New parachute cuff and positive end-expiratory pressure to minimize tracheal injury and prevent aspiration

Summary

A new parachute cuff has been tested in combination with a positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) on mongrel dogs. During positive-pressure ventilation the intracuff and intratracheal pressures showed synchronous, identical pressure variations, and therefore theoretically with this type of cuff the pressure against the tracheal wall would be minimal.

The cuff provided a seal against gas leakage from the lungs throughout the entire test period, i.e., for up to 7 h. To avoid aspiration of mouth contents during the passive exhalation phase, different amounts of PEEP were tested. A PEEP of 4.0–8.0 cm H₂O always produced a seal against a column of fluid in the mouth exerting a hydrostatic pressure of 5.4–8.8 cm H₂O against the cuff. This seal was maintained during the whole test period. No difference in sealing capacity was found when the cuff was used with a normal respiratory frequency (20/min) and with high-frequency positive-pressure ventilation (60/min).

When the PEEP is eliminated, e.g., when the respirator is disconnected for suction of the endotracheal tube, the sealing effect will be abolished. As the cuff extends up into the larynx there will be no pooling of fluid above the cuff. The risk of aspiration can therefore be diminished by suction of the oral cavity before disconnecting the respirator. With the use of the pneumatic valve principle together with high-frequency positive-pressure ventilation, an open respirator system can produce a continuous PEEP, thereby preventing aspiration even during suctioning of the tracheal tube.