13/11/2025
ANTI CHOKING DEVICES
I posted this in March of this year. People keep asking about them so I’ve decided to re post today.
I’ve seen increased publicity about these devices. So does the science stack up for their use? Let’s take a look.
The science behind anti-choking devices like the LifeVac and Dechoker is based on the principles of suction and airflow displacement. These devices are designed to create a vacuum that is alleged to help remove obstructions from a person’s airway WHEN (and only WHEN) the first aid methods of back blows and abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver) fail.
How Do Anti-Choking Devices Work?
1. The device consists of a face mask attached to a manual suction pump.
2. When placed over the nose and mouth, the user pushes the plunger down to expel air outward.
3. The user then pulls the plunger up, creating negative pressure (a vacuum) to dislodge the obstruction from the airway.
4. The foreign object is drawn into the device or expelled outward, clearing the airway.
Scientific Basis and Effectiveness
Vacuum Suction Mechanism: These devices rely on the Bernoulli principle and Newton’s laws of motion—essentially, they create enough negative pressure to pull an object from the airway. Pressure Studies: Some tests suggest they can generate a suction force of 120–170 mmHg, which is significantly stronger than a normal cough (~5–20 mmHg). Success Rates in Simulated Studies: Lab-based tests using airway models and cadavers show that these devices can remove obstructions effectively, especially when back blows and abdominal thrusts fail. Clinical Case Reports: Some anecdotal reports suggest real-world success, but there is limited large-scale clinical research proving their superiority over standard methods.
Concerns and Limitations
Lack of Peer-Reviewed, Large-Scale Studies: While promising, most data come from small case studies, company-funded research, or non-peer-reviewed sources.
Not Recommended as First-Line Treatment: Organizations like the American Red Cross, UK Resuscitation Council, and European Resuscitation Council still recommend manual techniques first (back blows and abdominal thrusts).
Risk of Improper Use: If the mask isn’t sealed properly, suction might be ineffective. There’s also concern about the device pushing the object deeper into the airway in some cases.
Limited Pediatric and Unconscious Patient Data: While some devices claim to work for children and unconscious individuals, data is not conclusive, and CPR may still be the best approach in these cases.
Current Stance from Medical Authorities
Organisations like the American Heart Association (AHA) and UK Resuscitation Council do not yet officially endorse anti-choking devices due to insufficient independent research. However, some schools, nursing homes, and public institutions are starting to stock them as a last-resort option when traditional methods fail.
