An innovative method for retrograde tracheal intubation using prolene suture and enteric feeding catheter

Abstract

Retrograde intubation is a well established technique for intubating a patient with difficult airway. Since the first description of retrograde intubation in 1960 several modifications have been reported. However, all techniques require a cricothyroid membrane puncture by a thick needle usually <16G, and specialized catheters. We have devised a novel technique of retrograde intubation using a 20G intravenous catheter, prolene suture (size 0) and an enteric feeding catheter (EFC) size 14F for retrograde intubation. All of the required items are economical and easily available in operation theatre. Till now, we have successfully used this technique in seven patients with difficult airway.