Bougie – Endotracheal Tube Introducer for Difficult Airway Management

The Bougie (Endotracheal Tube Introducer)—commonly known as a Gum Elastic Bougie—is an essential airway adjunct used to facilitate endotracheal intubation, particularly in difficult or limited-visualization airways. It is widely used in emergency medicine, anesthesia, ICU, theatres, and pre-hospital care.

Designed to be inserted into the trachea first, the bougie guides the endotracheal tube into correct position when direct visualization of the vocal cords is challenging.

Key Features

• Type: Endotracheal Tube Introducer (Bougie)

• Material: Medical-grade flexible plastic / polymer

• Tip: Angled (coude) tip for easier tracheal entry

• Length: Typically ~60 cm (adult) (varies by model)

• Diameter: Slim profile compatible with standard ET tubes

• Graduations: Depth markings for placement guidance

• Latex-free: Safe for latex-sensitive patients

• Single-use or Reusable: Manufacturer dependent

Clinical Applications

• Difficult airway management

• Emergency and rapid sequence intubation (RSI)

• Anesthesia and operating theatres

• ICU and critical care units

• Ambulance and pre-hospital emergency care

Benefits

• Improves first-pass intubation success

• Useful when vocal cords are poorly visualized

• Simple, quick, and cost-effective airway aid

• Reduces need for repeated laryngoscopy attempts

• Enhances patient safety during airway management

Packaging

• Individually packed

• Sterile or non-sterile (manufacturer dependent)

Ideal for hospitals, emergency departments, ambulances, anesthesia providers, and medical suppliers across Kenya.