Modified technique for endobronchial blocker placement in pediatric patients undergoing thoracic surgery.

BACKGROUND: One lung ventilation (OLV) in small children can be achieved using an Arndt endobronchial blocker (AEBB), but it presents challenges. OLV during thoracic procedures provides better surgical conditions and postoperative outcomes.

AIM: To report a novel technique to improve placement and repositioning of an extraluminal AEBB for OLV.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: We describe how an angled wire is successfully used for extraluminal AEBB placement in pediatric thoracic procedures.

DISCUSSION: Since 2017, we have successfully used this technic in over 50 infants and toddlers and overcome challenges of the classic OLV in this age group.

CONCLUSIONS: The described technique allows for fast, safe, and reliable OLV while maintaining the ability to reposition the AEBB.