Ivy Loop Wiring: A Useful Form of Endotracheal Tube Stabilization in Burn Patients

Abstract

The stabilization of endotracheal tubes in the burn population presents many problems. Access to the face for dressings, debridements, and the use of topical antimicrobials prevent adequate stabilization of the endotracheal tube with commonly used methods. Conventional methods have an increased risk of shifting, which can lead to injury to the friable burned tissue or unplanned extubation. To prevent these complications, alternative methods using the dentition to stabilize the endotracheal tube have been described. Here, we present our technique of using Ivy loops to secure the endotracheal tube. It is a simple method with low complications that provides a strong stabilization of the tube while giving access to the face.