Medical device utilizing hydrogel materials

摘要: The subject invention pertains to novel medical devices having highly advantageous physical characteristics which can reduce potential injury patients. excellent of the result, in part, from use hydrogel materials. Tubes for endotracheal be formed entirely or partially a swellable material. material swells presence water form seal within tracheal lumen. In one embodiment, device is made fully hydrogel. another includes hollow, pliable tube and sleeve attached tube. comprises tube, an inflatable cuff, located over cuff. yet acts as true 'gel-cuff'. A further aspect concerns manufacturing processes used produce materials corresponding addition, relates method delivery treatments chemicals substances patient.