Kimberly-Clark has launched the KimVent MICROCUFF Subglottic Suctioning Endotracheal Tube, which is the first to be FDA-cleared for saline use.
The tub offers more effective subglottic suctioning and prevention against microaspiration, the company said, and prevents cross-contamination.
“Clearing subglottic lines has been a persistent problem causing many of our respiratory therapists to disconnect the line to clear it, resulting in potential secretion exposure to both patient and the respiratory therapist,” said Megan Dutch Kelley, pulmonary services education coordinator at St. John Medical Center in Tulsa, OK.
Using saline to loosen secretions and clear the lumen is both more effective at preventing and clearing clogs, and more efficient for suctioning secretions when compared to air bolus, the company said.
