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Passive Tracer Visualization to Simulate Aerodynamic Virus Transport in Noninvasive Respiratory Support Methods.
Rutger Hendrik Johan Hebbink1, Judith Elshof2,3, Steven Wanrooij1
1Engineering Fluid Dynamics, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands.
Respiration; International Review of Thoracic Diseases
|September 19, 2021
Summary
High-flow nasal therapy (NHFT) and CPAP/BiPAP significantly increase respiratory droplet dispersion, raising infection risk. Wearing a mask over NHFT can reduce this spread, emphasizing protective measures for airborne virus transmission.
Area of Science:
- Respiratory medicine
- Infectious disease control
- Fluid dynamics
Background:
- Noninvasive respiratory support is crucial for hypoxemic COVID-19 patients.
- Limited data exists on respiratory droplet dispersion with these therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess infectious disease spread potential.
- To visualize therapy-induced aerodynamics and droplet dispersion.
Main Methods:
- Simulated breathing and airflow visualization using a 3D airway model.
- Measurement of droplet dispersion for various respiratory support methods (NHFT, CPAP, BiPAP, masks).
Main Results:
- CPAP and BiPAP showed the largest droplet dispersion (up to 69 cm).
- NHFT also increased dispersion (up to 34 cm).
- Masks over NHFT reduced droplet spread.
Conclusions:
- NHFT, CPAP, and BiPAP increase droplet spread and transmission risk.
- Unfiltered therapies pose a significant risk.
- Protective measures are vital during noninvasive respiratory support for infectious diseases.
