Bronchoscopic Versus Airway Exchange Catheter-Guided Endotracheal Tube Exchange

This prospective experimental study compares two methods for replacing an endotracheal tube in Thiel-embalmed body donors. The conventional method uses an airway exchange catheter based on the Seldinger technique, whereas the investigational method uses a flexible bronchoscope to provide direct visual guidance throughout the exchange.

The primary outcome is the duration of interrupted ventilation, measured from cessation of ventilation until ventilation is resumed through a correctly positioned replacement tube. Secondary outcomes include unsuccessful tube exchange requiring complete reintubation, duration of individual procedural steps, procedures lasting more than 60 seconds, use of additional rescue equipment, and unforeseen technical difficulties.

Both techniques will be performed in two Thiel-embalmed donated human bodies using an alternating sequence. Four experienced physicians will perform 40 tube exchanges per technique, resulting in a total of 80 procedures.