Description

The Avanos Medical BALLARD closed suction catheter system is an in-line device for airway suctioning in mechanically ventilated patients, available for adult and neonatal/pediatric use with endotracheal or tracheostomy tubes. It enables secretion removal without disconnecting the ventilator circuit, helping maintain ventilation, oxygenation, and PEEP. The closed design is intended to contain secretions and reduce caregiver exposure while supporting VAE/VAP prevention strategies.

Key technologies and design

• BALLARD Turbo-Cleaning chamber: The catheter retracts into a vacuum-sealed, turbulent cleaning chamber between uses to remove debris from the tip; manufacturer testing reports approximately 89% cleaner catheter tips versus a standard closed suction system.
• PEEP Seal architecture: A hinged valve and one-way lavage port help reduce PEEP loss, isolate the catheter tip when not in use, and limit sprayback or inadvertent lavage.
• Optional integrated MDI port (MDI Built-In): Enables metered-dose inhaler medication delivery without opening the circuit.
• Connector/interface options: Double Swivel Elbow for flexible movement; additional styles include Standard, T-Piece, Directional, Dual Lumen, and the Multi-Access Port.
• Safety and handling aids: Sleeve tether helps prevent over-retraction; numbered catheter markings support depth control.

Multi-Access Port variant

• Compact rotating manifold with multiple sealed access points for suctioning, bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), bronchoscopy, and MDI drug delivery without circuit disconnection.
• Ports lock with an audible/tactile click; the catheter docks and locks in a separate port when not in use.
• Single-use seal cassette is designed to help maintain PEEP during insertion of sampling catheters or other accessories.

Sizes and configurations

• Sizes: Adult 12, 14, 16 Fr; Neonatal/Pediatric approximately 5–12 Fr.
• Typical lengths: ~30.5 cm (tracheostomy) and ~54 cm (endotracheal).
• Interfaces: Endotracheal or tracheostomy; Neo/Ped versions include size-appropriate Y-adapters.
• Kits: Dry kits and WET PAK kits (WET PAK includes saline for irrigation).
• Intended in-use duration: up to 72 hours.

Materials and sterility

• Sterile, single-patient use, gamma sterilized.
• Free of natural rubber latex and DEHP.

Supported procedures and compatibility

• Routine airway suctioning with closed in-line operation designed to help maintain PEEP and oxygenation.
• BAL and bronchoscopy via the Multi-Access Port.
• MDI drug delivery with MDI Built-In options.
• Integrates with standard ventilator circuits; the Multi-Access Port is compatible with the Avanos Mini-BAL Sampling Catheter for lower respiratory tract sampling without opening the circuit.

Infection control intent

The closed, in-line design is intended to contain secretions and limit cross-contamination. The Turbo-Cleaning feature has been associated with reduced catheter tip contamination in manufacturer-reported testing, supporting strategies to reduce exposure and maintain circuit integrity.