[abstract] 100 CONSECUTIVE PATIENTS TREATED WITH THE SECHRIST MODEL 500A HYPERBARIC VENTILATOR.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: There has been some controversy regarding the suitability and performance of the Sechrist Model 500A Hyperbaric Ventilator. This prompted us to review our experience with this equipment, used in support of hospital-based monoplace hyperbaric delivery systems. METHODS AND MATERIALS: We retrospectively reviewed all patients who had been ventilator dependent during all or part of their hyperbaric treatment course. A total of 100 were identified. The total number of hyperbaric treatments delivered was 712, of which 502 required full ventilator support. Patients ranged in age from 2 to 86 years old, and 56 were male. A review of each patient's medical record, and the respective hyperbaric equipment/maintenance log was undertaken. RESULTS: Ventilator-related complications were as follows: 5 inadvertent patient circuit disconnects, and 1 case of spirometer failure, all requiring a brief urgent return to 1.0 ATA. Each problem was quickly resolved, the patient returned to pressure, and their subsequent treatment course continued uneventfully. There were no direct equipment failures that rendered the ventilator inoperable. The patients were classified in terms of clinical outcome, as follows: Excellent/Cured 48; Improved (at time of D/C, with full resolution anticipated) 23; 6 did not appear to benefit, and 4 did not complete their prescribed hyperbaric course. Twenty patients expired during their hospitalization as a result of the primary diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS: The Sechrist Model 500A Hyperbaric Ventilator is reliable, effective, and user-friendly. Its shortcomings are few, and result, in part, from the environment in which it operates, particularly in terms of electronic alarm capabilities. Appropriate formal training, frequent practice, careful attention to operating parameters and the patient's status, are essential to ensure its safe and effective application.