New flow measurement in neonatal ventilation: the properties
Accurate flow measurement is essential for optimal ventilation of an unstable neonate, especially when using Assist/Control (SIPPV) with volume guarantee. Measuring tidal volumes (Vt) accurately with as few malfunctions as possible is of great importance. We try to prevent interruptions of ventilation as much as possible. A new method of flow measurement in neonatal ventilation has some properties that contribute to this, such as the electronic flow sensor with a thermal operating principle.
The new flow sensor
The new flow sensor works based on two temperature measurements, with a heating component in between. The heat is distributed by the flow passing through. The flow can be calculated very accurately based on the difference between the first and second temperature measurement.
The inside of the sensor has a smooth finish. There is no hot wire in the sensor on which, for example, moisture or nebulized medication can precipitate. This reduces the risk of disruption of the flow measurement. It goes without saying that the new flow sensor has no more than 0.9 ml of dead space. The sensor is available in a reusable and disposable version.
Above you see a schematic overview of the flow channel with the measuring points and the heating component (in red). The entire flow channel on the inside is smooth and finished with a silicone coating (in green). The color fan (blue, yellow, red) shows the distribution of heat by flow.
Lower sensitivity to moisture
Due to the design of the inside of the flow sensor, combined with the heating of the sensor, the flow measurement continues to work well even with condensation.
It goes without saying that the sensor cannot measure when it is actually full of moisture. However, the new electronic flow measurement involves significantly fewer malfunctions.
This also means that you have to disconnect the tubes less often to replace the sensor. There is also less PEEP loss in the child. This way we can better maintain ventilation.
Auto-calibration
An additional advantage of the digital electronic flow sensor is that it calibrates itself.
You do not have to disconnect the sensor when starting up to perform a calibration. This means there is a lower risk of disturbed flow measurement due to a deviation in the calibration. So you no longer have to calibrate. The tubes also no longer need to be disconnected.
In this way we can contribute to further optimizing the ventilation of newborns.
