The HSE-HA Multiple-Channel Ventilator is a modular system for ventilation of one to eight large rodents. The respiratory rate is adjustable from 30 to 100 breaths per minute. It is based on the PLUGSYS system, see Section I for a complete description of the PLUGSYS system. The primary component is the Ventilator Sequencer Module (VSM) which plugs into a PLUGSYS mainframe case and is used to set the respiratory rate, inspiratory:expiratory (I:E) ratio and the maximum inspiratory pressure (i.e. safety pressure) for all animals. The safety pressure is set by the researcher and is used to prevent over inflation of the animal’s lungs. The VSM requires a compressed air supply and, using both electronic and pneumatic controls, directs the air flow to the VSM ventilation head.
One to eight ventilation heads 73-0047 can be connected to the VSM. If more than one ventilation head is used, a connecting block 73-0048 is required. A directional valve within the ventilation head is controlled by the VSM to regulate the inspiratory and expiratory cycle. The VSM ventilation head includes all necessary tubing.
An optional MPX pressure transducer, 73-0064, can be connected to the ventilation head. This pressure transducer attached to a TAM-A transducer amplifier, 73-0065, can be used to record tracheal/airway pressures. This setup is described more thoroughly in the Einthoven Anti-asthmatics system, see our website. All components must be purchased separately.
HSE-HA Ventilation Sequencer Module (VSM)
The HSE-HA Ventilation Sequencer Module (VSM) consists of an electronic and a pneumatic section and requires a compressed air supply. The VSM module with the ventilation head operates on the principle of ‘intermittent constant flow ventilation’. A continuously adjustable air flow is passed by a main valve either to the animal (during inspiration) or to an overflow outlet (during expiration). The design of the main valve provides an adjustable, pressure controlled, protection against excessive pressure rise in the animal’s lung. The main valve is controlled electronically according to the selected respiration rate (RATE) and the selected inspiratory cycle (INSP. CYCLE %). The safety pressure which is the maximum admitted inspiratory pressure can be adjusted on the VSM module. The timing and the safety pressure are the same for all the ventilation heads, the constant air flow during inspiration can be adjusted individually on each ventilation head.