Description

Overview

The Avanos BALLARD Closed Suction Catheter System is an in-line, closed suction solution for mechanically ventilated patients with endotracheal or tracheostomy airways across neonatal, pediatric, and adult populations. It enables routine airway suctioning without disconnecting the ventilator circuit to help maintain ventilation/oxygenation and PEEP and to limit cross-contamination. Select configurations support closed-circuit procedures such as bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and bronchoscopy via the Multi-Access Port, and medication delivery via an optional integrated MDI port—without breaking the circuit.

Key features and technologies

TURBO Cleaning and PEEP Seal

• Catheter retracts into an isolated turbulent cleansing chamber to aid debris removal.
• PEEP Seal technology helps reduce PEEP loss and drives the cleansing action.
• Hinged valve isolates the catheter tip and helps prevent inadvertent lavage.

Protective sleeve and reinsertion aids

• Protective, soft, compact sheath covers the catheter; design supports smooth reinsertion.
• Sleeve tether helps prevent over-retraction.
• Numbered catheter markings assist with controlled insertion depth.

Lavage and flushing options

• One-way lavage/flush port helps manage instillation and backflow.
• Optional WET PAK with in-line saline vial allows clearing the catheter without external instillation.

Medication delivery

• Optional integrated MDI port enables metered-dose inhaler drug delivery while maintaining a closed circuit.

Multi-Access Port for procedures

• Compact rotating manifold with multiple access ports; locks with an audible click to help confirm circuit seal.
• Catheter locks into a dedicated port and remains connected and protected.
• Single-use seal cassette helps maintain PEEP during insertion of bronchoscopes or sampling catheters.

Connectivity options

• Connector choices for closed-circuit integration include Double Swivel Elbow, Standard, T-piece, Y-connector, Directional, and Dual-lumen.

Configurations and sizing

• Patient groups: Adult and Neonatal/Pediatric.
• Airway interfaces: Endotracheal and Tracheostomy.
• Sizes: broad range approximately 5–16 Fr for neonatal through adult use.
• Typical lengths: Adult ~30.5 cm (tracheostomy) and ~54 cm (endotracheal); Neo/Ped ~30.5–40.5 cm.
• Options: Dry or WET PAK, MDI Built-In, Multi-Access Port, TURBO Cleaning.

Materials and sterility

• Sterile, single-patient use; gamma sterilized.
• Free of natural rubber latex and DEHP.
• Typical in-use duration: up to 72 hours per institutional protocol.

Compatibility and accessories

• Integrates with standard ventilator circuits; neonatal/pediatric versions include size-appropriate adapters (Y or elbow) for ventilator connection.
• Compatible with the Avanos Mini-BAL bronchial aspirate sampling catheter when using the Multi-Access Port system.

Intended benefits

• Helps maintain PEEP and ventilation during suctioning and closed-circuit procedures.
• Aims to minimize caregiver exposure to secretions and help limit cross-contamination by maintaining a sealed circuit.