[Design and application of an inflatable ventilator tube fixing device]

Mechanical ventilation is an essential life-support therapy for critically ill patients. During ventilation, condensate water forms as a result of heating and humidification, posing risks such as ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), increased airway resistance, and even asphyxia. Clinicians often use inflated rubber or PVC gloves to secure the front end of the ventilator circuit. However, these methods are prone to loose tubing, instability, and water accumulation due to the tubing's low positioning. To address these issues, medical staff at the intensive care unit of the Affiliated Hospital of Hangzhou Normal University designed an inflatable ventilator tube fixation device, which has been granted a National Utility Model Patent of China (patent number: ZL 2022 2 1004655.2). The device comprises a support frame, mounting base, linkage structure, placement trough frame, and supporting balloon. The mounting base at the bottom of the support frame can be attached to a bed rail or guardrail, depending on patient needs. The support frame's height is adjustable via a sleeve and insertion rod, while the upper end connects to the linkage structure, allowing multi-angle adjustment and folding through the interlocking of slots and rods. The placement trough frame, welded from curved and circular rods, features a fixed cylinder at its central concavity that connects rotationally to a ring at the end of the linkage structure. The trough frame holds the supporting balloon, which is maintained in an inflated state with a draw rope and tensioner. The ring-shaped arc block and curved groove on the balloon's surface support and elevate the ventilator circuit, stabilizing the tubing and directing condensate toward a lower drainage position. This design is practical and user-friendly, ensuring secure fixation of the ventilator circuit during use. By maintaining elevation and preventing condensate accumulation and reflux, it effectively reduces ventilation-related complications, enhances medical safety, and lessens the workload of healthcare personnel, demonstrating strong potential for clinical adoption.