Invasive ventilation is a mode of respiratory support that replaces spontaneous breathing in neonates and infants, with an artificial airway such as an endotracheal tube.
Delivering heated and humidified gas is widely recommended and practiced during invasive respiratory support of neonates and infants.
However, during invasive ventilation the upper airway is bypassed, along with its natural airway protection and humidification mechanisms; therefore, heating and humidifying gases while this treatment is being delivered is important.1,2
Medical gas is typically cold and dry (≤ 15°C, < 2% Relative Humidity) compared to ambient air (22 °C, 50% Relative Humidity). The delivery of cold, dry gas to the airway is associated with increased water and heat loss, inflammation in the airway epithelium, and an increased risk of airway injury. Insufficient humidification may also impair secretion clearance and increase the risk of airway blockages. These effects are amplified in preterm infants, where a few minutes of ventilation with insufficient humidification has been shown to increase airway resistance, reduce lung compliance, increase the risk of air leaks, and the need for supplemental oxygen delivery.1,2
There are several key benefits associated with humidification.3-6
Delivering heated and humidified gas during respiratory support assists with secretion mobilization and removal.
Infants need energy for growth and development therefore, assisting in thermoregulation can help conserve energy for these tasks.
Humidification is associated with clearance of retained secretions and prevention of airway drying. Adequate humidification during respiratory support may improve patient comfort and therapy tolerance.
The Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Evaqua™ 2 breathing circuits help minimize mobile condensate in the expiratory limb by allowing water vapor to diffuse through the tubing wall.
Evidence and guidance for delivering Optiflow NHF, proven respiratory support for your patients.
Providing Optimal Humidity for intubated patients
Featuring under nose NIV masks and full face NIV masks, with vented and non-vented options to suit your hospital NIV mask needs.
Establish effective spontaneous breathing or assist ventilation of the lungs
Noninvasive respiratory support that provides a continuous distending pressure
Respiratory support that replaces spontaneous breathing
Noninvasive respiratory support that delivers high flows of blended air and oxygen
Delivering warm, humidified carbon dioxide in laparoscopic and open surgery
Designed to work in harmony with the way patients naturally breathe while they sleep
F&P SleepStyle - designed to strike the balance between comfort and effective treatment
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