Impact of Single-Lumen Versus Double-Lumen Endotracheal Tube on Postoperative Swallowing Function in Lung Transplantation Patients: A Single-Center, Retrospective Cohort Study

<b>Background/Objectives</b>: The role of double-lumen endotracheal tube (DLT) versus single-lumen endotracheal tube (SLT) use during lung transplantation (LTx) and its effects on postoperative dysphagia have not yet been studied. It has been shown that new-onset oropharyngeal dysphagia (OPD) is common after various thoracic surgeries including lung transplantation and that OPD is associated with increased postoperative complications. <b>Methods</b>: A single-center, retrospective cohort study was performed using a data exploration tool in the electronic medical record. Data included demographic characteristics, medical history, postoperative dysphagia measured by Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS) via modified barium swallow study (MBSS) within 5 days of surgery, and other secondary outcomes. <b>Results:</b> In univariate analysis, participants who had a DLT (49 patients) had significantly higher FOIS scores (indicating better swallowing function) as compared to those with an SLT (21 patients) (<i>p</i> = 0.035). Lumen type remained significant in a multivariable model, with use of a DLT showing more than a 5-fold increase in the odds of a higher FOIS score after controlling for other factors (<i>p</i> = 0.004; cumulative OR (95% CI): 5.2 (1.7-15.9)). Participants who had a DLT had shorter hospital length of stay (LOS) (<i>p</i> = 0.017; single 18 days (IQR = 13), double 14 days (IQR 7)). Those who had a DLT experienced significantly greater ventilator-free time at postoperative day 30 compared to those who received an SLT (<i>p</i> = 0.018). ICU LOS was similar between those who received a DLT vs. SLT. <b>Conclusions</b>: Overall, DLT seems to confer reduced new-onset OPD after lung transplantation surgery when compared with SLT. The use of DLT instead of SLT for lung isolation for LTx may have the potential to reduce morbidity and mortality in this population.