Heat and Moisture Exchanger (HME) Breathing Filters — Adult

Purpose & Use

• An HME filter is a medical device used in respiratory care to humidify and filter inspired air in mechanically ventilated patients or during anesthesia.

• Protects the patient’s lungs by trapping heat and moisture from exhaled air and returning it to inhaled air, preventing drying of the airways.

• Also acts as a bacterial/viral filter, reducing the risk of infection.

Target Patient Population

• Specifically designed for adult patients with standard adult breathing circuits.

• Fits standard connectors for adult ventilators, anesthesia machines, or resuscitation bags.

Structure & Components

• Outer casing: usually medical-grade plastic, lightweight and transparent in some designs.

• Filter medium: synthetic or electrostatic material that traps bacteria, viruses, and particles.

• HME element: absorbs heat and moisture from exhaled air and returns it during inhalation.

• Standard connectors: usually 22 mm male/female ends compatible with adult breathing circuits.

Performance

• Filtration efficiency: high-efficiency bacterial/viral filtration (>99%).

• Moisture retention: maintains airway humidity comparable to normal physiological conditions.

• Reduces airway irritation, mucosal drying, and thickened secretions.

Advantages

• Combines humidification and filtration in a single device.

• Lightweight, compact, and easy to attach to ventilator or anesthesia circuits.

• Disposable, reducing cross-contamination risk.

• Simple to use without adding extra water reservoirs or external humidifiers.

Usage Guidelines

• Typically single-use; replace according to manufacturer instructions or when clogged.

• Must be securely attached to the breathing circuit to prevent leaks.

• Monitor for increased resistance, moisture buildup, or contamination during prolonged use.