Novel 3-D Printable Aspiration Device "SPUTA VACUUMER" Designed to Minimize Invasion.

Goal: The purpose of this study is to develop a minimally invasive sputum aspiration device.

Methods

The current general method is to insert a suction catheter into the trachea. However, sufficient suction cannot be obtained unless the catheter reaches the target. A new connection device "SPUTA VACUUMER" has been invented. The effectiveness of the SPUTA VACUUMER is tested in this study.

Results

After manually inflating the lungs, the device applies suction pressure to the entire lungs. Peripheral sputum or foreign matter is effectively moved to the upper respiratory tract.

Conclusions

"SPUTA VACUUMER" is minimally invasive, simple and cost effective. The device can be manufactured with a 3D printer and the plastic injection molding model received pharmaceutical approval in Japan in 2021. It is currently being used in clinical settings. It can be operated by non-skilled personnel and may be performed in space and improve astronauts' quality of life.