OESOPHAGEAL TEMPERATURE DIFFERENCES IN CHILDREN

Longitudinal oesophageal temperature differences were measured in 160 anaesthetized and intubated children. All showed an area of ventilatory cooling similar to that already reported in adults. It is suggested that oesophageal temperature probes should be inserted a distance of 10+2×age in years/3cm below the corniculate cartilages, but that readings should be taken up to 2 cm above and below this point before fixing to confirm that the lead is below the area affected by ventilation. For infants, a lead packed off at the back of the pharynx 2 cm above the corniculate cartilages proved sufficiently accurate for routine monitoring.