Product Details

Suction Catheter

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Suction Catheter

Suction Catheter

Suction catheter is a flexible tube used to remove secretions (mucus, saliva, blood) from the airway, especially in patients with an endotracheal tube or tracheostomy.

Suction Catheter Features

  1. Material
    • Made of soft, flexible medical-grade PVC or silicone
    • Smooth surface to reduce trauma to airway tissues
  2. Size (French Gauge - Fr)
    • Measured in French (Fr) units
    • Common sizes: 6 Fr (infants) to 18 Fr (adults)
    • Size selection depends on patient age and airway size
  3. Length
    • Long enough to reach airway passages (usually 40-60 cm)
  4. Tip Design
    • Rounded (atraumatic) tip to prevent injury
      • Single central opening
      • Multiple side holes (eyelets) for better suction and reduced blockage
  5. Color Coding
    • Different sizes are color-coded for identification.
  6. Connector
    • Universal connector at the proximal end to attach to suction tubing/machine
  7. Sterility
    • ETO sterilized, disposable (single use) to prevent infection.
  8. Control Valve (in some types)
    • Thumb-controlled suction port to regulate suction pressure during use.
  9. Flexibility & Adequate Rigidity
    • Flexible enough to navigate airway curves
    • Firm enough to be guided easily.
  10. Availability
    • Open suction catheter (standard)
    • Closed suction system (used with ventilated patients to maintain sterility)

Endotracheal Tube (ET Tube)

An endotracheal tube (ET tube) is a flexible plastic tube that is inserted through the mouth, or sometimes the nose, into the trachea (windpipe) to help a person breathe.

Used For

  • Airway protection (prevents aspiration of vomit or fluids)
  • Mechanical ventilation (connected to a ventilator to support breathing)
  • During surgery (especially under general anaesthesia)
  • Emergency situations (like cardiac arrest or severe trauma)

Key Features of the Tube

  • Made of soft plastic (usually PVC)
  • Has a cuff near the end that inflates to seal the airway
  • Markings to guide depth of insertion
  • Connector to attach to oxygen or ventilator

Types

  • Orotracheal (through the mouth) - Most common
  • Nasotracheal (through the nose)
  • Cuffed vs. uncuffed (depending on patient age and condition)

Complications

  • Sore throat or hoarseness
  • Injury to teeth or vocal cords
  • Misplacement (e.g., into the oesophagus)
  • Infection (if used long-term)