Sometimes attention focus on ventilatory support that can alternate with spontaneous breathing. To accomplish the goal of avoiding intubation, one can use body ventilators, positive pressure devices delivering air via facial interfaces, and other methods. Mechanical ventilators are not only use on patients with breathing problems. These devices take over the function of the heart and lungs while those organs are temporarily stopped. The apparatus is usually connected to the patient s vascular and respiratory system.
Ventilators are also use for patients who have suffered heart attacks, seizures and strokes.
The first iron lung to have widespread use was invented by Drinker and Shaw in 1928 and was produced by J.H. Emerson Company. It consisted of an airtight cylinder that enclosed the patient up to his neck. A seal was formed with foam rubber around the neck so that there was no leak. The cylinder made isolation of the patient s body unavoidable, and even ports of the side made it difficult to provide adequate patient care. The Iron Lung was use mostly on patients that needed to be treated with negative pressure ventilators.