Inventors:
Gregory T. Absten - Grove City OH
Assignee:
Omnivision, Inc. - Columbus OH
International Classification:
A61M 1300
Abstract:
The present invention consists of an apparatus for supplying insufflation gas at high flow rates during laparoscopic surgery including some or all of the following features: at least two gas delivery tubes; a pressure-sensing transducer independent of the gas flow in any gas delivery tube, said pressure sensor being connected to the gas delivery system to decrease gas flow automatically if over pressurization occurs and to increase flow rates if under pressurization occurs; an automatic valve to switch at least one of said gas delivery tubes to a suction tube if serious over pressurization is sensed; manual controls for suction and flow rates to allow the operator manually to flush rapidly with insufflation gas upon direction of the surgeon; gas quality control devices including filtration means, humidification means, temperature controlling means, and means for adding medication or other chemicals to the insufflation gas stream, typically with a nebulizer.