What is the Difference Between Medical Gas and Oxygen? 

What Is the Difference Between Medical Gas and Oxygen?

Oxygen is used to treat and relieve various health conditions and illnesses, from asthma to pneumonia. The medical need for oxygen gas also skyrocketed in the last couple of years because of COVID-19. Moreover, rising cancer cases resulted in a higher demand for liquid nitrogen for treatment and research purposes.

The medical gases market was valued at an estimated $12.5 billion at the end of 2021. Based on historical data from 2016 to 2021, experts anticipate a 7.60% growth rate from 2022 to 2027. The market is forecasted to be valued at $19.67 billion by 2027.

Rely on nexAir’s industry KnowHow for the knowledge and technology necessary to stay relevant and profitable in the medical gases industry. Here, we discuss the difference between oxygen and common gases used in hospitals and other medical settings.

 

What Is Oxygen?

Oxygen is arguably the most commonly used medical gas from trauma sites to surgery rooms. It alleviates asthma and other respiratory conditions. It also aids with respiratory complications among newborns, the elderly, and other vulnerable groups.

Furthermore, oxygen may be used in incubators to stimulate cell growth.

What Is Medical Gas?

Although oxygen is a medical gas, it isn’t the only type of gas used during surgery, therapy, anesthesia, and other medical procedures. Other medical gasses are commonly used throughout hospitals and healthcare facilities, including in general wards, special wards, operating rooms, recovery rooms, intensive care units, etc. 

Medical gases must be free of particles and contamination to ensure the health and safety of patients. They are either administered through a cylinder or a central supply source. Learn more about the different types of medical gas below:

Carbon Dioxide

Much like oxygen, carbon dioxide can be used in incubators to stimulate cell growth. It may be used by surgeons during minimally invasive surgical procedures, such as arthroscopy and laparoscopy, to allow better visibility of the surgical site.

Helium

Helium is the medical gas for patients who need higher oxygen intake due to airway obstruction and respiratory conditions. It helps create access to obstructed airways to ensure uninterrupted oxygen flow to those with severe respiratory obstruction.

Apart from its purpose as a medical gas, the liquid form of helium may be used to minimize the electrical resistance of NMR instruments and MRI machines.

Nitrogen

Medical grade nitrogen is typically used to free biological samples, such as bone marrow and tissues. It is also used in cryosurgery, dermatology, and similar procedures to eliminate tissue infection.

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, or “laughing gas,” has a different chemical makeup than nitrogen and is often used as an analgesic and anesthetic during dental procedures. The liquid form may also help preserve biological materials.

 

Get Medical Gas and Oxygen from a Reliable Source

Count on nexAir for your medical gases and oxygen supply needs. We maintain the highest quality standards, and our technical knowledge and insights will aid your research, allowing you to Forge Forward with your patient care. 

Additionally, you can count on us to provide instrument-grade gases that allow you to conduct accurate and effective tests. You may also contact us for custom gas mixtures that leave no room for error.

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