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Abstract Sustic et al. described a strong correlation between outer tracheal width measured using ultrasound at the level just above the sternoclavicular junction and that of internal tracheal width and left mainstem bronchus size measured by computed tomography scan. The ultrasonographic measurement of outer tracheal width may be used to select the size of a left-sided double-lumen tube. Wojtczak and Cattano, demonstrates that the replacement of air with saline in ETT or LMA cuffs, and the use of contrast agents enable detection of cuffs in the airway. It also allows visualization of the surrounding structures and tissues as the ultrasound beam can be transmitted through the fluid—filled cuffs without being reflected from air-mucosal interface. Ultrasound also used for percutaneous cricothyroidotomy, percutaneous dilational tracheostomy (PDT), Elective transtracheal cannulation and emergency cricothyrotomy, evaluating prandial status, Airway-related nerve blocks and in evaluation of lung pathology. In conclusion, ultrasonography used in conjunction with hands-on management of the upper and lower airways has multiple advantages. There is a rapidly growing body of evidence showing its benefits. |