A novel expiratory circuit for recovery of perfluorocarbon liquid during partial liquid ventilation.
OBJECTIVE
To determine whether perfluorocarbon liquid can be condensed from gases containing perfluorocarbon vapour and whether the amount recovered varies with background flow rate.


METHODS
Bench-top experimental study in a neonatal laboratory.


METHODS
The expiratory limb of a standard ventilator circuit set-up was mimicked, with the addition of a chilled water jacket (Liebig) condenser. Perfluorocarbon vapour was passed through the circuit at a number of flow rates.


RESULTS
Perfluorocarbon vapour was passed through the circuit and the percentage recovery of liquid measured. More than 60% of the perfluorocarbon vapour was recovered at all flow rates (1, 2, 5 and 10 l/min), with significantly higher recovery obtained (up to 74%) at low flow rates (1 l/min).


CONCLUSIONS
Using a simple condenser, more than 60% of perfluorocarbon liquid can be recovered without altering the function of an expiratory limb of a ventilator circuit.
Dunster
Kimble Robert
KR
Grantley Stable Neonatal Unit, Department of Neonatology, Royal Women's Hospital, 4029 Herston, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
Davies
Mark William
MW
D003247:Conservation of Natural Resources / Q000379:methods*; D003363:Cost Control; D005466:Fluorocarbons / Q000737:chemistry*; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007363:Intensive Care Units, Neonatal; D021061:Liquid Ventilation / Q000191:economics / Q000295:instrumentation*
D005466:Fluorocarbons