Clinical evaluation of long-term use of a portable oxygen concentrator capable of operating under car battery power

An oxygen concentrator that can be powered by a car battery was clinically evaluated. The oxygen concentrator was used on a 67-year-old man with sequelae of pulmonary tuberculosis who was receiving long-term home oxygen therapy (HOT) after long-term use of 4.7 years. His work required automobile trips over long distances. The equipment used was an adsorption-type oxygen concentrator capable of operating on a DC 12 V power supply, which could be powered from a residential power outlet (AC 100 V) using a dedicated voltage converter. Using this equipment, he was capable of driving himself in comfort for 2 hours or longer, over a period of 4 years. Furthermore, it was possible to stay in a hotel during a trip, inhaling oxygen generated by the equipment. Hereafter, this equipment should enable or facilitate long-distance driving, travel and lodging for HOT patients.