Acid reflux to the proximal esophagus of this animal model did not cause laryngeal exposure to acid or aspiration of gastric content. The results of this study suggest that presence of GER, secondary to lower esophageal dysfunction is not necessarily associated with upper and lower airway pathology.

NTI is included in the ASA difficult airway algorithm. However, even with the assistance of a Magill forceps, it might be difficult to place the endotracheal (ET) tube in the trachea because of the angle at which the tube approaches the glottis opening and the inability to bend the tube secondary to the ET-tubes compliance. By placing a soft suction catheter thru the ET-tube, and placing the suction catheter into the trachea first and sliding the tube over the catheter this problem can be avoided. In addition, grabbing the suction catheter rather than the ET-tube, also prevents the rupturing of the ET-tube balloon by the Magill forceps.