The Macroscopic Changes of Tracheal Mucosa Following Tight Versus Loose Control of Tracheal Tube Cuff Pressure

The Macroscopic Changes of Tracheal Mucosa Following Tight Versus Loose Control of Tracheal Tube Cuff Pressure

Background: Tracheal mucosal lesions have been reported following intubation anesthesia. This has been mostly attributed to improper cuff pressure leading to ischemic damages of the tracheal mucosa. In this study macroscopic changes of tracheal mucosa at the site of cuff inflation were evaluated endoscopically after 'tight method' of cuff pressure control using a special water manometer. Methods: Eighty ASA I and II patients scheduled for elective operations were evaluated. The severity of macroscopic changes of tracheal mucosa was compared between tight control group and control group in which only 'no leak method' of cuff inflation was used (loose control group). Results: The incidence and severity of macroscopic changes in tracheal mucosa were significantly lower in tight control group than that in loose control group. Conclusions: Tight control of cuff pressure can minimize the incidence and severity of macroscopic lesions of tracheal mucosa at the site of cuff inflation.