Minimal Occlusive Pressure With Cuffed ETT: the Effect of Size on Intracuff Pressure

Minimal Occlusive Pressure With Cuffed ETT: the Effect of Size on Intracuff Pressure

The purpose of this current study is to evaluate whether the size of the endotracheal tube (ETT) that is used impacts the intracuff pressure that occurs when the airway is sealed. If there is excessive pressure in the cuff of a smaller ETT when it is inflated, there may be inherent risks associated with the use of a cuffed endotracheal tube that is less than the appropriate size. The investigators believe that the size of the tube chosen has an impact on the characteristics of the inflated cuff and hence the intracuff pressure and the sealing pressure are variable.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients requiring intubation with an ETT for a surgical procedure.
• Children ages 4 to 8 years old.
• Surgical procedure lasting less than 60 minutes.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients undergoing a surgical procedure that is anticipated to last longer than 60 minutes.
• Patients that are known or anticipated to have a difficult airway.