Can the ‘two‐bag test’ detect leaks?

Defective heat moisture exchange filter causing 'block' in anaesthesia breathing circuit

“…On subsequent investigation, it was discovered that the two bag test was completed without connecting the HME filter and catheter mount. [ 2 ] Probably, the obstruction in the breathing system would have been picked up, had the circuit been completely assembled while checking. Obstructions in the anaesthesia breathing circuits have been reported due to various foreign bodies.…”

A reply

“…In response to an earlier letter by Walker and colleagues , concerning the ‘two‐bag test’, the full guideline is clear that it does not substitute for any leak tests recommended by the manufacturer or included in any automatic start‐up test. The authors' results suggest that the ‘two‐bag test’ was successful in its intention; it seems likely from their results that it would have been possible to ventilate a patient's lungs even with the induced leak.…”