The Medtronic Puritan Bennett™ 980 (PB 980) Ventilator is a critical care ventilator designed for adult, pediatric, and neonatal patients (weighing ≥5 kg). Below is a breakdown of its key features, modes, and specifications relevant to different patient populations:

1. Patient Population Coverage

• Adults & Pediatrics (≥5 kg)

  • Primary use for invasive and non-invasive ventilation.

  • Advanced modes for various respiratory conditions.

• Neonates (≥5 kg, but limited neonatal-specific features)

  • While the PB 980 can be used for larger neonates, it is not designed for extremely low birth weight (ELBW) or premature neonates (unlike dedicated neonatal ventilators like the PB 840 or AVEA).

  • Lacks some neonatal-specific modes (e.g., high-frequency ventilation).

2. Key Ventilation Modes

The PB 980 offers invasive and non-invasive (NIV) ventilation with multiple modes:

• Volume Control (VC)

• Pressure Control (PC)

• Pressure Support (PS)

• Synchronized Intermittent Mandatory Ventilation (SIMV) + Pressure Support

• Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)

• Non-Invasive Ventilation (NIV) Mode

3. Neonatal Considerations (2020 Update)

• The PB 980 is not FDA-cleared for neonates <5 kg but can be used for larger infants (e.g., term neonates or those >5 kg).

• Lacks specialized neonatal waveforms and apnea backup ventilation found in dedicated neonatal ventilators.

• Flow triggering is available but may not be as sensitive as in neonatal-specific devices.

4. Key Features

• Touchscreen Interface – User-friendly with real-time waveforms.

• Auto-Flow Technology – Adjusts flow based on patient demand.

• Leak Compensation – Useful for non-invasive ventilation.

• Integrated Battery Backup – Up to 90 minutes of operation.

• Advanced Monitoring – Includes pressure, volume, flow, and SpO₂ (with optional modules).

5. Limitations in Neonatal Use

• No high-frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFOV).

• Limited sensitivity for very small tidal volumes (compared to neonatal ventilators like the Drager VN500 or Hamilton-C1).

• Not ideal for extreme prematurity due to flow and trigger limitations.

6. Comparison with Dedicated Neonatal Ventilators

Conclusion

• Best for Adults & Pediatrics ≥5 kg – The PB 980 is a versatile ICU ventilator with advanced features for larger patients.

• Limited Neonatal Use – Can support term or larger neonates (≥5 kg) but lacks specialized features for extreme prematurity.

• Not a Replacement for Neonatal Ventilators – Hospitals with NICU needs should use dedicated neonatal ventilators.