Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 27, 2026

A Novel Rescue Technique for Difficult Intubation and Difficult Ventilation
Published on: January 17, 2011
A new risk of facemask ventilation: entrained esophageal air
Dominic S Carollo1, Bobby D Nossaman, Alexander I Gutkin
1Department of Anesthesiology, Ochsner Clinic Foundation, New Orleans, LA 70121, USA.
Abstract:
Facemask ventilation has been associated with the development of postoperative nausea and vomiting, increasing the risk of tracheal aspiration; development of gastric distension that further impairs alveolar ventilation; perforation of gastric and duodenal ulcers; development of pneumothorax; extrabronchial air dissection; and development of cardiac dysrhythmias, including bradycardia from indirect vagal nerve stimulation. An unusual complication that occurred during prolonged facemask ventilation is presented: development of a pseudo-obstruction of the intrathoracic airway due to the presence of entrained esophageal air.
Related Concept Videos
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management
Oxygen Delivering System II: Venturi Mask and Transtracheal Oxygen
Venturi Mask
The Venturi mask, named after the Venturi effect, is designed to deliver precise oxygen concentrations. It consists of a large tube with an oxygen inlet that narrows down, causing a pressure drop that pulls air in through adjustable side ports. The mask is a lightweight,...
Mechanical Ventilation II: Invasive Ventilation
Negative-Pressure Ventilators
Negative-pressure ventilators create a vacuum around the chest or body to draw air into the lungs, simulating breathing. This method does not require an...
Suctioning the Oropharyngeal Airway
After assembling the equipment, the nurse should practice hand hygiene and don appropriate PPE according to infection control guidelines to avoid the...
Suctioning the Nasopharyngeal Airway
Equipment Required
Esophageal Perforation-I: Introduction
The location of esophageal perforation can vary, occurring anywhere along the esophagus.
