Impact of body mass index (BMI) on ventilation during low-frequency jet ventilation

Objective Percutaneous trans-tracheal jet ventilation (PTJV) is an alternative ventilatory approach in airway surgery. We evaluated the effects of body mass index (BMI) on ventilation during low-frequency jet ventilation. Study design and setting Forty-two patients undergoing micro-laryngeal surgery under total anesthesia were studied. Low-frequency jet ventilation was applied through an injector inserted into the trachea via cricothyroid membrane; ventilation was assessed during the operation by arterial blood gas sampling. Result The age range of the patients was 43.54 ± 12.04 years, weight was 69.97 ± 11.66 kg, and BMI 24.80 ± 2.78 (mean ± SD). There was a strong correlation ( P 2 , and arterial pH. Conclusion and significance This method was effective in maintaining gas exchange in the presence of micro-laryngeal surgery for low-BMI patients. It provided a nice visible surgical field, avoiding the use of combustible material inside the larynx or trachea.