Translational design for limited resource settings as demonstrated by Vent-Lock, a 3D-printed ventilator multiplexer

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Device Prototyping
• 3D Printing Technology

Background:

• Mechanical ventilators are critical for patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
• Shortages of ventilators have been reported, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 - SARS-CoV-2).

Purpose of the Study:

• To rapidly prototype and test components for a novel ventilator multiplexer system using 3D printing.
• To develop a system (Vent-Lock) capable of splitting one ventilator or anesthesia gas machine between two patients.

Main Methods:

• Utilized 3D printing (3DP) to create critical components for the Vent-Lock system.
• Developed a 3DP flow restrictor (FloRest) for tidal volume and PEEP control.
• Tested the ventilator splitter circuit in simulation and in vivo (swine).

Main Results:

• Demonstrated proof-of-concept for a de novo, closed, multiplexing system for ventilator sharing.
• Successfully ventilated two swine using one anesthesia gas machine with the developed system.
• The system incorporates flow restriction for potential individualized patient therapy.

Conclusions:

• Ventilator multiplexing is possible but complex, risky, and should be reserved for urgent situations.
• Highlights design and engineering considerations for rapid medical device prototyping via 3D printing in resource-limited settings.
• Provides insights for future rapid prototyping of medical devices, emphasizing engineering optimization and risk assessment.