During normal breathing, the nose and upper respiratory tract acts as a natural heat and moisture exchanger. When a patient is intubated, this mechanism is bypassed. In addition the inspired gases are also very dry. Because of these conditions, an artificial way of reducing heat and moisture loss is needed. GE Healthcare offers five types of Heat and Moisture Exchangers (HME). Each is designed for a different clinical application or patient category: Edith Flex, Edith Trach, Edith 500, Edith 1000 and Edith 1500.

The HME media has a large condensation surface with hygroscopic coating. This helps ensure effective moisture and heat retention thus minimizing the moisture and heat loss of the patient. Edith HMEs help create normal conditions in the patient's airway and lungs, which helps to reduce the risk of breathing and lung complications for patients in critical care and anesthesia environments.

The Edith Trach is intended for use by spontaneously breathing tracheostomized patients. It can be used during weaning from the ventilator or by persons having a permanent tracheostoma. Edith Trach is placed directly on the tracheostomy tube. Its lid is perforated to allow suctioning of the patient and there is a port for connecting an oxygen supply tube.

Edith HMEs are designed according to ISO standards to help facilitate connection to different ventilators and anesthesia systems. All materials are carefully selected to be environmentally friendly when incinerated.