Disposable vs. Reusable Anesthetic Circuits: Cost, Safety, and Sustainability
Anesthetic breathing circuits are critical components in anesthesia delivery systems, responsible for transferring gases between the anesthesia machine and the patient. Healthcare facilities often face a choice between disposable and reusable circuits. Each option carries implications for infection control, cost efficiency, environmental sustainability, and workflow. This blog provides a detailed comparison to guide decision-making for anesthesiologists, operating room managers, and procurement professionals.
MK Waikwa
4/6/20251 min read
1. Safety and Infection Control
Disposable Circuits
Pros:
Single-use significantly reduces the risk of cross-contamination.
Ideal for patients with known or suspected infectious diseases.
No need for reprocessing, minimizing handling errors.
Cons:
Quality control may vary across manufacturers.
Reusable Circuits
Pros:
Constructed with durable materials that withstand multiple sterilization cycles.
Cons:
Require rigorous cleaning and disinfection protocols.
Risk of infection due to improper reprocessing or damaged seals.
2. Cost Comparison
Category Disposable Circuits Reusable Circuits Initial Cost $5 – $25 per unit $50 – $200 per unit Lifetime Cost One-time use Reused 20–100 times Maintenance None Requires cleaning, drying, sterilization Per-Use Cost Estimate $5 – $25 $1 – $5 per use (depending on usage and processing costs)
3. Environmental Impact
Disposable Circuits
Generate significant medical waste.
Contribute to plastic and packaging disposal issues.
Less environmentally sustainable unless part of a recycling initiative.
Reusable Circuits
Reduced waste generation.
Require water, energy, and chemical disinfectants for sterilization.
More sustainable over long-term use in high-volume settings.
4. Workflow and Logistical Considerations
Disposable Circuits
Simplify inventory and scheduling.
Require adequate storage space and consistent supplier availability.
Reusable Circuits
Depend on sterilization infrastructure.
Require tracking systems for usage cycles and integrity checks.
5. Leading Manufacturers and Suppliers
Disposable Circuits
Medline
Teleflex
GE Healthcare
Vyaire Medical
Smiths Medical
Reusable Circuits
Dräger
Armstrong Medical
Fisher & Paykel Healthcare
Intersurgical
Decision-Making Considerations
When selecting between disposable and reusable circuits, institutions should evaluate:
Infection control policies and patient population.
Operating volume and throughput.
Available sterilization infrastructure.
Environmental sustainability goals.
Budget constraints and cost-per-use projections.
Conclusion
Both disposable and reusable anesthetic circuits serve vital roles depending on institutional needs. Disposable circuits offer unmatched convenience and infection control, while reusable systems provide long-term cost and environmental benefits in facilities equipped for proper reprocessing. The decision should align with clinical safety, economic sustainability, and environmental responsibility.
Which option would suit your settings in terms of accessibility, costs and sustainability? Please share below: