HME or Heat Moisture Exchangers are devices that are used with tracheostomy devices and mimic the moisturizing and heating function that is usually performed by the nostrils, mouth and upper trachea. There are many different items used inside the HME that provide the moisture for example foam, paper, or any substance that can act as a surface for condensation and absorption. They are often accompanied by hygroscopic salts that can retain water. They have opening either on the side or in the front.
It is used in mechanically ventilated patients and is intended to help prevent complications due to the drying of the respiratory mucosa, such as mucus plugging and endotracheal tube (ETT) occlusion.
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We have a number of HME products, for example the Teleflex Gibeck Humid-Flo Heat And Moisture Exchanger that has an exclusive design that allows it to remain in-line during the first 72 hours of mechanical ventilation, even during aerosol treatments. It reduces the need to routinely interrupt ventilation and therefore maintains positive-end expiratory pressure. HME helps reduce the need for expensive, heated humidification systems and provide filtration of circuits for ventilator patients.
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| Teleflex Gibeck Humid-Flo Heat And Moisture Exchanger |
Another good example is the Covidien DAR Adult or Pediatric Electrostatic Filter Heat and Moisture Exchanger which reduces set-up time, minimizes dead space and weight on endotracheal tube and circuit while maximizing efficiency. Electrostatic hydrophobic membrane protects against cross-contamination and hygroscopic membrane traps patients moisture providing effective airway humidification. It features low resistance to airflow to minimize work of breathing.
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| Covidien DAR Adult or Pediatric Electrostatic Filter Heat and Moisture Exchanger |
The DAR Hygrolife Heat and Moisture Exchanger is a hygroscopic HME that traps patients own moisture and minimizes heat loss. It has low air flow resistance and End tidal CO2 port which offers convenient access to airway gases. It is indicated for single patient use on anesthetized patients and respiratory care patients who require a breathing circuit.
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| DAR Hygrolife Heat and Moisture Exchanger |
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