The Stocks Suction Bullet

Abstract

The Stocks suction bullet is a device allowing maintenance of positive pressure ventilation, continuous distending pressure and high inspired oxygen concentrations during tracheal toilet in intubated patients. The effectiveness of this device was studied using an experimental apparatus and a dummy lung to represent neonates being treated with either C.P.A.P. or I.P.P.V. and P.E.E.P. By using appropriate combinations of suction catheter type and size, bullet lumen size, ventilator settings and suction pressure limit, it was possible to maintain during suctioning ventilation peak pressures between 50% and 100% of presuction levels and continuous distending pressures (P.E.E.P. or C.P.A.P.) at or in excess of 80% of presuction levels.