A new airway for tracheal or esophageal insertion: Description and field experience

Maintenance of an unobstructed airway and administration of controlled ventilation by face mask can save the life of the patient unable to sustain adequate spontaneous ventilation. Techniques for obtaining an unobstructed airway are reviewed, as are methods of positioning and holding the face mask. Breathing bag systems used to deliver supplemental oxygen and positive-pressure ventilation to the nonintubated patient are discussed.Controlled ventilation is necessary whenever a patient is unable to sustain adequate spontaneous ventilation. The safest and most efficient method of providing controlled ventilation is by positivepressure ventilation through an endotracheal tube. However, endotracheal intubation by either the oral or nasal route requires equipment and technical skill that may not be available in all emergency settings. Controlled ventilation administered by mask is a lifesaving technique that may be used before and, if unavoidable, in lieu of positivepressure ventilation administered through an endotracheal tube.To achieve adequate positive-pressure ventilation by mask, thre criteria must be met. First, a mask must be selected that will provide an adequate seal with the patient's face. Second, the patient's airway must be unobstructed during both the inspiratory and expiratory phases of the ventilatory cycle. Third, a breathing bag system must be available that is capable of delivering an adequate minute volume and inspired oxygen concentration to meet the patient's ventilatory and oxygenation needs. During administration of positive-pressure ventilation the adequacy of ventilation must be frequently assessed.

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“…Several other ventilation systems designed to overcome these problems have recently been described, including the tracheoesophageal airway [23].…”

Section: The Unobstructed Airwaymentioning

confidence: 99%

“…The tracheoesophageal airway is designed to facilitate adequate ventilation whether inserted into the trachea or esophagus [23]. If inserted into the trachea, it is used as a standard endotracheal tube; if inserted into the esophagus, it is used as an esophageal obturator.…”

Section: The Unobstructed Airwaymentioning

confidence: 99%