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Medical AI Inquiry: You was designed to assist in medical decision-making based on the provided user questions. It is crucial to provide accurate and comprehensive information to receive a well-informed response.  Labels: OBJECTIVE, BACKGROUND, METHODS, RESULTS. Meshes: Bodily Secretions, Equipment Design, Humans, Intubation, Intratracheal, Models, Anatomic, Pneumonia, Aspiration, Positive-Pressure Respiration, Suction, Trachea.
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Does increasing positive end expiratory pressure at extubation reduce subglottic secretion aspiration in a bench-top model? Context: To estimate the ability of simulated tracheal suction, adjusting the positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP) settings on the ventilator or compressing a self-inflating bag to minimize aspiration during cuff deflation and extubation in a bench-top model. During intubation, colonized secretions accumulate in the subglottic space above the endotracheal tube (ETT) cuff. Consequently, during cuff deflation and extubation, there is a risk of aspiration of the secretions. This may result in pneumonitis or pneumonia. There are a number of techniques used during cuff deflation and extubation to prevent secretion aspiration. A model trachea was intubated and the proximal end of the ETT was attached to a mechanical ventilator. Ten millilitres of water was placed above the inflated cuff and then nine test protocols were implemented in a random order to simulate tracheal suction, adjusting the PEEP settings on the ventilator or compressing a self-inflating bag. The volume of water 'aspirated' by the model was determined by weighing the apparatus pre- and post-extubation. Statistical analysis was performed using regression analysis and heteroscedastic t tests with a Bonferroni correction. The level of PEEP was negatively correlated with the volume of fluid aspirated [co-efficient -0.24 (99% confidence interval -0.31 to -0.17), R(2) = 0.75]. Significantly less fluid was aspirated when a PEEP of 35 cmH(2)O was applied when compared with competing techniques.
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This study suggests that applying PEEP during cuff deflation and extubation is protective against aspiration. We conclude that unless there is a contraindication, the application of PEEP should be considered when extubating patients. Final Decision: yes