Sports Medicine Concepts, Inc

Impairment of carotid artery blood flow by supraglottic airways

Here is an interesting article regarding the possibility that supraglottic airway devices such as the Combitube, Kingtube, and LMAs may occlude blood flow to the brain by placing pressure on the carotid arteries.  This suggests that the endotracheal tube would be preferred over other SGDs as the definitive method for securing an injured athlete’s airway.  However, this animal study is far from conclusive.  Reaction to the article from airway management physicians that we have worked with is mixed.

Would be interested to hear from other airway management professionals.

Wheezer™ is our new training mannequin specifically retrofitted for SMC training requirements. Wheezer™ allows us the opportunity to monitor and record airway management techniques, effectiveness of CPR, and movement during delivery of emergency care of the equipment-laden athlete! The result is superior training that helps ensure your medical team is

Prepared to Respond Flawlessly!™

Check out our On-Site Training to see how SMC and Wheeze can help your medical team. On-Site Training and On-Line education available at your team’s convenience! On-Site and On-Line training can lead to the Sports Emergency Care Specialist and/or Concussion Management Specialist certificates.