Anaesthesia breathing circuits

Abstract

Traditional breathing systems used for anaesthesia purposes perform well if they are cared for properly and the user understands the principles that underlie their function. The circuit selected will depend on the task to be performed and the professional environment. Much valuable information omitted in this review is available in specialized books dealing with anaesthesia equipment and should be easily accessible in any department of anaesthesia. Continuing changes include the adoption of materials that absorb inhalational agents less than does conductive rubber and design changes to combine as many desirable qualities as possible in one breathing system. Whether greater safety lies in having available two or three separate near perfect systems for different clinical situations or in developing a single circuit that will function in different modes according to a selector setting remains to be seen. However, a sound knowledge of the potential problems in breathing circuits is essential for the safe practice of anaesthesia and can effectively be derived from the Canadian Standards Association publication Standard Z 188.9, Breathing Systems for Use in Anaesthesia. © 1986 Canadian Anesthesiologists.