5/1/2021 30 Years/30 Devices : 1979 : The 1980s : The 1990s : The 2000s : Older

experienced steady improvements. For example, portable glucose meters with

memory have become critical to diabetes care, because they enable diabetics to
keep a record and observe trends and patterns. Event markers, digital user
interfaces, and no-coding technology have also advanced the treatment standard.
The modern meter, such as the True2go glucose meter shown here, can weigh less
than an ounce.
Image courtesy of
Pulse Oximeter 1981 HOME
DIAGNOSTICS
The first pulse oximeter was introduced in the United States in 1981. Rather than
drawing blood, the device provided a noninvasive way to measure a patient's oxygen
saturation level via wavelength measurements. In the 1980s, manufacturers of pulse
oximeters introduced much smaller technology that was less expensive and easier to
Photo courtesy of use. The Nellcor Pulse Oximeter (pictured) has evolved from its beginnings 25 years
NELLCOR ago into a range of di erent products, from handheld devices that conduct spot
check measurements to compact monitors that use nonadhesive specialty sensors for patients with
fragile skin.

Laryngeal Mask Airway 1981

In 1981, anesthesiologist Archie Brain invented the Laryngeal Mask Airway (LMA), a
device that establishes an unobstructed airway in unconscious patients or patients
under anesthesia. Brain was looking for a device that could replace endotracheal
intubation, a procedure that can cause trauma or unwanted reflux responses in
patients. Since Brain's LMA was first used in a hospital in 1988, it has become a staple
in operating rooms and ambulances. Many versions of the device exist today Image courtesy of
including the AuraOnce Disposable Laryngeal Mask (pictured above), which comes in AMBU INC.
a variety of sizes to fit a range of patients. LMAs have been used in millions of procedures.

EXCEL and PAB IV Containers 1983

Since July 12, 2002, FDA has encouraged the reduction of patient exposure to Di(2-
ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) and recommends replacing DEHP-plasticized PVC
medical products with products that contain alternative materials or plasticizers.
This is particularly true for IV containers, for which plasticizer leaching may be a
critical concern. Although the exact risk presented by DEHP is yet to be determined,
many manufacturers took steps long before FDA made the recommendation to
provide users with DEHP-free products. Manufacturer B. Braun Medical has o ered a
Photo courtesy of line of DEHP-free and PVC-free containers since 1983. Its signature products are the
B. BRAUN Excel and PAB IV containers. Plastic IV containers were first used in the 1950s.
MEDICAL
Automated External Defibrillator 1985

The automated external defibrillator (AED) has been instrumental in saving lives
since it was first developed in 1985. Studies have shown that early defibrillation with
an AED can dramatically increase survival rates—up to 70%. The device, which uses
electricity to stop cardiac arrhythmia and help the heart reestablish a solid rhythm,
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