Nonrebreathing valve system for small animal respiratory measurements

Flow resistence, frequency response, and backflow characteristics of a nonrebreathing valve system applicable to measuring small animal respiratory volumes are described. Unidirectional valves, molded from liquid resin, were fitted into a modified Y tube for direct use on an endotracheal tube or face mask. Valve size and dead space volume can be scaled to fit several small animal species. In this system, valve resistance was 2.0 and 5.6 mm of water for steady flow rates of 0.5 and 3.0 1/min, respectively.