A coaxial circle circuit: comparison with conventional circle and Bain circuit.

A coaxial system to be used for gas delivery to patients in a closed or low fresh gas flow anaesthetic system is described. The resistance to gas flow, humidity of inspired gases, and static compliance of the circuit are provided and compared with the circle tubing customarily employed or the coaxial Mapleson D ("Bain") circuit. The resistance to gas flow is highest in the coaxial circle and "Bain" circuits; the resistance of the conventional circle is approximately 40 per cent less. Static compliance of this coaxial circle is 50 per cent greater than the conventional circle. During artificial ventilation humidity of inspired gases is maintained at levels recommended in the literature for all circuits, but during spontaneous breathing only the conventional rubber circle maintains appropriate levels. Advantages of this coaxial circle over the conventional circle include light weight and small size. Advantages of this coaxial circle over the "Bain" circuit include lower fresh gas flows and improved humidity during spontaneous breathing. These advantages make this coaxial circle useful for routine use.