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Background. Mechanically ventilated patients are prone to develop ventilator associated pneumonia due to micro-aspirations of subglotric secretions around the endotracheal tube cuff (usually constructed of polyvinyl material). A novel polyurethane cuff has been designed to minimize these leakages. The aim of the study was to compare the tracheal sealing capacities between the two tubes.

Methods. Twenty-nine consecutive patients from whom tracheal intubation was necessary as part of their care were randomized to receive either a polyvinyl HI-LO Evac" or a polyurethane SEALGUARD Evac" endotracheal tube. Patients requiring emergency intubation, with unstable hemodynamics or history of tracheal/laryngeal disease were excluded. For the entire study, cuff pressure was set at 30 cmH, O), and ventilator parameters were adjusted for a plareau pressure s30 cmH, O; Patients were fasting, placed in a strict 45 …