Perioperative use of the modified nasal trumpet in 346 patients.
BACKGROUND
The modified nasal trumpet (MNT) is a prepackaged nasopharyngeal airway modified with distal holes and fitted with a 15 mm adaptor allowing connection to an anaesthesia circuit. It may be useful for airway management during anaesthesia.


METHODS
After applying a spray to constrict the nasal mucosa, we used the MNT in 346 spontaneously breathing patients for three indications: alone as an airway device during general anaesthesia, to provide supplemental oxygen immediately after extubation instead of by facemask, and to facilitate fibreoptic intubation during general anaesthesia.


RESULTS
The device was successful for giving supplemental oxygen after extubation (n=244) and facilitating fibreoptic intubation (n=28). When used as an airway for general anaesthesia, it was only successful without manipulation in 33 of 74 patients (45%). The MNT was easy to insert in awake patients. We encountered six complications: one MNT folded in the pharynx, and five patients (1.4%) experienced nosebleeds.


CONCLUSIONS
The MNT was disappointing as a primary airway device under general anaesthesia but was useful for giving oxygen after extubation and for facilitation of fibreoptic intubation. It can cause nosebleeds.
Metz
S
S
Department of Anesthesiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, USA. Samuel.Metz@Drexel.edu
D000769:Anesthesia, Inhalation / Q000295:instrumentation*; D005336:Fiber Optic Technology / Q000295:instrumentation; D006801:Humans; D007440:Intubation / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation*; D009305:Nasopharynx; D010102:Oxygen Inhalation Therapy / Q000295:instrumentation*; D011182:Postoperative Care / Q000295:instrumentation