12.16.2025
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Literature-Nasal Cannula
1. Historical Background and Development
Oxygen therapy has been part of medical practice since the 19th century. As the understanding of hypoxia and its impact on human physiology evolved, healthcare professionals sought safer and more comfortable ways to deliver oxygen to patients. Early oxygen delivery relied heavily on masks, which often caused discomfort and limited patients’ ability to eat or speak.
The nasal cannula emerged as a practical alternative, delivering oxygen directly into the nasal passages through small prongs. This innovation significantly improved patient comfort and made continuous oxygen therapy more feasible, leading to its widespread adoption.
2. Product Design and Structure
A typical nasal cannula consists of nasal prongs, flexible tubing, and a connector to an oxygen source. The prongs are designed to be soft and anatomically compatible to minimize irritation, while the tubing must maintain flexibility and resistance to kinking.
Advancements in material science have led to the use of medical-grade PVC and silicone, enhancing safety, biocompatibility, and overall user comfort.
3. Clinical Value and Applications
Nasal cannulas are primarily used for patients requiring low to moderate oxygen supplementation, such as post-operative patients, individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or those receiving long-term oxygen therapy at home.
Its open design allows patients to speak, eat, and move more freely, contributing significantly to patient compliance and quality of life.
4. Product Evolution and Market Trends
In recent years, the development of high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) systems has expanded the role of nasal cannulas by enabling heated, humidified, and higher flow oxygen delivery.
Globally, nasal cannulas represent a stable and growing segment of the respiratory therapy market, particularly driven by aging populations and increasing demand for home healthcare solutions.
5. Conclusion
Although simple in structure, the nasal cannula exemplifies patient-centered medical device design. Its evolution reflects the continuous interaction between clinical needs and technological advancement in respiratory care.
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