Near total intrathoracic airway obstruction managed with a Tritube® and flow‐controlled ventilation. Issue 1 (28th February 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Mallam, L.; Massingberd‐Mundy, D.; Girgis, M.; De Zoysa, N.
• Is Part Of: Anaesthesia reports. Volume 10:Issue 1(2022)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2022-02-28
• Subjects: airway assessment: co‐existing disease -- difficult airway algorithm -- jet ventilation, gas exchange -- tumour: airway obstruction -- upper airway anatomy; Anesthesiology -- Periodicals; 617.9605
• DOI: 10.1002/anr3.12156
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2637-3726

Abstract

Summary: We describe the management of a case of near total airway obstruction in a 79‐year‐old man who presented with a two‐week history of increasing shortness of breath and stridor. Computed tomography imaging revealed a mid‐tracheal mass of unknown aetiology with critical airway obstruction. We secured the patient's airway using a Tritube ® (Ventinova, Eindhoven, the Netherlands). While this facilitated a secure airway past the lesion, various issues were encountered which complicated the safe conduct of anaesthesia. We conclude that while the Tritube, used in conjunction with a proprietary flow‐controlled ventilation system (Evone ®, Ventinova Eindhoven, the Netherlands) are useful for critical airway obstruction, they can be problematic and thorough planning is essential.