RESUMO
Four devices used for filtration of microorganisms and/or for heating and moistening the ventilated air during mechanical ventilation were evaluated. This evaluation included measurement of bacterial and viral removal efficiency, heat and moisture exchange properties, dead space and air flow resistance. The devices included: Pall BB50T and DAR Sterivent (filtration devices); DAR Hygrobac and Gibeck Humid-vent [heat and moisture exchangers (HMEs)]. The two devices which are primarily conceived as filters, had the highest bacterial and viral removal efficiency (titre reduction of 10(5)-10(6) for bacteria and of 10(4)-10(5) for viruses), while removal efficiencies of the HME devices were lower: titre reduction of 10(4) for bacteria and 10(1)-10(3) for viruses. As expected, heat and moisture output of HMEs was better than that of filters. In mechanical ventilation, dead space and air flow resistance are important properties of devices, which might disturb efficient ventilation. There were only minor differences in dead space and air flow resistance. Resistance to airflow in the HMEs was increased by nebulization of medication (mesna) unlike that of the filters.