The effect of esophagogastroduodenoscopy probe insertion on the intracuff pressure of airway devices in children during general anesthesia

Abstract

Given the size of the esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) probe and the compressibility of the pediatric airway, the EGD probe may increase the intracuff pressure (IP) of an airway device. The current study evaluated IP changes during EGD examination under general anesthesia in pediatric patients. Following the induction of anesthesia, a laryngeal mask airway (LMA) or endotracheal tube (ETT) was placed without neuromuscular blockade. The IP was measured at baseline, during EGD probe insertion, while the EGD probe was in place, and after probe removal. The study cohort included 101 patients (mean age 11.3 years). The airway was secured with an LMA and an ETT in 88 and 13 patients, respectively. The IP increased from 27 ± 15 cmH₂O at baseline to 34 ± 17 cmH₂O during probe insertion (p < 0.001), remained at 33 ± 16 cmH₂O while the probe was in place, and decreased to 26 ± 14 cmH₂O after probe removal. The IP of the LMA or ETT increased during EGD probe insertion and remained elevated while the probe was in place. High IP may compromise mucosal perfusion resulting in a sore throat when using an LMA or the potential for airway damage if an ETT is used. Removal of air from the cuff and titration of the IP should be considered after EGD insertion.

Keywords: Esophagogastroduodenoscopy; Intracuff pressure; Probe insertion.