Comparing Airway Tube Pressure Adjustment Methods to Reduce Postoperative Sore Throat in Children Undergoing Laparoscopic Appendectomy

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating two methods of adjusting the air-filled cushion cuff of the breathing tube used during general anesthesia in children aged 6 to 18 years undergoing laparoscopic appendectomy for appendicitis. The study aims to determine if maintaining the cuff pressure within a specific safe range 15-18 mmHg helps reduce common postoperative issues such as sore throat, hoarseness, and respiratory discomfort. This is a prospective, randomized, controlled trial comparing a standard subjective method with continuous objective monitoring. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups. The control group has the cuff pressure adjusted by the anesthesiologist using the traditional finger palpation method. The intervention group has the cuff pressure continuously monitored throughout surgery using a pressure transducer device, maintaining the pressure within the safe range. Respiratory and heart rate measurements are recorded every 15 minutes during the procedure, which lasts approximately 30 to 120 minutes. After surgery, researchers assess participants at 2, 6, and 24 hours postoperatively for sore throat, hoarseness, cough, stridor, and respiratory discomfort. Data collected include intraoperative airway pressures, ventilation parameters, and postoperative symptom frequency and severity. The primary outcome is the incidence of postoperative sore throat at 24 hours. Participation involves monitoring during surgery and follow-up assessments for one day after surgery.

Effect of Endotracheal Tube Cuff Pressure Management on Postoperative Sore Throat in Pediatric Laparoscopic Appendectomy