Matrx Anesthesia - Safety Features and Maintenance Tips

Aug 16, 2012

In a recent post  we discussed the importance of dental treatment and the challenge of client education, specifically in regard to anesthesia. We wanted to expand on the features designed into our Matrx anesthesia machines that make the procedure safer for the patient and clinician. (Play the video below to see how a Matrx VMS works)

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Matrx Anesthesia - Designed for patient safety

Matrx anesthesia machines have several unique attributes that provide added safety for your patients, including the occlusion valve (not shown in video) and negative pressure relief valve. These are designed to help reduce the potential for user errors that could harm the patient. Combining these safety features with recommended testing protocols will protect your patient from potentially life-threatening situations. Forgetting to re-open the “pop-off” valve (also called APL valve) after bagging (or sighing) a patient can result in unnecessary complications. The occlusion valve makes this easier by allowing the technician to simply hold in a button in order to close the circuit. Once the button is released, the circuit is automatically re-opened. The valve has an additional safety relief which automatically opens the circuit if pressure builds to above 25-30 cm H2O. The negative pressure relief valve protects the patient from lack of oxygen. This valve, also called the Emergency Air Intake Valve, is opened by negative pressure in the circuit and allows your patient to breath room air if the O2 supply is depleted. This is especially important when using oxygen tanks instead of a central supply. It gives you enough time to stabilize the patient and replace the tank if it is leaking or becomes depleted.

Along with the occlusion valve and negative pressure relief valve, all Matrx anesthesia machines come with a quick reference guide outlining recommended testing and maintenance. Adhering to these guidelines ensures your patient a safe and smooth anesthetic experience. Included in the quick reference guide is a brief checklist designed to remind staff of anesthesia best practices.

These best practices include inspecting the machine and circuits and performing a leak test prior to each surgery. CO2 absorbent granules must be changed regularly.  Granules should be changed after 6 – 8 hours of use depending on the manufacturer.  It is also important to remember that the granules will also absorb CO2 from room air. Even if you have not used your anesthetic machine in awhile, check to make sure the granules are still fresh by crumbling them with your finger. If the granules are hard, they are exhausted and need to be replaced. 

Service your Tec-3 Vaporizer Annually

Finally, your vaporizer should be serviced and calibrated annually to ensure efficient and safe use. Vaporizers cannot be serviced in your clinic. They must be sent in to Midmark to be serviced in a pressure and temperature controlled environment. Take advantage of Midmark’s vaporizer exchange and service programs. Finally, you should replace the plastic and rubber parts, on your anesthesia machine, every two years. Midmark has created maintenance kits specific to your model machine.

If you’re interested in more information about educating clients about anesthesia and best practices, check out our client education brochures to give to your clients who may worry about putting their pet under anesthesia.