The role of the esophageal obturator airway in cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

The esophageal obturator airway (EOA) has been in use for over a decade and has been inserted over 3 million times. It has given rise to a body of literature, some of it controversial, concerning the role of the device. Data concerning the ventilatory efficiency, safety, complications, limitations, indications, and contraindications as well as mortality and morbidity associated with its use are presented and its present role in CPR is described. In line with the recommendations of the 1985 Standards Committee, the EOA is regarded as a useful device in CPR, which complements the endotracheal tube in the training of paramedics.