[Flow resistance in pediatric oro- and nasotracheal tubes]

Flow resistances of different endotracheal tubes used in paediatric anaesthesia were determined with varying gas flows of 3 to 10 lit. per minute. We found no significant differences between preformed orotracheal and nasotracheal tubes and ordinary endotracheal tubes consisting of PVC plastic and spiral tubes made of silicone material, respectively. Woodbridge tubes showed significantly higher resistance to all gas flows used. Because of their less favourable material and flow resistance properties, Woodbridge tubes cannot be recommended for paediatric anaesthesia.