Teleflex Medical, a manufacturer and distributer of medical devices for critical care, has introduced a convertible endotracheal tube ISIS HVT, for reducing ventilator associated pneumonia (VAP).
The Teleflex ISIS HVT features an integrated suction port and separate suction line allowing for subglottic secretion suctioning on demand. Currently clinicians can be free from the burden of choosing which tube is best for the patient at the time of intubation.
The suction tube attaches to the Teleflex ISIS HVT via a secure locking connection, when needed. Both connection ports can be sealed upon disconnection, reducing the risk of cross-contamination when not in use. This versatile design allows for use of one endotracheal tube to meet the needs of patients requiring both short- and long-term ventilation.
The product provides flexibility in access for post-operative subglottic suctioning, a clinically proven strategy for reducing VAP, the common infection acquired by adults and children in intensive care units (ICUs).
The Teleflex ISIS HVT eliminates many of the common objections by using traditional subglottic secretion suctioning (SGS) tubes, which can be up to seven times more expensive than standard tubes. Patients who need access to SGS often are not intubated with the appropriate tube, and approximately 20% of patients will require long-term ventilation.
Teflex said that it is difficult to predict which patients require long-term intubation, and if a SGS tube is not used at initial intubation, the patient must be extubated and re-intubated, which disturbs the airway. ISIS solves this problem in a cost-effective manner. The attachment for subglottic suctioning will be used and paid for only when needed.
Ernest Waaser, president of Teleflex Medical, said: “The mission of Teleflex is to enhance patient outcomes by providing products that are less invasive, reduce infections and improve patient safety. The Teleflex ISIS HVT exemplifies this commitment by employing a convertible design that allows caregivers to expand the use of subglottic secretion suctioning, a proven strategy in VAP Prevention.”