[Suction-irrigation attachment for the flexible endoscope without integrated operating channel].
BACKGROUND
Endoscopic inspection of the larynx in patients with long-term intubation or patients pharyngolaryngeal injuries is frequently obscured by blood and other secretions. We developed a simple procedure to improve visibility.


METHODS
A flexible 4-mm endoscope without an operating channel is inserted into an 18-French suction tube through one branch of a Y-shaped connecting tube (Fig.1). Fluid can be aspirated between the endoscope and the surrounding tube. The site can be flushed in a similar manner.


RESULTS
In all examined patients (n = 11) we successfully aspirated fluid (blood/saliva/etc.).


CONCLUSIONS
Our proposed suction and irrigation attachment for flexible 4-mm endoscopes without an operating channel permits reliable aspiration under endoscopic inspection, simplifying endoscopic visualization of laryngeal or pharyngeal findings.
Danter
J
J
Klinik für Hals-, Nasen- und Ohren-Heilkunde der medizinischen, Universität zu Lübeck.
Witte
J
J
Siegert
R
R
D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D007442:Intubation, Intratracheal / Q000295:instrumentation; D020704:Laryngoscopes; D013396:Suction / Q000295:instrumentation*; D007507:Therapeutic Irrigation / Q000295:instrumentation*
Saug-Spül-Erweiterung für flexible Endoskope ohne integrierten Arbeitskanal.