Grundlegendes Atemwegsset für chirurgische Einsätze mit ET-Tubus

What ET tube size is included in the Basic Field Surgical Airway Kit?

The kit includes a Curaplex® cuffed ET tube, size 5.5mm, without stylette. A 5.5mm cuffed tube is appropriate for adult patients at the lower end of the normal range. The cuff is inflated using the included 10 mL Luer-lock syringe after successful tube placement to secure the airway and prevent aspiration.

What is a trach hook and why is it included?

A trach hook (included as a Curaplex® model) is a specialized retraction instrument used during surgical cricothyrotomy to lift and stabilize the tracheal ring after the cricothyroid membrane has been incised. This provides direct, controlled access for ET tube or cric tube insertion and is a critical instrument for providers performing emergency surgical airways in the field.

Who should carry the Basic Field Surgical Airway Kit?

This kit is designed for providers trained and authorized in advanced airway management — paramedics, flight medics, emergency physicians, and Special Operations medical personnel. The trach hook and ET tube require specific procedural training to use safely. It is not appropriate for BLS or entry-level responders without airway training.

Is this kit CoTCCC-recommended?

CoTCCC recommends advanced airway interventions only as a last resort after simpler measures (NPA, supraglottic airway) have been considered, and surgical airway is the terminal rescue intervention in the TCCC algorithm for can't-intubate, can't-oxygenate situations. The components in this kit align with TCCC airway management protocols for advanced providers.

Can this kit be used for both cricothyrotomy and standard intubation?

Yes. The kit supports both procedures: the scalpel, trach hook, and ET tube with cuff are the key instruments for surgical cricothyrotomy, while the ET tube, 10 mL syringe, ET tube holder with Velcro strap, face mask, and gauze support standard endotracheal intubation. The PVP prep pad is applicable to any skin-entry procedure.