Diagnostic Accuracy of Point-of-Care Ultrasound Compared to
Standard-of-Care Methods for Endotracheal Tube Placement in Neonates
Abstract
Introduction: Point of care ultrasound (POCUS) is a useful tool to
determine endotracheal tube placement; however, few studies have
compared it with standard methods of confirmation. We evaluated the
diagnostic accuracy of POCUS and time-to-interpretation for correct
identification of tracheal versus esophageal intubations compared to a
composite of standard-of-care methods in neonates. Methods: A
cross-sectional study was conducted in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
(NICU) at Aga Khan University Hospital Karachi Pakistan. All required
intubations were performed as per NICU guidelines. The ETT placement was
determined using standard-of-care methods (auscultation, colorimetric
capnography, and chest X-ray) by a clinical team, and simultaneously by
POCUS. Timings were recorded for each method by independent study staff.
Results: A total of 348 neonates were enrolled in the study. More than
half (58%) of intubations were in an emergency scenario. Using an
expert as the reference standard, POCUS user interpretation showed 100%
sensitivity and 94% specificity. We found a 99.4% agreement (Kappa:
0.96; p<0.001) between the POCUS user and expert. Diagnostic
accuracy of POCUS compared with at least two standard-of-care methods
demonstrated 99.7% sensitivity, 91% specificity, and 98.9% agreement
(Kappa:0.93; p<0.001). The median time required for POCUS
interpretation was 3.0 (IQR 3.0 -4.0) seconds for tracheal intubation.
The time recorded for auscultation and capnography was 6.0 (IQR 5.0
-7.0) and 3.0 (IQR 3.0-4.0) respectively. Conclusion: POCUS is a rapid
and reliable method of identifying ETT placement in neonates. Early and
correct identification of airway management is critical to save lives
and prevent mortality and morbidity.