The Combitube airway is designed to provide a patent airway for arrested patients when visualisation of the airway and endotracheal intubation are not possible. It is designed to be inserted blindly. The double lumen design allows effective ventilations to be provided regardless of whether oesophageal or tracheal placement is accomplished. The pharyngeal balloon fills the space between the tongue and soft palate, eliminating the need for a mask and the associated face mask seal problems.
If the Combitube is placed in the oesophagus, the distal cuff will occlude the oesophagus. Ventilations are then provided through perforations at the pharyngeal site. If the device is placed in the trachea, it functions as an endotracheal tube, with the distal cuff preventing aspiration.
- An oesophageal/tracheal combitube airway for emergency or difficult intubation.
- Can be placed without a laryngoscope for speed of use in almost any position.
- Available in 37Fr or 41Fr