August 2007
The Role of the Facemask in Aerosol Drug Delivery in Canada
A recent article published in the Journal of Aerosol Medicine has confirmed
the importance of Valved Holding Chamber (VHC) facemask design in the
effective delivery of Metered Dose Inhaler (MDI) medication. The seal
created around the circumference of the mask can help minimize the volume of
dead space – the air trapped between the valve of the VHC and the face –
critical to the optimal delivery of MDI medication.
In patients with high respiratory rates or low tidal volumes, the facemask
fit becomes even more significant. Improper fit or design can lead to gaps –
as small as ½ cm – which allow ambient air to enter the mask, resulting in
almost no medication being delivered to the patient.1
The design of a good facemask should incorporate the following1:
-
the mask should seal to the face with minimum applied force
-
dead space should be minimized
-
fit to the patient should be as comfortable as possible (this requirement is particularly important with infants and small children who may otherwise struggle and cry)
-
resistance of the inhalation and exhalation valves should be low
Proper, anatomically shaped masks, such as the ComfortSeal™ mask on the infant, child and adult mask AeroChamber® Brand of VHC, offset poor coordination skills with a secure, comfortable fit, while minimizing dead space – both considered to be critical factors for optimal delivery of aerosol medication.1
The
ComfortSeal™ masks feature a soft, curved lip which, when
applied to the face, requires less force to seal and is more comfortable for
the patient.
To ensure optimal drug delivery, a seal should be ensured prior to actuation
of the aerosol medication.
The Flow-Vu™ Inspiratory Flow Indicator assists caregivers by providing a visual confirmation that there is a satisfactory seal. If a proper seal is achieved, the brightly coloured indicator will move towards the patient during inhalation and return to its vertical position when the patient stops inhaling or exhales. This feature is available on the AeroChamber MAX® VHC product line.
For more information about the importance of facemask design to the delivery
of aerosol medications or for
Mask Sizers to assist in the selection of the
proper size mask, please visit our website at
www.trudellmed.com
1 Morton RW and Mitchell JP. 2007. Design of Facemasks for Delivery of Aerosol-Based Medication via Pressurized Metered Dose Inhaler with Valved Holding Chamber: Key Issues that Affect Performance. Journal of Aerosol Medicine. 20(1):29-45.
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