Securing Endotracheal Tube in Pediatric Neurosurgical Patients Operated in Prone Position—A Novel Technique

Abstract

Abstract Introduction The purpose of the present study relates to prevention of accidental extubation (AE) of pediatric patients in prone position. The control of endotracheal tube (ETT) in prone position becomes very difficult and an AE often occurs. This is more so deleterious in this age group because of the shallow respiratory reserves in children as well as the common use of noncuffed endotracheal tubes. The accidental tube exit may be a life-threatening event and its prevention is extremely important. Case Description Using the used plastic bottle of intravenous fluids, a rectangular piece is cut, foam pasted and wrapped on itself and stout threads are attached. This attachment is used for securing the ETT by wrapping it. The technical details are described in the text. The AE is a potentially disastrous event and its occurrence in pediatric patients is even more dangerous. Many techniques have been developed over the years for prevention of such an event. Conclusions The present technique uses all the principles of ETT fixation without leading to adding any significant technical difficulties. The method is safe, cost-effective and easily reproducible way of securement of ETT in pediatric neurosurgical patients operated in the prone position.