High frequency jet ventilation during endolaryngeal surgery: Risk factors for complications

Microlaryngeal surgery requires teamwork between surgeons and anesthesiologists. High-frequency jet ventilation (HFJV) is an artificial breathing technique, preferred during endolaryngeal interventions, which offers a good solution for the requirements. Most studies investigating independent risk factors for intraoperative complications during HFJV in endolaryngeal surgery (ELS) has been retrospective and not standardized and the anesthetic approach has not been standardized. This prospective cohort study aimed to identify risk factors of complications related to HFJV in ELS under a standardized anesthesia regimen.

243 patients who underwent ELS with infraglottic HFJV were investigated. Infraglottic jet ventilation catheter was placed and anesthesia was standardized. Demographic and operative data were noted. Hemodynamics, SpO2 and end-tidal CO2 were recorded at regular intervals. Complications such as hemodynamic disturbances, respiratory problems, barotrauma, equipment failure and requirement for conventional ventilation were also documented.

222 patients were included. Hypoxia, hypercapnia and the need for intubation were observed in 20(9%), 4(1.8%), 10(4.5%) patients. Bradycardia, hypotension and arrhythmia were observed in six (2.7%), 24(10.8%), and four (1.8%) patients respectively. Respiratory complications were associated with body mass index (BMI) (p < 0.001, OR: 1.57, 95%CI: 1.31–1.88) and previous major airway surgery (p < 0.001, OR: 34.0, 95%CI:3.52–328.24), whereas hemodynamic complications were associated with duration of the operation (p = 0.034, OR:1.04, 95%CI:1.0–1.09) and history of previous major airway surgery (p = 0.005, OR:9.57, 95%CI:1.97–46.49).

Infraglottic HFJV can be evaluated as an alternative breathing technique to conventional ventilation during endolaryngeal interventions. However, longer operation and previous laryngeal surgeries can increase the incidence of respiratory complications.