The OxyArm - a new minimal contact oxygen delivery system for mouth or nose breathing.

PURPOSE: To describe the development and performance of a new minimal contact oxygen (O(2)) delivery system for both nasal and oral breathing, with capnographic capabilities.

METHODS

The development and design challenges of the OxyArm (OA) prototype are described. The innovative design utilizes a headset with a semi-rigid boom and an O(2) diffuser. The OA was compared to the Venturi mask in eight healthy adults after informed consent. Inspired O(2) fractions were measured in the hypopharynx using continuous gas sampling at low to high O(2) flow rates. Mean data were compared using two-tailed paired t tests with significance set at 0.05.

RESULTS

The measured inspired O(2) concentration was higher in the OA at 2 (26.3 +/- 2.5 vs 23.3 +/- 0.5, P <0.01) and 6 L x min(-1) (33.5 +/- 3.3 vs 28.8 +/- 1.2, P <0.01) flow rates. At 12 L x min(-1), the O(2) concentration was less in the OA (39.2 +/- 6.3 vs 46.0 +/- 2.7, P <0.02). All subjects found both systems comfortable for the short duration of the study.

CONCLUSIONS

The OA delivered predictable concentrations of O(2) over low to medium flow rates. This system is comfortable, easy to use, non-obtrusive, odorless, and latex-free. The ability to monitor capnography makes this device ideal for monitored anesthesia care or in other settings (intensive care) where monitoring of respiration is warranted. This device does not contact the face and thus may be ideal for pediatric patients and those on long-term home O(2) therapy. Further clinical trials in these areas are warranted.