Internally Anchored, Tape-Free Nasal Tube

Abstract

Conventional nasogastric tubes are typically secured to the nasal area using adhesive tape. This method increases the cost associated with adhesive materials and may cause skin tears or injuries when the tape is removed. A nasogastric tube with at least one elastic arm attached to the tube cap or the tube body is provided, enabling the nasogastric tube to be internally anchored within the nostril. During use, the elastic arms attached to the tube cap or tube body are first pressed inward. After being compressed and deformed, the elastic arms are inserted into the nostril. Once inside the nostril, the elastic arms rebound and expand. After expansion, the overall outer diameter of the nasogastric tube defined by the elastic arms is greater than the maximum diameter of the nostril, thereby preventing the tube from slipping out of the nostril and securely fixing the nasogastric tube in place.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.