Small Animal vs. Human Anesthesia Machines

Small Animal vs. Human Anesthesia Machines

Significant differences exist between small animal anesthesia machines and human anesthesia machines in terms of design philosophy, parameter ranges, functional adaptation, and safety devices. These differences primarily stem from variations in physiological structure, anesthesia requirements, and surgical environments between animals and humans.

Regarding Parameter Suitability:
Small animal anesthesia machines are designed for the high sensitivity of animals like mice and rats to anesthetics. They feature a wider adjustable range for anesthetic gas concentration (typically 0%-5%) and can deliver oxygen flow rates as low as 0.1 L/min to accommodate the minimal respiratory volumes of small animals. In contrast, while human anesthesia machines also cover a concentration range of 0%-8%, the clinically common range is 1%-3%, with a minimum oxygen flow rate of 0.5 L/min, better suiting the larger respiratory requirements of humans.

In terms of Breathing Circuit Design:
Small animal anesthesia machines utilize compact circuits with small volume and low dead space (typically <10 ml), effectively reducing anesthetic waste and gas retention. Some models are equipped with dedicated carbon dioxide absorption canisters. Human anesthesia machine circuits have larger volumes and higher dead space (approximately 50-100 ml for adult circuits), with more complex carbon dioxide absorption systems to handle the higher CO₂ production in humans.

Concerning Safety Devices:
Small animal anesthesia machines focus on pressure protection, such as incorporating low-pressure safety valves (release pressure 0.2-0.3 MPa) to prevent damage to the delicate airways of small animals. Human anesthesia machines, besides pressure protection, are equipped with more comprehensive vital sign monitoring functions like end-tidal CO₂ monitoring and tidal volume monitoring, tailored to the complex physiological state of humans.

For Accessories:
Small animal anesthesia machines come with various sizes of masks, endotracheal tubes (e.g., specialized tubes with 0.5-1 mm internal diameter for mice), and body temperature maintenance devices to prevent hypothermia during anesthesia. Human anesthesia machine accessories are larger, adapted to the human airway, and often feature ventilator synchronization functions to meet diverse surgical needs.

Furthermore, their operation emphasizes different aspects: small animal anesthesia machines prioritize fine and precise adjustments, whereas human anesthesia machines focus more on multi-parameter integration and clinical safety. Therefore, in practical application, the two are not interchangeable and must be selected based on specific requirements.

Now OKCLEVER offers such products. The small animal and human anesthesia machines we provide undergo rigorous testing to ensure stable performance, safety, and reliability. Please feel free to contact us for more information.