A novel oropharyngeal double lumen cannula for transesophageal echocardiography sedation: a case series

Objectives Most of the ambulatory transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) are performed under sedation with anesthetists’ accompaniment, and often the patency of the airways is a concern. The main objective of this study was to evaluate a novel oropharyngeal cannula during sedation in a case series of adult patients submitted to ambulatory TEE (Figure 1 - Overview of the oropharyngeal double lumen cannula). Methods After approval by the local ethics committee and obtaining written informed consent, 30 adults patients scheduled to undergo elective ambulatory TEE under sedation were included in the study. Exclusion criteria: Body weight Results Preliminary results: procedures undergone without major complications and without severe hypoxia and hypercarbia events. We observed a better patency of the airway, allowing capnography monitoring and a port to oxygen supply. This new device also protected the TEE probe against accidental bites and an anchorage for the probe during the exam. Conclusions The novel double lumen oropharyngeal cannula analyzed in this case series was feasible to be used during ambulatory transesophageal echocardiography.