Description

Overview

The Avanos BALLARD Closed Suction Catheter System is a sterile, in‑line suction solution designed to remove airway secretions in mechanically ventilated patients without disconnecting the ventilator circuit. By maintaining a closed system, it helps preserve ventilation and PEEP and reduces exposure to aerosolized secretions. It is suitable for endotracheal and tracheostomy use across adult, paediatric, and neonatal populations.

Key features

• Closed, in‑line suctioning to avoid circuit disconnection
• Catheter housed within a protective sheath to limit contamination
• Thumb‑operated suction control for responsive technique
• Numbered depth markings to guide insertion and support consistent practice
• Connector options to stay attached to the ventilator circuit (e.g., Double Swivel Elbow, T‑Piece, Directional, Dual Lumen, Standard); neo/paed versions supplied with elbow or Y‑adapters
• Optional saline/irrigation port; WET PAK configurations include saline vials
• Optional integrated MDI port on select models for in‑line medication delivery

Proprietary technologies (select models)

• BALLARD Turbo‑Cleaning: catheter retracts into a vacuum‑sealed turbulent cleaning chamber with a one‑way lavage port, hinged valve, and PEEP seal features; manufacturer testing reports cleaner catheter tips versus standard closed suction systems
• Multi‑Access Port variant: compact rotating manifold offering multiple access points to help maintain a closed circuit during procedures such as BAL, bronchoscopy, or MDI delivery

Neo/Paed configuration (this listing)

• Length: 30.5 cm
• French sizes and adapter compatibility:
• 6 Fr with elbow adapters for 2.5 mm, 3.0 mm, 3.5 mm ETTs
• 7 Fr with elbow adapters for 3.0 mm, 3.5 mm, 4.0 mm ETTs
• 8 Fr with elbow adapters for 3.5 mm, 4.0 mm, 4.5 mm ETTs
• 6 Fr without adapters

Materials and sterility

• Sterile, single‑patient use; gamma sterilized
• Latex‑free and DEHP‑free materials
• Typical in‑use time up to 72 hours, per manufacturer/institutional protocol

Specifications and use

• Intended for endotracheal and tracheostomy suctioning in mechanically ventilated neonatal and paediatric patients
• Protective sheath and thumb valve support aseptic handling and controlled suction application
• Numbered catheter markings assist with depth control and documentation

Packaging and shelf life

• Supplied as a box of 20 units (case of 20)
• WET PAK configurations (where applicable) include saline vials
• Typical shelf life: approximately 3 years