A novel technique with double catheter suctioning for clearing away the left lung atelectases: Selective left bronchial aspiration (SeLBA).

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Atelectasis is a common problem in intensive care units. It usually occurs due to airway obstruction caused by pulmonary secretions. As the left main bronchus angulates from carina more sharply, suctioning of the secretions from left side is less effective, causing failure in treatment of left lung atelectases. If chest physiotherapy and medical treatment fail, bronchoscopy should be considered; but it requires experience, time, effort and a higher cost. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the success of a novel method "selective left bronchial aspiration (SeLBA)" in the treatment of left lung atelectases. METHODS: The study consisted of 10 patients who suffered left lung atelectasis and treated with double catheter suctioning technique, SeLBA in Pediatric Intensive Care Unit of Hacettepe University Ihsan Dogramaci Children's Hospital between June 2017 and February 2019. The outcomes were evaluated by comparing the chest X-rays before and after the procedure. RESULTS: All of the patients' atelectases resolved successfully by SeLBA procedure. CONCLUSION: We introduce this novel technique of reopening the atelectased left lung as a rapid, safe and practical alternative for bronchoscopic clear away.