The TriVantage NIM: A Kinky Tube

Haute Route, Switzerland - photo by JoAnn Sturman

Scott Sturman, M.D.

A word of caution about the updated Medtronics NIM TriVantage endotrachial tube:  At room temperatures it is stiff enough to intubate without a stylet but when exposed to temperatures in the oropharynx, it kinks quite easily and can cause significant problems with ventilation.  It has a tendency to bend acutely at the teeth, and access to correct the problem is limited during thyroid surgery.  

Big Sur - photo by JoAnn Sturman