[Effects of changes in head and neck position on a tracheal tube cuff]

Thirteen patients were intubated with cuffed reinforced spiral tracheal tubes. Intracuff pressure and volume were measured as the position of the head and neck was altered. No significant changes in intracuff pressure and volume were observed with lateral rotation of the head. A significant increase in intracuff pressure was observed and excessive pressure (> 25 cm H2O) developed in 8 patients with head and neck flexion. A significant decrease of intracuff pressure and air-leak were observed in 9 patients with extension. Reinflated intracuff volume decreased and reinflated intracuff pressure increased significantly, and residual excessive pressure was observed in 4 patients with flexion. Both reinflated intracuff volume and pressure increased significantly, and excessive pressure was observed in 8 patients and residual air-leak developed in a patient in spite of excessive pressure with extension. The authors speculate that endotracheal tube movement by changes in head and neck position has effects on intracuff pressure and volume.