First Convertible Endotracheal Tube for Subglottic Secretion Suctioning Simplifies Choice; Helps Manage CostsRESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C., Feb 24, 2010 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Teleflex Medical has announced the introduction of the Teleflex ISIS(TM)
HVT(TM), the first convertible endotracheal tube. The Teleflex ISIS HVT
features an integrated suction port and separate suction line allowing
for subglottic secretion suctioning on demand. Now clinicians can be
free from the burden of choosing which tube is best for the patient at
the time of intubation. When needed, the suction tube attaches to the
Teleflex ISIS HVT via a secure locking connection. Both connection ports
can be sealed upon disconnection, reducing the risk of
cross-contamination when not in use. This versatile design allows for
use of one endotracheal tube to meet the needs of patients requiring
both short- and long-term ventilation.
This versatile product provides flexibility in access for post-operative
subglottic suctioning, a clinically proven strategy for reducing
Ventilator Associated Pneumonia (VAP), the most common infection
acquired by adults and children in intensive care units (ICUs) today.1
During mechanical ventilation, secretions from the upper respiratory
tract accumulate above the endotracheal tube cuff. Studies have shown
that these secretions can seep past the cuff into the lower tract,
causing pneumonia.2 Drainage of the subglottic secretions has
been proven as an effective strategy in preventing early-onset VAP.3
The clinical challenge encountered today is that the endotracheal tube
chosen for initial intubation doesn't always allow for easy access to
this valuable practice.
The Teleflex ISIS HVT eliminates many of the common objections to using
traditional subglottic secretion suctioning (SGS) tubes, which can be up
to seven times more expensive than standard tubes. Patients who need
access to SGS often are not intubated with the appropriate tube, and
approximately 20% of patients will require long-term ventilation. It is
difficult to predict which patients will require long-term intubation,
and if a SGS tube is not used at initial intubation, the patient must be
extubated and re-intubated, which disturbs the airway. ISIS solves this
problem in a cost-effective manner. The attachment for subglottic
suctioning is used--and paid for--only when needed.
"The mission of Teleflex is to enhance patient outcomes by providing
products that are less invasive, reduce infections and improve patient
safety," said Ernest Waaser, President, Teleflex Medical. "The Teleflex
ISIS HVT exemplifies this commitment by employing a convertible design
that allows caregivers to expand the use of subglottic secretion
suctioning, a proven strategy in VAP Prevention.1"
For more information on Teleflex's line of anesthesia and respiratory
products, visit www.teleflexmedical.com.
About Teleflex Incorporated
Teleflex Incorporated (NYSE: TFX) is a diversified global company with a
significant presence in medical technology and niche businesses serving
aerospace and commercial markets. Teleflex Medical, the company's
largest business segment, designs, manufactures and distributes medical
devices for critical care and surgical applications serving customers in
more than 140 countries. The company is focused on medical device
technology that enables healthcare providers to improve outcomes, reduce
infections and improve patient and provider safety. Additional
information about Teleflex can be obtained from the company's website at www.teleflex.com.
1 Coffin S MD, MPH, Klompas M MD, Classen D MD, et al.
Strategies to Prevent Ventilatory-Associated Pneumonia in Acute Care
Hospitals. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2008; 29:S31:S40.
2 American Thoracic Society. Consensus Statement: Hospital
Acquired Pneumonia in Adults: diagnosis, assessment of severity, initial
antimicrobial therapy and preventative strategies. Am J Respir Crit Care
Med. 1996;151:1711-1725.
3 Dezfulian C, Shojania K, Collard HR, Kim HM, Matthay MA,
Saint S. Subglottic secretion drainage for preventing ventilator
associated pneumonia: a meta-analysis. Am J Med 2005;118:11-18.
SOURCE: Teleflex Incorporated
Teleflex Incorporated
Jake Elguicze
Vice President Investor Relations
610-948-2836