Characterizing the Structural Integrity of Endotracheal Tube Taping Techniques: A Simulation Study.

Area of Science:

• Medical Devices
• Biomedical Engineering
• Anesthesiology

Background:

• Endotracheal tubes (ETTs) require securement to prevent migration.
• Various taping methods exist, but comparative studies are limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate and compare the effectiveness of different tape-securement methods for ETTs.
• To hypothesize differences in peak forces during forced extubation among taping methods.

Main Methods:

• Five distinct ETT taping methods were tested in cadaver and simulation settings.
• Peak forces during forced extubation were measured in Newtons (N).
• Durability, tape geometry, and failure mechanisms were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in mean peak extubation forces were observed, ranging from 20 N to 156 N.
• Increased tape surface area and specific geometric configurations correlated with higher forces.
• Long, thin tape strips demonstrated durability by minimizing the peel angle.

Conclusions:

• The structural integrity of ETT taping methods varies significantly.
• Optimizing tape surface area and peel angle can enhance securement against forced extubation.