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Dysphagia may occur after a prolonged intubation due to COVID‐19 but it is usually mild. Case reports on severe dysphagia following COVID‐19 are infrequent. Diagnosis can be difficult because international indications recommend avoiding instrumental assessments as far as possible because of the infection risk. An early rehabilitation treatment is recommended., This case report describes the clinical history of a COVID‐19 patient with a non‐immediate diagnosis of severe dysphagia that required a gastrostomy positioning. A vocal folds paresis was observed for the first time in the course of a Sars‐CoV‐2 infection. Thanks to intensive rehabilitation treatment, the outcome was favorable.

A comparative analysis of the MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and Cochrane Registry databases was carried out to identify the advantages of puncture-dilatation tracheostomy methods over standard tracheotomy in critically ill patients. In addition, bibliographies and selected conference proceedings were reviewed; included randomized clinical trials comparing puncture-dilatation techniques with standard tracheotomy in critically ill adults, which reported clinically significant outcomes. The extracted data are focused on the criteria for the validity of the studies and the results relevant to practice. Puncture methods are less traumatic and can reduce the likelihood of infection of the surgical wound. Compared to the traditional method, a puncture tracheostomy can be applied in just 2 minutes,which can play a significant role in the prognosis of patient survival. The role of the experience of the operators performing the procedures has a significant impact on the results, which cannot be formally and quantitatively assessed in our analysis.

The aim of this study was to retrospectively evaluate all pediatric tracheotomies that had been performed at Sanliurfa Training and Research Hospital From September 2016 to July 2019. A retrospective study was performed on pediatric patients who had undergone tracheostomy during the three-year study period. Patient data were reviewed for the following variables: age, gender, age at the time of tracheostomy, primary indication for tracheostomy, length of stay in intensive care unit before and after tracheostomy, complications, mortality and cause of death. The primary indication for tracheostomy was categorized into 4 separate groups: congenital disease, traumatic injury, prolonged intubation and other causes. The study group consisted of 138 children. Seventy-one (51.4%) of the children were male, 67 (48.6%) were female and the mean age of tracheostomy was 13.30 (0.03-192.27) months, and 44.2% were younger than 1 year when tracheotomy was performed. The median age at the time of tracheostomy was highest in children who underwent tracheostomy for traumatic injury. The indication for tracheostomy was prolonged intubation in 73.2% of the children. Complications were observed in 13 (9%) children; bleeding (69.2%) was the most common. Complications were most frequent in children who underwent tracheostomy for prolonged intubation. The overall mortality ratewas 30.4% with cardiac arrest being the most common cause. At our center, the most common indication for tracheostomy in children was long-term intubation, possibly due to our center being a tertiary healthcare institute. Bleeding was the most common complication, while cardiac arrest was the most common cause of death.

To identify risk factors associated with intubation and time to extubation in hospitalized patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).Retrospective observational study.Ten hospitals in the Chicago metropolitan area.Patients with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 admitted between March 1 and April 8, 2020, were included. We evaluated sociodemographic and clinical characteristics associated with intubation and prolonged intubation for acute respiratory failure secondary to COVID-19 infection.Of the 486 hospitalized patients included in the study, the median age was 59 years (interquartile range, 47-69); 271 (55.8%) were male; and the median body mass index was 30.6 (interquartile range, 26.5-35.6). During the hospitalization, 138 (28.4%) patients were intubated; 78 (56.5%) were eventually extubated; 21 (15.2%) died; and 39 (28.3%) remained intubated at a mean ± SD follow-up of 19.6 ± 6.7 days. Intubated patients had a significantly higher median age (65 vs 57 years,In addition to clinical signs of respiratory distress, patients with COVID-19 who are older, male, or diabetic are at higher risk of requiring intubation. Among intubated patients, older and more obese patients are at higher risk for prolonged intubation. Otolaryngologists consulted for airway management should consider these factors in their decision making.

To examine the effect of including obesity with parameters of the I-TRACH scale in predicting the need for prolonged mechanical ventilation.A retrospective cohort study.Tertiary care academic medical center.Consecutive patients were identified retrospectively over a 45-month period based on need for mechanical ventilation in the medical intensive care unit. Chart review was performed to collect demographic information as well as clinical data, including duration of mechanical ventilation, body mass index (BMI), and I-TRACH parameters (heart rate110, serum urea nitrogen25, serum pH7.25, serum creatinine2, serum bicarbonate20). Statistical analysis was performed to identify any predictors of prolonged mechanical ventilation, defined as ≥14 days and as ≥10 days.In total, 455 patients were identified, with an average duration of mechanical ventilation of 10.4 days (range, 0-248 days). On univariate and multivariate regression analysis, only BMI30 reached statistical significance with respect to prolonged mechanical ventilation (This study challenges previous findings regarding the I-TRACH scale and the relation of its parameters to prolonged mechanical ventilation. Furthermore, BMI30 alone was predictive of prolonged intubation. Inclusion of BMI in predictive models could assist current decision making in determining the likelihood of prolonged mechanical ventilation in medical intensive care unit patients going forward, and obesity should be considered a predictor of prolonged mechanical ventilation.

Purpose Prolonged endotracheal intubation may lead to laryngeal damage, with stridor being the most relevant clinical symptom. Our objective was to determine the incidence of post-extubation stridor and their clinical consequences in children within a tertiary referral center and to identify contributing factors. Methods 150 children, aged 0–16 years, intubated for more than 24 h were prospectively enrolled until discharge of the hospital. Potential relevant factors, thought to mediate the risk of laryngeal damage, were recorded and analyzed. Results The median duration of intubation was 4 days, ranging from 1 to 31 days. Stridor following extubation occurred in 28 patients (18.7%); 3 of them required reintubation due to respiratory distress and in 1 child stridor persisted for which a surgical intervention was necessary. In multivariate analyses, we found the following independent predictors of stridor: intubation on the scene, the use of cuffed tubes and lower age. Conclusion Despite a high incidence for post-extubation stridor, only few children need reintubation or surgical intervention as a result of post-extubation lesions. Intubation on the scene, the use of cuffed tubes and young age are associated with a significant increased risk of post-extubation stridor. Awareness of these factors gives the possibility to anticipate on the situation and to minimize laryngeal injury and its possible future consequences.

The number of children with congenital heart requiring anesthetic care is increasing. We describe the anesthetic management of a child with single ventricle candidate for laryngotracheal reconstruction. The patient suffered from severe subglottic stenosis due to prolonged intubation following Glenn shunt procedure. Anesthetic considerations in the care of patients with single ventricle for non-cardiac surgeries are reviewed. Particular concerns in the airway management of children with severe subglottic stenosis and during the tracheal surgery are also reviewed.

Background The impact of the COVID pandemic on liver transplant (LT) programs varied among countries. Few data are available about that impact in pediatric liver transplant (PLT) programs. This study aimed at comparing the data of our program in Brazil (2019 vs. 2020). Methods Retrospective cohort study. Results One hundred and seventy‐four PLT were performed in the period (93% living donors). Patients were divided into two groups according to the LT date: pre‐COVID‐19 period (march/2019–February/2020) and COVID‐19 period (March/2020–February 2021). In the pre‐COVID‐19 period, 97 LTs were performed, and 77 LTs were performed in the COVID‐19 period. Patients in the COVID‐19 period were younger (10.9 months vs. 16 months, p 0.009), had higher PELD scores (15 vs. 14, p 0.04), more ascites (66.2 vs. 51.5%, p 0.03), and more frequently hospitalized before LT (27.3 vs. 17.5%). However, there was no difference in post‐LT complications, retransplantation nor survival rates. Six (6.2%) patients from pre‐COVID‐19 period were COVID positive at a median of 15.5 months (14–17.5), and 6 (7.8%) patients from COVID‐19 period were COVID positive at a median of 3 months (20 days–6 months) from LT. There was neither mortality nor complications in those patients. Four (33%) were hospitalized, and one had prolonged intubation. Four (33%) were asymptomatic, 4 (33%) had upper airways symptoms, and the remaining had gastrointestinal symptoms. Conclusion Overall, PLT was not affected during COVID‐19 period. Even though patients from COVID‐19 period were sicker, there was no significant impact in LT outcomes. All the recipients who tested positive for COVID had a favorable outcome.

Severe oral mucositis as a complication of chemotherapy may lead to airway obstruction and require prolonged intubation. As its course is consistent with the course of neutropenia, airway management strategies should be determined individually., Severe oral mucositis as a complication of chemotherapy may lead to airway obstruction and require prolonged intubation. As its course is consistent with the course of neutropenia, airway management strategies should be determined individually. ​

This study compares the performance of pediatricians and anesthetists in neonatal and pediatric endotracheal intubations (ETI) during simulated settings. Participants completed a questionnaire and performed an ETI scenario on a neonatal and a child manikin. The procedures were recorded with head cameras and cameras attached to standard laryngoscope blades. The outcomes were successful intubation, time to successful intubation, number of attempts, complications, total performance score, end-assessment rating, and an assessment whether the participant was sufficiently able to perform an ETI. Fifty-two pediatricians and 52 anesthetists were included. For the neonatal ETI, the rate of successful intubation was in favor of anesthetists although not significant. Anesthetists performed significantly better in all other outcomes. Of the pediatricians, 65% was rated sufficiently adept to perform a neonatal ETI vs 100% of the anesthetists. Pediatricians (29%) overestimated while anesthetists (33%) underestimated their performance in neonatal ETI. For the pediatric ETI, all outcomes were significantly better for anesthetists. Only 15% of all pediatricians were considered sufficiently able to perform pediatric ETI vs 94% of the anesthetists. Conclusion: Anesthetists are far more adept in performing ETI in neonates and children compared with pediatricians in a simulated setting. Complications are expected to occur less frequently and less seriously when anesthetists perform ETI. What is Known: • Endotracheal intubation (ETI) performed by inexperienced care providers can lead to unsuccessful and/or prolonged intubation attempts. This can cause complications such as hypoxemia, trauma to the oropharynx and larynx, and prolonged interruption of resuscitation, which results in a high morbidity/mortality.• Fifty to 60 real-life ETI procedures are needed before ETI can be performed with a 90% success rate. Despite this, 18% of providers still require some assistance even after performing 80 intubations. Skill fade will occur if there is too little exposure. What is New: • This study shows that, on both neonatal and child manikins, anesthetists perform better in ETI compared with pediatricians. Besides this, complications are expected to occur less frequently and less seriously when anesthetists are performing the ETIs on neonates and children.• In those countries where there are no clear interprofessional agreements made in general hospitals on who will perform ETI on neonates and children in acute care settings, these agreements are urgently necessary. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s00431-019-03395-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Background Patients admitted to ICU, especially those who are mechanically ventilated, are under the effects of many clinical, therapeutic, and emotional stress factors that usually lead to different physical, psychological, and cognitive disabilities. These acquired disabilities are called postintensive care syndrome (PICS). Objective the aim was to detect any component of PICS in mechanically ventilated patients at respiratory ICU (RICU) after being discharged from ICU. Patients and methods All recruited patients were assessed at three time points: first during admission to RICU, where all clinical and laboratory data were recorded; second following discharge from RICU, and third following 1 month of discharge from hospital. During the second and third points, cognitive, psychological, and physical components of PICS were assessed. Results A total of 20 (50%) patients developed one or more component of PICS. There were highly significant differences between patients with and without PICS regarding age, duration of mechanical ventilation, duration of ICU admission, level PaO2, acute physiology and chronic health evaluation (APACHE) IV score, the presence of co-morbidities, and the process of weaning. There were highly significant positive correlations between age of patients, duration of mechanical ventilation and ICU stay, and the score of APACHE IV and the development of PICS, whereas there was a highly significant negative correlation regarding the level of PaO2. Conclusion Patients with respiratory disorders admitted to the RICU should be evaluated and followed up for the detection of any components of PICS especially those who are old adult, have prolonged intubation or ICU stay, have co-morbidities, high APACHE IV score, and persistent hypoxemia.

The diseases of the pediatric airway is often challenging to the clinician. It needs a dedicated team of clinicians for evaluation and treatment. Obstructing lesions of the pediatric airway due to congenital or acquired causes often create fatal situations. Majority of the pediatric airway lesions are due to prolonged intubation or tracheostomy and prematurity. Management of the pediatric airway lesions often complicated with additional congenital malformations or severe comorbidities. It is often important for the pediatrician to understand the different pediatric airway lesions and its issues relevant to the airway management of the pediatric patients. This review article will give an overview of commonly encountered airway problems in children and its management.

Objectives: Patients with acute respiratory failure due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have a high likelihood of needing prolonged intubation and may subsequently require tracheotomy. Indications and timing for performing tracheotomy in patients affected by severe COVID-19 pneumonia are still elusive. The aim of this study is to analyze the role of tracheotomy in the context of this pandemic. Moreover, we report the timing of the procedure and the time needed to complete weaning and decannulation in our center. Methods: This retrospective, observational cohort study included adults (≥18 years) with severe COVID-19 pneumonia who were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of the tertiary care center of Reggio Emilia (Italy). All patients underwent orotracheal intubation with invasive mechanical ventilation, followed by percutaneous or open surgical tracheotomy. Indications, timing of the procedure, and time needed to complete weaning and decannulation were reported. Results: Forty-four patients were included in the analysis. Median time from orotracheal intubation to surgery was 7 (range 2-17) days. Fifteen (34.1%) patients died during the follow-up period (median 22 days, range 8-68) after the intubation. Weaning from the ventilator was first attempted on median 25th day (range 13-43) from orotracheal intubation. A median of 35 (range 18-79) days was required to complete weaning. Median duration of ICU stay was 22 (range 10-67) days. Mean decannulation time was 36 (range 10-77) days from surgery. Conclusions: Since it is not possible to establish an optimal timing for performing tracheotomy, decision-making should be made on case-by-case basis. It should be adapted to the context of the pandemic, taking into account the availability of intensive care resources, potential risks for health care workers, and benefits for the individual patient.

This study compares the ability of liberal vs restrictive intubation criteria to detect prolonged intubation and inhalation injury in burn patients with suspected inhalation injury. Emerging evidence suggests that using liberal criteria may lead to unnecessary intubation in some patients. A single-center retrospective cohort study was conducted in adult patients with suspected inhalation injury admitted to intensive care at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham between April 2016 and July 2019. Liberal intubation criteria, as reflected in local guidelines, were compared to restrictive intubation criteria, as outlined in the American Burn Association guidelines. The number of patients displaying positive characteristics from either guideline was compared to the number of patients who had prolonged intubation (more than 48 hours) and inhalation injury. In detecting a need for prolonged intubation (n = 85), the liberal criteria had greater sensitivity (liberal = 0.98 [0.94–1.00] vs restrictive = 0.84 [0.75–0.93]; P = .013). However, the restrictive criteria had greater specificity (restrictive = 0.96 [0.89–1.00] vs liberal = 0.48 [0.29–0.67]; P < .001). In detecting inhalation injury (n = 72), the restrictive criteria were equally sensitive (restrictive = 0.94 [0.87–1.00] vs liberal = 0.98 [0.84–1.00]; P = .48) and had greater specificity (restrictive = 0.86 [0.72–1.00] vs liberal = 0.04 [0.00–0.13]; P < .001). In patients who met liberal but not restrictive criteria, 65% were extubated within 48 hours and 90% did not have inhalation injury. Liberal intubation criteria were more sensitive at detecting a need for prolonged intubation, while restrictive criteria were more specific. Most patients intubated based on liberal criteria alone were extubated within 48 hours. Restrictive criteria were highly sensitive and specific at detecting inhalation injury.

IntroductionThe COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in an unprecedented need for critical care intervention. Prolonged intubation and mechanical ventilation has resulted in the need for tracheostomy in some patients. The purpose of this international survey was to assess optimal timing, technique and outcome for this intervention.MethodsAn online survey was generated. Otorhinolaryngologists from both the United Kingdom and Abroad were polled with regards to their experience of tracheostomy in COVID-19 positive ventilated patients.ResultsThe survey was completed by 50 respondents from 16 nations. The number of ventilated patients totalled 3403, on average 9.7% required a tracheostomy. This was on average performed on day 14 following intubation. The majority of patients were successfully weaned (mean 7.4 days following tracheostomy).ConclusionThe results of this brief survey suggest that tracheostomy is of benefit in selected patients. There was insufficient data to suggest improved outcomes with either percutaneous versus an open surgical technique.

Tracheal perforation is a rare complication of intubation and is associated with high mortality. Here we describe a case of large, full-thickness tracheal perforation from traumatic intubation after an elective procedure. The injury was managed with prolonged intubation that bypassed the site of injury, and the patient was successfully extubated after 11 days. Conservative management of tracheal perforation after traumatic intubation is an option in select patients that avoids need for surgery.

Highlights • Experienced prolonged intubation after robotic hysterectomy for endometrial cancer • Risk triad: Trendelenburg position, high pneumo-pressure, and excess hydration • Recognition of the risk triad is key to avoiding airway complications in robotic surgery. • Introduction of a 5-step method to prevent airway complications in robotic surgery

Life-saving interventions utilize endotracheal intubation to secure a patient’s airway, but performance of the clinical standard of care endotracheal tube (ETT) is inadequate. For instance, in the current COVID-19 crisis, patients can expect prolonged intubation. This protracted intubation may produce health complications such as tracheal stenosis, pneumonia, and necrosis of tracheal tissue, as current ETTs are not designed for extended use. In this work, we propose an improved ETT design that seeks to overcome these limitations by utilizing unique geometries which enable a novel expanding cylinder. The mechanism provides a better distribution of the contact forces between the ETT and the trachea, which should enhance patient tolerability. Results show that at full expansion, our new ETT exerts pressures in a silicone tracheal phantom well within the recommended standard of care. Also, preliminary manikin tests demonstrated that the new ETT can deliver similar performance in terms of air pressure and air volume when compared with the current gold standard ETT. The potential benefits of this new architected ETT are threefold, by limiting exposure of healthcare providers to patient pathogens through streamlining the intubation process, reducing downstream complications, and eliminating the need of multiple size ETT as one architected ETT fits all

Background: Tracheostomy is a common surgical procedure performed in upper airway obstruction to establish alternate airway, to ease the access for secretion removal and protect lower airways and to wean in critically ill, ventilator-dependent patients. This retrospective clinical study emphasises on the indications and clinical outcome of tracheostomy procedure among intubated patients of varied clinical diagnosis in respiratory intensive care unit (RICU).Methods: This is a retrospective clinical study of intubated patients of RICU who underwent tracheostomy between Jan 2014 to Dec 2019.The case sheets of patients who fulfilled the inclusion criteria of this study and whose records were available in medical records department (MRD) of our institute for the study period were analysed for the indications for tracheostomy, timing of tracheostomy and its clinical outcome among them.Results: A total of 33 patients were included in this study and their case sheets were analysed. Most common indication for the tracheostomy was found to be prolonged intubation secondary to the chemical poisoning. The mean days of intubation before the tracheostomy was 7 days. The mean days of stay in RICU after tracheostomy among survived and dead patients was 21 and 7 days respectively which was highly significant (p=0.00).Conclusion: This retrospective study concludes that conditional survival after the tracheostomy among the previously intubated patients is found to be more after three weeks whereas the mortality is likely to be in the first week of post tracheostomy period. Hence the number of days of stay after the tracheostomy among these patients, there need not be a linear decrease in survival and should not be the reason for being despondent.

Background The effect of operative duration on postoperative outcomes of esophagectomy is not well understood. The relationship between operative duration and postoperative complications was explored. Methods Esophagectomies with gastric reconstruction performed between 2010 and 2015 were queried from the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program. Linear and multivariate regression analyses were used to determine if operative duration correlated with outcomes independent of comorbidities. Subset analysis was performed by the type of esophagectomy. Results There were 5,098 patients with a median age and operative time of 64 years and 353 minutes, respectively. In the transhiatal group, longer operative times correlated with increased rates of pneumonia, prolonged intubation, unplanned reintubation, septic shock, unplanned reoperation, duration of stay, and mortality. For Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy, there were similar correlations with postoperative complications but not mortality. With the McKeown approach, there were no correlations between operative duration and postoperative outcomes. Conclusion Prolonged operative time has an independent adverse impact on postoperative morbidity, which varies by surgical approach. We have identified unique cut points in the operative time for transhiatal (333 minutes) and Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy (422 minutes), which can be used as a prognostic marker for postoperative outcomes as well as a quality metric in well-selected patients.

Background Standardized postoperative airway management is essential for patients undergoing anterior cervical spine surgery (ACSS). The paucity of clinical series evaluating these airway complications after ACSS has been resulted in a significant limitation in statistical analyses. Methods A retrospective cohort study was performed regarding airway distress (intubation for more than 24 hours or unplanned reintubation within 7 days of operation) developed after ACSS. If prevertebral soft tissue swelling was evident after the operation, patients were managed with prolonged intubation (longer than 24 hours). Preoperative and intraoperative patient data, and postoperative outcome (time to extubation and reintubation) were analyzed. Results Between 2008 and 2016, a total of 400 ACSS were performed. Of them, 389 patients (97.25%) extubated within 24 hours of surgery without airway complication, but 11 patients (2.75%) showed postoperative airway compromise; 7 patients (1.75%) needed prolonged intubation, while 4 patients (1.00%) required unplanned reintubation. The mean time for extubation were 2.75 hours (range: 0–23 hours) and 50.55 hours (range: 0–250 hours), respectively. Age (P = 0.015), diabetes mellitus (P = 0.003), operative time longer than 5 hours (P = 0.048), and estimated blood loss (EBL) greater than 300 mL (P = 0.042) were associated with prolonged intubation or reintubation. In prolonged intubation group, all patients showed no airway distress after extubation. Conclusion In ACSS, postoperative airway compromise is related to both patients and operative factors. We recommend a prolonged intubation for patients who are exposed to these risk factors to perform a safe and effective extubation., Graphical Abstract

Definitive surgery for esophageal cancer is associated with a high rate of postoperative complications. For instance, in the NSQIP database (2008 to 2017), the average rate of 30-days mortality and overall morbidity after a 3-field esophagectomy (CPT 43112) is 2.7% and 47.4%. Further, pulmonary complications (pneumonia, prolonged intubation and reintubation within 72 hours) occur with a rate of 26.0%, and infectious complications (superficial, deep, organ space surgical site infections, dehiscence, sepsis) occur with a rate of 23.6%. These are 2.6%, 42.3%, 23.1%, and 16.8% after Ivor Lewis esophagectomy (CPT 43117), and 2.5%, 44.0%, 25.1%, and 22.0% after transhiatal esophagectomy (CPT 43107) (1). Thus, these are one of the cruxes of esophagectomy.

Perioperative transfusions increase complications and cost following THA. Current series evaluating neuraxial anesthesia and blood loss following THA are small and utilize heterogeneous populations. Using the NSQIP database we compared transfusion rates following THA with neuraxial and general anesthesia. Between 2005 and 2012, 28,857 THAs (11,317 neuraxial anesthesia) were identified. Univariate analysis showed lower rates of transfusion, pneumonia, unplanned intubation, prolonged intubation, stroke, all complications, and medical complications in the neuraxial group. Operative time and length of stay were shorter with neuraxial anesthesia as well. After adjusting for patient comorbidities, a multivariate regression model showed fewer transfusions with neuraxial anesthesia. The multivariate regression model showed additional independent risk factors for transfusion including gender, operative time, elevated INR, and a history of hypertension, metastatic cancer, and renal failure.

ObjectiveTo investigate whether early tracheostomy leads to improved outcomes compared with late tracheostomy.Data SourcesOvid MEDLINE (including PubMed), Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register ...

In small children, high-flow nasal cannula therapy may prolong apnea time even when an inspiratory oxygen fraction below 100% is used. This will be beneficial in prolonged intubation attempts, but especially during procedures requiring prolonged apnea time, leading to fewer airway manipulations and markedly enhanced surgical conditions.

Surgery is the preferred treatment modality for benign tracheal stenosis. Interventional bronchoscopy is used as a bridge to surgery or in instances when surgery is not feasible or has failed. Stenosis in the subglottic trachea is particularly a treatment challenge, in view of its proximity to the vocal cords. Herein, we describe a patient with complete tracheal stenosis in the subglottic region, which developed after prolonged intubation and mechanical ventilation. The patient developed recurrent stenosis despite multiple surgical and endoscopic procedures. We were able to manage the patient successfully with rigid bronchoscopy and Montgomery T-tube placement.

Airway management may be difficult in obese patients. Moreover, during prolonged intubation, oxygen desaturation develops rapidly. Videolaryngoscopy improves the view of the larynx, and the Storz® C-MAC™ has been shown to be superior to other videolaryngoscopes in terms of intubation time in obese patients. However, no effort has been made to compare the Storz® C-MAC™ with direct laryngoscopy. The aim of the study was to evaluate if the use of Storz® C-MAC™ may reduce intubation time when compared to direct laryngoscopy (classic Macintosh® blade).Eighty patients with Body Mass Index35 kg/m2 were randomized to orotracheal intubation using either Macintosh® laryngoscope, or the Storz® C-MAC™ with the standard Macintosh blade. Patients had no previous history of a difficult airway. Time-to-intubation (TTI) was defined as the time from the moment anesthetist took the laryngoscope until end-tidal carbon dioxide was detected.No significant difference in TTI could be demonstrated between the two devices tested (mean difference -1.7 s (95% CI:-6.9 to 3.5 s). All patients in the videolaryngoscopy group were successfully intubated with the allocated device, whereas five patients in the direct laryngoscopy group required an alternative device for successful intubation. No significant difference regarding the subjective difficulty of intubation and postoperative sore throat between groups was demonstrated.In obese patients the airway may be secured equally fast using direct laryngoscopy (Macintosh®) and with videolaryngoscopy using the Stortz® C-MAC™. The risk for failed intubation, however, appears to be greater with direct laryngoscopy, especially in male obese patients.

Background: Dysphagia following prolonged intubation after cardiovascular (CV) surgery is common occurring in 67% of patients; however, this population’s swallowing physiology has never been prospectively evaluated using standardized methods. Hence, prior to conducting a larger study, our primary objective was to determine the feasibility of assessing swallowing physiology using instrumentation and validated interpretation methods in cardiovascular surgical patients following prolonged intubation. Method: From July to October 2011, we approached adults undergoing CV surgery at our institution who were intubated > 48 h. Those with a tracheostomy were excluded. Videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFS) and nasendoscopy were completed within 48 h after extubation. Feasibility measurements included recruitment rate, patient participation, task completion durations, and the inter-rater reliability of VFS measures using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). VFSs were interpreted using perceptual rating tools (Modified Barium Swallow Measurement Tool for Swallow Impairment™© and Penetration Aspiration Scale) and objective displacement measurements (hyoid displacement and pharyngeal constriction ratio). Results: Of the 39 patients intubated > 48 h, 16 met inclusion criteria with three enrolled and completing the VFS. All refused nasendoscopy. Across all VFSs, rating completion time ranged from 14.6 to 51.7 min per patient with ICCs for VFS scales ranging from 0.25 (95% CI − 0.10 to 0.59) to 0.99 (95% CI 0.98 to 0.99). Conclusions: This study design was not feasible as recruitment was slow, few patients participated, and no patient agreed to all procedures. We discuss necessary methodological changes and lessons learned that would generalize to future research.

Orthognathic surgery (OGS) has been successfully adopted for managing a wide spectrum of skeletofacial deformities, but patients with underlying conditions have not been treated using OGS because of the relatively high risk of surgical anesthetic procedure-related complications. This study compared the OGS outcomes of patients with and without underlying high-risk conditions, which were managed using a comprehensive, multidisciplinary team-based OGS approach with condition-specific practical perioperative care guidelines. Data of surgical anesthetic outcomes (intraoperative blood loss, operative duration, need for prolonged intubation, reintubation, admission to an intensive care unit, length of hospital stay, and complications), facial esthetic outcomes (professional panel assessment), and patient-reported outcomes (FACE-Q social function, psychological well-being, and satisfaction with decision scales) of consecutive patients with underlying high-risk conditions (n = 30) treated between 2004 and 2017 were retrospectively collected. Patients without these underlying conditions (n = 30) treated during the same period were randomly selected for comparison. FACE-Q reports of 50 ethnicity-, sex-, and age-matched healthy individuals were obtained. The OGS-treated patients with and without underlying high-risk conditions differed significantly in their American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status (ASA-PS) classification (p &lt, 0.05), Charlson comorbidity scores, and Elixhauser comorbidity scores. The two groups presented similar outcomes (all p &gt, 0.05) for all assessed outcome parameters, except for intraoperative blood loss (p &lt, 0.001, 974.3 &plusmn, 592.7 mL vs. 657.6 &plusmn, 355.0 mL). Comparisons with healthy individuals revealed no significant differences (p &gt, 0.05). The patients with underlying high-risk conditions treated using a multidisciplinary team-based OGS approach and the patients without the conditions had similar OGS-related outcomes.

Key Clinical Message Ohnishi in 1975 first described temporomandibular joint (TMJ) arthroscopy. Along with its extensive use, a range of complications has emerged. We describe a patient who experienced parapharyngeal swelling after undergoing arthroscopy. Prolonged intubation up to 1 hour postoperatively was required. The swelling resolved completely over 6 h without further intervention.

Background Mediastinal reexplorations for bleeding are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. This study hypothesized that bleeding patients who undergo delayed chest closure after an initial operation experience similar outcomes in comparison with patients who have initial chest closure and later require an unplanned reexploration. Methods This study included all patients in the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine (Baltimore, MD) institutional Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) database who underwent cardiac surgical procedures or thoracic transplantation from 2011 to June 2014, had an intraoperative red blood cell transfusion requirement of 2 units or more, and required mediastinal reexploration for bleeding. Reexplorations were classified as planned (temporary chest closure for a planned "second look") or unplanned (initial sternal closure and subsequent reexploration). The two groups were then propensity matched. The primary outcome was 30-day mortality. Secondary outcomes were major complication rates, hospital length of stay, duration of mechanical ventilation, and incidence of postoperative pneumonia and cardiac arrest. Results Among 3,293 patients, 110 (3.3%) met inclusion criteria and required mediastinal reexploration for bleeding. This group included 62 planned (56%) and 48 unplanned (44%) reexplorations. After propensity matching 30 pairs of patients across 16 variables, operative mortality rates were comparable (37% vs 37%; p = 1.00) between unplanned and planned reexploration cohorts. There were no differences in rates of deep sternal wound infection, renal failure, postoperative hospital length of stay, pneumonia, or cardiac arrest, with the exception of a higher rate of prolonged intubation (93% vs 53%; p Conclusions Delayed sternal closure is a safe alternative to initial definitive chest closure when concern exists for postoperative bleeding.

Intubation is a routine intervention in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) for preterm neonates with respiratory distress, inadequate gag reflex, poor sucking and swallowing. Prolonged intubation in neonates can be done by nasal or oral route. Although naso-tracheal intubation may reduce movement of the tube, it may contribute to airway obstruction, possible hypoxia, and occlusion of the nasal aperture during a crucial period of development further contributing to laboured breathing. Being obligate nasal breathers, oro-tracheal route is the preferred method of intubation in premature infants as oral mucosa is less susceptible to damage than nasal mucosa. Ineffective stabilization of the tubes is a frequent problem often resulting in accidental extubation and displacement of orotracheal and orogastric tube. Hence, these tubes must be stabilized against displacement from tongue and jaw movements to prevent discomfort and subsequent tissue trauma. Complications of prolonged endotracheal intubation include palatal groove formation by pressure against the hard palate, infection, accidental extubation, malposition, laryngeal or tracheal edema and ulceration, tracheal stenosis, vocal cord injury. Various oral appliances are used for infants to stabilize the tubes and prevent complications associated with long term intubation. This case report describes a prosthodontic approach in management of prolonged neonatal intubation.

Background:: Tracheostomy was first observed in Egyptian drawings in 3600 BC and performed frequently during the 1800’s diphtheria epidemic. Objectives:: The aim of this study was to elucidate the indications, complications, mortality rate, and the effect of pediatric tracheostomy on length of PICU or hospital stay. Materials and Methods:: Demographic characteristics, diagnosis at admission, duration of ventilation of 152 patients were analyzed retrospectively. Results:: The most common tracheostomy indication was prolonged intubation. The mean duration of mechanical ventilation before tracheostomy was 23.8 days. Forty five percent of the tracheostomy procedures were performed at bedside. Neither the place nor the age had any effect on the development of complications (P = 0.701, P = 0.622). The procedure enabled 62% of the patients to be discharged from hospital. Conclusions:: Tracheostomy facilitates discharge and weaning of mechanical ventilation. Although the timing of tracheostomy has to be determined for each individual patient, three weeks of ventilation seems to be a suitable period for tracheostomy. Tracheostomy can be performed at bedside safely but patient selection should be made carefully.

Summary Several indirect laryngoscopes have recently been developed, but relatively few have been formally compared. In this study we evaluated the efficacy and the usability of the Macintosh, the Glidescope � , the McGrathand the Airtraqlaryngoscopes. Sixty anaesthesia providers (20 staff, 20 residents, and 20 nurses) were enrolled into this study. The volunteers intubated the trachea of a Laerdal SimManmanikin in three simulated difficult airway scenarios. In all scenarios, indirect laryngoscopes provided better laryngeal exposure than the Macintosh blade and appeared to produce less dental trauma. In the most difficult scenario (tongue oedema), the Macintosh blade was associated with a high rate of failure and prolonged intubation times whereas indirect laryngoscopes improved intubation time and rarely failed. Indirect laryngoscopes were judged easier to use than the Macintosh. Differences existed between indirect devices. The Airtraq � consistently provided the most rapid intubation. Laryngeal grade views were superior with the Airtraqand McGraththan with the Glidescope � .

Tracheal stenosis is a rare, potentially life-threatening condition described as innate narrowing of the tracheal lumen. The causes of tracheal stenosis vary widely. The most common forms result from prolonged intubation, although congenital causes usually involve complete tracheal rings or compression from cardiovascular malformations. The condition historically has harbored a poor prognosis, but significant advances in radiologic diagnosis, cardiac bypass, and endoscopic and surgical treatments have led to a range of options, better overall survival, and reduced morbidity. The complex, long-term manifestations of tracheal stenosis point to the need for individualized treatment as well as multidisciplinary care.

Tracheal stenosis following prolonged intubation is a relatively rare but a serious problem. However, some degree of airway injury is common following intubation, no matter whether it is prolonged or of short duration. Here, we are reporting a fifty six year old male patient who developed multiple web like tracheal stenosis following intubation with high volume low pressure cuff endotracheal tube. Subsequently, the stenosis was successfully dilated by balloon bronchoplasty.

The Griggs percutaneous tracheotomy is a technique that is safe and cost effective, and can be done rapidly at the bedside. The Griggs percutaneous tracheotomy is unique in its utilization of a guidewire dilator forceps. The indications for Griggs percutaneous tracheotomy are identical to those used for open tracheotomy and include prolonged intubation, pulmonary toilet, and upper airway obstruction. Fiberscopic visualization has been promoted by some to potentially decrease complications. In this article, the indications, contraindications, technique, and complications of the Griggs method will be discussed.

Objective To inspect and describe the results of tracheotomies carried out at our ENT Department and to assess changes in indications over the last few decades. Material and methods Retrospective study of 13 patients, aged 3 months to 14 years, admitted by the ENT Department to the Paediatric ICU at Puerta del Mar University Hospital for elective tracheotomy over a 92-month period. Results The main indication is shared by obstructive respiratory insufficiency, post-surgery extubation failure and as a means of assisting ventilation in children requiring prolonged intubation. Conclusions In the last 30 years the indications for paediatric tracheotomy have changed and the number of children needing intubation for more than 20–30 days has increased. It is no longer an emergency procedure to overcome a blockage in the upper airways but has instead become a technique for maintaining assisted ventilation for the medium to long term.

Purpose To validate the surgical time and propose a new checklist or algorithm to execute a tracheotomy within 12 minutes with optimal outcomes. Materials and Methods The authors designed and implemented a checklist method for tracheotomy based on 6 consecutive patients with respiratory failure and prolonged intubation in a medical intensive care unit. The primary outcome variable was surgical time for a tracheotomy performed by a fifth- or sixth-year resident under the supervision of the senior author (M.Z.). Results Six consecutive patients undergoing tracheotomy (mean, 48 yr; range, 24 to 55 yr; 4 men and 2 women) were included in the study. The average time recorded from the incision to correct insertion of the tracheotomy tube and confirmation of carbon dioxide return by the anesthesiologist was 10.66 minutes (range, 8 to 12 minutes). Conclusion This checklist facilitates the execution of a time-efficient and safe tracheotomy in less than 12 minutes.

Objetivo: revisar la literatura sobre vía aérea difícil en el servicio de urgencias, los predictores y las medidas de rescate cuando ocurre. Materiales y métodos: se revisaron en MEDLINE, EBSCOhost, SpringerLink y ScienceDirect con los términos difficult airway, vía aérea difícil, prolonged intubation, intubación prolongada, difficult intubation, intubación difícil, management of dificult airway, manejo de la vía aérea y predictores de vía aérea difícil, del año 2000 a 2014 en inglés o español. Resultados: se encontraron 16 estudios descriptivos prospectivos, 10 revisiones de tema, 7 registros de bases de datos, cuatro descriptivos transversales, cuatro comparativos, tres ciegos randomizados, dos guías de práctica clínica, dos series, un reporte de caso, dos análisis retrospectivos y un estudio de casos y controles. Conclusiones: la mayoría se han realizado en anestesiología, aunque en urgencias hay buenas tasas de éxito en vía aérea difícil. Se ha logrado mayor predicción de la vía aérea fácil. Es imposible en el servicio de urgencias determinar variables ideales que sean obtenibles, interpretables y confiables, ni se encuentran estudios locales sobre el tema. El manejo de la vía aérea difícil en urgencias se beneficia de la participación conjunta de especialidades como medicina de urgencias, anestesiología y cirugía, pero es necesario implementar estrategias de bajo costo distintas a la laringoscopia directa que han mostrado beneficio en el pronóstico del paciente. Abreviaturas: VAD, vía aérea difícil.

Background: Laryngeal injuries following intubation have a reported incidence from 63 to 94% and permanent sequelae are reported to be about 10 to 22% in the world literature. While several studies assessing the laryngeal complications are available in Caucasoid populations, minimal data is available in the literature regarding south Indian population. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate laryngeal lesions in patients after prolonged intubation (>24 h), to correlate these lesions with the variables involved in the process of intubation and to determine the risk factors. Materials and Methods: This is a prospective study for 1 year of patients who were intubated for more than 24 h in our critical care unit. Patients underwent laryngeal video endoscopy on the day of extubation and after 3 weeks by an ENT surgeon who was blinded to the intubation variables. Result: About 51 patients were included in the study. Laryngeal abnormalities were seen in 41 patients on the day of extubation. At the end of third week after extubation, only 10 patients had abnormal laryngeal findings. A multivariate stepwise regression model showed that bigger tube size ( P =0.02), longer duration of intubation ( P =0.01) and emergency intubation ( P = 0.02) was associated with higher incidence of laryngeal complications on the day of extubation. At the end of third week laryngeal findings were influenced only by the duration of intubation ( P =0.001). Conclusion: Laryngeal sequelae after extubation is directly associated with duration of intubation.

Subglottic stenosis is a known complication of a traumatic and prolonged intubation. In a child, subglottic area is narrower and more prone to damage by an oversized or overinflated endotracheal tube. The stenosis can present with complaints of change in voice, croup, or respiratory obstruction. Those presenting with respiratory obstruction require immediate diagnosis under direct laryngoscopy and timely corrective intervention under general anesthesia. A 4-year-old child came to the emergency department with severe respiratory obstruction. His medical history revealed invasive ventilatory management for aspiration pneumonitis 2 months back. Under direct laryngoscopy, we found severe narrowing of the subglottic area due to subglottic web. Since the subglottic area was so stenosed, intubation was impossible. Hence, emergency tracheostomy was performed to secure patient airway, followed by microlaryngeal surgery to remove the subglottic web. Acquired subglottic stenosis in a child can be a life-threatening situation which requires immediate airway management. It should be suspected in any child in severe respiratory obstruction with a history of prolonged intubation.

Background: Two recently developed video-optical intubation devices, the video-optical intubation stylet (VOIS) and the angled video intubation laryngoscope (AVIL) were compared for intubation times and success rate in a simulated difficult tracheal intubation setting. Methods: Thirty anaesthetists were asked to perform 5 intubation attempts with both techniques. Intubation times were recorded and the subjective degree of difficulty and preference for each technique were requested. Results: Intubation time with the VOIS was shorter (17.4±6.8 s) than with the AVIL (22.8±13.4 s; P=0.0001). Four of the 150 intubation attempts with the AVIL were scored as unsuccessful, due to prolonged intubation time (>60 s). The estimated degree of difficulty was not significantly different. Conclusion: In conclusion, both video-assisted intubation devices, the video-optical intubation stylet and the angled video intubation laryngoscope, can be considered to be simple and effective tools which facilitate tracheal intubation and which require only brief instruction and training.

Endotracheal intubation is associated with significant laryngeal sequelae that range in severity from mild hoarseness to life-threatening tracheal stenosis. Although the most severe trauma appears to be related to prolonged intubation, even short-term intubation (1 day) can adversely affect laryngeal and vocal function. Concern is warranted for all intubated patients, but particularly for the vocal athlete whose livelihood and identity depend on optimal vocal function. It is proposed that the vocal athlete faced with endotracheal intubation risk warrants careful multidisciplinary management. A number of intubation risk factors have been identified in the literature; however, clinical management of vocal athletes who undergo intubation has not been addressed. In medical settings where adverse intubation outcomes can lead to litigation, this clinical management protocol is expected to improve the probability of favorable voice outcome following endotracheal intubation.

BACKGROUND A variety of lesions can be seen in the larynx subsequent to an intubation anaesthesia or treatment with a respirator. The larynx may already be injured by introducing an endotracheal tube. The inserted tube must necessarily chafe the laryngeal mucosa. Many studies are concerned with individual manifestations [5-10,14,16,17,20]. The following article gives an overview of the intubation lesions of the larynx observed by us and offers comments on pathogenesis and prevention. PATIENTS 161 patients with severe lesions subsequent to an intubation or treatment with a respirator were seen at the ENT Department of the University of Marburg Hospital from 1973 to 1995. TYPES OF LESIONS CAUSED BY INTUBATION: Basing on the pathomechanisms, we can classify the lesions as follows: inflammatory reactions, lesions of the larynx caused during intubation, lesions caused by chafing by the tube or by the sealing sleeve. CONCLUSIONS Considering the large number of performed intubations, lesions of the larynx occur rarely. However, in view of the possible sequels, it would be advisable if an experienced laryngologist would perform a careful endoscopic examination of the larynx and trachea at least after every forced or prolonged intubation and especially after every treatment with a respirator.

Chronic airway obstruction usually has an insidious onset. It is often difficult to diagnose unless the patient is examined by a physician familiar with the problem and causes. Potential causes can be divided into infectious, inflammatory, traumatic, and neoplastic. Although the precise incidence of each category is unknown, trauma, secondary to previous prolonged intubation for mechanical ventilation, is currently the most common premorbid factor.

In 12 patients, ranging in age from newborn to 4 years, endotracheal intubation has been used as a substitute for tracheostomy. Using plastic tubes it was possible to maintain a good airway for periods of up to 7 weeks. Painstaking care was necessary to prevent the tubes becoming blocked or malpositioned. The tubes were tolerated well. Good laryngeal function has been regained by all 9 survivors. If permanent laryngeal changes have occurred, they show no signs of being severe. It is concluded that many cases customarily managed with tracheostomy can be equally well managed with intubation. Intubation may prove to be the preferred management in some cases of laryngeal oedema.

In this chapter we will review and discuss the percutaneous dilational tracheotomy (PDT) approach in cardiac surgery patients who need prolonged mechanical ventilation. Available data were located regarding the technique, timing, advantages and complications of the PDT. We also underlined the utility of bronchoscopy control during the procedure. We describe also our experience performing PDT with bronchoscopy control procedure on patients admitted to Cardiothoracic Intensive Care Unit (CTICU) patients. In our CTICU we have a long-term experience of tracheotomy with bronchoscopy control that yields better clinical practice and outcome.