The UPJŠ Faculty of Medicine in Košice has acquired a unique educational tool. The company Nuclear Power a.s. ceremoniously handed over the latest electropneumatic lung model to the Center of Simulator and Virtual Medicine UPJŠ FM. This cutting-edge model is designed for practicing artificial lung ventilation in patients with uneven distribution of respiratory gases, typical in conditions such as COVID-19, adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), or trauma.
Practical Application in Medical Education
When connected to a ventilator, medical students and anesthesiologists can practically master proper ventilation techniques and make decisions on suitable ventilation methods. The model also enables demonstrations of various ventilation strategies, including the multi-level ventilation method with variable pressures, times, and flows (PMLV 4LV), supported by Chirana Aura ventilators.
Unique Technical Solutions
The device consists of five elastic cylinders into which air is pumped from the lung ventilator. Each cylinder fills and empties at different rates, mimicking the behavior of real lungs. Electronic sensors connected to a computer monitor airflow, pressure, and cylinder movement speed. Specialized software displays real-time data and visualizes changes in different parts of the model, aiding in a better understanding of the physical principles of lung ventilation with uneven air distribution.
Fruits of Scientific Collaboration
This advanced model was developed as a result of collaboration between the Laboratory for Research of Advanced Methods of Artificial Lung Ventilation at UPJŠ FM, led by Prof. MUDr. Viliam Donič, CSc., and Nuclear Power a.s., which was responsible for the research, development, and construction of the device. The project was implemented under the EŠIF IPMVDCOV program, aimed at mitigating the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Continuing Innovative Solutions
The first generation of this system for practicing advanced artificial lung ventilation methods, suitable for treating COVID-19 patients, was presented in the Slovak National Pavilion at Expo Dubai 2020. This showcases the high level of innovation and technical solutions used.
The UPJŠ Faculty of Medicine in Košice is proud to provide its students and professionals with the most advanced educational tools available.
