BioMedical Engineering OnLine · Published 2026-03-04 · DOI 10.1186/s12938-026-01524-7
Abstract Background Respiratory support devices in resource-limited settings should be inexpensive, portable, effective, and easy to use. Non-invasive respiratory support devices can reduce expensive ICU admissions, but these facilities are severely lacking in low-resource settings. Here, we describe the design and validation of a low-cost, portable, electricity-free, and 3D-printed continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device named ‘OxyJet’ that can provide non-invasive respiratory support outside the ICU. The OxyJet is uniquely built using off-the-shelf components and 3D printing technology, making it both inexpensive and easy to produce. OxyJet costs less than 10% of the price of a similar CPAP system. Inspired by the fundamental mechanics of gas ejectors and harnessing the potential energy of a high-pressure oxygen jet, the device can deliver a high flow of oxygenated air up to 65 L/min (approx.), a positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) within 5–15 cmH2O, and a fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) of up to 100%. Results The device was bench-tested following UK-MHRA RMCPAP guidelines and tested on healthy volunteers (n = 5) and hypoxemic patients (n = 5). A comparative pilot study involving 23 hypoxemic adult patients conducted in Dhaka, Bangladesh, showed a significant improvement (p < 0.05) in the peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2) of patients following the administration of OxyJet CPAP. The mean SpO2 increase was 12.0% (95% CI 10.8–13.2) with OxyJet versus 11.5% (95% CI 9.3–13.8) for standard CPAP (p = 0.695). The findings indicate the device's feasibility and short-term physiological effects comparable to those of standard CPAP systems. Further studies are required to confirm its clinical efficacy and broader utility in resource-limited settings. Conclusion Our findings suggest that OxyJet CPAP has the potential to serve as an emergency respiratory support device outside the ICU, strengthening health systems in resource-limited settings. Methods OxyJet’s performance was first assessed through benchtop testing following the UK-MHRA RMCPAP protocol. This was followed by preliminary human testing in healthy volunteers and hypoxemic patients to evaluate safety and usability. A pilot feasibility study involving hypoxemic adult patients in Dhaka, Bangladesh, was then conducted to compare the device’s physiological effects with those of standard CPAP therapy.
Abstract from DOAJ. Public domain (CC0 1.0).
Read the article at the publisher →