The Dumping Valve and its Clinical Application

An open reservoir for the collection and evacuation of anaesthetic gases permits leakage to room air. The use of a closed reservoir for the removal of overspill gas from anaesthetic circuits is described. Calibrated gas evacuation is carried out through an ejector flowmeter from the anaesthetic circuit or from a closed reservoir, where the gas is collected via a relief valve. In order to eliminate the risk of high or low pressure in the reservoir employed, a relief valve and a dumping valve is included in the system. The dumping valve may also be a permanent fixture on the anaesthetic machine, placed at the outlet for anaesthetic gas mixture. If the admission of anaesthetic gas fails, then the patient will inhale room air.