AccuCuff™ for continuous cuff pressure monitoring: results of a clinical trialAbstract
Introduction: Mechanical ventilation is commonly used in patients with respiratory failure and delivered through an endotracheal tube. This tube includes an inflatable cuff that requires regular pressure monitoring to en-sure adequate sealing between the tube and the trachea, thereby preventing air leaks and associated complications.
Objective: To evaluate the use of a low-cost device for continuous cuff pressure monitoring and compare clinical outcomes.
Methods: A randomized clinical trial was conducted in an adult intensive care unit with intubated patients who had been on mechanical ventilation for up to 48 hours. Patients were followed throughout the study according to group allocation. In the intervention group, cuff pressure was continuously monitored using the AccuCuff™ Cuff Pressure Indicator, while in the control group cuff pressure was intermittently measured with a handheld manometer, following standard care.
Results: A total of 55 patients of both sexes were enrolled, 27 in the AccuCuff™ group and 28 in the standard care group. Baseline characteristics were similar between groups. Both groups experienced episodes of cuff pressure reduction, with comparable frequencies and no significant difference in the need for adjustments across time periods (p = 0.307).
Conclusion: Continuous cuff pressure monitoring with AccuCuff™ is a viable alternative, providing measurements consistent with device specifications and facilitating bedside monitoring. Its use in the hospital setting may be beneficial, and implementing regular measurement intervals is recommended to prevent prolonged periods of low cuff pressure.
Keywords:
Intensive care unit; Critical care; Mechanical ventilation
Thumbnail
Thumbnail
