Fenestrated nasopharyngeal airway for drainage

Abstract

A fenestrated nasopharyngeal airway providing fluid flow and pressure release from sinus ostia and the like. A fenestrated nasopharyngeal airway has lateral fenestrations along the central third of the nasopharyngeal tube. The fenestrations are generally two to three inches long and may be divided by separators into three sections to preserve stiffness and to hold open the fenestrations. Fluids produced by adjacent sinus ostia and the like may migrate into the lumen of the nasopharyngeal tube through the lateral fenestrations. Fluid collection is avoided, and fluid pressure arising from such fluid accumulation is relieved. Such fluids generally travel to the open distal end of the nasopharyngeal airway where it may be collected or otherwise disposed of by the body or health-care attendants. Additionally, probes and other diagnostic instruments may pass through the nasopharyngeal airway which protects the adjoining nasal mucosa. As fluid migration is allowed by the present invention, the fenestrated nasopharyngeal airway may be used on a long-term basis without threatening the patient's health.