Laryngeal air column width ratio in predicting postextubation stridor

Abstract Background Cuff leak test (CLT) has been used widely to assess upper airway patency before extubation but with low positive predictive value. Aim To the diagnostic accuracy of column width ratio (ACWR) in predicting postextubation stridor (PES). Patients and methods 50 who intubated >24 hours were observed for reintubation. Laryngeal ultrasound was done measure ACW ETT cuff deflated immediately after intubation 3–4 h extubation. done. Results Fifty patients included mean age 58 ± 14.71 years, 68% males 32% females. PES developed 8% patients. There highly statistically significant difference between both groups regarding (p-value =0.006 0.000 respectively). The group (0.79 0.03) significantly lower than non-stridor (0.94 0.04). Reintubation higher (100%) (23.9%), P = 0.001. duration mechanical ventilation (7.50 0.58 vs. 4.23 2.50 days, 0.013). A cut off point ≤0.81 a sensitivity 100% Specificity 100%. Conclusion showed excellent utility prediction PES. Air ≤ 0.81 good predictor