The Parker Spiral Endotracheal Tube: First Experience in 45 Patients

Abstract

  The Parker spiral endotracheal tube is a new type of disposable reinforced endotracheal tube which has a flexible tip that reduces the gap between the fiberscope and the inside of the tube. It has been expected that the tube will facilitate orotracheal and nasotracheal intubation with/without a fiberscopy. The tube was used for endotracheal intubation of 45 patients by trainees and trainers to evaluate the suitability. Most trainees and trainers assessed that use of the tube is associated with more rapid success and a lower incidence during endotracheal intubation. Further systematic studies are needed for assessing the clinical implications.