Q: What is an appropriate way of estimating upper airway edema before extubation (cuff leak)?

Answer: A volume less than 10–12% of delivered tidal volume implies probable upper airway edema. The average difference between inspiratory and expiratory volume after cuff deflation, recorded for at least six consecutive breaths should be determined.


Reference: Tracheal extubation - Contin Educ Anaesth Crit Care Pain (2008) 8 (6): 214-220.