External tracheal manipulation for bronchial blocker placement in children undergoing thoracic surgery requiring one lung ventilation: A case report

Abstract

Limited options exist for pediatric one lung ventilation (OLV). Compared to adults, pediatric OLV can be more challenging due to physiological/anatomical differences, various pathologies, and size limitations of lung isolation devices. Fiberoptic bronchoscopy can be harder due to the restricted tube sizes through which bronchial blockers (BB) and scopes can appropriately fit, while providing adequate oxygenation and ventilation. Recent literature is sparse concerning facilitation of BB placement in children. A 2-, 8-, and 10-year-old presented for thoracic surgeries requiring OLV. External tracheal manipulation (ETM) facilitated BB placement in each case and can potentially offer unique advantages in pediatric OLV.

Keywords

• bronchial blocker
• pediatric one lung ventilation
• tracheal manipulation