Breathing Systems

Breathing systemsBreathing systems were originally developed in 1907 to deliver nitrous oxide for anesthesia. An ideal breathing system would reliably deliver a set concentration of oxygen, effectively remove carbon dioxide, have low resistance to breathing with minimal dead space, be portable, have efficient use of gases, and conserve heat and humidity. Mapleson systems achieve most of the objectives with the exception of conservation of gases, heat, and humidity. Circle systemsCircle systems are significantly more complex, but by allowing rebreathing of exhaled gases, it leads to the conservation of gases, heat, and humidity. This increase in complexity requires frequent maintenance and limits the portability of the system. The rebreathing of the gases also increases the production of potentially harmful substances including compound A and carbon monoxide.