Innovative Techniques and Challenges in Securing Endotracheal Tubes Among Patients With Facial Hair: A Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Intensive Care Medicine
• Medical Device Securement

Background:

• Securing endotracheal tubes in patients with facial hair presents a clinical challenge.
• Existing methods may be inadequate or require modification for this patient population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and evaluate innovative endotracheal tube fixation techniques for patients with facial hair.
• To systematically categorize these novel methods.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was performed across multiple databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, etc.).
• PRISMA-ScR guidelines were followed for study selection and screening.
• Descriptive thematic analysis was used to categorize fixation techniques.

Main Results:

• Seven studies met inclusion criteria, identifying three innovative fixation categories: facial coverings, remote securement, and mustache-based stabilization.
• Advantages include facial hair preservation and reduced complications.
• Limitations include lack of direct comparisons and limited generalizability.

Conclusions:

• Current evidence on standard endotracheal tube securement in patients with facial hair is limited.
• Innovative techniques show promise but require further evaluation.
• Randomized controlled trials are needed to compare innovative and conventional methods.