Tracheostomy tube with novel retaining means

Claim 1

A tube device for introduction into the trachea to form an artificial airway through a patient''s throat, said device comprIsing, in combination: a. a hollow tube having open ends and a bend intermediate of said ends to form portions lying along first and second linear, intersecting axes, said tube being constructed and arranged for insertion of one end thereof through a tracheal stoma and into the tracheal lumen with said first axis disposed generally coaxial with the tracheal lumen and said second axis extending through the stoma; b. impermeable means attached to the portion of said tube lying along said first axis and inflatable from a retracted to an extended position to effect a seal between, said tube and lumen; c. inflatable retaining means attached to the portion of said tube lying along said second axis closely adjacent said bend, and movable with respect thereto between retracted and extended positions, said tube and retaining means having a combined dimension laterally of said second axis when retracted allowing insertion of said tube and retaining means through the stoma, and a combined dimension laterally of said second axis when extended preventing withdrawal of said tube through the stoma; d. means for selectively inflating said impermeable means and said retaining means between said retracted and extended positions while inside the patient''s trachea; and e. a shield substantially wider than the diameter of said tube, and adjustably positionable along the length of the portion of said tube lying along said second axis outside the stoma, whereby the tissue may be engaged between said retaining means and said shield to fix the position of said tube.