Pressure and flow limitations of anesthesia ventilators

The effect of increasing airway pressure on the mean inspiratory flow and maximum minute ventilation (VE) capabilities of five anesthesia ventilators (Ohio Anesthesia, Airshields Ventimeter, Ohmeda 7000, Draeger AV-E and Siemens 900D) was compared to identify mechanical factor(s) limiting intraoperative ventilation of the lungs of patients with acute respiratory failure. The effect of increasing airway pressure on mean inspiratory flow was determined by cycling each ventilator through increasing restrictors. Maximum VE was measured under three study conditions using a test lung: 1) low compliance (10-30 ml/cmH2O) and minimal airflow resistance; 2) positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) of 0, 10, and 20 cmH2O at a compliance of 20 ml/cmH2O with minimal airflow resistance; and 3) increased resistance (19 +/- 11 cmH2O.1(-1).s-1) and compliance of 30 ml/cmH2O. As airway pressure increased from 0 to 80 cmH2O, mean inspiratory flow decreased markedly for all ventilators except the Siemens. The Siemens ventilator delivered the greatest VE under all three conditions and maintained VE when airway pressure increased due to decreased compliance or the application of PEEP; all other ventilators markedly decreased VE under these conditions. The addition of airway resistance reduced maximal VE for all ventilators by limiting the maximal inspiratory duty cycle (T1/TTOT). Thus, mean inspiratory flow of conventional anesthesia ventilators decreases with increasing airway pressure. The decreased inspiratory flow limits maximum VE when airway pressure is elevated because of decreased lung-thorax compliance and/or increased airway resistance, such as that characterizing patients with acute respiratory failure. Significant airway resistance further limits maximum VE by limiting the maximal T1/TTOT that can be used without increasing end-expiratory lung pressure.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)     

Gastric insufflation pressure, air leakage and respiratory mechanics in the use of the laryngeal mask airway (LMA) in children

BACKGROUND: The objective of the present study was to evaluate the prelaryngeal position of the laryngeal mask airway (LMA(TM)) in children, and to determine the influence of mask positioning on gastric insufflation and oropharyngeal air leakage. METHODS: A total of 100 children, 3-11 years old, scheduled for surgical procedures in the supine position under general anaesthesia were studied. After clinically satisfactory LMA placement, tidal volumes were increased stepwise until air entered the stomach, airway pressure exceeded 30 cmH(2)O, or air leakage from the mask seal prevented further increases in tidal volume. LMA position in relation to the laryngeal entrance was verified using a flexible bronchoscope. RESULTS: The insertion of the LMA with a clinically satisfactory position was achieved in all patients at the first attempt. Gastric air insufflation occurred in five of 49 patients with malpositioned LMA. No incident of gastric air insufflation was observed in 51 patients with correctly positioned LMA. The minimum inspiratory pressure leading to mask leakage was 17 cmH(2)O for incorrectly positioned LMA, and 25 cmH(2)O for correctly positioned LMA. Clinically unrecognized LMA malposition was associated with a significantly increased incidence of either oropharyngeal leakage (r = 0.59; P = 0.0001) or gastric insufflation (r = 0.25; P = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Clinically undetected LMA malpositioning is a significant risk factor for gastric air insufflation in children between 3 and 11 years, undergoing positive pressure ventilation, especially at inspiratory airway pressures above 17 cmH(2)O.     

Elastic pressure-volume curves indicate derecruitment after a single deep expiration in anaesthetised and muscle-relaxed healthy man

BACKGROUND: In acute respiratory distress syndrome, lung volume is lost immediately after positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) is removed and is not immediately regained when PEEP is restored to its original value. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the same phenomenon also occurs in cardiopulmonary healthy individuals during anaesthesia and muscle relaxation. METHODS: In 13 anaesthetised and muscle-relaxed patients, inspiratory elastic pressure-volume (Pel-V) curves were, after lung recruitment, obtained from zero end-expiratory airway pressure (ZEEP) and from a PEEP of 5 cmH2O. The curves were aligned on a common volume axis. Differences in lung volumes and compliance (Crs) were calculated at the different airway pressures. RESULTS: At comparable pressures the ZEEP curve showed significantly lower volumes up to an airway pressure of 25 cmH2O. Maximum Crs was similar on the curves obtained from ZEEP and PEEP. However, the lower segments of the curve recorded from PEEP showed lower Crs compared to the curve recorded from ZEEP. CONCLUSION: During anaesthesia and muscle paralysis, the Pel-V relations change immediately when 5 cmH2O of PEEP is removed. This phenomenon is probably mainly caused by closure of small airways and only in a minor part, if any, by formation of atelectasis. This study indicates that under these conditions lung volume might easily be normalised by a large breath producing an airway pressure of 20 cmH2O.     

Pressure versus volume-controlled ventilation with a laryngeal mask airway™ in paediatric patients

BACKGROUND: The utility of positive pressure ventilation with the laryngeal mask airway (LMA) in children was described previously, but the possibility of gastric insufflation, related to high peak airway pressure, continues to be a disadvantage. In this prospective study, inspiratory pressures, air leak and signs of gastric insufflation were compared between volume-controlled ventilation (VCV) and pressure-controlled ventilation (PCV) using an LMA. METHODS: Thirty-two ASA I patients, aged 4.5 +/- 4 years, who were scheduled for elective procedures under combined general anaesthesia and caudal analgesia, were enrolled. After inhalation induction and LMA insertion, each patient was randomly assigned to receive successively PCV and VCV. Peak pressures (PCV) and tidal volumes (VCV) were changed in order to achieve adequate ventilation [endtidal CO2 5-5.4 kPa (38-42 mmHg)]. RESULTS: Peak airway pressures were significantly lower with PCV than VCV (14.1 +/- 1.6 cmH2O versus 16.7 +/- 2.3 cmH2O, P < 0.001). No patient ventilated with PCV required peak pressure higher than 20 cmH2O compared with six patients ventilated with VCV (P < 0.05). Haemodynamic parameters, expiratory tidal volume and percent of leak were similar in both ventilatory modes and no signs of gastric insufflation were detected. CONCLUSIONS: During general anaesthesia in children using an LMA, PCV offers lower peak inspiratory airway pressures while maintaining equal ventilation compared with VCV. Although no signs of gastric insufflation were detected in both groups, the lower pressures might be significant in patients with reduced chest wall or lung compliance.     

Pressure-controlled inverse ratio ventilation after cardiac surgery.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Pressure-controlled inverse ratio ventilation was compared with controlled mechanical ventilation in patients after cardiac surgery. METHODS: Ten patients were ventilated after sternal closure using a Siemens Servo 900C ventilator to a target end-tidal PCO2 of 4.0 kPa. They were randomized to receive controlled mechanical ventilation or pressure-controlled inverse ratio ventilation. CO2-based data were recorded on a laptop personal computer, which together with arterial PCO2 permitted measurement of the respiratory dead space. Once measurements were complete the ventilator was switched to the other mode and new measurements taken. RESULTS: PaCO2 and VCO2 were virtually the same in both modes. Peak airway pressure (17.2 +/- 2.7 vs. 20.8 +/- 2.5 cmH2O, P < 0.01) and minute ventilation (4.9 +/- 1.1 vs. 5.3 +/- 1.1 cmH2O, P < 0.01) were less during pressure-controlled inverse ratio ventilation. Physiological dead space fraction (0.39 +/- 0.06 vs. 0.51 +/- 0.05, P < 0.001), airway dead space (56 +/- 15 vs. 81 +/- 15 mL, P < 0.001) and alveolar dead space fraction (0.25 +/- 0.07 vs. 0.31 +/- 0.09, P < 0.01) were all less during pressure-controlled inverse ratio ventilation. There were no differences in heart rate or mean arterial pressure. CONCLUSIONS: The prolonged inspiratory period and pressure-controlled flow pattern of pressure-controlled inverse ratio ventilation reduce the alveolar and airway dead spaces, and give lower peak airway pressures, compared with conventional ventilation, in cardiac surgical patients.     

Inspiratory pressure–volume curves at different positive end-expiratory pressure levels in patients with ALI/ARDS

BACKGROUND: In lung protective strategy, positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) slightly higher than the Pflex (the airway pressure corresponding to the lower inflection point (LIP) on the inspiratory pressure-volume (P-V) curve measured with ZEEP) is generally recommended. However, this method to determine optimal PEEP lacks a theoretical background and there is no clinical report that investigated how the P-V relationship would be with such PEEP. Therefore, we measured inspiratory P-V curves at different PEEP levels to increase our knowledge about the inspiratory P-V curve with PEEP. METHODS: In eight consecutive patients with ALI/ARDS, inspiratory P-V curves were repeatedly measured at different PEEP levels by low flow inflation technique and LIP was assessed in all inspiratory P-V curves. Afterwards, the minimum PEEP level at which LIP was not identifiable (PEEP(LIP)(-)) was determined and the relationship between Pflex and PEEP(LIP)(-) was investigated. RESULTS: Pflex and PEEP(LIP)(-) could be determined in all patients. Pflex was 9.4+/-2.0 cmH2O (range: 7 to 12 cmH2O) and PEEP(LIP)(-) was 7.9+/-1.6 cmH2O (range: 5 to 10 cmH2O) (mean+/-SD, P=0.0877). PEEP(LIP)(-) was lower than the Pflex in five patients, and significantly lower than the Pflex + 2 cmH2O (P=0.0024). CONCLUSION: From the analysis of inspiratory P-V curves at different PEEP levels, PEEP 2 cmH2O higher than the Pflex may not be necessary to prevent cyclic collapse and reopening of alveoli, at least in some ALI/ARDS patients. Further studies are needed to confirm this preliminary result.     

Ventilator treatment in the Nordic countries. A multicenter survey

BACKGROUND: A 1-day point prevalence study was performed in the Nordic countries to identify ventilator-treatment strategies in the region. MATERIAL AND METHODS: On 30 May 30 2001 all mechanically ventilated patients in 27 intensive care units (ICUs) were registered via the internet. The results are shown as medians (25th, 75th percentile). RESULTS: One hundred and eight patients were included (69% male) with new simplified acute physiology score (SAPS) 48 (37,57) and 4.5 d (2,11) of ventilator treatment. The most frequent indication for ventilator treatment was acute respiratory failure (73%). Airway management was by endotracheal tube (64%), tracheostomy (32%) and facial mask (4%). Pressure regulated ventilator modes were used in 86% of the patients and spontaneous triggering was allowed in 75%. The tidal volume was 7 ml/kg (6,9), peak inspiratory pressure 22 cmH2O (18,26) and positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) 6 cmH2O (6,9). FiO2 was 40% (35,50), SaO2 97% (95-98), PaO2 11 kPa (10,13), PaCO2 5.4 kPa (4.7,6.3), pH 7.43 (7.38,7.47) and BE 2.0 mmol/l (- 0.5,5). The PaO2/FiO2 ratio was 220 mmHg (166,283). The peak inspiratory pressure (r=0.37), mean airway pressure (r=0.36), PEEP (r=0.33), tidal volume (r=0.22) and SAPS score (r=0.19) were identified as independent variables in relation to the PaO2/FiO2 ratio. CONCLUSION: The vast majority of patients were ventilated with pressure-regulated modes. Tidal volume was well below what has been considered conventional in recent large trials. Correlations between the parameters of gas exchange, respiratory mechanics, ventilator settings and physiological status of the patients was poor. It appears that blood gas values are the main tool used to steer ventilator treatment. These results may help to design future interventional studies of ventilator treatment.     

The pressure at the lower inflexion point has no relation to airway collapse in surfactant-treated premature lambs

BACKGROUND: The lower inflexion point (LIP) on the inspiratory part of the pressure-volume (PV) loop has been suggested to be related to the pressure at which air spaces collapse. Our hypothesis is that airway collapse might instead be assessed from the upper inflexion point on the expiratory part of the PV-loop (UIPexp), where lung volume starts to decrease significantly. We therefore examined whether there was a relation between LIP and UIPexp in premature surfactant-treated lambs. METHODS: Ten lambs, at 119-141 days of gestational age, were delivered by cesarean section and given 200 mg/kg modified natural porcine surfactant before the first breath. The lambs were then connected to a ventilator and PV-loops using airway pressures of 0-35-0 (ZEEP-loop) and 5-35-5 cmH2O (PEEP-loop) were obtained after lung recruitment at 15, 60 and 120 min after birth. From the loops, LIP, UIPexp, upper inflexion point of the inspiratory part of the loop (UIP insp), inspiratory capacity (IC) as well as inspiratory and expiratory maximal compliance of the respiratory system (Crs(insp) and Crs(exp)) were calculated. RESULTS: The ZEEP-loop showed a substantial hysteresis with a distinct LIP at 19+/-2 cmH2O (mean+/-SD), which was different (P<0.001) from UIPexp (9+/-2 cmH2O). The pressures at LIP and UIPexp were unrelated (r2=0.06). UIPinsp was located at 28+/-2 cmH2O. Crs(insp) was 2.1+/-0.6 ml x cmH2O(-1) x kg(-1), which was lower (P<0.001) than Crs(exp) (2.8+/-0.6 ml x cmH2O(-1) x kg(-1)). IC was 26+/-6 ml/kg. The PEEP-loop had a minimal hysteresis with an expiratory part coinciding with that of the ZEEP-loop. CONCLUSION: In surfactant-treated premature lambs the pressures at LIP and UIPexp are not related, showing that LIP does not indicate the pressure at which airways collapse.     

Perioperative pulmonary function in acute respiratory failure: effect of ventilator type and gas mixture

Whether maintaining pulmonary nitrogenation and/or a stable ventilatory pattern during surgery would minimize changes in perioperative pulmonary function in two groups of patients with acute respiratory failure (ARF) whose lungs were being mechanically ventilated was examined. Group 1 (n = 39 cases) (inspired oxygen fraction [FIO2] less than or equal to 0.5, minute ventilation less than or equal to 15 l/min, peak inspiratory pressure less than or equal to 50 cmH2O, positive end-expiratory pressure [PEEP] less than or equal to 10 cmH2O) were assigned randomly to one of four intraoperative ventilator-gas mixture (FIO2 approximately 0.5) combinations: 1) Siemens 900C ventilator, N2/O2; 2) Siemens 900C ventilator, N2O/O2; 3) Ohio anesthesia ventilator, N2/O2; or 4) Ohio anesthesia ventilator, N2O/O2. Group 2 (n = 15 cases) (ventilatory requirements exceeding any of those in Group 1) had their lungs ventilated intraoperatively with the Siemens 900C ventilator and a gas mixture determined by their anesthesiologist (FIO2 approximately 0.6-1.0). In patients whose lungs were ventilated with the Ohio N2O/O2 combination, PaO2/FIO2 decreased significantly (P less than 0.05) from 358 +/- 93 mmHg (mean +/- SD) preoperatively to 282 +/- 77 mmHg intraoperatively. The level of PEEP increased significantly from 5 +/- 3 cmH2O preoperatively to 9 +/- 4 cmH2O intraoperatively (P less than 0.05). In patients whose lungs were ventilated with the Ohio N2/O2 combination, PaO2/FIO2 decreased significantly from 270 +/- 86 mmHg preoperatively to 174 +/- 74 mmHg intraoperatively. These variables did not change significantly in patients ventilated with the Siemens ventilator (groups 1 and 2). Pulmonary oxygen gas exchange returned to preoperative values by the first hour postoperatively.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)     

Effect of inspiratory time on tidal volume delivery in anesthesia and intensive care unit ventilators operating in pressure control mode

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To compare the effect of inspiratory time and lung compliance on tidal volume (Vt) delivery in anesthesia and intensive care unit (ICU) ventilators operating in pressure control mode. SETTING: Respiratory research laboratory of a tertiary care medical center. DESIGN: Two anesthesia ventilators with pressure control capability (Narkomed 6000, Drager Medical, Inc, Telford, Pa, and the Datex-Ohmeda Aestiva 5, Datex-Ohmeda, Inc, Madison, Wis) and one critical care ventilator (Puritan Bennett 7200, Puritan-Bennett, Pleasanton, Calif) were studied under varying inspiratory time and lung compliance conditions using a mechanical lung model. INTERVENTION: Each ventilator was set to pressure control mode at a fixed inspiratory/expiratory (I/E) ratio. The respiratory rate (RR) was varied between 6 and 28 breaths per minute. Lung compliance and inspiratory time settings were set to simulate clinical conditions known to affect anesthesia ventilator performance. MEASUREMENTS: Inspiratory flow, Vts, and peak airway pressures were measured using the on-board monitor for each ventilator, and confirmed with the Bicore CP-100 pulmonary mechanics monitor (Bicore Monitoring Systems, Inc, Irvine, Calif). To assess differences in inspiratory flow between ventilators, airway pressures were continuously monitored during inspiration. MAIN RESULTS: Increasing RRs caused delivered Vts to decrease for all ventilators. However, decreases in Vts were significantly larger for anesthesia than for ICU ventilators. At a lung compliance of 0.02 L/cm H(2)O and set Vt of 700 mL, Vt delivery for the Puritan Bennett 7200 ventilator remained at 88% of baseline, but decreased to 76% for the Aestiva 5 when RRs were increased from 6 to 28 breaths per minute (P < .0025). Airway pressure tracings demonstrated a slower increase in inspiratory airway pressure for the Aestiva 5 than for the other ventilators. CONCLUSION: Differences in inspiratory flow delivery between ICU and anesthesia ventilators can cause differences in Vt delivery when the pressure control mode is used at high RRs. These differences can significantly impact the perioperative care of critically ill patients requiring ventilatory support.     

Collapsibility of the Upper Airway during Anesthesia with Isoflurane

Background: The unprotected upper airway tends to obstruct during general anesthesia, yet its mechanical properties have not been studied in detail during this condition.

Methods: To study its collapsibility, pressure-flow relationships of the upper airway were obtained at three levels of anesthesia (end-tidal isoflurane = 1.2%, 0.8%, and 0.4%) in 16 subjects while supine and spontaneously breathing on nasal continuous positive airway pressure. At each level of anesthesia, mask pressure was transiently reduced from a pressure sufficient to abolish inspiratory flow limitation (11.8 +/- 2.7 cm H2O) to pressures resulting in variable degrees of flow limitation. The relation between mask pressure and maximal inspiratory flow was determined, and the critical pressure at which the airway occluded was recorded. The site of collapse was determined from simultaneous measurements of nasopharyngeal, oropharyngeal, and hypopharyngeal and esophageal pressures.

Results: The airway remained hypotonic (minimal or absent intramuscular genioglossus electromyogram activity) throughout each study. During flow-limited breaths, inspiratory flow decreased linearly with decreasing mask pressure (r2 = 0.86 +/- 0.17), consistent with Starling resistor behavior. At end-tidal isoflurane of 1.2%, critical pressure was 1.1 +/- 3.5 cm H2O; at 0.4% it decreased to -0.2 +/- 3.6 cm H2O (P < 0.05), indicating decreased airway collapsibility. This decrease was associated with a decrease in end-expiratory esophageal pressure of 0.6 +/- 0.9 cm H2O (P < 0.05), suggesting an increased lung volume. Collapse occurred in the retropalatal region in 14 subjects and in the retrolingual region in 2 subjects, and did not change with anesthetic depth.     

The effect of timing of application of positive end-expiratory pressure on oxygenation during one-lung ventilation

Many studies have confirmed that applying positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) to the dependent lung during one-lung ventilation (OLV) improves oxygenation. Our purpose was to investigate the best time and level of PEEP application. Thirty patients undergoing thoracic surgery were randomised into three groups. After 20 minutes of two-lung ventilation (TLV) in the lateral position, all patients received OLV for one hour During OLV, 0, 5, 10 cmH2O PEEP were applied in order in group A, with each level sustained for 20 minutes. Group B had 5 cmH2O PEEP applied and maintained for one hour Patients in group C received PEEP with levels set in the opposite order to that of group A. The ventilation model was then converted to TLV. PaO2, PaCO2 and respiratory mechanical variables were compared at five different time points among groups, 20 minutes after TLV (T1), 20 (T2), 40 (T3) and 60 minutes (T4) after OLV and 20 minutes after conversion to TLV (T5). We found that PaO2 was lower in group A than the other two groups at T2 (P <0.05). PaO2 decreased significantly at T5 compared with T1 (P <0.05) in group A only. When PEEP was set to 10 cmH2O, the airway pressure increased significantly (P <0.05). These findings indicate that PEEP applied at the initial time of OLV improves oxygenation most beneficially. Five cmH2O PEEP may produce this beneficial effect without the increase in airway pressure associated with 10 cmH2O PEEP.     

Airway closure in anesthetized infants and children: influence of inspiratory pressures and volumes

BACKGROUND: Cyclic opening and closing of lung units during tidal breathing may be an important cause of iatrogenic lung injury. We hypothesized that airway closure is uncommon in children with healthy lungs when inspiratory pressures are kept low, but paradoxically may occur when inspiratory pressures are increased. METHODS: Elastic equilibrium volume (EEV) and closing capacity (CC) were measured with a tracer gas (SF(6)) technique in 11 anesthetized, muscle-relaxed, endotracheally intubated and artificially ventilated healthy children, aged 0.6-13 years. Airway closing was studied in a randomized order at two inflation pressures, +20 or +30 cmH(2)O, and CC and CC/EEV were calculated from the plots obtained when the lungs were exsufflated to -20 cmH(2)O. (CC/EEV >1 indicates that airway closure might occur during tidal breathing). Furthermore, a measure of uneven ventilation, multiple breath alveolar mixing efficiency (MBAME), was obtained. RESULTS: Airway closure within the tidal volume (CC/EEV >1) was observed in four and eight children (not significant, NS) after 20 and 30 cmH(2)O inflation, respectively. However, CC(30)/EEV was >CC(20)/EEV in all children (P< or = 0.001). The MBAME was 75+/-7% (normal) and did not correlate with CC/EEV. CONCLUSION: Airway closure within tidal volumes may occur in artificially ventilated healthy children during ventilation with low inspiratory pressure. However, the risk of airway closure and thus opening within the tidal volume increases when the inspiratory pressures are increased.     

Improved flow and pressure capabilities of the Datex-Ohmeda SmartVent anesthesia ventilator

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To compare the flow and pressure capabilities of the Datex-Ohmeda SmartVent (Ohmeda 7900, Datex-Ohmeda, Madison, WI) to previous Ohmeda (7810 and 7000, Datex-Ohmeda, Madison, WI) anesthesia ventilators. To determine airway pressure and minute ventilation thresholds for intraoperative use of a critical care ventilator. DESIGN: Three anesthesia ventilators and one critical care ventilator (Siemens Servo 900C, Siemens, Solna, Sweden) were studied in a lung model. Retrospective medical record review. SETTING: Research Laboratory and Critical Care Unit of a Level I Trauma Center. PATIENTS: 145 mechanically ventilated patients treated for acute respiratory failure who underwent 200 surgical procedures. INTERVENTIONS: The effect of increasing pressure on mean inspiratory flow was determined by cycling each ventilator through increasing restrictors. Maximum minute ventilation was measured at low compliance (10-30 mL/cm H2O), positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) (0-20 cm H2O), and increased airway resistance (approximately 19 and approximately 36 cm H2O/L/sec) in a mechanical lung model. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Flow, volume, and pressure were measured with a pulmonary mechanics monitor (BICORE CP-100, Thermo Respiratory Group, Yorba Linda, CA). Preoperative peak airway pressure and minute ventilation (VE) were extracted from the medical record. Mean inspiratory flow declined with increasing pressure in all anesthesia ventilators. The SmartVent and the 7810 produced greater mean inspiratory flow than did the 7000 ventilator. As compliance progressively decreased, the Siemens, the SmartVent, and the 7810 ventilators maintained VE compared to the 7000 ventilator. The Siemens and the SmartVent maintained VE with PEEP, compared to the 7810 and 7000 ventilators. During increased airway resistance, maximal VE was lower for all ventilators. The SmartVent met the ventilation requirements in 90% of the patients compared to 67% of patients with the 7000 ventilator. CONCLUSION: The improved pressure and flow capabilities of the SmartVent increase the threshold for using a critical care ventilator intraoperatively to a peak airway pressure > 65 cm H2O and/or VE > 18 L/min.     

Comparison of the modified Airway Management Device with the Proseal laryngeal mask airway in patients undergoing gynaecological procedures

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: The modified Airway Management Device (AMD) and the Proseal laryngeal mask airway (PLMA) are both supraglottic airway devices designed to maintain airway patency and allow ventilation during anaesthesia. In this prospective, randomized trial, we compared the two devices in patients undergoing major gynaecological procedures. METHODS: Eighty-two patients undergoing elective gynaecological surgery were randomized to two groups. Group A (n = 41) had the AMD and Group P (n = 41) the PLMA inserted after induction of anaesthesia. We compared the success of airway placement, time to achieve an airway, oropharyngeal leak pressure and complications associated during anaesthesia. RESULTS: There were no differences in patient characteristic profile for both groups. First time insertion success rates were significantly higher in Group P than in Group A (100% vs. 83%, P < 0.012). Time taken to achieve airway was also significantly shorter in Group P than in Group A (mean 21.9 +/- 7.8 s vs. 40.2 +/- 48.0 s, P < 0.001). The oropharyngeal leak pressure was significantly higher for Group P than Group A (mean 31.2 +/- 5.7 cmH(2)O vs. 24.2 +/- 8.3 cmH(2)O, P < 0.001). Ten patients in Group A had transient loss of airway during anaesthesia and needed manipulation of the airway device and four patients needed to have the airway switched to PLMA for the rest of the procedure. CONCLUSIONS: The modified AMD has a significant lower first time successful placement rate, required a longer insertion time and has a lower oropharyngeal leak pressure than the PLMA. It also demonstrated an increased loss of airway during anaesthesia. The modified AMD needs further evaluation on its efficacy and safety before its further use can be recommended.     

Tracheal sealing by auto-inflation in tracheal tube cuffs

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to determine if inspiratory pressure from intermittent positive pressure ventilation may be sufficient to inflate the cuff (thus 'auto-inflation') and thereby seal the trachea. METHODS: In a laboratory model we investigated the ability of cuffs of seven 5.0 mm internal diameter (ID) tracheal tubes (Sheridan CF, Mallinckrodt Hi-Contour, Mallinckrodt Sealguard, Mallinckrodt Safety-Flex, Portex Soft Seal, Rueschelit Super-Safety Clear and Microcuff PET) to seal the trachea by auto-inflation, i.e. by using the inspiratory pressure to expand and keep open the cuff within the trachea. A mechanical lung connected to a model trachea made from clear, rigid polyvinylchloride (PVC) (12 mm ID) was used to simulate changes in inspiratory pressures. Respirator settings were: fresh gas flow (air) 6 lxmin(-1); positive end-expiratory pressure 5 cmH(2)O; respiratory rate 20 brxmin(-1); I : E ratio = 1 : 2; inspiratory pressure 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 cmH(2)O. Percentage of expiratory to inspiratory tidal volume (E : I V(t) volume ratio) was calculated. RESULTS: Using lubricated Mallinckrodt Seal Guard tube cuffs E : I V(t) volume ratio was almost 100% at a peak inspiratory pressure of 10 cmH(2)o whereas in tube cuffs particularly made of PVC an E : I ratio was achieved only at higher inspiratory pressures, if at all. CONCLUSIONS: Auto-inflation in the Mallinckrodt Seal Guard with high volume-low pressure polyurethane cuff can produce adequate tracheal sealing in the model trachea used. The implication is that such auto-inflation should decrease the risk of tracheal injury from acute or persistent cuff hyperinflation.     

Appropriate size of laryngeal mask airway for children

The aim of this crossover study was to determine the optimal size of laryngeal mask airway in children weighing 10 to 20 kg. In each of 67 apnoeic anaesthetized children, the size 2 and size 2 1/2 laryngeal mask airways were inserted consecutively by a skilled user and the cuff inflated to 60 cmH2O. Each LMA was assessed for the ease of insertion (by the number of attempts), oropharyngeal leak pressure, anatomical position (assessed fibreoptically) and the volume of air required to achieve intracuff pressure of 60 cmH2O. During the measurement of oropharyngeal leak pressure, the airway pressure was not allowed to exceed 30 cmH2O. There was no failed attempt at insertion with any size. The oropharyngeal leak pressure was significantly less for the size 2 LMA compared to the size 2 1/2 LMA (P < 0.001). The oesophagus was visible on three occasions, all with the size 2 LMA. Gastric insufflation occurred in three patients, all with the size 2 LMA. The incidence of low oropharyngeal leak pressure (< 10 cmH2O) was low (9.0%) and all occurred with the size 2 LMA. The fibreoptic bronchoscope scores were not significantly different between the two sizes of LMAs. The volume of air to achieve intracuff pressure of 60 cmH2O was much lower than the maximum recommended volume (5.1 ml for size 2 and 6.2 ml for size 2 1/2). We conclude that the size 2 1/2 LMA provides a better fit than size 2 in children 10 to 20 kg.     

Cardiorespiratory effects of automatic tube compensation during airway pressure release ventilation in patients with acute lung injury

BACKGROUND: Spontaneous breaths during airway pressure release ventilation (APRV) have to overcome the resistance of the artificial airway. Automatic tube compensation provides ventilatory assistance by increasing airway pressure during inspiration and lowering airway pressure during expiration, thereby compensating for resistance of the artificial airway. The authors studied if APRV with automatic tube compensation reduces the inspiratory effort without compromising cardiovascular function, end-expiratory lung volume, and gas exchange in patients with acute lung injury. METHODS: Fourteen patients with acute lung injury were breathing spontaneously during APRV with or without automatic tube compensation in random order. Airway pressure, esophageal and abdominal pressure, and gas flow were continuously measured, and tracheal pressure was estimated. Transdiaphragmatic pressure time product was calculated. End-expiratory lung volume was determined by nitrogen washout. The validity of the tracheal pressure calculation was investigated in seven healthy ventilated pigs. RESULTS: Automatic tube compensation during APRV increased airway pressure amplitude from 7.7+/-1.9 to 11.3+/-3.1 cm H2O (mean +/- SD; P < 0.05) while decreasing trans-diaphragmatic pressure time product from 45+/-27 to 27+/-15 cm H2O x s(-1) x min(-1) (P < 0.05), whereas tracheal pressure amplitude remained essentially unchanged (10.3+/-3.5 vs. 10.1+/-3.5 cm H2O). Minute ventilation increased from 10.4+/-1.6 to 11.4+/-1.5 l/min (P < 0.001), decreasing arterial carbon dioxide tension from 52+/-9 to 47+/-6 mmHg (P < 0.05) without affecting arterial blood oxygenation or cardiovascular function. End-expiratory lung volume increased from 2,806+/-991 to 3,009+/-994 ml (P < 0.05). Analysis of tracheal pressure-time curves indicated nonideal regulation of the dynamic pressure support during automatic tube compensation as provided by a standard ventilator. CONCLUSION: In the studied patients with acute lung injury, automatic tube compensation markedly unloaded the inspiratory muscles and increased alveolar ventilation without compromising cardiorespiratory function and end-expiratory lung volume.     

Alveolar recruitment strategy improves arterial oxygenation after cardiopulmonary bypass

Atelectasis occurs during general anaesthesia. This is partly responsible for the impairment of gas exchange that occurs peri-operatively. During cardiopulmonary bypass, this atelectasis is exacerbated by the physical collapse of the lungs. As a result, poor arterial oxygenation is often seen postoperatively. We tested the effect of an 'alveolar recruitment strategy' on arterial oxygenation in a prospective randomised study of 78 patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass. Patients were divided equally into three groups of 26. Group 'no PEEP' received a standard post bypass manual lung inflation, and no positive end-expiratory pressure was applied until arrival at intensive care unit. Group '5 PEEP' received a standard post bypass manual inflation, and then 5 cmH2O of positive end-expiratory pressure was applied and maintained until extubation on intensive care. The third group, 'recruitment group', received a pressure-controlled stepwise increase in positive end-expiratory pressure up to 15 cmH2O and tidal volumes of up to 18 ml x kg(-1) until a peak inspiratory pressure of 40 cmH2O was reached. This was maintained for 10 cycles; the positive end-expiratory pressure of 5 cmH2O was maintained until extubation on intensive care. There was a significantly better oxygenation in the recruitment group at 30 min and 1 h post bypass when compared with the no PEEP and 5 PEEP groups. There was no significant difference in any of the groups beyond 1 h. Application of 5 cmH2O positive end-expiratory pressure alone had no significant effect on oxygenation. No complications due to the alveolar recruitment manoeuvre occurred. We conclude that the application of an alveolar recruitment strategy improves arterial oxygenation after cardiopulmonary bypass surgery.     

Evaluation of a recruitment maneuver with positive inspiratory pressure and high PEEP in patients with severe ARDS

BACKGROUND: To evaluate the effect of a recruitment maneuver (RM) with constant positive inspiratory pressure and high positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) on oxygenation and static compliance (Cs) in patients with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). METHODS: Eight patients with ARDS ventilated with lung-protective strategy and an arterial partial pressure of oxygen to inspired oxygen fraction ratio (PaO2/FIO2) < or =100 mmHg regardless of PEEP were prospectively studied. The RM was performed in pressure-controlled ventilation at FIO2 of 1.0 until PaO2 reached 250 mmHg or a maximal plateau pressure/PEEP of 60/45 cmH2O was achieved. The RM was performed with stepwise increases of 5 cmH2O of PEEP every 2 min and thereafter with stepwise decreases of 2 cmH2O of PEEP every 2 min until a drop in PaO2 >10% below the recruitment PEEP level. Data was collected before (preRM), during and after 30 min (posRM). RESULTS: The PaO2/FIO2 increased from 83 +/- 22 mmHg preRM to 118 +/- 32 mmHg posRM (P = 0.001). The Cs increased from 28 +/- 10 ml cmH2O(-1) preRM to 35 +/- 12 ml cmH2O(-1) posRM (P = 0.025). The PEEP was 12 +/- 3 cmH2O preRM and was set at 15 +/- 4 cmH2O posRM (P = 0.025). The PEEP of recruitment was 36 +/- 9 cmH2O and the collapsing PEEP was 13 +/- 4 cmH2O. The PaO2 of recruitment was 225 +/- 105 mmHg, with five patients reaching a PaO2 > or = 250 mmHg. The FIO2 decreased from 0.76 +/- 0.16 preRM to 0.63 +/- 0.15 posRM (P = 0.001). No major complications were detected. CONCLUSION: Recruitment maneuver was safe and useful to improve oxygenation and Cs in patients with severe ARDS ventilated with lung-protective strategy.