Use of a modified Foley catheter in patients with Montgomery T-tubes

BACKGROUND: The T-tube poses significant challenges for positive pressure ventilation.

METHOD: We describe the modification of a Foley catheter by trimming off the proximal urine drainage port, and using this opening to pass a metal stylet within the catheter, providing additional rigidity and allowing easier manipulation of the catheter tip. The catheter tip is then positioned in the superior limb of the T-tube, and the balloon inflated under direct visualization to occlude the opening and allow positive pressure ventilation through the external limb of the T-tube.

CONCLUSION: This simple yet effective technique can be considered in patients with T-tubes.