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- Title
Removal of Obstructing T-Tube and Stabilization of the Airway.
- Authors
Athavale, Sanjay; Dang, Jennifer; Rangarajan, Sanjeet; Garrett, Gaelyn
- Abstract
Although they are extremely effective in maintaining tracheal and subglottic patency, T-tubes themselves can result in airway obstruction from plugging. Many practitioners educate patients on placing a small (5.0) endotracheal tube (ETT) through the tracheal limb of the T-tube if they develop airway obstruction. Unfortunately, this can be a difficult task to complete during acute airway obstruction. In this article we describe a simple set of steps for rapid relief of airway obstruction and stabilization of the airway in the event of T-tube obstruction. This method requires removal of the T-tube with a Kelly clamp and stabilization of the airway with a tracheostomy tube. Although it is simple, we hope that this technique will prevent morbidity and mortality from acute airway obstructions related to T-tubes.
- Subjects
TREATMENT of respiratory obstructions; AIRWAY (Anatomy); ENDOTRACHEAL tubes; SURGICAL instruments; OTOLARYNGOLOGY
- Publication
Laryngoscope, 2011, Vol 121, Issue S5, pS243
- ISSN
0023-852X
- Publication type
Article
- DOI
10.1002/lary.22194