Modified technique for endobronchial blocker placement in pediatric patients undergoing thoracic surgery

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Anesthesiology
• Thoracic Surgery
• Respiratory Management

Background:

• One lung ventilation (OLV) is crucial for thoracic procedures in children.
• Arndt endobronchial blockers (AEBB) are used for pediatric OLV but present placement challenges.
• Improved OLV techniques enhance surgical conditions and patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a novel technique for improved extraluminal AEBB placement and repositioning.
• To address the challenges associated with traditional AEBB use in pediatric OLV.
• To enhance the safety and efficiency of OLV in small children.

Main Methods:

• A novel technique utilizing an angled wire for extraluminal AEBB placement is described.
• The technique was applied in pediatric thoracic procedures.
• Successful application and repositioning capabilities were evaluated.

Main Results:

• The angled wire technique facilitates fast, safe, and reliable AEBB placement.
• Over 50 infants and toddlers have been successfully managed using this technique since 2017.
• The method overcomes common challenges of OLV in pediatric patients.

Conclusions:

• The described angled wire technique offers a significant advancement for pediatric OLV.
• This method ensures reliable one lung ventilation with the ability for AEBB repositioning.
• It provides a safe and effective solution for managing OLV in small children undergoing thoracic surgery.