Anesthesia Machines Gas Management

Yesterday, we posted the first of our three part series on full-size upright anesthesia machines in which we discussed the importance of considering size and mobility when shopping for anesthesia machines.  Today, in the second part of this series, we take a look at the merit of various technologies in gas management.

Gas Management Of course, finding a unit that is the right size for your facility is important, but we also recognize that you’re not buying a unit just to fill space. As anyone in the market for an anesthesia machine knows, anesthesia is an exact science that relies upon the utmost precision. If administered properly, anesthesia can save lives; if mismanaged, it can be fatal. Consequently, when shopping for an anesthesia machine, it is important to choose a unit with the latest technology in gas management and administration. First and foremost among these features are those pertinent to protecting a patient from an influx in chemical concentration. For instance, the Integra SP I and Integra SP II are both equipped with a Mechanical Anti-Hypoxic Device (MAHD). Designed to prevent the delivery of a hypoxic mixture to a patient, the MAHD regulates the concentration of gases administered to ensure sufficient oxygen flow. This technology greatly deters the likelihood of harm via human error by eliminating the possibility of the administration of an oversaturated concentration. So if the oxygen level is increased or decreased, the chemical level is altered accordingly.

Just as important as a MAHD is an Air/N2O interlock. This technology ensures that if the oxygen supply pressure drops, the amount of chemicals being administered is corrected to maintain the proper chemical concentration level. Much like a MAHD, this technology is designed to protect the patient from dangerous level of chemical delivery, but while the MAHD safeguards against personnel administering inaccurate dosages, the Air/N2O interlock prevents an internal failure. The integrated Air/N2O interlock built into the Integra SP I and SP II works in cooperation with a diaphragm pressure regulator to reduce the pressure of the compressed gas supply and a pressure relief valve. The system is factory set to prevent any pressure build up under the diaphragm in case of leakage. Regardless of whatever technology is built into the system, it is always important for a unit to display pressure gauges for oxygen, N2O and air in an accurate, easy to read format. For more detailed information of oxygen levels both in the system and the patient, one may consider purchasing an optional oxygen monitor.

Patient safety is certainly the top priority to be considered in gas management features, but a close second is operating costs. The greatest costs affiliated with gas management are the use of medical grade gases; it is for that reason that units like the Integra SP I and SP II are designed with low flow oxygen systems. Available on only a handful of units, the low flow oxygen system allows a machine to operate for a longer duration on a smaller supply of oxygen. Much like today’s hybrid cars which achieve higher mile per gallon ratios, low flow oxygen management mitigates what can, for small and large facilities alike, be a substantial expense.