Fixation of the
tracheal tube is problem encountered by every neonatology’s and
anaesthetist. Firm fixation is vital but the present method using
gauze strapping or sticky tape on the patients run is ineffective,
unhygienic. And results in potential serious problems. Confused
patients and children may pull out the tube and restraining the hands
of the patients using the gauze is traumatic to them and their
attendants. Adhesive tape may damage skin.
Especially of burns
patients and premature babies. Further a tube firmly fixed with sticky
tape, cord ligature, silk suture or cord clamp is difficult to
readjust. Firm fixation is necessary, and should prevent the tube
pulling against the external nares to cause pressure necrosis or
linking, slipping and piston-like movement transmitted from ventilator
to patient.
We have devised a simple and reliable appliance which
permits quick fixation and repositioning of the tube. Our method was
used in various hospitals in UK. This method is
hygienic since the device it made of plastic, secretions are easy to
clear and patients are at ease
Mothers of ventilated babies could hold
the baby in their hand without the fear of accidental extubation. This
will help early bonding and prevent babies developing psychological
problems as adults.
The oral tracheal
tube fixer is a fiat plastic sheet with the lube holder attached at
its edge on one side. The tube fixer is placed on the
upper lip or chin and fixed using Velcro strap and hydro-gel. Baby is
now incubated through the oral cavity. The part of the tracheal tube outside the mouth
is pushed through the longitudinal silt in the holder. Once the tube
is in place the ring lock is pushed down on the holder and twisted
into the groove provided to firmly hold the tube. The lock can be
released to help doctors re-position endo-tracheal tube.
This device would be
used in anaesthesiology, intensive
care, neonatology, dental surgeons and plastic surgeons and to secure
fixation of end tracheal tubes in patients with facial burns.
This firm fixation
of end tracheal tube will reduce accidental estubation, disfigured
face, pressure necrosis and reduce antibiotic resistant bacterial infections.
Spreading infection in neonatal units
& intensive care is now a major problem in neonatology. Reduce wasted contaminated hospital waste and cost.
