Ukrainian startup device prints, doubling the number of patients on lungs ventilator

A team of Ukrainian startup MAWI introduced the Mawi Pipeline device, which could potentially double the number of patients per artificial lung ventilation  device.
What is Mawi Pipeline

Mawi Pipeline is a game-shaped adapter made on a 3D printer that connects to the ventilator and makes it possible to connect several patients at once (the standard apparatus makes it possible to connect only one person). This is a kind of mechanical splitter that separates the air flows, namely it divides into 2 tubes.

The developers posted the manufacturing instructions on the network. To receive files, you must register on the site.

The developers claim that the part can be printed on any 3D printer of domestic and higher rank. The size of the nozzle (printhead) should be 0.4 mm. As a material, it is recommended to use a hypoallergenic medical plastic, pre-certified according to the norms. The cost of one connector, as reported by MAWI, will be about $ 10.

The idea of ​​creating a product appeared against the background of long-term deliveries of mechanical ventilation: due to high demand, the waiting list lasted for months. The concept of acquisition is not new. In 2006, a description of such a device appeared in the public domain. He was laid out by a Canadian doctor. The demand for the part did not appear, since there was no special need for such technology.
The MAWI team decided to improve and develop the device, as well as test them in real conditions. Now about 10 people are working on the project: a technology team, production, certification in other countries, communication with media and appeals from Ukraine and other countries.
Mawi Pipeline Tests

Pipeline testing took place on various ventilators, the initiative was supported by several Kiev hospitals. The first tests revealed many inaccuracies. Some elements had to be finalized and replaced. It also became clear that the most safe and effective is the branching of the connector into 2 tubes, and not into 4 or more.

    “In Ukraine, in the majority, there are not the most advanced ventilation devices that do not work at full capacity. Therefore, we adapted the device and improved it so that as much as possible Pipeline could work in Ukraine under various conditions. ”

After introducing changes to the details, the developers conducted new tests and, as they assure themselves, the device proved to be good.
Security

According to MAWI, the capacity of the ventilator is excessive in use. The norm of use when connecting is 400-500 mg per person, the device is capable of delivering 1500-2000 mg. For this reason, as they say in MAWI, the use of a connector for two people should not reduce the effectiveness of the procedure. It is also worth understanding that only people with approximate lung sizes can be connected to one device. That is, it makes it impossible to connect an adult and a child.

The practitioner, on condition of anonymity,  an opinion about such a device. According to him, ventilators are not in vain designed for one person: it is important not just to connect the patient, but to set all parameters exactly. The chances that two completely identical patients will lie nearby are small. And in the event that the power of the device is averaged, and not set exactly, it can harm, not help. In addition, there is a risk of transmission from one patient to another. Therefore, to use such devices, it is necessary to carry out a lot of additional tests.
Demand

At this stage, the project is being certified in the European Union and the USA. There is a prospect of obtaining a certificate in Ukraine, but it is not the goal for the team, they say in a startup: it is the States that are considered the main market. There have already sent 100 connectors Mawi Pipeline. Interest in the project came from Italy, the UK and several Asian countries.

The team also announced its readiness to produce and supply connectors to hospitals free of charge for patients infected with COVID-19. For this institution, they are asked to fill out an application on the Mawi Pipeline website.