Anaesthesia and intensive care
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Anaesth Intensive Care · Apr 2007
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative StudyPerformance comparison of two anaesthetic facemasks.
When considering anaesthetic masks, the quality of the mask-face seal is a key determinant of performance. This randomised crossover trial utilises expired oxygen concentration to compare the efficacy of two routinely used facemasks. Thirty subjects were randomised to breathe 100% oxygen via either a traditional reusable black rubber mask or the disposable Intersurgical Scented mask for three minutes. ⋯ From the oxygen wash-in curves, the Intersurgical mask consistently outperformed the black rubber mask. At three minutes the Intersurgical mask performed better than the black rubber mask, with mean end-tidal oxygen concentrations of 86.9% vs. 81% respectively; P=0.008. These findings indicate that the soft cuff design of the intersurgical mask provided a better seal than the black rubber facemask.
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Anaesth Intensive Care · Apr 2007
ReviewUpdate in computer-driven weaning from mechanical ventilation.
Weaning from mechanical ventilation is a complex process requiring assessment and interpretation of both objective and subjective clinical parameters. For many years, automated computerised systems for various medical processes, including respiratory management, have been proposed to optimise decision-making and reduce variation amongst clinicians. SmartCare/PS, available since 2003 as a software application for the EvitaXL ventilator (Dräger Medical AG & Co. ⋯ Of potential clinical note, a recent study suggested that use of SmartCare/PS might be associated with useful reductions in the duration of weaning compared to existing clinical practice using weaning protocols. One recently published randomised trial supports this conclusion. However, given the known large variation in international critical care ventilatory practices further randomised trials are desirable.