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Background: Securing the airway in the emergency department (ED) is a high-stakes procedure; however, the primary success and complication rate are largely unknown in Germany. The aim of this study was a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected resuscitation room data for endotracheal intubation (ETI) regarding indications, performance and complications. Method: Between 1 January 2020 and 30 June 2023 all ETIs conducted in the ED (Kliniken Maria Hilf, Moenchengladbach, Germany) were analyzed following approval by the ethics committee (EK 23-369). Primary intubations performed by the anesthesiology department were excluded. The core medical team of the ED underwent a six-week training program including a two-week anesthesia rotation prior to performing ETI in the ED. There were standard operating procedures (SOP) for both rapid sequence induction (RSI) and airway exchange with a placed laryngeal tube (LT) utilizing video laryngoscopy (C-Mac, Storz), rocuronium for relaxation and primary intubation with an elastic bougie. The primary success rate, overall success rate and intubation-related complications were analyzed. Additionally, the factor of consultant ED staff and residents was evaluated with respect to the primary success rate. Results: During the study period 499 patients were intubated by the core ED team and 28 patients underwent airway exchange from LT to ETI. Primary success could be achieved in 489/499 (98.0%) ETI and in 25/28 (89.3%) LT exchange patients. Surgically achieved securing of the airway was carried out in 5/527 (0.9%) patients in a cannot intubate situation and 11/527 (2.2%) patients suffered cardiac arrest minutes after the ETI. The overall first pass success rate of endotracheal tube placement was 514/527 (97.4%). The comparison of the primary success of consultants (168/175; 96.0%) vs. residents 320/325 (98.5%) yielded no significant differences (p = 0.08). Conclusion: In clinical acute and emergency medicine, a standardized approach utilizing video laryngoscopy and a bougie following a structured training concept, can achieve an above-average high primary success rate with simultaneous low severe complications in the high-risk collective of critically ill emergency patients in an intrahospital setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The German guidelines for airway management aim to optimize the care of patients undergoing anesthesia or intensive care. The preanesthesia evaluation is an important component for detection of anatomical and physiological indications for difficult mask ventilation and intubation. If predictors for a difficult or impossible mask ventilation and/or endotracheal intubation are present the airway should be secured while maintaining spontaneous breathing. In an unexpectedly difficult intubation, attempts to secure the airway should be limited to two with each method used. A video laryngoscope is recommended after an unsuccessful direct laryngoscopy. Therefore, a video laryngoscope should be available at every anesthesiology workspace throughout the hospital. Securing the airway should primarily be performed with a video laryngoscope in critically ill patients and patients at risk of pulmonary aspiration. Experienced personnel should perform or supervise airway management in the intensive care unit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Anaesthesiologie & Intensivmedizin is the property of DGAI e.V. - Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Anasthesiologie und Intensivmedizin e.V. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Anaesthesiologie & Intensivmedizin is the property of DGAI e.V. - Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Anasthesiologie und Intensivmedizin e.V. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Airway management with supraglottic airway devices (SGA) in life-threatening emergencies in children is increasingly being used. Different specifications of laryngeal masks (LM) and the laryngeal tube (LT) are commonly used devices for this purpose. We present a literature review and interdisciplinary consensus statement of different societies on the use of SGA in pediatric emergency medicine. Material and methods: Literature review in the PubMed database and classification of studies according to the criteria of the Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine. Levels and consensus finding within the group of authors. Results: The evidence for successful applications of the various types of LM is significantly higher than for LT application. Reported smaller series of successful applications of LT are currently limited to selected research groups and centers. Especially for children below 10 kg body weight there currently exists insufficient evidence for the successful application of the LT and therefore its routine use cannot be recommended. SGAs used for emergencies should have a gastric drainage possibility. Discussion: Considering the scientific data and the large clinical experience with the LM in medical routine and emergency situations in children currently only the LM can be recommended for alternative (i.e., non-intubation) emergency airway management in children. If alternative airway management is part of a local emergency strategy, the LM should be provided in all pediatric sizes (1, 1½, 2, 2½, 3) for out of hospital use and in hospital emergency use and all users should regularly be trained in its application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Anaesthesiologie & Intensivmedizin is the property of DGAI e.V. - Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Anasthesiologie und Intensivmedizin e.V. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Medizinische Klinik: Intensivmedizin & Notfallmedizin is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Anaesthesiologie & Intensivmedizin is the property of DGAI e.V. - Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Anasthesiologie und Intensivmedizin e.V. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background and Objective: Difficult airway management is a key skill in preclinical emergency medicine. A lower rate of subjective difficult airways and an increased success rate of endotracheal intubation have been reported for highly trained emergency physicians. The aim of this study was therefore to analyze the effect for different specialists and the individual state of training in the German emergency medical system.Material and Methods: In a retrospective register analysis of 6024 preclinical anesthesia procedures, the frequencies of airway devices, neuromuscular blocking agents, capnography and difficult airways were analyzed with respect to specialization and status of training. Additionally, low, medium and highly experienced emergency physicians in airway management were summarized by specialization and status of training according to the Dreyfus model of skill acquisition and compared.Results: The incidence of subjective difficult airway situations was 10% for anesthesiological emergency physicians compared to 15-20% for other disciplines. The latter used supraglottic airway devices more often (7-9% vs. 4%) and video laryngoscopes less often (3% vs. 5%) compared to anesthesiological emergency physicians. The discipline-related state of training was inhomogeneous and revealed a reduced rate of supraglottic airway devices for internal specialists with further training (10% vs. 2%). Anesthetists specialized in intensive care medicine used capnography less frequently compared to other anesthetists (79% vs. 72%). With higher levels of experience in airway management, the frequency of endotracheal intubation (86% vs. 94%), neuromuscular blocking agents (59% vs. 73%) and video laryngoscopy (3% vs. 6%) increased and the incidence of subjective difficult airway situations (16% vs. 10%) decreased.Conclusion: The level of training in airway management especially for non-anesthetists is inhomogeneous. The recently published German S1 guidelines for prehospital airway management recommend education and training as well as the primary use of the video laryngoscope with Macintosh blade. The implementation could lower the incidence of subjective difficult airways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Airway management in patients with an unstable cervical spine requires a cautious approach if secondary damage is to be prevented but the question regarding the optimum method remains unresolved. The primary aim of the study was to investigate whether there were differences between intubation by conventional Macintosh laryngoscopy and placement of a laryngeal tube (LTS-D) with respect to dural sac compression on an unfixed human cadaver model with unstable injuries of the upper cervical spine. Secondary parameters that could be relevant in patients with unstable spinal injuries were also investigated.Material and Methods: Orotracheal intubation by conventional direct laryngoscopy using a Macintosh blade and placement of a laryngeal tube (LTS-D) were performed in six fresh human cadavers. The dural sac was filled with contrast dye to allow continuous myelography by lateral fluoroscopy. Changes in the width of the dural sac at the cervical segments (C) C0/C1 and the C1/C2 levels as well as secondary parameters (angulation, distraction, intervention time) were assessed in the intact spine as well as in the presence of combined atlanto-occipital dislocation and atlanto-axial instability. The intubation methods were considered independent and examined using the Mann-Whitney U‑test.Results: At the C0/C1 level in the intact spine, conventional laryngoscopy caused less reduction of the width of the dural sac than placement of the LTS-D (0.33 mm vs. 0.46 mm, p = 0.035); however, in the presence of combined atlanto-occipital dislocation and atlanto-axial instability, placement of the LTS-D caused less reduction in the width of the dural sac than conventional intubation (1.18 mm vs. 0.68 mm, p = 0.005). At the C1/C2 level no differences were found with respect to changes in the width of the dural sac, neither in the intact spine nor in combined atlanto-occipital dislocation and atlanto-axial instability. Conventional intubation caused more angulation than placement of the LTS-D at both levels measured. Both methods did not cause distraction. The intervention times for placement of the laryngeal tube were shorter.Conclusion: In an unfixed human cadaver model with combined atlanto-occipital dislocation and atlanto-axial instability, placement of the LTS-D caused less reduction in the width of the dural sac than conventional intubation at the level of the craniocervical junction. The LTS-D also caused less angulation and could be placed faster. It could therefore also be advantageous over conventional intubation in living patients with an unstable cervical spine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Due to multiple factors the performance of preclinical emergency anesthesia is fraught with risks even for experienced emergency physicians. In order to support emergency physicians in monitoring and management of anesthesia, the German practice management guidelines for preclinical emergency anesthesia in adults were published in 2015; however, current data on adherence to the guidelines are not available.Material and Methods: In a retrospective register analysis of preclinical anesthesia from 2015-2017 in Baden-Württemberg, the recorded anesthetic agents, monitoring, airway management and medical disciplines of emergency physicians were analyzed. The anesthetic agents utilized were compared to the emergency scenarios in the guidelines (e.g. cardiac patients, patients with acute respiratory insufficiency or acute neurological disorder and trauma patients).Results: Midazolam and propofol were predominantly used in the 12,605 cases of preclinical emergency anesthesia evaluated. The adherence to the guidelines was 35% for cardiac patients, 51% for patients with acute respiratory insufficiency or 52% for acute neurological disorders and 79% for trauma patients. Securing the airway was carried out in 88.5 % with endotracheal intubation (capnography 79%). Discipline-related differences occurred in airway management for the devices used, capnography, muscle relaxation and the frequency of the subjectively difficult airway. A higher adherence for trauma patients and patients with acute neurological disorders was found for emergency physicians who were anesthesiologists compared to non-anesthesiologists.Conclusion: The study of the current state of preclinical emergency anesthesia in Germany showed a deficient implementation of the pharmacological recommendations for action except for trauma patients. Reasons for divergence could arise due to different availability of rescue equipment, training concepts or discipline of emergency physicians. Suitable education and training could improve the quality of prehospital anesthesia in Germany. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Unanticipated airway problems in infants can rapidly develop into severe hypoxemia. Team members can provide support and suggest steps of action if a shared mental model of the next steps exists. Briefing prior to induction of anaesthesia may create such a shared mental model among all team members.Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess whether a short briefing on the recommendations for an unexpected difficult airway, developed by the Working Group on Paediatric Anaesthesia of the German Society for Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, would influence the management of an unexpected difficult mask ventilation in an infant. The study also aims to assess whether a shared mental model would encourage the anaesthesia nurse to speak up and foster implicit coordination.Methods: Nineteen teams consisting of an anaesthesia resident and an anaesthesia nurse participated in a scenario of an urgent induction of anaesthesia in an infant. Teams were randomized to either conduct a briefing on the recommendations for an unexpected difficult airway prior to induction of anaesthesia or to have access to a Web-based cognitive aid with an emergency manual page containing the identical algorithm if needed. Induction of anaesthesia triggered upper airway obstruction and desaturation. The time course of desaturation followed published physiologic modelling. The time until the obstruction was relieved was recorded. Video recordings of the scenarios were analysed with respect to coordination patterns prior to induction as well as to coordination forms (implicit vs. explicit) during the emergency. At the end of the course, participants were asked to fill out a questionnaire.Results: Teams of both groups checked on the availability of airway equipment, but teams in the briefing group talked more often about treatment steps to relieve airway obstruction (p < 0.005). The time until the obstruction was relieved was significantly shorter in the briefing group (median: 80 s vs. 126 s; p < 0.005). In 45 % of the intervention scenarios the nurse suggested the solution to the airway problem whereas only 10 % of the nurses in the control group proposed a measure to relieve the obstruction (n.s.). Both groups showed no difference in the frequency of implicit vs. explicit coordination patterns. Nurses from the intervention group found the situation to be less an emergency and felt better prepared than nurses from the control group (p < 0.05).Conclusion: Briefings prior to anaesthesia induction in paediatric anaesthesia should include management of unanticipated problems. In a simulation setting, a briefing on treatment steps for an unexpected difficult airway improves management of an upper airway obstruction. Explicit communication of intended actions by the anaesthesiologist may foster speaking up by team members. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The correct placement of an endotracheal tube in children is essential as incorrect placement following unilateral ventilation and tube displacement may lead to far-reaching consequences, such as volutrauma and hypoxia, respectively. Different formulae referring to the correct placement of nasotracheal and orotracheal tubes have been published with reference to body weight and age.Objective: The aim of the present review article was to identify and compare the published formulae for estimating correct endotracheal tube placement in children with their advantages and disadvantages.Material and Methods: A search in Medline and PubMed was performed to identify published formulae. Formulae for insertion depth in orotracheal and also nasotracheal intubation are discussed. The published formulae for newborns and infants are presented separately. The keywords "paediatric"/"pediatric", "anaesthesia"/"anesthesia", "anaesthesiology"/"anesthesiology", "endotracheal tube", "placement", "position", "length", "depth" and "insertion" were used to identify the formulae.Results: A total of 806 publications were found, 16 publications were identified as being relevant and 13 different formulae were identified. In the age group from 1 to 16 years old a total of 7 formulae (6 age-based formulae and one based on weight) and for newborns and infants a total of 6 formulae (4 formulae based on body weight, 1 formula based on body length and 1 formula based on gestational age) were found. All publications were subsequently assessed and classified independently by a specialist physician in anesthesiology and a specialist physician in pediatrics.Conclusion: The published formulae were comparatively simply to apply but had notable limitations. Correlating the position of the endotracheal tubes with chest x-rays, the concordance analysis showed that for the age-based formulae using orotracheal as well as nasotracheal intubation and in both age groups, an accordance could only be achieved in a maximum of 81%. In the presence of a lack of alternative possibilities, only one formula based on the gestational age seemed to have an impact on estimation of correct endotracheal tube depth placement in newborns and infants. Therefore, a generally valid formula cannot be recommended without verification by auscultation or chest x-ray. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: According to the recent guidelines supraglottic airways, such as laryngeal tubes are recommended to ensure oxygenation in patients with unexpected difficult airways. The novel Intubating Laryngeal Tube Suction Disposable (iLTS-D) is a modified laryngeal tube designed for secondary tracheal intubation. This pilot study evaluated the use of the iLTS-D in clinical practice with respect to practicality and efficacy.Methods: In this study the airways of 30 consecutive adult patients with no evidence of a difficult airway undergoing elective ear, nose and throat (ENT) surgery were managed with the iLTS-D. After induction of anesthesia the iLTS-D was placed in position and checked for correct ventilation. Following muscle relaxation, endotracheal intubation through the iLTS-D was performed under continuous visualization using a flexible bronchoscope. Finally, the iLTS-D was removed leaving the endotracheal tube in place. Data were collected anonymously as part of a quality assurance program. Publication of the data was approved by the institutional review board.Results: Initial iLTS-D placement took a median of 17 s (range 12-90 s) and provided sufficient ventilation in all patients; however, the position of the iLTS-D needed to be adjusted in four patients. Endotracheal intubation through the iLTS-D was achieved in 29 out of 30 patients at the first attempt (n = 23) or after 2 attempts (n = 6) and the median time required for intubation was 32 s (range 18-187 s). In five patients no laryngeal structures could initially be identified by bronchoscopy. Blind endotracheal intubation through the iLTS-D was performed in two cases and in two other patients the endotracheal tube was also blindly advanced but into the esophagus. After removal of the endotracheal tube and repositioning of the iLTS-D, successful tracheal intubation was subsequently achieved under bronchoscopic vision. The procedure was aborted and uneventful conventional intubation using direct laryngoscopy was carried out in one patient. The median time for removal of the iLTS-D after successful intubation was 20 s (range 15-80 s). Minor blood stains on the iLTS-D were observed in three patients. With one exception, all problems and adverse events occurred during the first 10 patients.Conclusion: This first clinical study demonstrated that in patients with apparently normal airways and in the hands of users without previous experience, the iLTS-D allowed sufficient ventilation in all patients and had a high success rate for subsequent endotracheal intubation. The results are, however, preliminary until confirmed by further studies, particularly in patients with difficult airways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The required characteristics of neuromuscular blockers for rapid sequence induction (RSI) are clearly defined: nearly immediate effectiveness and short duration of effect. These demands are not only necessary for ideal conditions of quick endotracheal intubation without mask-bag intermediate ventilation but are also essential to enable a quick return to sufficient spontaneous breathing in case of a cannot intubate cannot ventilate situation. Until recently only succinylcholine had these characteristics; however, a considerable number of dangerous side effects and contraindications had to be accepted. In 1996, rocuronium was introduced, which was capable of immediately establishing good intubation conditions similar to succinylcholine. However, the median duration of effect is 45-60 min and it therefore contains a risk if the patient cannot be ventilated and oxygenated. Therefore, rocuronium is considered a good alternative but not a complete substitute for succinylcholine. The introduction of sugammadex in 2008 for quick reversal of rocuronium changed matters. Comparative studies from the past 4 years dealing with rocuronium/sugammadex versus uccinylcholine in RSI showed that rocuronium and sugammadex combined enabled a significantly faster return to sufficient spontaneous ventilation in emergency situations and also proved that the use of rocuronium significantly reduced the degree of desaturation during the interval between injection and ventilation postintubation. Conclusion: rocuronium used in hospital is a very good substitute for succinylcholine as a neuromuscular blocker during RSI as long as sugammadex is at hand for reversal. It remains to be considered that in a situation with severe problems of the airway and breathing, which are the main preclinical indications for intubation, a forward strategy for ventilation of the patient is the only acceptable way in most cases and the return to spontaneous breathing is not an alternative. Therefore, the value of sugammadex and also of succinylcholine is limited for these situations. Additionally, economic factors such as storage conditions for rocuronium and the cost of sugammadex must also be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Securing the airway with supraglottic airway devices, such as a laryngeal tube, is a regular component of most difficult airway management algorithms. It is further recommended that in emergency medicine rescuers less skilled in endotracheal intubation should use supraglottic airways as a first line device. Exchanging the laryngeal tube with an endotracheal tube can be performed with video-assisted laryngoscopy as described below.Material and Methods: A total of 20 adult patients with airways managed using laryngeal tubes due to actual or anticipated difficult intubation underwent endotracheal intubation using the C-MAC videolaryngoscope. After deflating the cuffs of the laryngeal tube, seeking out the glottis was done by following the constructional landmarks of the laryngeal tube, considering concordance with anatomical landmarks of the human airway. In cases of failed video-assisted endotracheal intubation, the laryngeal tube that was still in situ was reinflated to re-establish ventilation of the lungs.Results: In 19 out of the 20 patients the laryngeal tube could be exchanged for an endotracheal tube with the video-assisted technique described. In one patient no laryngeal structures could be identified (Cormack and Lehane grade IV) even with the C-MAC videolaryngoscope and ventilation was continued via the laryngeal tube. No complications related to the video-assisted intubation technique were observed.Conclusions: The C-MAC videolaryngoscope is a mobile system which facilitates endotracheal intubation in patients with a difficult airway and a laryngeal tube in place. It is not only possible but recommended to leave the laryngeal tube in situ as a back-up when videolaryngoscopy fails. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pneumonia occurring more than 48 h after induction of mechanical ventilation is called ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). VAP is the most common nosocomial infection in intensive care medicine and is associated with prolonged intensive care and hospital stay and a higher mortality. The main pathomechanism for development of ventilator-associated pneumonia is not so much the mechanical ventilation per se but more the pathogens passing along the tube towards the lungs. Avoidance of tracheal intubation, strict hygienic measures, reduction of oropharyngeal colonization and the avoidance of microaspiration are the most promising prevention strategies. Therapeutic success in treatment of VAP is coupled to an early diagnosis and therapy. Suspicion of pneumonia is based on clinical and radiologic criteria. Biomarkers and microbiological findings are important for follow-up and reevaluation of the suspected diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endotracheal intubation remains the gold standard for securing the airway in emergency medicine. However, difficult endotracheal intubation and complications are common during emergency intubation. In contrast to conventional direct laryngoscopy, the new generation of devices does not require direct visualization of the vocal cords for endotracheal tube placement. These devices allow a better glottic view and successful endotracheal placement of the tube, especially if direct laryngoscopy is difficult. Recent studies showed that utilization of these devices can be easily learned. The technique of indirect laryngoscopy is currently used for securing the airway in daily anesthesia routine as well as for managing the difficult airway in the operating room. This article gives an overview of available devices for indirect endotracheal intubation as well as the current literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The safe use of cuffed tracheal tubes for children necessitates a cuff pressure limitation at 20–25 cmH2O. The aim of the study was to evaluate the reliability and benefit of a new cuff pressure release valve (opening pressure 20 cmH2O) for children intubated with a cuffed tracheal tube. In a prospective, observational trial cuff pressure was recorded in paediatric and adolescent patients intubated with a cuffed tracheal tube during sevoflurane/nitrous oxide anaesthesia. The cuff pressure release valve was interposed between the cuff manometer and the pilot balloon. In 25 patients measurements were started at the initial opening pressure (group A) and in a further 25 patients measurements were started at the minimal sealing cuff pressure (group B). A total of 50 patients, aged from 0.4 to 17.8 years (median 7.4 years) were enrolled in the study. The opening pressure measured (group A) was 19.7±0.8 cmH2O and the cuff sealing pressure (group B) was 11.7±2.9 cmH2O (range 6–16 cmH2O). Mean cuff pressure values in group A were 20.4±1.6 cmH2O and 16.5±3.3 cmH2O in group B. In one patient (group A) the cuff pressure exceeded 25 cmH2O and was manually decreased to 20 cmH2O. In total, 24 filling procedures (group A 14; group B 10) were required during 103.1 h of investigation because of cuff pressure drop and audible air leakage, mainly caused by cuff pressure increases and consequent releases during patient positioning. Our data demonstrate that the tested cuff pressure release valve was useful and reliable to limit cuff pressure in tracheal intubated children and adolescents within an acceptable pressure range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The value of the laryngeal tube S (LTS) for emergency airway management was evaluated in comparison to endotracheal intubation (ETI).Methods: Physicians were asked to perform simulated airway management in an airway mannequin. The physicians were allocated into three groups according to their experience in intubation (1: <50, 2: >50, 3: >500 intubations). The success rate using LTS and ETI, the time needed for securing the airway, and the rating of both techniques by the participants were recorded.Results: A correct position was achieved with the LTS in 99.39% of attempts (n=325), and with the endotracheal tube in 92.35% (n=302). Using the LTS it took an average time of 10.85 s to achieve the first successful ventilation, as compared to 17.75 s in ETI (p<0.0001). Participants from group 1 needed longer to achieve ETI in the 2nd (18.4 s vs. 16.4 s, p<0.0001) and 3rd attempts (16.9 s vs. 15.8 s, p<0.0001) compared to those from group 3.Conclusions: The LTS represents a fast and reliable method to secure the airway and to achieve ventilation in the mannequin model described. The success rate, the time until successful ventilation and the rating by the participants indicates that the LTS is an important alternative to ETI. The LTS offers special benefits for the less experienced users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: There is increasing evidence for gender differences in the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of anaesthetic drugs and neuromuscular blocking agents, e.g. rocuronium (Roc). Females require 30% less Roc than males to achieve the same degree of neuromuscular block and onset times are shorter. However, whether this leads to an improvement of the intubation conditions in females is unclear.Methods: After approval of the ethics committee 60 female and 60 male patients were each randomised into 2 groups to receive 0.6 mg/kg body weight Roc or 1.0 mg/kg succinylcholine (Sux; control group). Induction: thiopentone (5 mg/kg), fentanyl (3 microg/kg) then Roc (Roc groups) or Sux (Sux groups) and tracheal intubation after 60 s. Time to intubation, glottic exposure and intubating conditions were assessed.Results: Men were significantly larger and heavier (p<0.001) than women, but the body mass index was comparable (ns). Number of attempts, time to intubation, and Cormack grades were comparable (ns). However, the rate of clinically acceptable intubation conditions was significantly higher in the female compared to the male Roc group: 80% vs 47%, p<0.05. The incidence of clinically acceptable intubation conditions in the female Roc and Sux groups were similar (80%).Conclusion: The intubation conditions after Roc were significantly better in women than in men. The differences were Roc-related and did not occur in the control groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report on the preclinical management of a 4-year-old child who was found in a comatose condition with respiratory failure after accidental ingestion of methadone. Emergency airway management was carried out with endotracheal intubation instead of administering the antagonist naloxone. The child could be extubated 12 h later and was released from hospital after 3 days with no neurological symptoms. The authors attempt to formulate an algorithm for the preclinical management of opioid intoxication with reference to the literature and own experience. Endotracheal intubation seems to be superior to the use of the antagonist naloxone, especially in a critical situation. This is the only way to ensure a rapid oxygenation with adequate airway protection and with the simultaneous avoidance of the side-effects of naloxone. A restrictive and critical administration of the opioid antagonist naloxone is recommended when there is suspicion of opioid ingestion but no signs of intoxication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The purpose of this study was to compare the classical laryngeal mask airway (LMA) with the laryngeal tube (LT) in anaesthetised non-paralysed patients.Patients and Methods: A total of 100 patients scheduled for minor elective surgery were included. After standardised induction and maintenance of anaesthesia with propofol and remifentanil, patients were randomly allocated to receive either a LMA or LT; muscle relaxants were not applied. Selection of the appropriate size and the initial inflation volume were chosen according to the manufacturers instructions. Ease of insertion, initial intra-cuff pressure, oropharyngeal leak pressure at an intra-cuff pressure of 60 cm H(2)O and incidence and severity of complications during and after anaesthesia were compared.Results: The LT was inserted significantly quicker than the LMA (35.1+/-15.9 s vs. 56.6+/-42.5 s; mean+/-SD). Insertion of the LT was successful within 1 attempt in 90% and within 2 or 3 attempts in another 4% of patients for the LT compared with 68% and 20% of patients for the LMA, respectively. For the LT the initial cuff pressure was significantly lower (75.1+/-16.2 cm H(2)O) and the oropharyngeal leak pressure after adjustment of the intra-cuff pressure to 60 cm H(2)O was significantly higher (27.2+/-6.9 mbar) compared with the LMA (109.5+/-25.7 cm H(2)O and 19.9+/-4.0 mbar, respectively). Incidence of postoperative laryngeal complications in the LT group (31%) was lower compared with the LMA group (54%).Conclusion: In anaesthetised non-paralysed patients the LT compares favourably to the LMA in terms of ease of insertion and postoperative morbidity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: In adults the use of cuffed endotracheal tubes is the standard technique. Nitrous oxide increases the cuff pressure secondary to diffusion through the cuff membrane. The aim of the study was to verify a newly designed cuff pressure regulating device and comparison of postoperative complications.Methods: In a prospective, randomized, open trial the cuff pressure and the incidence of postoperative complications (e.g., hoarseness, coughing and pain while swallowing) were measured using the newly designed automatic pressure monitoring and regulating device Cuff Pressure Control (Tracoe) and a conventional handheld manometer. A total of 40 patients were assigned to the automatic group with a goal of 25.5 cmH(2)O and 40 patients to the conventional group where the pressures were kept between 20 cmH(2)0 and 40 cmH(2)0 with intermittent measurements and manual pressure release.Results: The automatic device reliably maintained the pressure at the chosen constant level within +/-2 cmH(2)O. In the control group increases in cuff pressure to 40 cmH(2)O were common. The incidence of postoperative complications in both groups was not significantly different.Conclusions: In conclusion our data demonstrate that the automatic cuff pressure and regulation device was useful and reliable in an adult population of intubated patients in the studied pressure range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Principles and characteristics of the recently introduced Microcuff paediatric tracheal tube (Microcuff, GmbH, Weinheim, Germany) with anatomically based depth markings, cuff-free subglottic tube shaft and short high volume-low pressure cuff with ultrathin cuff membrane are presented. First available tubes (ID 4.0 mm) were evaluated regarding cuff pressures required to seal the trachea and regarding the distance from the tube tip to the carina.Methods: After obtaining approval of the local ethical committee, 20 children aged 2-4 years, receiving tracheal intubation under general anaesthesia with muscle paralysis, were included. The tubes were placed during direct laryngoscopy and the glottic depth marking placed between the vocal cords. Cuff pressure to prevent audible air leakage at standardised ventilator settings (PIP 20 cm H(2)O/PEEP 5 cm H(2)O/RR20 x min(-1)) was assessed by means of a cuff pressure manometer within 5 min after intubation. Subsequently, the distance from the tube tip to the tracheal carina was measured by means of fibre bronchoscopy. Data are presented as the median (range).Results: Patient age was 3.0 years (2.0-3.9 years), weight 13.5 kg (9.1-19.2 kg) and body length 95 cm (79-105 cm). The lowest cuff pressure required to seal the trachea ranged from 4-14 cmH(2)O (median 10 cm H(2)O), the distance from tube tip to tracheal carina was to 2.9 cm (2.0-4.5 cm).Conclusions: The new Microcuff paediatric tracheal tube with ultrathin high volume-low pressure cuff required tracheal sealing pressures below tracheal wall pressures usually required with uncuffed tracheal tubes for efficient sealing and ventilation at 20 cm H(2)O peak inspiratory pressure. The distance from the tube tip to carina was in the safe range in all patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The feasibility of prototypes of the LTS, a laryngeal tube with an additional oesophageal drain tube for pressure relief, was tested for ventilation during surgery.Methods: After approval of the ethics committee, a LTS was placed in 30 orthopaedic patients, ASA I and II, induction of general anaesthesia with fentanyl and propofol. Position of the LTS was verified by auscultation and end tidal CO(2)-measurement. Oxygen saturation, number of placement attempts, cuff pressure, time until first tidal volume, tidal volume and airway pressures were registered intraoperatively. Patients were questioned about hoarseness and soar throat 1 h, 6 h and 24 hours after surgery, graded on a visual analogue scale (VAS).Results: 16 women and 14 men were investigated. In 29 patients (96.7%), the LTS was placed successfully (second attempt in three patients). In one patient, sufficient ventilation was not possible. In this case and in another patient with sufficient ventilation but estimated duration of surgery >3 h, endotracheal intubation was performed. Average time until first tidal volume was 17.3 seconds, ventilation was performed for 74 minutes. Pulse oximetric oxygen saturation was > or =97% at all times. Auscultation over the stomach was negative in all patients with an average cuff pressure of 73.7 cm H(2)O. During controlled ventilation aiming at an end tidal CO(2) of 35 mmHg (average 36.3 mmHg), an average tidal volume of 579 ml was reached, resulting in an inspiratory peak pressure of 20.2 cm H(2)O. Minimal traces of blood on the LTS were found in 5 patients, hoarseness was present in one patient after 6 hours, soar throat was stated after 1 hour by one patient (VAS 3), after 6 hours by 6 (average VAS 2.7) and after 24 hours by 3 patients (VAS 1.3).Conclusions: The LTS can be used for ventilation during elective surgery and can be placed with a high success rate. Postoperative complaints are infrequent and mild. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of the study was to compare haemodynamic and neuromuscular effects of cisatracurium and pancuronium in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (ASA III, good or moderately impaired LV function) who were chronically medicated with beta-adrenergic blocking agents.Methods: 60 Patients were randomly assigned in a double-blind fashion to receive sufentanil/midazolam/etomidate and either pancuronium (2xED95, group P) or cisatracurium (2xED95, group C2 and 4xED95, group C4). Haemodynamic variables were measured using arterial and pulmonary arterial catheters, neuromuscular transmission was measured using electromyography.Results: The heart rate was significantly lower in group C2 (50.2 +/- 6.8 bpm) and in group C4 (54.3 +/- 11 bpm) than in the pancuronium group (62.4 +/- 13.2 bpm) 3 min after induction of anaesthesia and until 60 min after induction. None of the other haemodynamic parameters showed any difference between groups. Onset time was 5.22 +/- 3.43 min in group P, 6.42 +/- 2.1 min in group C2 and 2.92 +/- 1.2 min in group C4.Conclusion: Under high-dose opioid induction, bradycardia must be considered if cisatracurium is administered to cardiac surgery patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The routine use of succinylcholine for endotracheal intubation is being increasingly questioned. Initial studies have suggested that a combination of propofol and alfentanil without a muscle relaxant can provide good intubating conditions. However, most of these initial studies either did not have a double-blind design or did not include a control group with muscle relaxants. In this study, intubation conditions using fentanyl/propofol without a muscle relaxant were compared with the combinations of fentanyl/propofol/succinylcholine and sodium thiopental/succinylcholine. MATERIAL AND METHODS. Following approval from the local ethics committee and written consent, 100 gynaecological patients (ASA I, II) were included in this study. The study was carried out in a double blind, randomized and prospective manner. Black perfusor syringes and extension sets were used, and the drugs administered were diluted to equal volumes. For induction, group 1 (n = 25) received 0.1 mg fentanyl, 1 mg vecuronium, sodium thiopental (demand-adapted) and succinylcholine 1 mg/kg; group 2 (n = 25) received 0.1 mg fentanyl and propofol (demand-adapted); group 3 (n = 25) received 0.2 mg fentanyl and propofol (demand-adapted); group 4 (n = 25) received 0.1 mg fentanyl, 1 mg vecuronium, propofol (demand-adapted) and succinylcholine 1 mg/kg. Each patient was assessed prior to induction with regard to visualization of the pharynx (grade I-IV). Following induction, jaw relaxation (grade I-IV) and the laryngoscopic visualization of the glottis (grade I-IV) were assessed. During the intubation, the position and movements of the vocal cords (grade I-IV) and patient movement during and 1 min following the intubation were assessed. The overall assessment of the intubation was graded (grade I-IV) by the anaesthetist and the anaesthetic nurse. Postoperatively the patients were questioned regarding muscle pain (grade I-IV). Before, during and after endotracheal intubation arterial haemoglobin oxygen saturation, heart rate and arterial blood pressure were monitored. RESULTS. There were no intergroup differences with regard to age, height, weight and preanaesthetic visualization of the pharynx. In group 1 an average of 5.5 +/- 1.2 mg/kg sodium thiopental was required. There were no significant differences in group 2, 3 and 4 with respect to the dose of propofol (2.4, 2.2 and 2.2 mg/kg). No intergroup differences were noted with regard to jaw relaxation, laryngoscopic visualization of the glottis and patients' movements during intubation. Statistically significant intergroup differences occurred with regard to the position and movements of vocal cords during intubation (group 3 worse than groups 1, 2, 4) and the patients' movements 1 min after intubation (group 2 worse than group 3). Significant intergroup differences also occurred with regard to the overall assessment of the intubation by the anaesthetist (group 3 worse than groups 2, 4) and the anaesthetic nurse (group 3 worse than group 4) and the postoperative muscle pain (group 1 worse than groups 2, 3). CONCLUSION. The use of 0.1 mg fentanyl/sodium thiopental/succinylcholine results in no better intubating conditions than 0.1 mg fentanyl plus propofol. Under these conditions, without the use of a muscle relaxant, it is possible to carry out safe endotracheal intubation in cases where no complications are anticipated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unlabelled: The aim of this study was to compare the intubating conditions of a mivacurium-induced neuromuscular block 90 s after a divided administration with three different methods of induction of anaesthesia.Methods: After approval by the local ethics committee, we investigated 36 ASA I and II patients undergoing a 2-h scheduled, elective surgery, in whom a TIVA was induced by one of three different drugs, edomidate, methohexital or propofol. After stable anaesthesia was reached, 0.15 mg/kg and 0.1 mg/kg of mivacurium, spaced 30 s apart, was injected. Endotracheal intubation was performed 90 s after the first micacurium injection and the intubation conditions were graded (1: excellent, 2: good, 3: poor; 4: impossible). The neuromuscular function was stimulated every 20 s by a nerve stimulator in a train-of-four (TOF) pattern, and the time to complete distinction of a TOF response as well as the time of reoccurrence of the first twitch was taken. A minute prior to injection of the relaxant and every minute for 5 min, the systolic and diastolic blood pressure, mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate were measured. The neuromuscular block was maintained with a mivacurium infusion on a level of one twitch response. After cessation of the mivacurium infusion we recorded the time of reappearance of the second, third and fourth twitch responses.Results: All patients could be intubated 90 s after mivacurium except for one, who was excluded for abnormal difficult intubation conditions. The etomidate group had significantly (chi 2 test) worse intubation grades than the methohexital group. In none of the groups did we observe any significant cardiovascular response due to the mivacurium injection, neither in blood pressure nor in heart rate. All groups showed similar onset of the maximal neuromuscular block (4 +/- 1.8 min) and recovery of the first TOF reaction (11.3 +/- 3.4 min). There was no difference in recovery from neuromuscular block maintained by infusion at the end of surgery.Conclusions: A dose of mivacurium 3.57 times the ED95 does not produce any haemodynamic instability, if it is divided into two parts to induce a TIVA. After this dose, all patients could be safely intubated within 90 s. A prolongation of the neuromuscular block after higher mivacurium doses could not be seen, and this dose did not produce a more rapid onset of the maximal block in any group. The time for recovery from a mivacurium infusion did not differ among the groups. Etomidate, due to its short half-life, seems not ideal for induction of a TIVA together with mivacurium in the dosage used. Mivacurium meets the demands of good controllability as required for a TIVA and can be recommended for a 90-s injection-intubation interval as well as for maintenance of the neuromuscular block. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]