The Oxyvent. An anaesthetic machine designed to be used in developing countries and difficult situations

Area of Science:

• Medical Devices
• Anesthesiology
• Critical Care Engineering

Background:

• Developing nations and austere environments often lack reliable anesthetic equipment.
• Existing anesthetic machines may require stable electricity and oxygen supplies, limiting their use.
• There is a need for robust, versatile, and easily serviceable medical devices for challenging settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and describe the Oxyvent, an anesthetic machine designed for resource-limited and difficult situations.
• To highlight the integrated components and their individual value in challenging environments.
• To showcase the versatility of the Oxyvent for both anesthesia and ventilation.

Main Methods:

• The Oxyvent integrates four key components: a drawover system, Penlon Manley Multivent Ventilator, DeVilbiss Oxygen Concentrator, and an air compressor.
• These components are mounted on a trolley with two oxygen cylinders.
• The design emphasizes simplicity, robustness, and ease of service.

Main Results:

• The Oxyvent can provide anesthesia and ventilation independently of electricity or oxygen supply.
• It has proven valuable in difficult situations due to its robust and serviceable nature.
• The machine demonstrates versatility, functioning as both an anesthetic machine and an intensive care unit ventilator.

Conclusions:

• The Oxyvent is a valuable tool for anesthesia and critical care in resource-limited settings.
• Its integrated design and independent operation enhance its utility in challenging environments.
• The device offers a simple, robust, and versatile solution for anesthetic and ventilatory support.