Efficiency of a Mechanical Device in Controlling Tracheal Cuff Pressure in Intubated Critically Ill Patients

Efficiency of PressureEasy in Controlling Tracheal Cuff Pressure in Intubated Critically Ill Patients

Despite intermittent control of tracheal cuff pressure using a manual manometer, cuff underinflation and overinflation frequently occur in critically ill patients, resulting in increased risk for microaspiration and tracheal ischemic lesions.

The aim of this study is to determine the efficiency of Pressure easy® device (Smiths medical cuff pressure controller) in continuous control of tracheal cuff pressure.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients intubated in the ICU with a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) cuffed tracheal tube.
• Predicted duration of mechanical ventilation > or = 48h.
• Age > or = 18 years.
• Signed informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Anticipated duration of mechanical ventilation<48h after randomization.
• Tracheostomized patients.
• Patients with contraindication for semirecumbent position.
• Patients participating to another trial that might influence this study results.