​During mechanical ventilation, the natural warming, humidifying and secretion transport functions of the upper respiratory tract are compromised. In patients who require mechanical ventilation for longer periods, it is vital that measures are taken to mitigate these effects and reduce the likelihood of serious ventilator-associated lung infections (VALI).¹ The Aquapor H300 provides optimally conditioned breathing gas, compensating for the heat and water loss caused by artificial ventilation with cold, dry medical gases.^2,3 Three simple presets allow the user to adjust the humidification level according to the individual needs of the patient.

​A variety of therapy forms, including non-invasive O₂ therapy, CPAP and mask ventilation, but also invasive ventilation via endotracheal tube are supported by the addition of active humidification.^2,3,4,5

The Aquapor H300 is equipped with three operating modes that cover all the relevant therapeutic indications. In addition to the 'Invasive' and 'Non-invasive' settings, the H300 features a 'Free' mode that is specifically designed to allow for individualized therapy.

​The components and accessories of the Aquapor H300 are designed to provide high-quality therapeutic support. The heated hose is equipped with an innovative hose heating technology that helps avoid the collection of condensate. For easier assembly, the components of the hose system that carry breathing gas are colour-coded.

​Without respiratory gas conditioning, there is a significant reduction in cilia work and, as a result, the self-cleaning function of the bronchi (mucociliary clearance) is compromised. This impairment of mucociliary clearance leads to an increase in secretion viscosity and secretion retention.⁶ Active humidification can support the process of mucociliary clearance so that secretions can be removed. This reduces the formation of atelectases and the risk of infection for the patient.⁷

​One of the major challenges of active humidification is condensate. The Aquapor H300 offers advanced condensate management for the dual-heating system breathing circuits. To avoid condensate in the expiratory limb of the breathing circuits, the heat output can be individually increased in five stages. Thus, the formation of condensate in the the expiratory hose can be reduced.

​The display offers excellent readability of parameters and alarms, even from a distance, and also features a dimming function in night mode. An ambient light sensor automatically adjusts the backlighting depending on ambient light conditions, thus supports better readability.

​¹ Williams R, Rankin N, Smith T, Galler D, Seakins P. Relationship between the humidity and temperature of inspired gas and the function of the airway mucosa. Critical Care Medicine 1996; 24(11):1920-1929.

² According to International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 8185:1997, the moisture output of an HH should be at least 33mg/L (=75% of the saturation humidity of 44 mgH 2 O/L at a body temperature of 37°C)

³ Ryan SN, Rankin N, Meyer E, Williams R (2002) Energy balance in the intubated human airway is an indicator of optimal gas conditioning. Crit Care Med 30:355-361

⁴ Martins De Araújo MT1, Vieira SB, Vasquez EC, Fleury B. Heated humidification or face mask to prevent upper airway dryness during continuous positive airway pressure therapy. Chest. 2000 Jan;117(1):142-7.

⁵ Massie CA1, Hart RW. Effects of humidification on nasal symptoms and compliance in sleep apnea patients using continuous positive airway pressure. Chest. 1999 Aug;116(2):403-8.

⁶ Dalhamn, T.: Mucous flow and ciliary activity in the trachea of healthy rats and rats exposedmto respitatory irritant gasses. Acta physiol. scand. suppl. 123, 36-39

⁷ Lorente L, Lecuona M, Jiménez A, Sierra A. Ventilator-associated pneumonia using a heated humidifier or a heat and moisture exchanger: a randomized controlled trial. Crit Care. 2006; 10(4): R116.