Glossary Term
Oxygen Concentrator
Definition
An oxygen concentrator is a medical device that filters and concentrates oxygen from ambient air, providing a continuous supply of oxygen-enriched air to individuals with respiratory conditions that require supplemental oxygen. The device works by removing nitrogen from the air, leaving a higher concentration of oxygen for therapeutic use. Oxygen concentrators are commonly used by individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, or other respiratory disorders to improve oxygen levels in the blood and relieve symptoms of breathlessness or oxygen deficiency.
Relevance to the MedTech Industry
The core purpose of an oxygen concentrator is to support patients who have difficulty breathing or maintaining adequate oxygen levels, enabling them to achieve proper oxygenation for improved health and quality of life. Unlike traditional oxygen tanks, which must be regularly refilled, oxygen concentrators provide a reliable and continuous flow of oxygen, making them more convenient and cost-effective for long-term use. In the MedTech industry, oxygen concentrators are considered essential devices for home healthcare and hospital settings, allowing patients to receive therapy without frequent hospital visits.
Additional Information & Related Terms
How an Oxygen Concentrator Works Oxygen concentrators use a process known as pressure swing adsorption (PSA) to separate oxygen from the air. The device draws in ambient air, which contains approximately 21% oxygen and 78% nitrogen. The concentrator passes the air through a molecular sieve (usually made of zeolite material) that adsorbs nitrogen and other gases, leaving a higher concentration of oxygen, typically 90-95%. The enriched oxygen is then delivered to the patient via a nasal cannula or face mask.
There are two main types of oxygen concentrators:
Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs):
These are smaller, battery-operated devices designed for mobility and convenience, allowing patients to receive oxygen therapy while traveling or engaging in daily activities.
Stationary Oxygen Concentrators:
Larger devices that are typically used at home and provide a continuous supply of oxygen through a plug-in power source. These units are designed to meet the higher oxygen flow demands of patients who require supplemental oxygen for longer periods.
Related Terms
Oxygen Therapy: A medical treatment that provides supplemental oxygen to individuals with respiratory conditions or low blood oxygen levels.
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure): A therapy often used for sleep apnea that delivers a steady flow of air to keep airways open during sleep, which may be combined with supplemental oxygen for certain patients.
Ventilator: A medical device used to assist or replace breathing in patients with severe respiratory failure, delivering oxygen directly to the lungs.
Spirometry: A test used to measure lung function and diagnose respiratory conditions such as COPD, which may require supplemental oxygen therapy.