A pig intubated and connected to an artificial respirator, tested by Panama as part of the fight against the coronavirus.

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Arnulfo Franco / AP / SIPA

Doctors in Panama are currently testing a new model of ventilator, intended for patients with the coronavirus in critical condition, on pigs.

The first tests were performed on mannequins, but experimentation on animals is essential before potential use on patients.

Anticipate a shortage of ventilators

The aim of the program is to develop new models of respirators in anticipation of a possible shortage of devices.

Panama holds the record for the number of coronavirus cases in Central America, with more than 104,000 confirmed cases, including 2,213 dead.

#Panama - Ventilator prototypes tested on pigs to help fight Covid-19 in Panama.

#AFP


📸 @lacostacastro pic.twitter.com/oQOVa4Yxq4

- AFP Photo (@AFPphoto) September 23, 2020

Even if the daily number of deaths and positive cases is falling, the authorities fear a rebound in the epidemic.

Panama wants "to be able to locally develop" about fifty ventilators, according to one of the researchers of the project, who explains that the shortage had been one of the main problems in the management of the epidemic.

Seven respirator prototypes tested

For their experiments, the researchers used healthy pigs weighing 25 to 40 kg, supplied by Panamanian breeders.

The animals are placed in an artificial coma and intubated.

By then administering them a saline solution, the scientists cause a lung lesion that simulates the breathing difficulties of Covid-19 patients.

The animal is then connected to a conventional respirator and to a local prototype alternately to compare the performance of the two devices.

Seven prototypes are currently being tested.

After about 2h30 of tests, the animal is euthanized.

Researchers are primarily trying to avoid pain in animals, says Juan Tapia, a veterinarian.

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