No abstract

The ability to provide mechanical ventilation is an important aspect of combat casualty care. Recent advances in ventilator technology have led to the introduction of a new generation of lightweight and compact ventilators which may be suited for combat care applications. We evaluated the ability of the Impact Uni-Vent 750 to provide acute ventilatory care for intensive care unit (ICU) patients. The Uni-Vent 750 is a portable ventilator which was initially available during Operation Desert Storm. Nine patients in the Surgical ICU at Wilford Hall Medical Center were transitioned from a standard ICU ventilator to the Uni-Vent 750 using the same ventilator settings. Hemodynamic and respiratory parameters were monitored for a consecutive 5-hour period while the patients were on the Uni-Vent 750. There were no clinically or statistically significant differences noted during the period of ventilation by the Uni-Vent. The results of this study suggest that the Uni-Vent 750 may be suitable for providing acute ventilatory support for mechanically ventilated patients.