Types of Nebulizers: Their Mechanisms & Benefits

What is a Nebuliser

A nebuliser is an electronic device that converts liquid medication into a fine aerosol or mist so that it can be carried to the lungs with help of face mask or mouthpiece.

There are various mechanisms by which the liquid medicine can be converted to aerosol or mist. Depending on these mechanisms, the nebulisers are categorised into various types (elaborated below).

Types of Nebulisers

There are three types of nebulisers.

1. Jet Nebuliser

Jet nebulisers use pressurised gas/air to pull the liquid medication from the nebuliser cup through a thin capillary. The pressurised air or gas is provided by the compressor.

The liquid medication is converted into an aerosol or mist made of up small and large particles.

Smaller particles are inhaled, while the larger particles hit the inside wall of the medication cup and enter back into the medication cup/chamber.

Advantages:

Any type of liquid medicine can be nebulised.

Jet nebulisers are less expensive.

Disadvantages:

Portability remains an issue with jet nebulizers.

Assembling the nebuliser can be difficult for some patients who suffer from physical and cognitive impairment.

2. Mesh Nebuliser

A mesh nebuliser is a type of nebuliser that uses a fine mesh or aperture plate with tiny holes to create an aerosol or mist from liquid medication. It works by pushing the liquid through the mesh using vibrations, producing a fine mist that can be easily inhaled into the lungs.

Advantages:

Has improved and consistent aerosol-generating efficiency as compared to jet nebulisers.

Nebulisation can be achieved using a low medication volume as compared to jet nebulisers.

Small size, lightweight, and battery-operated system makes it easily portable and handy.

Disadvantages:

nebulisers cannot be used to deliver suspensions icon

Most mesh nebulisers cannot be used to deliver suspensions (these do not flow easily and, so, can clog the mesh pores).

Can be difficult to clean.

More expensive than jet nebulisers.

3. Ultrasonic Nebuliser

An ultrasonic nebuliser is a type of nebuliser that uses high-frequency sound waves (generated by a piezoelectric crystal) to convert liquid medication into a fine mist for inhalation. Unlike jet nebulisers, it does not require compressed air, making it quieter and faster.