Closed-loop control for anesthesia breathing systems.

Numerous medical applications of closed-loop control have been developed over the past 40 years. For the patient breathing system, appropriate sensors are available. Feedback controllers have been developed and tested. Gas and vapor delivery devices seem ready for use. With the sensors, controllers, and delivery devices developed and tested, it seems likely that closed-loop control will be an integral part of future anesthesia workstations. The convenience and improved stability and response time will be important advantages in future anesthesia delivery systems.