Description

Overview

The Avanos BALLARD Closed Suction Catheter System with Double Swivel Elbow is an in‑line, closed suction solution for mechanically ventilated patients with endotracheal or tracheostomy tubes. It enables suctioning without disconnecting the ventilator, helping maintain ventilation and PEEP while limiting circuit breaks and potential cross‑contamination. The Double Swivel Elbow interface provides dual swivels for smoother circuit movement with fewer connectors, supporting caregiver ergonomics and patient comfort.

Key features

• Closed in‑line design allows suctioning while maintaining ventilation and PEEP.
• Double Swivel Elbow connector offers flexible positioning and reduced tubing torque.
• Optional TURBO‑Cleaning design retracts the catheter into a vacuum‑sealed turbulent cleaning chamber; manufacturer reports approximately 89% cleaner catheter tip versus standard closed suction.
• Select models include a PEEP Seal and a one‑way lavage port for controlled instillation.
• MDI Built‑In variants enable medication delivery without opening the circuit.
• Numbered catheter with depth markings for placement awareness.
• Clear protective sleeve with tactile feel for controlled advancement; sleeve tether helps prevent over‑retraction.
• Control options include a thumb valve or a locking thumb port to suit clinician preference.

Configurations and options

• Airway types: Endotracheal (ET) and Tracheostomy (TRACH).
• Sizes: 12, 14, and 16 Fr (approximate outer diameters 4.0 mm, 4.6 mm, 5.3 mm); typical ISO color coding—12 Fr white, 14 Fr green, 16 Fr orange.
• Lengths: ET ~54 cm; TRACH ~30.5 cm (typical model values).
• Fluid options: Dry or WET PAK; WET PAK variants commonly include saline vials (e.g., 12 × 15 mL).
• Select ET and TRACH variants available with TURBO‑Cleaning, PEEP Seal, Multi‑Access Port, and MDI Built‑In.
• Scope note: This description covers the Double Swivel Elbow configuration; the broader BALLARD range also includes T‑Piece, Directional, and Dual Lumen connectors.

Materials and sterility

• Sterile, single‑patient use; gamma sterilized.
• Free of natural rubber latex and DEHP; catheter material includes PVC.
• Validated in‑use duration up to 72 hours (per manufacturer/model); typical shelf life 3 years (per manufacturer).
• Packaging: Box of 20 units.

Important considerations

• Feature availability (e.g., TURBO‑Cleaning, PEEP Seal, MDI Built‑In, WET PAK) varies by SKU within the Double Swivel Elbow range; verify the selected variant to match clinical protocols and equipment interfaces.