Description

The MICROCUFF Paediatric Endotracheal Tube by Avanos is a specialized medical device designed for effective airway management in paediatric patients, ranging from term neonates to children up to 16 years of age. This single-use, sterile tube is engineered to provide a secure and reliable airway seal, enhancing ventilation precision and reducing the risk of pulmonary aspiration during anaesthesia, surgery, and critical care.

Innovative Cuff Design

• Material: The tube features a micro-thin polyurethane cuff membrane, known for its high volume, low pressure (HVLP) characteristics.
• Performance: It seals the airway at ultra-low pressures, typically ≤20 cm H₂O, minimizing the risk of airway trauma and mucosal injury.
• Benefits: The cuff design significantly reduces microaspiration and fluid leakage, providing a safer airway management solution.

Construction Features

• Material: Constructed from PVC, the tube includes a radiopaque line for X-ray visibility and centimeter depth markings for accurate placement.
• Design: A black intubation depth mark and precision bands ensure correct positioning between the vocal cords, preventing endobronchial intubation.
• Variants: Available in Magill (Oral/Nasal) and Oral Curved (RAE) types, with sizes ranging from 3.0 mm to 7.0 mm in internal diameter.

Placement and Usage

• Intubation: Proper placement involves aligning the black depth mark with the vocal cords and confirming symmetrical breath sounds.
• Cuff Management: Post-intubation, the cuff should be inflated to the minimum effective sealing pressure, not exceeding 20 cm H₂O, with continuous pressure monitoring.
• Extubation: The tube is designed for single use, requiring deflation of the cuff before removal and adherence to aseptic techniques throughout.

Clinical Performance

The MICROCUFF tube has demonstrated excellent clinical performance, providing a reliably sealed airway at low cuff pressures. It reduces the need for tube exchanges and is associated with low rates of post-extubation stridor and airway morbidity. Its effectiveness and safety have been validated through extensive clinical studies, including large randomized controlled trials.

Professional Recommendations

Healthcare professionals are advised to use expert clinical judgment in selecting the appropriate tube size and style, and to monitor cuff pressure diligently to prevent airway damage. This product underscores the importance of maintaining system integrity and adhering to recommended medical techniques for optimal outcomes.