[Examination of the criteria for selecting the size of a cuffed tracheal tube in children].

BACKGROUND

This paper examined the criteria for selecting Mallinckrodt Hi-Contour pediatric cuffed tracheal tubes.

METHODS

Different age groups are generally treated with tubes of the following internal diameters (mm): 0 to 8 months: 3.0; 8 to 18 months: 3.5; 18 to 36 months: 4.0; and 3 to 5 years: 4.5. When it was difficult to intubate, or there was no leak at an airway pressure of 25 cm H2O, the tube size was regarded as excessively large, and the size was reduced. In contrast, when there was a massive air leak, interfering with ventilation, the tube size was increased.

RESULTS

Replacement was not necessary in 94% of those treated with a 3.0-mm tube, 89% of those treated with a 3.5-mm tube, 94% of those treated with a 4.0-mm tube, or 97% of those treated with a 4.5-mm tube. The overall incidence of complications was 4%.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on these criteria, tube replacement was not necessary in 93% of pediatric patients.