Comparison of the Length and Shape of Various Preformed Nasotracheal Tubes.

Objective: We aimed to investigate the differences in the lengths and shapes of several preformed nasotracheal tubes (NTTs) among different manufacturers and compare our findings with a previous report.

Methods: Using reference points at the tube tip, the proximal edge of the cuff, and the flexion point, we measured tube lengths for NTTs with inner diameters of 6.5, 7.0, and 7.5 mm from 4 manufacturers: the Parker Preformed Cuffed Endotracheal Tube (Parker), the Medtronic Taper Guard RAE (RAE), the Rusch AGT Nasal Preformed Cuffed Endotracheal Tube, and the Portex Polar Preformed Tracheal Tube. Cuff lengths and shapes were also assessed. A historical comparison was then performed using a previous report from 2012.

Results: The effective lengths (distance between tube tip and flexion point) were largest for the Parker tubes (295-315 mm). The RAE and Rusch tubes had the shortest effective lengths (270-290 mm). Cuff lengths ranged from 30 to 39 mm, and cuff shapes were cylindrical, tapered, and oval. Comparison with the past data revealed substantial changes in tube lengths for Parker and RAE tubes, modest increases in cuff lengths, and a change in cuff shape from oval to tapered in RAE tubes.

Conclusion: Several changes in tube lengths and cuff lengths/shapes were noted among manufacturers relative to the historical data. These findings demonstrate that manufacturer specifications can change over time. In dentistry and oral surgery, Parker tubes may be more ideal due to their longer effective lengths because extension and/or rotation of the neck can decrease NTT insertion depth.