Pioneering Technique Converts Non-Invasive Ventilators into Advanced Invasive Ventilators for Treating COVID-19

A promising advancement for mass producing inexpensive ventilators is under development at Sheba Medical Center (Tel Aviv, Israel). BiPAP and CPAP machines, which are commonly used to provide breathing support for patients with sleep apnea, are being transformed into functioning ventilators for the hospital’s ICU. Sheba is currently collaborating with a variety of partners on this endeavor, and testing of the ventilator was completed successfully on animals in the past week.

Many of the most severe COVID-19 infections witnessed in patients have led to severe lung inflammation, where the patient’s status may deteriorate to Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), a situation that requires assisted ventilation and oxygenation in the ICU. Ventilators are one of the most essential medical devices needed for treating patients hospitalized with coronavirus (COVID-19). However, many countries are already confronting the challenge of a shortage of ventilators.

The BiPAP and CPAP devices are more common, less complex, and substantially cheaper than conventional ventilators. Because this solution involves modifying existing technology that is easy to procure, Sheba’s respirator solution could be a game-changer, especially for communities that lack funding to buy traditional ventilators.

“Our medical center’s efforts will have huge implications for not only Sheba and Israel, but also for the world,” said Yoel Har-Even, Director of Sheba’s International Division & Resource Development. “There are hundreds of thousands of BiPAP and CPAP machines across the globe, so if this works, the shortage of ventilators could be overcome much more easily.”

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Sheba Medical Center