The Sengstaken tube must maintain a pressure of … To stop bleeding from varices –
**Core Concept**
The Sengstaken-Blakemore tube is a medical device used to control bleeding from esophageal varices, which are enlarged veins in the esophagus. This condition often arises in patients with liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The Sengstaken-Blakemore tube works by mechanically compressing the bleeding varices to prevent further blood loss. To achieve this, the tube is inflated with a balloon to a specific pressure that is sufficient to compress the varices without causing further damage to the surrounding tissues. The recommended pressure for inflation is crucial to prevent re-bleeding while minimizing complications.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Incorrect because the pressure is not low enough to effectively compress the varices, leading to continued bleeding.
**Option B:** Incorrect because the pressure is too high, potentially causing damage to the esophageal wall and other surrounding structures.
**Option C:** Incorrect because this option is not a valid pressure for Sengstaken tube inflation.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The Sengstaken-Blakemore tube should be used with caution and under close monitoring, as the risk of complications such as esophageal rupture, aspiration, and respiratory distress is high. The tube should be removed as soon as possible to prevent prolonged use.
**Correct Answer: C. 40 mmHg**