Airway Fires

Airway Fires

Laser‑assisted or diathermy‑driven airway procedures carry a small but recognised risk of fire when the energy source ignites flammable gases, vapours or tissue within the airway. The classic “fire triangle”, an oxidiser (usually oxygen‑rich gas mixtures), an ignition source (the laser beam or electrosurgical current), and a fuel (secretions, blood, or moist mucosa), must be present for a fire to develop. In practice, excessive supplemental oxygen, the use of volatile anaesthetic agents, and improper positioning of the laser fibre or diathermy tip can create these conditions. If a fire does occur, it can rapidly damage the airway, cause carbon monoxide poisoning, and lead to severe hypoxia. Preventative measures include reducing inspired oxygen concentrations to the lowest safe level, using laser‑compatible endotracheal tubes, employing wet gauze or saline to dampen the field, and ensuring immediate availability of suction, fire‑extinguishing solutions, and a clear emergency protocol.

Laser - Brief

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Laser - Checklist

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Laser - Procedure

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Laser - DeBrief

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Diathermy - Brief

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Diathermy - Procedure

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Diathermy - DeBrief

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