BREATHING CIRCUIT

Typical Number in Hospital:

Cost Bands:

References: 2

The breathing circuit or breathing system is that part of an anaesthetic apparatus which is downstream of the back bar. It includes reservoir and rebreathing bags, the corrugated flexible hoses, absorbers, facepiece, and some ventilator components. Pressure in the breathing circuit is always close to atmospheric pressure, except for the small pressure required for positive pressure ventilation.

There are two main types of breathing circuit:

1. Rebreathing (closed circuits), in which part or all of the expired gases are intentionally re-inspired.

2. Non-rebreathing circuits in which new gases are supplied for each breath, and any rebreathing which occurs is due to dead space in the breathing circuit.