Gas exchange during microsurgery of the larynx using Foley catheter insufflation technique--preliminary results

The technique of insufflating anesthetic gases via oro-tracheal Rusch type Foley catheter with spontaneous ventilation for microsurgery of the larynx is described. Fifteen unselected patients were used to assess the adequacy of gas exchange with this technique. Arterial blood gas analysis was carried out 5 minutes and 25 minutes after induction of anesthesia. The results at 25 minutes indicate adequate gas exchange. There was a significant increase in the PaO2 at 25 minutes but the decrease in PaCO2 at 25 minutes was insignificant. The technique also provided very satisfactory conditions for surgery with only minimal risk of gross tracheal soiling. No dysrhythmias were encountered and there was hemodynamic stability in all cases.