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Airway obstruction by an unexpected equipment damage
Patrick Schober1, Stephan A Loer1, Lothar A Schwarte1
1Department of Anesthesiology, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Journal of Clinical Anesthesia
|June 14, 2016
Summary
A Frova catheter used for endotracheal intubation dislodged a plastic strip, causing airway obstruction. This case highlights a potential complication when using Frova intubating introducers with laser-resistant tubes.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Critical Care Medicine
- Medical Device Safety
Background:
- Intubating introducers, such as the Frova catheter, are commonly employed to aid in challenging endotracheal intubation procedures.
- Laser-resistant endotracheal tubes are utilized in specific surgical scenarios, such as airway laser surgery.
Observation:
- A case is presented where a Frova catheter was used to facilitate the insertion of a laser-resistant endotracheal tube.
- During the procedure, a strip of plastic detached from the Frova catheter.
Findings:
- The dislodged plastic strip formed a convoluted mass within the airway.
- This mass resulted in significant airway obstruction, posing a critical risk to the patient.
Implications:
- Clinicians must be aware of this potentially life-threatening complication associated with Frova intubating introducers.
- Caution is advised when combining Frova intubating introducers with laser-resistant endotracheal tubes due to the risk of device failure and airway compromise.