Description

The Avanos BALLARD Closed Suction System with TURBO Cleaning is a closed, in-line suction catheter for mechanically ventilated patients that enables airway suctioning without disconnecting the ventilator circuit. It supports both endotracheal tube (ETT) and tracheostomy applications across ICU, surgical, and emergency care settings, with adult and neonatal/pediatric variants available.

Key technologies and design features

• TURBO-Cleaning chamber: catheter retracts into an isolated, vacuum-sealed chamber that generates turbulent flow to scrub the catheter tip between passes.
• PEEP Seal technology to help maintain PEEP and drive the turbulent cleaning action.
• One-way lavage port with a hinged valve to help prevent sprayback and inadvertent lavage while isolating the catheter tip.
• Optional integrated MDI (metered-dose inhaler) port for medication delivery without circuit disconnection.
• Multi-Access Port (MAP) variants with a compact rotating manifold for protected access to bronchoscopy and bronchoalveolar lavage while helping maintain PEEP.
• Double Swivel Elbow connector option for flexible circuit positioning with fewer connectors.
• Clear protective sleeve with numbered depth markings and a sleeve tether to help prevent over-retraction; thumb/locking suction valve for controlled suction.

Configurations and options

• Airway interfaces: Endotracheal and Tracheostomy.
• Connector styles: Double Swivel Elbow, Standard/Elbow, T‑Piece, Directional, Dual Lumen, and MAP variants.
• Sizes: common adult 12, 14, 16 Fr (approx. 4.0, 4.6, 5.3 mm OD); neonatal/pediatric sizes available.
• Typical lengths: tracheostomy ~30.5 cm; endotracheal ~54 cm.
• Options: Dry or WET PAK (WET PAK includes 12 single-use saline vials); variants with MDI Built-In available.

Materials, sterility, and use parameters

• Sterile, single-patient use; gamma sterilized.
• Latex-free and DEHP-free materials.
• Typical in-use duration: up to 72 hours (manufacturer guidance).
• Shelf life: commonly specified as 3 years.

Performance and infection control

• Closed design aims to contain secretions, help maintain ventilation/oxygenation and PEEP, and reduce caregiver exposure and cross-contamination risk.
• Manufacturer testing indicates the TURBO-Cleaning design improves cleanliness of the catheter tip between uses.

Packaging

• Common packaging: 20 units per case/box.