An intelligent airway sensor system to increase safety in computer controlled mechanical ventilation

Computer controlled ventilation of intubated patients in the intensive care unit requires sensors at the airway of the patient. These sensors are prone to artifacts and failures due to exposure to patient exudate, condensed water, etc. Unrecognized sensor failure is intolerable since it can lead to unpredictable ventilatory patterns. The authors have therefore devised a Sensor Watchdog system for integrity. In this report, the authors' approach is described and one particular solution is explained as an example.