Failure of anaesthetic machine automated self-check to detect massive leak in ventilator bellows

Abstract

Anaesthetic machines are designed to provide for a safe, non-hypoxic gas mixture delivered to the patient. For this reason, anaesthetic machines provide a number of features to ensure such safety. Still, a number of anaesthetic societies, including the Association of Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland [1], the American Society of Anaesthesiologists [2] and the Canadian Society of Anaesthesiologists [3] recommend that anaesthetic machines should be checked prior to each list, and prior to each case.