Importance

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Abstract

A speculum for forming an ostomy in a trachea. The speculum includes a pair of opposing, pivotally interconnected elongated members and respective distal nose portions extending distally from the elongated members. The elongated members have respective proximal handle portions of which the distal nose portions extend laterally therefrom. One of the nose portions includes a tubular member with a flexible distal end that has a preformed curve and extends distally beyond the other nose portion. A cannula is inserted entirely through the passageway of the tubular member to extend distally therefrom and straighten the preformed curve of the tubular member for insertion into the trachea. The cannula and tubular member are inserted into the trachea to form an opening to the air passageway of the trachea. Proper placement is detected with formation of air bubbles in the chamber of a syringe connected to the proximal end of the cannula. The cannula is removed from the tubular member allowing the tubular member to assume the preformed curve for preventing injury to the posterior wall of the trachea. The distal nose portions of the speculum are then inserted through the opening into the air passageway of the trachea. The distal nose portions are spread apart in both a longitudinal and a lateral direction to dilate the opening and permit insertion of an ostomy tube into the trachea. With the ostomy tube positioned in the trachea, the speculum is removed from the opening.

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First Claim