Paediatric exhaled CO2 detector causes leaks. Issue 4 (29th October 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Martherus, Tessa; den Hoed, Annika; Cramer, Sophie J E; Tan, Ratna N G B; Hooper, Stuart B; te Pas, Arjan B
• Is Part Of: Archives of disease in childhood. Volume 105:Issue 4(2020)
• Page Start: 441
• Page End: 443
• Publication Date: 2019-10-29
• Subjects: endotracheal intubation -- Pedi-Cap -- leak -- respiratory support; Infants -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Newborn infants -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Fetus -- Diseases -- Periodicals; 618.920105
• DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2019-317729
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1359-2998

Abstract

Abstract : Objective: To assess leakage caused by the Pedi-Cap. Methods: Bench test I: Pedi-Caps were connected between the Neopuff and a test lung and placed underwater to detect the leak. Bench test II: the disposable Avea VarFlex Flow Transducer measured the leak. Retrospective analysis: recordings of intubations in the delivery room were analysed. Results: The (rippled) male end of the Pedi-Cap is the origin of the leak. In bench test I, 32% of the Pedi-Caps caused inevitable extensive leaks and 34% caused leaks that diminished after sealing the end. In bench test II (n=44) and the retrospective analysis (n=17), the flow transducer measured 22% (18–60) and 39% (8–82) leakage, respectively. Leakage decreased after removal of the Pedi-Cap (before vs after; 17% (7–75) vs 4% (2–10), p=0.004). Conclusion: The Pedi-Cap causes the leak which can compromise respiratory support. We recommend to remove the Pedi-Cap directly after change of colour and to be cautious when using the device as evaluation tool.