Pulmonary aspiration

In medicine, aspiration is the entry of secretions or foreign material into the trachea and lungs. The patient may either inhale the material, or it may be blown into the lungs during positive pressure ventilation or CPR. As the right main bronchus is more vertical and of slightly wider lumen than the left, aspirated material is more likely to end up in this branch or one of its subsequent bifurcations. As a rule of thumb, any condition which com... more

In medicine, aspiration is the entry of secretions or foreign material into the trachea and lungs. The patient may either inhale the material, or it may be blown into the lungs during positive pressure ventilation or CPR. As the right main bronchus is more vertical and of slightly wider lumen than the left, aspirated material is more likely to end up in this branch or one of its subsequent bifurcations. As a rule of thumb, any condition which compromises a patient's level of consciousness is a risk factor for pulmonary aspiration. Absence or presence of a gag reflex has no bearing on a person's ability to swallow food or liquids safely. Causes of unconsciousness where aspiration may occur include trauma (especially head injuries), poisoning (including drug/alcohol overdose), general anaesthetics, and diseases or metabolic conditions. Gastroesophageal reflux, a full stomach, pregnancy, and obesity all increase the risk of aspiration in the semiconscious. Normally fasting for six hours... less