Ultrasound-guided esophageal occlusion during rapid sequence induction

摘要

In 1961, Dr. B.A. Sellick demonstrated cricoid pressure (CP), a technique used for esophageal occlusion to prevent gastric regurgitation during tracheal intubation. The "Sellick Maneuver" has since become common practice during induction of anesthesia when risk of regurgitation is suspected. Recent investigations refute the presumed benefits of this maneuver. Magnetic resonance imaging and computerized axial tomography scanning show that esophageal occlusion with CP may be unreliable.While the Sellick technique may be unreliable, the threat of oral pharyngeal aspiration cannot be ignored in patients undergoing rapid sequence induction.6 Hence, it is clinically important to ascertain more reliable methods to reduce the risk of this complication. We present a four-step ultrasound (US)-guided method that has the potential to occlude the esophagus reliably during rapid sequence induction