BAG SQUEEZER

Typical Number in Hospital:

Cost Bands:

References: 2

This describes a type of automatic intermittent positive pressure ventilator which can be used in conjunction with a closed anaesthetic circuit. It relieves the anaesthetist of having to squeeze the breathing bag and provides more regular ventilation with controllable tidal volume and pressure, as well as the possibility of a negative pressure phase to draw air out of the lungs. The bag may be squeezed by a motor and levers, by a spring, or by adjustable weights. When driven by a motor (e.g. East Radcliffe ventilator) the ratio of the inspiratory and expiratory times may not be varied; however, where the bag is squeezed pneumatically by the 'bag in a bottle' principle (e.g. Blease pulmoflator) a whole range of timing options become available. If the bag is squeezed by a motor it is likely to be a constant volume generator. If, however, it is squeezed by a weight the result will be constant pressure with the volume limited by time or flow rate.