Portable ventilators

Mechanical ventilators used in intensive care units are sophisticated devices. The guiding principle in their design is the provision of optimal lung ventilation. They incorporate precise but sizeable pneumatic components intended to utilize piped gases and mains electricity. However, when transporting patients receiving ventilatory support, these devices are rarely suitable because of their size, weight, requirement of external power, and rate of gas consumption. Portable ventilators are compact devices designed to provide mechanical ventilation in settings where piped gases and mains electricity are unavailable. Modern engineering has afforded these devices a level of sophistication approaching that of a conventional intensive care ventilator. Ideally, a portable ventilator, including oxygen and battery supplies, should be lightweight, robust, and able to function in demanding environments with little maintenance. It must use available gas or electrical supplies sparingly. It should be inexpensive, simple to operate, and provide a range of effective ventilatory modes.