Evaluation of the VersaMed portable ventilator: clinical trials

The VersaMed 201 is a lightweight, computer-controlled, electrically driven ventilator, designed for transport, home-ventilation and field use. We hav e evaluated the device in human beings with healthy and pathological lungs. In the first part of the study, the VersaMed was substituted for a standar d operating room ventilator for 15-30 min during elective surgery in 20 sub jects. In the second stage of the study, 20 patients with lung pathology wh o were being ventilated in the critical care department were transferred to the VersaMed for a 30-min period. In all the patients studied, arterial bl ood gases, haemodynamic parameters and other respiratory variables were mai ntained at similar values seen with the standard ventilators used. We concl ude that the VersaMed 201 is suitable for use in human beings with healthy and pathological lungs as a reliable, portable ventilator.