PERFORMANCE OF THE PORTABLEASE AND THE FLUOXAIR * PORTABLE ANAESTHETIC EQUIPMENT: WITH REFERENCE TO USE UNDER ADVERSE CONDITIONS

Abstract

The problems of anaesthesia with portable equipment are reviewed and apparatus previously described is discussed. Two recent machines, the Fluoxair and the Portablease, were investigated to assess vapour concentration outputs and resistance to respiratory airflows. In addition, the work rates of breathing through the equipment were analysed. Tests under varying environmental conditions such as changes in atmospheric pressure and ambient temperature were made. The general handling of the equipment is described. Results of these investigations show that the calibration of the vaporisers and the respiratory resistance of both these machines are acceptable for the majority of clinical purposes. Both are suitable for anaesthesia under field service conditions and in other circumstances which prevent the use of conventional equipment.