The expense of providing continuous oxygen therapy has prompted the development of oxygen-conserving devices. We studied the efficacy of a device that delivers a pulse of oxygen during inspiration only (Pulsair, CryO2 Corp). Methods: Oxygen was delivered at three different flowrates (1, 2, and 3 L/min) by either continuous flow or pulsed delivery to 16 exercising patients who had chronic respiratory disease. Arterial blood samples were drawn via arterial line at each flowrate for both modes. Results: The arterial oxygen tension (PaO2) achieved by the individual systems showed significant agreement at each flowrate. However, some patients did show lower oxygenation with pulsed delivery, particularly at higher flowrates. Consequently, we recommend that before a pulsed-flow device is prescribed, the patient undergo a simple exercise test with oximetry to ensure adequate oxygen delivery.
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