Guedel Airway

How the Guedel Airway works and the role of the epiglottis in the breathing process
The Guedel Airway, also known as the oropharyngeal airway, is a medical device designed to solve the problem of airway obstruction. It is mainly made of soft and flexible materials (such as silicone or plastic), and the shape design conforms to the natural anatomical structure of the human mouth and pharynx. Its working principle is mainly based on the following key points:
Tongue positioning and fixation: When a person loses consciousness, the jaw muscles relax and the tongue may move back and cover the epiglottis, thereby blocking the airway. The design of the Guedel Airway cleverly utilizes a curved channel that can be inserted into the patient's mouth and push the tongue forward to prevent it from blocking the airway. This design ensures that the airway can remain open even when the patient loses consciousness.
Epiglottis protection: The epiglottis is a cartilaginous structure located behind the root of the tongue. It automatically closes when swallowing to prevent food from entering the airway. However, in the case of unconsciousness, the epiglottis may be covered by the movement of the tongue, causing airway obstruction. Guedel Airway can effectively prevent this from happening through its specific design, thereby protecting the function of the epiglottis.
Ventilation support: In addition to preventing airway obstruction, the Guedel Airway can also be used as a tool for ventilation support. In emergency situations, it can help doctors or emergency personnel provide patients with the necessary oxygen supply, especially when more advanced airway management tools (such as laryngeal mask or endotracheal tube) are not available.
The role of the epiglottis in the respiratory process
The epiglottis is an important structure in the throat, and it plays a vital role in the breathing and swallowing process. Here are a few main functions of the epiglottis in the respiratory process:
Airway protection: The main function of the epiglottis is to act as a barrier between the airway and the esophagus. Under normal circumstances, the epiglottis is in an open state, allowing air to enter the airway smoothly. However, when swallowing, the epiglottis will quickly close to prevent food or liquid from entering the airway, thereby protecting the lungs from damage.
Breathing regulation: The flexible movement of the epiglottis helps regulate the breathing process. When deep breathing is required, the epiglottis will remain open to allow more air to enter the lungs. When it is necessary to reduce the amount of breathing or take shallow breaths, small adjustments of the epiglottis can also help achieve this goal.
Sound production: The epiglottis is also closely related to the production of sound. During the phonation process, the epiglottis vibrates and interacts with the vocal cords to produce sound. Therefore, the health of the epiglottis is crucial to the clarity and quality of the sound.
Preventing aspiration: In special circumstances, such as vomiting or coughing, the epiglottis will quickly close to prevent vomitus or sputum from entering the airway. This protective mechanism is essential to prevent serious complications such as aspiration pneumonia.
Ningbo Yuxin Medical Instruments Co., Ltd., as a high-tech enterprise specializing in the production of anesthesia respiratory consumables and gynecological products, one of its main products is oropharyngeal airway. The company has advanced production equipment and professional testing laboratories to ensure the quality and safety of its products.
In the production process of Guedel Airway, the company pays attention to the selection of materials and the optimization of processes. The silicone or plastic materials used have good flexibility and durability, which can meet the needs of different patients. The company also pays attention to product innovation and improvement, and continuously launches new products that are more in line with clinical needs.