The hazardous cuffed endotracheal tube--aspiration and extubation.

A basic defect in the usage of the cuffed endotracheal tube is demonstrated. during anaesthesia a column of fluid can be supported around the tube above the inflated cuff. This fluid may represent secretions, blood or gastric contents which can be aspirated during extubation. A method of investigation was devised and possible measures to prevent postoperative chest complications are suggested.