A neonatal silicone circuit, primarily used in infant ventilators, features a design with low flow resistance, minimal dead volume, high flexibility, kink resistance, and is made from medical-grade silicone to ensure biocompatibility, allowing for safe and efficient delivery of breathing gas to a newborn baby; key features include:
Low flow resistance:
The smooth inner surface of the silicone tubing minimizes turbulence and resistance to gas flow, crucial for delicate infant lungs.
Minimal dead space:
A small internal volume helps prevent excessive gas accumulation and ensures accurate ventilation.
High flexibility:
The silicone material allows for easy bending and conforming to the infant's anatomy, reducing discomfort.
Kink resistance:
Special design elements like spiral reinforcement can prevent the tubing from kinking, ensuring consistent gas delivery.
Small size:
Circuits are designed with smaller diameter tubing to accommodate the smaller airway of a newborn.
Water trap design:
Often includes a dedicated water trap to collect condensate and prevent fluid from entering the infant's airway.
Heated wire option:
Some neonatal circuits incorporate a heating element to deliver warm, humidified gas, especially important for premature infants.
Biocompatibility:
Medical-grade silicone ensures minimal risk of allergic reactions or tissue irritation.
Sterilization capability:
Can be sterilized through autoclave processes for reuse.