature 106a is provided for the ease of accessing and introducing tube 100 within the trachea through the oral cavity and pharynx. Most preferably, curvature 106a, is provided with an angle from about 100 degrees to about 160 degrees.

(50) Most preferably distal curvature 104a is provided for ease of accessing and introducing distal end 104 into one of the bronchi, left or right. Optionally and preferably distal curvature 104a may be specific for individual left or right endobronchial tubes. Optionally distal curvature may be configured to be from about 25 degrees to about 70 degrees and optionally and preferably about 35 degrees as shown.

(51) Optionally the length of tube 100 may be provided with a length from about 200 mm to about 550 mm. Optionally and preferably the length of tube 100 may be selected in accordance with a user's anatomy.

(52) Optionally endobronchial tube 100 may be provided with different sizes, length, diameters as known and accepted in the art. Optionally tube 100 may be provided with a gauge from about 26 Fr to about 44 Fr For example the external diameter of tube 100 may be provided in varying gauges and/or sizes for example including but not limited to 28 Fr, 32 Fr, 35 Fr, 37 Fr, 39 Fr and 41 Fr, within the context of this application the units Fr refer to the gauge of the tube 100 in the units French as is a common term of the art. Alternatively the gauge and or size of tube 100 may be provided in the SI units of millimeters mm The tube 100 according to the present invention may be provided with an external diameter of about 9.3 mm, 10.7 mm, 11.7 mm, 13 mm and 13.7 mm.

(53) Optionally and preferably the length and diameter (also referred to as gauge) of tube 100 may be correlated with one another.

(54) FIG. 7A shows a close up view of distal end 104 of tube 100 shown in FIG. 6 providing a close up view. FIG. 7A further shows a close up view of curvature 104a showing the flaring 114f of distal end 104 from wall 100w of tracheal lumen into the side portion of bronchial lumen 120, most preferably forming a distal end flaring 114f. Most preferably flaring 114f at distal end 104 further provides for placing and/or approximating the distal ends 150d, 160d of the peripheral dedicated image sensor lumen 150L, 160 near the distal end 114 of ventilation lumen 110, for example as shown in FIG. 7C.

(55) Most preferably flaring 114f forms a cover and/or cap over the distal end of the dedicated peripheral lumen 150d and 160d adjacent to distal end 114 of ventilation lumen 110.

(56) Most preferably distal end flaring 114f facilitates placement of a cleaning nozzle arrangement 162 about the distal end 160d of cleaning lumen 160, for example as shown in FIGS. 7C and 7G. Optionally flaring 114f may facilitate the cleaning function provided by arrangement 162.

(57) FIGS. 7A-E show various close up view of distal end 104 specific to curvature 104a showing the flaring 114f and tapering of distal end 104 from the tracheal lumen 110 into the side portion of bronchial lumen 120.

(58) FIGS. 7D-E provide additional close up views of the distal end 150d and cleaning lumen 160 showing an optional primary cleaning nozzle 166 in the form of a single cleaning nozzle 156, most preferably provided for cleaning image sensor 150c.

(59) Optionally cleaning nozzle 156 may be provided with an opening having a diameter from about 0.1 mm to about 2 mm, more preferably from about 0.4 mm to about 0.9 mm, optionally about 0.6 mm or 0.8 mm.

(60) Image sensor arrangement 150 is most preferably provided in image sensor lumen 150L that spans the length of tube 100. Most preferably image sensor 150L is disposed between tracheal lumen 110 and bronchial lumen 120.

(61) Most preferably distal end of image sensor lumen 150L provides for visualizing the carina and the bronchial cuff 122, for example as shown in FIG. 2.

(62) Most preferably the diameter of image sensor lumen 150L is variable along the length of tube 100. Most preferably image sensor lumen 150L is smallest at the proximal end 102 and largest at the distal end 104.

(63) Optionally and preferably at proximal end 102 image sensor lumen 150L is configured to have an elliptical cross-section. Optionally and preferably at distal end of image sensor lumen 150L is configured to have a circular cross-section.

(64) Most preferably alongside image sensor lumen 150L is a dedicated cleaning lumen 160 that has a distal end defining a cleaning nozzle 156, as shown, providing for cleaning image sensor 150c about its distal end. Optionally and preferably cleaning nozzle 156 is provided with a curvature and/or angle so as to direct cleaning solution, fluid, gas or the like flowing fluid toward and/or away from image sensor arrangement 150 and more preferably image sensor 150c. For example cleaning lumen 160 may be utilized to clear mucus or the like biological obstruction from in front of integrated image sensor arrangement 150 by flushing with a flowing fluid, for example a liquid or gas, from the proximal end of lumen 160 through to its distal end 160d and forming at least one or more cleaning nozzle 156, 166, 168 or a cleaning nozzle arrangement 162, 164. Optionally cleaning lumen 160 may be used to clear the viewing field of image sensor arrangement 150 by applying suctioning therein suctioning in front of the field of view to keep it clean.

(65) FIG. 7F shows a close up view of cleaning nozzle 156 that is directed toward image sensor 150c about the distal end of image sensor lumen 150L. Optionally and preferably cleaning nozzle 156 is configured such that it provides for maintaining an open field of view of the Tracheal Carina for integrated images sensor 150c.

(66) While FIGS. 7E-F show an optional cleaning nozzle arrangement having a single cleaning nozzle 156, about the tube distal end 104, FIGS. 7G-H show a preferred embodiment of the present invention for a ventilation tube 100 having a four cleaning nozzle arrangement 164 comprising a plurality of cleaning nozzles, including a primary cleaning nozzle 166 and three secondary cleaning nozzle 168. FIG. 7G shows an illustrative diagram of the preferred embodiment showing cleaning nozzle arrangement 162 about the distal end 114. Most preferably nozzle arrangement 162 comprises a primary nozzle 166 and a plurality of secondary nozzles 168, as previously described. As shown a preferred embodiment comprises three secondary nozzles 168 disposed distally to primary nozzle 166 and image sensor 150c. Most preferably the cleaning nozzles comprising nozzle arrangement 162 are directed so as to clean and/or clear and/or suction any biological debris for example mucus that forms distally to image sensor 150.

(67) Optionally cleaning nozzles 166, 168 may be provided with an opening having a diameter from about 0.1 mm to about 2 mm. Optionally primary cleaning nozzle 166 has a larger nozzle opening diameter than do secondary cleaning nozzles 168.

(68) FIG. 7H provides a close up view of four cleaning nozzle arrangement 164 about distal end 114, as previously described and according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein the nozzle arrangement is characterized by a distally linear arrangement wherein primary nozzle 166 is adjacent to image sensor 150c while secondary nozzles 168 are positioned distally therefrom, optionally and preferably equidistant from one another.

(69) FIG. 7I shows an optional cleaning nozzle arrangement 162 where a plurality of secondary cleaning nozzles 168 are arranged about image sensor 150c in a circumferential arrangement, for example as shown.

(70) Optionally and preferably the distal end 160d of cleaning lumen 160 may be curved such that the distal end 160d and nozzle arrangements 162, 164 are most preferably directed toward the distal end 150d of image sensor lumen 150L therein providing for forming a cleaning nozzle arrangement 162 that is optionally and preferably directed toward image sensor 150c.

(71) Optionally tube 100 may be provided with at least two or more peripheral cleaning lumen 160 for example as shown in FIGS. 8A-B. Optionally a first cleaning lumen may be provided for flushing biological obstruction while a second cleaning lumen may be provided for suctioning biological obstructions away from the distal end 114. Optionally a plurality of cleaning lumen 160 may be disposed on opposite sides of image sensor arrangement 150.

(72) Optionally a plurality of cleaning lumen 160 may be configured to cooperate with one another, for example a first lumen would flush biological obstructions toward a second cleaning lumen where the obstruction is carried away by suctioning.

(73) Optionally at least two or more cleaning lumen 160 may be utilized concertedly to either suction or flush obstructions distal to integrated image sensors 150, therein most preferably ensuring an open viewing field. Optionally a plurality of cleaning lumen may be provided with different diameters and or sizes.

(74) FIG. 8A shows a cross sectional view of tube 100 about its proximal end 102 having tracheal lumen 110 and a bronchial lumen 120 defined on either side of a midline partition 108. Most preferably tube 100 comprises a plurality of peripheral lumen disposed internally and/or within the walls of tube 100. Most preferably a plurality of peripheral lumen may be disposed about the circumference of tube 100, within wall 100w, and span essentially the length of tube 100, about the tracheal lumen 110 and/or bronchial lumen 120. Optionally and preferably the peripheral lumen may for example include but is not limited to a suctioning lumen, cuff inflating lumen, electronic lumen, image sensor lumen, cleaning lumen, injection tube lumen, or the like.

(75) Most preferably tube 100 includes an image sensor lumen 150L provided for image sensor 150c and integrated illumination source 150I. Most preferably image sensor lumen 150L provides for housing the image sensor 150c at its distal end (FIGS. 7E-F) and housing image sensor conducts for example in the form of an image sensor conductor 154, disposed along the length of image sensor lumen 150L, and an image sensor notch 152 disposed near the proximal end of lumen 150L allowing image sensor conductor 154 and connector 158 to be disposed external to tube 100.

(76) Optionally and preferably image sensor lumen 150L is disposed about the anterior portion of tube 100 about the middle of the cross-section of tube 100. Most preferably image sensor lumen 150L is disposed anterior to partition 108. Optionally image sensor lumen 150L may be disposed about the posterior portion of tube 100 therein posterior to partition 108.

(77) Most preferably on both sides of image sensor lumen 150L are dedicated lumen running along the length of tube 100 and most preferably running parallel with image sensor lumen 150L. Optionally and preferably at least one or more of lumen are provided as a dedicated cleaning lumen 160. Optionally both lumen flanking image sensor lumen 150L may be dedicated cleaning lumen 160.

(78) Most preferably tube wall further comprises lumen 112L and 122L respectively corresponding to tracheal lumen 110 and bronchial lumen 120. Optionally and preferably lumen 112L and 122L are provided for inflating and/or deflating cuffs 112 and 122 respectively.

(79) FIG. 8B shows the same image as in FIG. 8A however showing the cross-section near tracheal lumen distal end 114 of tube 100. Most preferably at tracheal lumen distal end 114 image sensor lumen 150L is provided with a lumen having a larger radius than that provided at the proximal end 102 as shown in FIG. 8A. Most preferably tube 100 is expanded about distal end 104 and image sensor lumen 150L to accommodate image sensor arrangement 150. Optionally image sensor lumen 150 about the external surface of tube 110 is widened and/or expanded 1.5 mm to 5 mm from distal end 114 of tracheal lumen 110.

(80) FIG. 9 shows a close up cross-sectional bottom-up view of the image sensor arrangement 150 within dedicated image sensor lumen 150L disposed within the wall of the endobronchial tube 100, showing image sensor 150c optionally and preferably provided in the form of a CCD or CMOS or the like, and illumination source 150I most preferably provided in the form of at least one and more preferably at least two or more LED, as shown.

(81) Reference is now made to FIG. 10a which shows a perspective view of an exemplary endobronchial tube depicting the tube inserted into a laryngeal mask according to an optional embodiment of the present invention, and FIGS. 10b and 10c which are respectively perspective and frontal views of an exemplary image sensor connector according to an optional embodiment of the present invention.

(82) The laryngeal mask airway device or laryngoscope mask is a well-known device in the art that is useful for establishing airways in unconscious patients. U.S. Pat. No. 4,509,514 is one of the many publications that describe laryngeal mask airway devices and is a useful source of background information. The laryngeal mask typically comprises a curved or flexible tube opening at one end into the interior of a hollow mask portion shaped to conform to and to fit readily into the actual and potential space behind the larynx and to seal around the circumference of the laryngeal inlet without penetrating into the interior of the larynx. The device thus constitutes a laryngeal mask. The mask portion of the device may have an inflatable periphery which is adapted to form the seal around the laryngeal inlet. Alternatively or in addition, the mask portion may have an inflatable posterior part which is adapted to press against the back of the throat and thereby increase the sealing pressure around the laryngeal inlet. FIG. 10a depicts endobronchial tube 100 placed within laryngeal mask 180.

(83) In use the endobronchial tube 100 is commonly inserted into a laryngeal mask 180 and then both are inserted into the patient. Use of the endobronchial tube with the laryngeal mask 180 eases the insertion and positioning of both. The camera of tube 100 helps guide laryngeal mask 180 so that laryngeal mask 180 can be properly positioned against the trachea. Laryngeal mask 180 provides a guide for endobronchial tube 100 to ease the positioning thereof in the trachea. Once endobronchial tube 100 is positioned, the cuffs 112 and 122 are inflated to secure the tube before the laryngeal mask 180 is removed from the patient leaving the endobronchial tube 100 in position.

(84) Arrow 188 shows the direction of removal of the mask 180. As the laryngeal mask 180 is removed, endobronchial tube 100 passes through in the direction shown by arrows 186. Auxiliary devices such as Y-connector 12 are preferably disconnected form tube 100 so that it may pass though laryngeal mask 180 and more specifically through laryngeal mask opening 182 which represents the smallest inner diameter of laryngeal mask 180. Opening 182 typically has a diameter of 11-11.5 mm in laryngeal masks known in the art. Endobronchial tube 100 is therefore preferably sized so that it may completely pass through opening 182.

(85) All connectors associated with endobronchial tube 100, such as tracheal cuff connector 118, bronchial cuff connector 128, injection tube connector 130, and image sensor connector 158, must also pass through opening 182.

(86) As shown in FIGS. 10b and 10c image sensor connector 158 is preferably provided with rounded sides 190 (as opposed to the rectangular sides of connectors commonly known in the art) to allow it to pass through opening 182. In an exemplary embodiment, connector 158 preferably has a maximum diameter of 10.5 mm so that it can fit through opening 182. FIG. 10c shows the dimensions of such an exemplary embodiment of connector 158 where the radius defining the rounded side 190 of the connector is 5.25 mm.

(87) While the invention has been illustrated primarily with reference to a left bronchi endobronchial tube, it will be appreciated that the present invention is not limited to a left bronchi endobronchial tube where the inventive and novel aspects equally covers a right bronchi endobronchial tube.

(88) While the invention has been described with respect to a limited number of embodiments, it will be appreciated that many variations, modifications and other applications of the invention may be made.