The Sensing ET Tube

This proposal describes the development of a 'Sensing ET Tube'. This device will replace the standard endotracheal (ET) tube used in anaesthesia and in ventilated intensive care patients and provide key vital signs monitoring utilising optoelectronic sensors. Continuous monitoring of patients' arterial oxygen saturation is essential during surgery, however pulse oximeters often misread or fail altogether as a result of peripheral vasoconstriction, hypotension or hypovolaemia. The Sensing ET Tube will allow continuous measurement of oxygen saturation and other parameters, such as pulse rate, from a single internal site, and will reduce the number of surface sensors placed on the skin and the number of electrical connections to the patient. The applicants have already developed similar sensor technology in the oesophagus and other internal locations. A pilot clinical evaluation of the device will be completed in anaesthetised patients undergoing surgery. The project will lead to further development of a multi-sensor tracheal platform for comprehensive anaesthesia and intensive care monitoring.