title: Complete bacterial filter blockage by a plastic film.
abstract: We describe a case where the expiratory bacterial filter was completely blocked by a plastic membrane. Significantly increased airway pressures and inability to deliver adequate tidal volume to the patient were experienced. The cause of machine failure could not be identified until a complete preanesthesia machine manual check was performed. All machines and circuits should be checked manually, even with the availability of new and advanced self-tests in machines. Backup ventilation equipments and familiarity with signs of expiratory and inspiratory limb obstruction should not be underestimated.
authors.affiliation: Department of Anesthesia, Jewish Hospital and St. Mary's Healthcare, Louisville, KY, USA.
authors.forename: Jiapeng
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Huang
authors.forename: Kishin
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Dodwani
authors.forename: Paul
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Simon
authors.forename: Jing
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Zhou