Scavenger system

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Scavenger System is a term used in anesthesiology to refer to the system that collects and removes excess anesthetic gases from the operating room. It is an essential part of the anesthesia machine and is designed to protect healthcare personnel from the potentially harmful effects of inhaling anesthetic gases.

Function[edit | edit source]

The scavenger system is designed to collect excess anesthetic gases that are released during the administration of anesthesia. These gases can be harmful if inhaled by healthcare personnel, so the scavenger system is an important safety feature of the anesthesia machine.

Components[edit | edit source]

The scavenger system consists of several components:

  • Gas Collection Assembly: This is the part of the system that collects the excess gases from the anesthesia machine. It is usually connected to the machine's breathing circuit and ventilator.
  • Transfer Tubing: This is the tubing that carries the collected gases from the gas collection assembly to the interface.
  • Interface: This is the part of the system that connects the transfer tubing to the gas disposal assembly. It is designed to prevent positive or negative pressure from being transmitted to the breathing circuit.
  • Gas Disposal Assembly: This is the part of the system that removes the collected gases from the operating room. It can either vent the gases into the atmosphere or into a specific disposal system.

Types of Scavenger Systems[edit | edit source]

There are two main types of scavenger systems:

  • Open Scavenger Systems: These systems vent the excess gases into the atmosphere. They are simple and inexpensive, but they can contribute to air pollution.
  • Closed Scavenger Systems: These systems collect the excess gases and dispose of them in a specific disposal system. They are more complex and expensive, but they are more environmentally friendly.

Safety Considerations[edit | edit source]

The scavenger system is an important safety feature of the anesthesia machine. However, it must be used correctly to ensure the safety of healthcare personnel. Regular maintenance and inspection of the scavenger system is essential to ensure its proper functioning.

Scavenger system Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD