To assess the ease of intubation and post-extubation complications of the airway due to the use of microcuffed endotracheal tubes and uncuffed endotracheal tubes

Abstract

Introduction. Pediatric airway management poses unique challenges due to anatomical differences from adults, rendering children more susceptible to airway complications. Historically, uncuffed endotracheal tubes (ETTs) were preferred in pediatric intubation to minimize risks, but microcuffed (low volume, low pressure) ETTs offer advantages including improved seal and better ventilation efficiency. This study aims to compare the ease of intubation and post-operative airway complications between microcuffed and uncuffed ETTs. Aim. To assess the ease of intubation and post-extubation complications of the airway due to the use of microcuffed endotracheal tubes and uncuffed endotracheal tubes. Methodology. An observational study was conducted on pediatric patients aged 0-10 years undergoing elective surgeries under general anesthesia. Convenience sampling was used to select 54 participants. Patients were divided into two groups: uncuffed endotracheal tube (UG) and cuffed endotracheal tube (CG). Data on intubation attempts and post-operative complications were collected. Results. Baseline characteristics including age, gender, weight, and ASA grade were comparable between groups. Single-attempt intubation success was higher in the uncuffed group (55.6%) compared to the cuffed group (40.7%). Post-operative complications such as respiratory distress, stridor, hypoxemia, and restlessness were more prevalent in the uncuffed group but not statistically significant. Conclusion. This observational study suggests fewer postoperative complications with cuffed endotracheal tube insertion in pediatric patients. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings and explore the efficacy of microcuffed tubes in pediatric anesthesia.