Description

The BALLARD Closed Suction System by Avanos is an advanced medical device engineered to enhance the safety and efficacy of suctioning for ventilated patients. This system is meticulously designed to maintain a closed ventilator circuit, thereby minimizing the risk of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) and other ventilator-associated events (VAE) while ensuring continuous ventilation and oxygen therapy.

Key Features

• Turbo-Cleaning Technology: The catheter retracts into a vacuum-sealed turbulent cleaning chamber, significantly reducing catheter tip contamination compared to standard systems.
• One-Way Lavage Port: Prevents sprayback during saline lavage, enhancing safety and hygiene.
• Hinged Valve and PEEP Seal: Maintains circuit integrity by isolating the catheter tip, reducing PEEP loss and preventing inadvertent lavage.
• Integrated MDI Port (Optional): Facilitates medication delivery without disrupting the closed circuit.

Multi-Access Port System

The compact rotating manifold with multiple ports allows for seamless airway access, enabling procedures such as bronchoalveolar lavage and bronchoscopy without disconnecting the circuit. The catheter lock and single-use seal cassette ensure the catheter remains clean and connected, while maintaining PEEP during device insertion.

Additional Features

• Sleeve Tether: Prevents over-retraction of the catheter.
• Thumb Valve (Activator): Provides controlled suctioning.
• Depth Markings: Centimeter markings on the catheter assist in determining the correct suction depth.
• Saline Port: Allows for effective cleaning of the catheter.
• MR Conditional: Safe for use in MRI environments.
• Latex-Free, Sterile, Single-Use: Designed for single-patient use with replacement catheters available.

Pediatric and Neonatal Configurations

Specialized configurations include a low durometer catheter with a rounded atraumatic tip to minimize tracheal trauma. Available in various sizes and lengths, these configurations come with adapter options and WET PAK configurations, which include saline bullets for cleaning. Each catheter is reusable for up to 24 hours.

Materials and Construction

Constructed from smooth, flexible, latex-free materials such as low durometer PVC, the system ensures gentle suctioning and reduces tissue trauma. It is suitable for use in both hospital and home care settings, providing protection against contamination and exposure to body fluids.

Operation and Maintenance

The catheter remains attached to the tracheostomy or endotracheal tube, with changes recommended according to clinical guidelines. Suctioning is controlled via the thumb valve, and the catheter is cleaned by flushing saline through the irrigation port. Recommended suction pressures vary by patient age, and specific guidelines are provided to ensure safe operation.

Infection Control

The BALLARD Closed Suction System is designed to minimize exposure to pathogens, significantly reducing infection risks for patients and caregivers. Its innovative design has been proven to lower catheter tip colonization compared to standard closed suction systems, making it a vital tool in healthcare settings.