[A comparison of different respiratory gas-humidifier systems for the respiratory therapy of premature infants in incubators].
OBJECTIVE
7 humidifier systems for neonatology were subjected to a performance test in our laboratory.


METHODS
In 18 measurement combinations, flow (2,6,16 l/minute), respiratory gas temperature (34 and 37 degrees C) and incubator temperature (33, 35, 37 degrees C) were varied.


RESULTS
In only 70.6% of 126 measurements the minimum international standard for the absolute humidity in the respiratory gas (30 mg H2O/l air) was achieved or exceeded. In 3 systems this level was not reached in 9 resp. 10 of 18 measurements. Only 1 device that functions according to the "membrane humidification" principle fulfills the requirements with regard to constant high air humidity. In 36 of 126 ( = 28.6%) measurement combinations the respiratory gas temperature near the endotracheal tube varied > 1 degrees C from the system temperature setpoint.


CONCLUSIONS
No controlled clinical tests regarding the importance and long term effects of different levels in the inspiratory air are so far available for the ventilatory treatment of neonates.
Hanssler
L
L
Zentrum für Kinderheilkunde am Universitätsklinikum Essen.
Tennhoff
W
W
Roll
C
C
D006801:Humans; D006813:Humidity; D007186:Incubators, Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007234:Infant, Premature; D007363:Intensive Care Units, Neonatal; D012138:Respiratory Therapy; D013696:Temperature; D012122:Ventilators, Mechanical / Q000592:standards*
Vergleich verschiedener Atemgas-Anfeuchtersysteme für die Respiratortherapie Frühgeborener im Inkubator.