METHOD OF PERCUTANEOUS ENDOTRACHEAL CATHETERIZATION

The accumulation of tracheal secretions is frequently due to the reluctance of a postoperative patient in severe pain to aggravate the pain by coughing. The intermittent instillation of a saponifying agent through an indwelling catheter inserted percutaneously has proved to be effective in clearing pulmonary secretions by producing a strong reflex cough. Complications with this technique were few. It is not painful and can be done quickly and easily. The Bardic Deseret Intracath unit, although devised for intravenous infusion therapy, is admirably suited to this technique.