Comparison of Endotracheal Tube Fixation Methods in Prone Position

Impact of Endotracheal Tube Fixation Methods on Tube Displacement During Pron Position

In particular, prone position surgeries risk potentially life-threatening ET tube dislocation. Failure to place the plaster used for ET tube fixation correctly and adequately in this position may contaminate the patch with body fluids and loosen the weight of the breathing circuit, causing the ET tube to slip and dislodge. Adhesive tape (plaster), bandage (non-adhesive), suturing, or a commercially available tube holding device are recommended for ET tube fixation in patients operated in the prone position. In addition, the adhesive plasters used can be taped on the patient's face to the maxilla, mandible, or both. Because of the urgent and critical settings, a fast, reliable, and easy-to-use method of ET tube fixation is invaluable as it will provide clinicians with greater confidence in the stability of alternative airways and reduce complications from airway maintenance. In our clinic, different fixation methods are used according to the experience and preference of the anesthesiologist. Our study aims to compare other fixation methods using FOB to fix the position of the ET tube with an appropriate method in prone position procedures and ensure that patients have safe airway management throughout the surgery.

Inclusion Criteria:

• ASA Physical Status I-II
• Mallampati score I-II

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients who did not want to participate in the study
• Restricted mouth opening
• BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2
• Risk of airway malformation and aspiration (gastroesophageal reflux, hiatal -hernia, history of previous gastric surgery, GIS motility disorder)