Model of single-sized endotracheal tube for adults

ABSTRACT Objective To simulate different diameters of endotracheal tubes and to verify the fluid dynamics aspects by means of flow and resistance measurements. Methods Fluid dynamics software was used to calculate mean flow and airway resistance in endotracheal tube with a diameter of 6.0, 7.0, 7.5, 8.0, 9.0 and 10.0mm at normal body temperature and under constant pressure. The same measurements were taken in the fusion of the first 22cm of a 9.0mm endotracheal tube with 10.0mm diameter, and with the end part in 12cm of a 6.0mm endotracheal tube with 7.0mm diameter. Results The fusion of the first 22cm of an endotracheal tube of 10.0mm diameter with the terminal part in 12cm of an endotracheal tube of 6.0mm diameter, preserving the total length of 34cm, generated average flow and airway resistance similar to that of a conventional 7.5mm endotracheal tube. Conclusion This simulation study demonstrates that a single-sized endotracheal tube may facilitate endotracheal intubation without causing increased airway resistance.

摘要
研究目的：本研究旨在模拟不同直径的气管导管（endotracheal tube），并通过流量与阻力测量验证其流体动力学特性。
研究方法：采用流体动力学软件，在正常体温、恒压条件下，计算直径分别为6.0、7.0、7.5、8.0、9.0及10.0mm的气管导管的平均流量与气道阻力。此外，对两种拼接式气管导管开展相同测量：其一为截取9.0mm直径气管导管的前22cm段，与10.0mm直径的导管段拼接；其二为截取6.0mm直径气管导管的末端12cm段，与7.0mm直径的导管段拼接。
研究结果：将10.0mm直径气管导管的前22cm与6.0mm直径气管导管的末端12cm进行拼接，且总长度保持34cm时，其平均流量与气道阻力与常规7.5mm气管导管相近。
研究结论：本仿真研究证实，采用该拼接式气管导管可在不增加气道阻力的前提下，便捷实施气管插管操作。