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This is another alternate airway device that does not require direct visualization of the vocal cords. The combitube is a dual lumen airway with two cuffs and two ventilation ports. The combitube is inserted blindly until the tube reaches the proper depth marker. 80% of the time the distal tip of the combitube will be placed within the esophagus; which is the correct placement. Each cuff is then inflated, following the #1 - #2 markings. With both cuffs inflated, the distal cuff (within the esophagus) seals off the esophagus while the proximal cuff seals the hypopharynx. When ventilated, air comes out of the 4-5 holes on the middle of the tube, distal to the proximal cuff. With the esophagus sealed, air is able to enter the trachea. In the event the distal tip of the combitube is placed within the trachea. only the distal cuff can be inflated and it acts similar to an endotracheal tube. | | |