Insertion depth of nasotracheal tubes sized to fit the nostril: an observational study.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Nasotracheal (NT) intubation is commonly applied during head and neck surgery. However, improper tube size and depth may cause complications. In the current study, we investigated whether NT tubes are being appropriately used in terms of size and depth in adult patients.

Methods

Nares were sized in 40 patients using standard nasopharyngeal airways (6.0-8.0) before elective surgery under general anesthesia. The largest sized airway that passed easily into the nasopharynx without resistance was considered as a proper size. Using a fiberoptic scope, the distances from the nares to the vocal cords and the nares to the carina were measured. Rates of proper NT tube positioning were calculated with regard to the cuff and distal tip.

Results

The most frequent sizes

SUBMITTER: Lee B 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6384463 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature