Several of the high dosage oxygen treatment centres in the UK for sufferers of multiple sclerosis (MS) are equipped with Servomex portable oxygen analysers*. The analysers are used to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the treatment by monitoring the oxygen levels in the Barochambers. These enable people with MS to breathe pure oxygen whilst sitting comfortably in an air environment. Breathing pure oxygen in a pressurised atmosphere has been shown to reduce swelling due to oedema. Regular treatment with oxygen in the chamber also promotes the growth of new blood vessels in MS patients. Stroke victims and sufferers from leg ulcers and gas gangrene have also benefited from this treatment.

At the Canterbury centre, a large pressure vessel has been divided into two chambers. Each chamber is pressurised separately, meaning that two treatment sessions of different pressures can run at the same time, seating a total of 14 people. Some patients benefit more with slightly higher pressure, others with slightly lower. Two Servomex portable oxygen analysers are used, one for each chamber, to ensure that the oxygen content of the chambers does not rise above a maximum of 25%. The bib system, through which the patients breathe oxygen, is well designed and leaks are minimal, but do sometimes occur and can lead to raised oxygen levels in the chamber. The sensitivity of the Servomex analysers means that the operators can follow any upward trend and flush the chamber to maintain the oxygen level within their pre-set parameters. The centres now have real-time, accurate readings, which they did not have with their previous equipment, ensuring the safety of the patients receiving treatment.

* Servomex analysers are not medical devices as defined in the Medical Devices Directive 93/42/EEC

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