Anesthesia systems

This Evaluation presents ECRI's detailed findings for three newly tested anesthesia systems and updated ratings for three previously evaluated ones. The study focuses on models intended for the full range of inpatient surgical applications. That is, we consider whether and how well the systems--three supplied by Datex-Ohmeda and three supplied by Draeger Medical--can meet the needs of patients covering a wide range of ages, sizes, and conditions. We also consider the adequacy of the systems' safety features, the comprehensiveness of their pre-use checks, and ease of use. We found that all the evaluated units generally perform well, displaying comparable accuracy and consistency of delivery when similarly equipped (e.g., with comparable ventilation modes). However, all the systems also have critical limitations associated with their pre-use check procedures. Several units also exhibit problems with the handling of important alarms under certain conditions. Our ratings will help guide healthcare facilities both when selecting a model and when determining which options to purchase. In several cases, models that are otherwise appropriate for use are rated Not Recommended for purchase if they are not equipped with certain options. And in one case, we rate a unit Unacceptable for purchase if it is not equipped with a safety feature that can help reduce the risk of surgical fires.