Abstract
Neonatal mechanical ventilation (MV) is complex and its efficiency is limited due to leakage of air around the endotracheal tube (ETT). Adult ETT cuffs cannot be used in neonatal patients to block reverse flow as they cause damage to delicate throat tissues. A novel design and testing method for a non-contact neonatal ETT cuff was developed and validated. The goal was to minimise cuff surface area and contact, while creating resistance to airflow using turbulence to reduce ventilator leakage and increase efficacy of treatment for neonatal patients. Several cuff designs were generated based on testing results. Cuffs were tested using flow visualisation methods to assess leak performance in a fluid dynamically scaled experimental test setup. Final cuff designs utilised successful elements from several cuff design iterations. Overall, leakage was reduced by an average of 77.8% from an uncuffed baseline. By increasing the efficacy of healthcare solutions for neonatal patients it is hoped the burden on New Zealand's NICUs will be reduced, and quality of care increased to improve overall patient outcomes.
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