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Review
. 2013 Sep;57(5):446-54.
doi: 10.4103/0019-5049.120139.

The modern integrated anaesthesia workstation

Vijaya P Patil  1 , Madhavi G Shetmahajan, Jigeeshu V Divatia
Affiliations
Review

The modern integrated anaesthesia workstation

Vijaya P Patil et al. Indian J Anaesth. 2013 Sep.

Abstract

Over the years, the conventional anaesthesia machine has evolved into an advanced carestation. The new machines use advanced electronics, software and technology to offer extensive capabilities for ventilation, monitoring, inhaled agent delivery, low-flow anaesthesia and closed-loop anaesthesia. They offer integrated monitoring and recording facilities and seamless integration with anaesthesia information systems. It is possible to deliver tidal volumes accurately and eliminate several hazards associated with the low pressure system and oxygen flush. Appropriate use can result in enhanced safety and ergonomy of anaesthetic delivery and monitoring. However, these workstations have brought in a new set of limitations and potential drawbacks. There are differences in technology and operational principles amongst the new workstations. Understand the principles of operation of these workstations and have a thorough knowledge of the operating manual of the individual machines.

Keywords: Gas delivery; monitoring; ventilation; workstation.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of Interest: None declared

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Examples of modern anaesthesia workstations. (a) The GE Healthcare Aisys® Workstation (with permission from GE Healthcare). (b) The Draeger Primus® Workstation (with permission from Draeger Medical India Pvt. Ltd.)
Figure 2
Figure 2
A piston ventilator in a modern anaesthesia workstation
Figure 3
Figure 3
A descending bellows anaesthesia ventilator
Figure 4
Figure 4
Line diagram showing the principle of the ascending bellows ventilator. (a) Inspiration: The reservoir bag and the adjustable pressure limiting valve are completely isolated when the ventilator is activated. The spill off valve in the ventilator circuit then acts as the relief valve for excess gases. The spill off valve in the ascending bellows system shuts during the inspiratory phase. (b) Expiration: Bellows ascend during the expiratory phase, acting as a reservoir for gases
Figure 5
Figure 5
(a) Decoupling of fresh gas flow (FGF). The decoupling valve (DV) closes during the inspiratory phase of mechanical ventilation, diverting the FGF to the reservoir bag, and preventing further addition of FGF to the inspired gas mixture (b) During expiration, the DV opens, allowing fresh gases that had been diverted to the reservoir bag to be added to the ventilator circuit for delivery in the next inspiration
Figure 6
Figure 6
Screen layout of the Draeger Primus ® Workstation. See text for details (with permission from Draeger Medical India Pvt. Ltd)
See this image and copyright information in PMC

References

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