MANOMETRIC ASSESSMENT OF ETT CUFF PRESSURE IN OBSTETRIC POPULATION AT A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL: AN OBSERVATIONAL STUDY.

BACKGROUND: The use of a cuffed endotracheal tube intubation forms the cornerstone of securing the airway and provision of general anesthesia for patients undergoing emergency obstetric surgery. It is important to have adequate endotracheal tube (ETT) cuff pressure to prevent complications such as tracheal mucosal injury and aspiration. The aim of this study is to measure and record the endotracheal tube cuff pressure by pilot balloon palpation method and compare it to corresponding manometric pressures. METHOD: This single-centered, observational study was performed in the obstetrics operation theaters on 100 patients who underwent emergency or elective cesarean sections under general anesthesia. ETT cuff pressures were measured first by using a pilot balloon palpation technique and then by manometer. Data were analyzed using SPSS software. RESULT: Estimated pilot balloon cuff pressures were optimal in all the cases. However, only 17% had normal pressure, 28% were under-pressure and 55% were over-pressured when compared with the manometer. CONCLUSION: Monitoring of ETT cuff pressure with a manometer is crucial to enhance patient safety and reduce the risk of complications. This practice should be mandated in all medical centers to ensure optimal patient outcomes.