Evaluation of a simple technique for rapid access to left main bronchus.

ABSTRACT

A suction catheter with dual curvature at its tip was evaluated for its successful rapid access to left main bronchus. The catheter with dual curvature was passed through endotracheal tube in neutral position of head in 58 adult patients of both sexes in need of mechanical ventilation. Bedside x-ray (AP view) chest was taken to confirm its location. It is observed that this suction catheter had very high success rate of 95% in first attempt and 100% after repositioning endothracheal tube. It did not require any position alteration of head or body and easily allowed aspiration from left lung.