Modification of Umbilical Plastic Clamp To Secure Nasopharyngeal Prongs Used To Administer CPAP

Abstract

Since the introduction of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) via endotracheal tube by Gregory et al.1 in 1971, several alternate methods of delivering CPAP without the need for endotracheal intubation have been suggested, including the use of nasopharyngeal prongs.2 A major peoblem, however, in delivering CPAP either by endotracheal tube or by nasal prongs has been that of securing the endotracheal tube (or prongs) in place. Recently, Cussel et al.3 have suggested the use of a Hollister plastic clamp adapted for this use. We have used this method successfully for securing endotracheal tubes in place and recently have modified the clamp to secure nasal prongs used to deliver "benign" CPAP without the need for endotracheal intubation in selected patients.