Apparatus for emergency transtracheal ventilation

Abstract

Twenty anaesthetists were asked what equipment they would use to ventilate a patient after having performed and emergency cricothyroid puncture. Six systems were described and these were assessed for efficiency in delivery of oxygen through a 14 gauge cannula. Delivery of oxygen depended on the pressure achieved within the system. Apparatus utilizing a Bain circuit achieved volumes of around 200 ml for each double-handed squeeze of the reservoir bag. Use of a system taught on the Advanced Trauma and Life Support (ATLS) course resulted in higher system pressures and consequently greater volumes of oxygen delivered. Use of the oxygen flush with this system provides the highest flow rate and system pressure which results in 628 ml being delivered for a one second compression.