AnaConDa
Until recently, complex technical equipment was a crucial factor in restricting the use of volatile anaesthetic agents with invasively ventilated patients. Anaesthesia machines were the only option available. This is no longer the case. With its unique, revolutionary design the AnaConDa, an anaesthetic delivery system, allows the administration of volatile anaesthetic agents, Isoflurane and Sevoflurane, without the need for an anaesthesia machine.
AnaConDa is a small device which is inserted in the breathing circuit between the ET-Tube and the Y-piece. The simple design of the AnaConDa incorporates a unique miniature vaporizer and an anaesthetic reflecting filter which makes it possible to deliver anaesthetic agents in a simple, safe and efficient way.
The AnaConDa is intended for single use and needs to be replaced every 24 hours or when needed. It is available in two sizes, AnaConDa-S (50ml dead space) or the AnaConDa (100ml dead space). The minimum tidal volume working range of the AnaConDa-S is 200ml and 350ml for the AnaconDa.
Due to their pharmacological properties, it is well known that volatile anaesthetic agents are an attractive alternative to intravenous drugs. For decades they have proven their efficiency and safety in general anaesthesia. Many studies over the last ten years have demonstrated the organ protective properties of volatile agents, not least due to the fact that practically no active metabolisation occurs in the organs. One such study has also shown a significantly reduced mortality rate in patients, following the administration of volatile anaesthetic agents with AnaConDa, compared to IV drugs.
As opposed to intravenous drugs, which can lead to tolerance build up, there is no tolerance with volatile anaesthetic agents, eliminating the need for drug holidays and also offering cost effectiveness. Studies have also shown a high level of effectiveness in broncho obstructive lung disease patients due to the broncho dilatory effects of the volatile agents. Volatile agents administered with AnaConDa are also effective regardless of height and weight of the patient.
Of all drugs used in mechanically ventilated patients, only volatile anaesthetics allow the measurement of drug levels through the use of the AnaConDa and anaesthetic gas monitoring, significantly reducing the possibility of either under or over dosing. This coupled with the quick wake up times associated with volatile agents, gives physicians much greater control over planned wake up times, weaning, neurological evaluations and titration to name but a few.
The AnaConDa technology has been established for over 13 years, with over 500,000 usage days across 20 countries. The key to its success lies in the simplicity of the device and its compatibility with existing hospital technology, guaranteeing maximum safety in the daily work environment.