Effect of endotracheal tube depth on efficacy of bronchial blocker when used for one-lung ventilation

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the effect of the endotracheal tube(ETT)depth on the efficacy of bronchial blocker when used for one-lung ventilation. Methods Sixty patients of both sexes, aged 46-78 yr, weighing 48-85 kg, with body mass index<30 kg/m2, scheduled for elective thoracotomy requiring one-lung ventilation, were divided into 2 groups(n=30 each)using a random number table: the distance between the tip of ETT and the carina was 3 cm group(groupⅠ)and the ETT cuff was placed at 2 cm below the glottis group(group Ⅱ). The bronchial blocker was inserted under the guidance of a fiberoptic bronchoscope.The ETT depth, time to bronchial blocker position, development of bronchial blocker displacement and increase in airway peak pressure, degree of lung collapse, severity of postoperative tracheal mucous membrane injury and development of sore throat and hoarseness were recorded. Results Compared with group Ⅰ, the ETT depth was significantly shallower, the time to bronchial blocker position was shortened, postoperative tracheal mucous membrane injury was attenuated(P 0.05). Conclusion The ETT depth the ETT cuff placed at 2 cm below the glottis can improve the efficacy of bronchial blocker when used for one-lung ventilation. Key words: Respiration, artificial; Intubation, intratracheal; Bronchial blocker