Limerick, Pa.-based Teleflex Inc., a critical care and surgical device company, has received U.S. Food and Drug Administration clearance for its Rusch EZ Blocker Disposable Endobronchial Blocker. The device has been added to Teleflex’s airway management portfolio, which includes clinically differentiated Rusch and Sheridan brands of endotracheal and endobronchial products.

The bifurcated distal end of the EZ-Blocker Endobronchial Blocker resembles the bifurcation of the trachea and is designed to allow for safer and easier lung isolation and one lung ventilation, a critical procedure performed by anesthesiologists during thoracic procedures including video-assisted thoracic surgery. The EZ-Blocker’s bifurcated distal end and dual bronchial cuffs are designed to enable easy, quick placement with minimal risk of dislocation during surgery, according to the company.

The blocker has a small diameter, which reportedly allows it to be used in combination with a single lumen endotracheal tube to isolate the lungs. When prolonged ventilation is needed following a thoracic procedure, the endotracheal tube used with the device can remain in place without the need to disturb the patient’s airway.

“We believe the EZ-Blocker Endobronchial Blocker is the most innovative bronchial blocker available and has the potential to improve patient outcomes during difficult procedures,” said Cary Vance, president of the Teleflex anesthesia and respiratory division. “The availability of this product in the U.S. market will allow Teleflex to further its partnership with clinicians in improving patient safety and enhancing procedural efficiency,”