Rabbit v-gel veterinary airway management device
The Rabbit V-Gel, designed for Docsinnovent, is a supra-glottic apparatus for the administration of anaesthetic gases to rabbits. We designed six different size devices to anatomically fit each size of animal. It represents a quantum leap in veterinary technology as it ensures trauma-free operation and a superior air seal compared to traditional endotracheal intubation. The V-Gel is helping many veterinary practitioners considerably reduce anaesthesia-related mortality through ease of use, better air flow and reduction of trauma. The V-Gel can be sterilised and reused for up to 40 autoclave cycles.
The veterinary airway management devices were initially developed in 3D CAD and from this, prototypes were produced in elastomer via a vacuum casting process.
The design of the devices was further developed by prototyping devices and evaluating the designs using animal cadavers for anatomical correctness. Scanning technology was also undertaken to help with the development process and the 3D scans imported into the 3D CAD system. Refinements were made until the final definition was achieved.
Sterile packaging
We developed the packaging, including the moulded tray that houses the device. The instruction manual was also designed to complete the pack. The tooling was undertaken by a Chinese manufacturer, whom we liaised closely with to ensure the quality of the design was delivered. The device has been in production since 2013.
