Importance

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Abstract

An improved eyeglass frame and nasal cannula assembly for inconspicuously administering oxygen or other gases into the nostrils of a patient having respiratory ailments. The eyeglass frame has a pair of grooves in the rear surface of its front piece and a groove in the interior surface of each of its hinged temples. The nasal cannula assembly includes a pair of cannula tubes fitted in these grooves. The nasal portion of each of the cannula tubes is adapted for insertion in one nostril of the patient's nose while the end of the free portion of each cannula tube is connectable to a portable or stationary source of oxygen or other gas to be administered to the patient. The lower end of the nasal portion is adapted for retention in the use's nostril by a gentle gripping action of the ala of the nostril and also shaped for improved functioning and comfort. The entire nasal portion of the cannula tube, including the shaped lower end, is replaceable. To improve comfort and retention of the lower end of the cannula tube in the user's nostril, the groove in the nosepiece of the eyeglass frame is shaped to redirect the lower end of the cannula tube downwardly and inwardly toward the nostril. The overall appearance of the eyeglass frame is substantially identical to that of a conventional eyeglass frame and all but a small portion of the cannula tubes are hidden from view.

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First Claim