An evaluation of 2 new devices for nasal high-flow gas therapy.
BACKGROUND
The traditional nasal cannula with bubble humidifier is limited to a maximum flow of 6 L/min to minimize the risk of complications. We conducted a bench study of 2 new Food and Drug Administration-approved nasal cannula/humidifier products designed to deliver at flows> 6 L/min.


METHODS
Using a digital psychrometer we measured the relative humidity and temperature of delivered gas from each device, at 5 L/min increments over the specified functional high-flow range.


RESULTS
The Salter Labs unit achieved 72.5-78.7% relative humidity (5-15 L/min range) at ambient temperature (21-23 degrees C). The Vapotherm device achieved 99.9% relative humidity at a temperature setting of 37 degrees C (5-40 L/min).


CONCLUSIONS
Both devices meet minimum humidification standards and offer practical new treatment options. The patient-selection criteria are primarily the severity of the patient's condition and cost.
Respiratory Therapy Program, Critical Care Sciences Department, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1705 University Blvd, RMSB 480, Birmingham AL 35294-1212, USA. waughj@gmail.com.
Jonathan B
JB
Waugh
Wesley M
WM
Granger
D019985:Benchmarking; D004867:Equipment Design; D006358:Hot Temperature / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D006813:Humidity; D009330:Nebulizers and Vaporizers; D010102:Oxygen Inhalation Therapy / Q000295:instrumentation*; D013696:Temperature