Predictors for failure of supraglottic superimposed high-frequency jet ventilation during upper airway surgery in adult patients; a retrospective cohort study of 224 cases.

Supraglottic Superimposed High Frequency Jet Ventilation (SSHFJV) maximizes surgical field during endoscopic upper airway surgery. In our retrospective series of 224 cases, there was a low incidence (12%) of failure with the use of SSHFJV in upper airway surgery. Positive history of pulmonary pathology (OR=4.91) and high BMI (OR=1.15) were found to be significant independent factors for failure of SSHFJV in adult patients undergoing upper airway surgery. Converting ventilation techniques could be safely performed when SSHFJV failed. SSHFJV is a safe ventilation technique during upper airway surgery, even in combination with the application of CO laser.