#Combitube intubation The Combitube is a twin lumen device designed for use in emergency situations and difficult airways. It can be inserted without the need for visualization into the oropharynx, and usually enters the esophagus. It has a low volume inflatable distal cuff and a much larger proximal cuff designed to occlude the oro- and nasopharynx . If the tube has entered the trachea, ventilation is achieved through the distal lumen as with a standard ETT. More commonly the device enters the esophagus and ventilation is achieved through multiple proximal apertures situated above the distal cuff. In the latter case the proximal and distal cuffs have to be inflated to prevent air from escaping through the esophagus or back out of the oro- and nasopharynx. The Combitube has been used effectively in cardiopulmonary resuscitation. It has been used succesfully in patients with difficult airways secondary to severe facial burns, trauma, upper airway bleeding and vomiting where there was an inability to visualize the vocal cords. It can be used in patients whose cervical spine has been immobilized with a rigid cervical collar, though placement may be more difficult. Ventilation does not seem to be affected by the rigid cervical collar if the Combitube can be placed.
Posted on: Wed, 12 Nov 2014 16:06:49 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015