Walgreens-OptionCare > Respiratory > Services and equipment > HELiOS® liquid oxygen systems

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HELiOS systems represent the most recent advances in home oxygen therapy. They combine the efficient storage capacity of liquid oxygen systems with the use of a conserving device to extend the amount of time the oxygen will last. Liquid oxygen allows us to store more than 800 times the amount of oxygen in the space of gaseous oxygen. A larger base unit is placed in the user's home and is filled with liquid oxygen. The unit is a large "thermos-bottle" that keeps the liquid oxygen at a temperature of more than 300 degrees below zero. A small, lightweight portable unit is filled and forms the base unit, which weighs less than 4 pounds when full. The portable unit incorporates a conserving device that senses the user's inspiration and only provides oxygen when the user is inhaling. The unit is shut off while the user is exhaling, which saves about two-thirds of the oxygen that would be used by flowing continuously. The portable unit can be carried on a belt type "fanny pack."

As with any type of conserving technology, the physician will want to test the user to make sure it is safe and effective for the user. Not all users are able to use this technology. This unit requires no electricity to operate and is ideal for anyone who needs to be out of the home frequently or for extended periods of time. Typically, at 2 liters per minute, a HELiOS portable will last 7 to 10 hours.