Suction Extubation Technique

If effective, the tracheal-tube suction technique may simplify extubation, reduce medical costs, improve secretion clearance, decrease complications, and reduce irritation and discomfort. The modified suction approach uses the tracheal tube itself as the suction catheter during awake extubation. The tracheal tube has a larger lumen than a separate suction catheter, and secretions commonly accumulate above the cuff and below the vocal cords. Prior research has associated the suction extubation technique with increased atelectasis and hypoxaemia. Routine suction extubation using a separate catheter may fail to fully clear tracheal and oropharyngeal secretions, leaving residual material to be expelled by coughing. The suction extubation technique is widely used in China.