Covidien 86446 Shiley Hi-Lo Oral/Nasal Tracheal Tube Cuffed 5mm I.D. BX/10

• Model: 86446
• Intermediate, Murphy Eye
• 5.0 mm I.D
• 6.9 mm O.D

The Shiley Hi‑Lo Oral/Nasal Tracheal Tube (5.0 mm ID, model 86446) is designed to provide a reliable, low‑pressure airway seal in both oral and nasal intubation settings, particularly suited for smaller airways (e.g. pediatric or small adult). Its design incorporates a “Hi‑Lo” or intermediate cuff—meaning the cuff is relatively short and thin compared to longer cuffs—helping the clinician maintain a good seal while minimizing contact force on the tracheal wall. The Murphy eye tip provides an additional lateral opening for safety in case the primary lumen becomes blocked. A tip‑to‑tip radiopaque line aids visualization under imaging for confirming placement. Because it is latex‑free, it is suitable for use in patients with latex sensitivities.

In practical clinical use, this endotracheal tube can be advanced under laryngoscopic guidance (or via other airway techniques) through the oral or nasal route to the trachea. Once in place, the cuff is inflated just enough to provide a seal without excessive pressure (to reduce injury risk). The low‑pressure cuff design helps distribute pressure more evenly and conform to irregularities in the tracheal wall, reducing the likelihood of ischemic injury to mucosa over prolonged intubation. Because the cuff is shorter, it also reduces the risk of encroaching on anatomical constraints (such as carina proximity) or interfering with surgical fields in head/neck procedures.

From an operational standpoint, the Shiley Hi‑Lo tubes are typically supplied sterile and ready for use in the operating room, ICU, emergency department, or transport settings. Their standardized sizing and features (radiopaque line, Murphy eye, cuff design) align with clinicians’ expectations during airway management. As with all airway devices, proper selection of tube diameter, careful cuff inflation (monitoring cuff pressure), and confirmation of placement (capnography, chest auscultation, imaging) are essential to safe, effective use. While the external listings do not disclose every mechanical tolerance or performance metric (e.g. leak pressure curves, cuff material compliance, maximum inflation volume), the specifications available provide a solid basis for clinical selection.