Development of circulatory monitoring equipment in anesthesiology

The first blood test

The first studies and blood tests were conducted as early as the 16th and 17th centuries. The first laboratory method for cell counting was invented in 1852 by Karl Wierordt. In 1877, a German physician suggested using blood coagulation time as an indicator of coagulation. Paul Ehrlich (1854–1915), a Czech cell pathologist and chemist, developed various methods for drying and fixing blood smears using heat.

The first equipment for automatic cell counting was introduced in the 1950s. These devices operated based on the Coulter principle, which involves the interruption of an electrical circuit as cells pass through a micro-hole.

The main methods of circulatory monitoring

In the intensive care unit, monitoring a patient’s condition includes tracking vital signs such as temperature, arterial and intracranial pressure, pulse, and respiratory rate. Hemodynamic monitoring and anesthesiology involve key observation methods:

1. Blood tests. A central venous catheter or arterial catheter is placed in ICU patients for daily blood tests. Thanks to this, specialists perform OAC monitoring, hepatic and other tests, coagulation profiles, and dynamic analysis. Care is provided through mobile automated devices.

2. Cardiac monitoring. In intensive care units, cardiac activity is monitored by a three-level system. A small sensor attached to the patient transmits signals to a central station.

3. Pulmonary artery catheterization (rarely used). A catheter is inserted into the central vein through the right side of the heart to be guided into the pulmonary artery. Special guides are used to measure pressure and administer fluids. Some catheters are equipped with a sensor to measure the oxygen saturation of venous blood.

Doctors use other methods to monitor blood circulation: ultrasound, Dopplerography, ultrasonography, plethysmography, electrocardiography.

Current status of circulatory monitoring technologies

To maintain cardiac output, blood pressure, blood supply to organs, fluid-electrolyte balance, lung function, modern monitoring equipment is used in surgery. Artificial circulatory apparatus ensures the viability of the human body during surgery. Autogemotransfusion systems are used during surgical interventions to collect lost blood and return it to the patient after washing, processing.

In the intensive care unit, a mandatory monitoring criterion is to control the concentration of anesthetics. For this purpose, gas analyzers — modules of anesthetic gases are used. In anesthesiology, gas monitoring is performed by measuring the absorption of infrared light. Each anesthetic has specific absorption properties. During the process, the gas passes through a sampling cell, and an optical infrared filter selects the appropriate light band that corresponds to the anesthetic. Monitoring multiple gases requires the use of several infrared filters. The higher the concentration of a substance, the greater its absorption. Since oxygen does not absorb infrared rays, its quantity is measured using its paramagnetic properties.

Trends and prospects for development

Intensive care units treat patients with severe injuries and illnesses who require continuous, round-the-clock monitoring. Close observation and specialized care ensure improved blood circulation and the maintenance of vital body functions. Manufacturers of medical equipment continuously test and enhance their devices. Quality equipment must meet the following criteria:

• high accuracy of data;

• efficiency for the work of the doctor and medical staff;

• improvement of patients' condition;

• ease of use and data monitoring;

• minimal risk to patients;

• ease of transportation;

• Provision of an alert system for abnormal vital signs;

• additional functions and features.

The latest cardiology equipment is essential for diagnosing, preventing, and treating diseases and circulatory disorders. These devices are also used during surgical interventions on the heart and blood vessels. The system comprises the following elements: AIC, extracorporeal membrane oxygenator, cardioverter, intraoperative ultrasound equipment, surgical instruments, patient monitors.

Practical application in anesthesiology

Poor circulation reduces the blood supply to tissues and organs, leading to a decrease in oxygen and nutrient delivery and a slower removal of metabolic waste. These conditions can pose serious risks to the body. Symptoms of circulatory disturbances include:

• cold extremities;

• chest and body pain;

• numbness, tingling in the hands and feet;

• pale skin;

• fainting;

• poor wound healing;

• venous reticulation;

• muscle weakness.

The effectiveness of treatment in a medical institution is directly linked to the quality of its equipment. In the anesthesiology department, devices with advanced technical capabilities are used. These devices enable the precise selection of drug dosages tailored to the patient's health condition, thereby minimizing the negative impact on the body.

Specialists use artificial ventilation devices, humidifiers, flow meters, anesthesia and respiratory equipment, infusion pumps, patient monitoring equipment. Anesthesia devices are used to eliminate pain sensitivity during surgery, monitoring and control of vital functions, protecting the body from complications.

What to pay attention to when choosing equipment for a medical facility?

For an intensive care unit, installing an artificial ventilation device is crucial as it enhances respiratory function and blood circulation, even in critical situations. Prolonged oxygen deprivation can lead to tissue necrosis and impair the motor, nervous, and organ systems.

When selecting equipment, consider whether it is stationary or portable. Many devices for hospital wards come with wheels for easier transportation. Also, evaluate the power source, whether it’s an internal battery or an electric network. Purchase devices from reputable manufacturers and reliable suppliers, and review customer feedback for comparisons.

High-quality modern anesthesia equipment is designed for durability, even with frequent use. It features a robust plastic body that can be disinfected with specialized cleaning agents. For emergency cardiac resuscitation, there are stationary and portable defibrillators. They are more often used in ambulance crews. In the work of the intensive care unit, oxygen concentrators are indispensable, saturating arterial blood with oxygen, increasing the level of saturation in the body.

Conclusion

Equipment for monitoring blood circulation and patient condition comprises a range of technical tools used in intensive care units, emergency medical services, and mobile care units. Experienced specialists possess the necessary skills to operate this equipment effectively, improve blood circulation, and stabilize the patient’s condition. Bimedis marketplace provides a wide selection of new and used devices from leading brands, ensuring high-quality medical services for departments and wards of medical facilities.