Author: Javillier B et al.
European Journal of Anaesthesiology 42(8): 756-758. doi:10.1097/EJA.0000000000002179
This short scientific report examined whether sex differences influence the force required to occlude the oesophagus using lateral paratracheal pressure (LPP) in adults undergoing general anesthesia. Understanding these differences is clinically relevant, as tracheal size is generally smaller in women and may affect the pressure needed for effective oesophageal occlusion, potentially impacting airway management during induction.
Eighteen patients (9 men, 9 women) scheduled for elective surgery under general anesthesia participated. LPP was applied, and the force needed to occlude the oesophagus was measured using ultrasound guidance. The study found variability in required force, but results suggested a potential influence of sex-related anatomical differences, with women tending to require less pressure than men.
The authors highlight the importance of considering patient-specific anatomical factors when applying LPP to prevent gastric regurgitation during anesthesia induction.
References
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Javillier B, Gillain N, Bonhomme V, et al. Eur J Anaesthesiol. 2025;42:756-758. doi:10.1097/EJA.0000000000002179.
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