Both respirator

A type of negative pressure ventilator

The Both respirator, also known as the Both cabinet respirator, is a type of negative pressure ventilator that was developed in the 1930s. It was designed to assist patients with respiratory failure, particularly those suffering from poliomyelitis, a disease that can cause paralysis of the respiratory muscles.

History

The Both respirator was invented by Edward Both, an Australian inventor, in response to the polio epidemics that were occurring during the early 20th century. The device was a more affordable and accessible alternative to the iron lung, which was the predominant form of mechanical ventilation at the time.

Both Cabinet Respirator in WWII

Design and Function

The Both respirator operates on the principle of creating a negative pressure environment around the patient's thorax. This negative pressure causes the chest to expand, drawing air into the lungs. When the pressure is released, the chest contracts, and air is expelled. This mimics the natural process of breathing.

The device consists of a cabinet or chamber in which the patient lies. The patient's head remains outside the chamber, allowing for communication and monitoring. The chamber is sealed around the neck to maintain the negative pressure environment.

Advantages

The Both respirator was significantly cheaper to produce than the iron lung, making it more accessible to hospitals and clinics, especially in resource-limited settings. Its simpler design also made it easier to maintain and operate.

Impact

The introduction of the Both respirator had a significant impact on the treatment of patients with respiratory paralysis. It allowed for the expansion of mechanical ventilation to a larger number of patients during polio outbreaks, saving many lives.

Decline in Use

With the development of the Salk vaccine and the subsequent decline in polio cases, the need for devices like the Both respirator decreased. Additionally, advances in positive pressure ventilation and modern ventilator technology have largely replaced the use of negative pressure ventilators.

Iron lung

Related pages

• Iron lung
• Poliomyelitis
• Mechanical ventilation
• Respiratory failure