Double-lumen endotracheal tubes and bronchial blockers allow lung isolation for one-lung ventilation. Few studies, however, directly compare these devices. Further, a new endobronchial blocker (Coopdech) is available in some countries. Our primary hypothesis was that bronchial blockers would be associated with less sore throat or hoarse voice than double-lumen tubes. Secondary outcomes were successful one-lung ventilation and surgical access. In this prospective trial, 120 Chinese patients undergoing elective surgery were randomly assigned to one of four groups of 30 patients: Coopdech blocker, Arndt blocker, Univent tube or double-lumen tube. Postoperative sore throat and hoarse voice were assessed in the recovery room and 24 hours after surgery. The incidence and severity of sore throat or hoarse voice was less in the blocker groups than double-lumen tube group: Coopdech 13%, Arndt 20%, Univent 30% and double-lumen tube 60%, P <0.001. The blocker groups did not significantly differ, P=0.28. Compared to the double-lumen tubes the bronchial blockers took about two minutes less to position but five minutes longer for lung deflation. Surgical exposure was uniformly good across the four groups. We conclude that clinical use of the Coopdech endobronchial blocker is similar to the Arndt and Univent blockers and that all three are associated with less sore throat or hoarse voice than double-lumen tubes.

Rationale: Recurrent laryngeal papillomatosis (RLP) is a common benign tumor in the larynx of children, which is characterized by high recurrence rate and rapid growth, leading to clinical symptoms such as hoarseness and difficulty breathing. Low-temperature plasma radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is the main treatment, but ventilation problems are often encountered during surgery. Patient concerns: We report a case of a 2-year-old child with RLP who underwent low-temperature plasma RFA with the assistance of a laryngoscope. However, the surgery had to be temporarily stopped due to ventilation difficulties and difficulty in maintaining blood oxygen saturation during the procedure. Diagnosis: The child was diagnosed with RLP. Interventions: The child underwent low-temperature plasma RFA supported by laryngoscopy assisted by ECMO. Outcomes: Despite ventilation problems during surgery, the use of ECMO support helped maintain good oxygen saturation in the child and provided a clear surgical field, enabling the tumor to be quickly and cleanly removed. Therefore, the use of ECMO provided critical support during the surgery. Lessons: This case highlights the importance of airway management during laryngeal papillomatosis surgery. A thorough airway assessment should be performed before anesthesia, and early use of ECMO can reduce harm to the child and ensure the child’s safety.