Apnoeic oxygenation in tracheal surgeries

This study evaluates the feasibility, possible utility, and efficacy of apnoeic oxygenation during tracheal resection and anastomosis as an alternative strategy to conventional ventilation techniques used in tracheal surgeries. Eight patients with tracheal stenosis were studied. All had preoperative bronchoscopic balloon dilation to facilitate intubation. During surgery, continuous oxygen at 5 L/min was delivered via an airway exchange catheter positioned above the carina during tracheal anastomosis. Gas exchange parameters were monitored, showing a rise in PaCO₂ and a slight decrease in PaO₂ over 15 min of apnoea, without any desaturation or hypoxic events. Cross-field ventilation was not required in any case. The technique was convenient, simple to implement, and effective in maintaining oxygenation with minimal physiological disruption during tracheal anastomosis.