Dragonfly

Dragonfly is the original “stick-on” electrode credited with integrating EMG with an endotracheal tube. The surface electrode easily attaches to a standard ETT of almost any size to monitor vocal cord activity during surgical procedures where the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) is at risk of injury. Dragonfly has a universal application, so most endotracheal tubes can be EMG tubes.

Yes, Dragonfly EMG electrodes are universal by design. They are available in 1-channel, 2-channel, and a .5-channel with color-coded lead wires and standard DIN (42802) connectors for universal function and compatibility on single—and multi-channel IONM systems.

Known as the “stick-on” laryngeal electrode, it easily attaches to most ET tubes (size 2.5 mm to 10 mm). This allows the surgeon and anesthesiologist to choose the most appropriate ETT for the patient and monitor the RLN safe and effectively.
Do not use the EMG electrode with an ET tube pre-treated with silicone or other lubricants.

The EMG function of the Dragonfly is the same as an integrated EMG tube. The main difference is that a surface EMG electrode is applied to the ET tube before the procedure. Scaling to fit most ET tube sizes, including half sizes and as small as a 2.5 ID ET tube.

Dragonfly is the original atraumatic (needle-free) laryngeal EMG electrode, designed to enhance intraoperative neuromonitoring of the RLN by recording vocal cord activity. The surface electrode attaches to most endotracheal tubes for a safe and reliable universal EMG tube.

Dragonfly electrodes contain silver and may appear discolored or tarnished due to natural oxidation. This can occur in some cases however, it is important to note that this discoloration does not pose any safety concerns. Our electrodes are sterile and have undergone rigorous functional testing to ensure their reliability. To prevent further tarnishing, we advise caution regarding exposure to sunlight.

Dragonfly ET tube electrodes deliver EMG signals on most sizes and types of ET tubes and connect to most nerve monitoring systems. For example, EasyAim (LSE600MSP) attaches to ET tube sizes 2 ID, 3 ID, 4 ID, and 5 ID.

The laryngeal is completely universal, interoperable and scales to accommodate almost any airway. Allowing for safe atraumatic RLN monitoring in smaller, more difficult airways on any nerve monitoring system.

Anesthesiologists can select the preferred endotracheal tube type and size best suited for the patient and procedure.

Dragonfly is the “Original” EMG endotracheal tube, delivering safe and reliable RLN monitoring since 1992⁶.

The size of the endotracheal tube selected for the patient will determine what size Dragonfly EMG electrode is needed. Dragonfly is available in multiple sizes and is compatible with a range of standard ET tubes. The sizing guide is as follows:

1-Channel
LSE500MS fits 6 – 7 mm endotracheal tubes
LSE500M fits 7.5 – 10 mm endotracheal tubes

2-Channel
LSE500DCS fits 6 – 7.5 mm endotracheal tubes
LSE500DCL fits 8 – 10 mm endotracheal tubes

EasyAim .5-Channel
LSE600MSP fits 2 – 5.5 mm endotracheal tubes
LSE600M fits 6 – 10 mm endotracheal tubes

Dragonfly is the original atraumatic (needle-free) laryngeal EMG electrode. The surface electrode attaches to most ETT for a universal EMG tube that measures the electrical signal in the muscles of the larynx to deliver important information about the nerves that control the vocal cords.

EasyAim (LSE600MSP) is designed for 2.5 – 5 mm endotracheal tubes.

EasyAim is a .5-channel EMG electrode and requires an external reference electrode (included) to create a single-channel device.

EasyAim is an atraumatic laryngeal electrode designed for safe recurrent laryngeal nerve monitoring on smaller-sized endotracheal tubes for patients with tiny airways.

The application is easy, and the instructions for use give a step-by-step guide for proper attachment. The EMG electrode is designed with positioning stripes to facilitate proper alignment during attachment, which allows most ETTs to function as fully integrated EMG tubes for intraoperative neuromonitoring.

Dragonfly monitors vocal cord activity during ACDF, parathyroidectomy, thyroidectomy, and skull base procedures when the RLN and Vagus nerve are at risk of injury. The application of a Dragonfly electrode provides seamless recurrent laryngeal nerve monitoring, equal to any integrated EMG tube.

The Dragonfly attaches to the endotracheal tube to easily integrate EMG monitoring on the devices that maintain an open airway during surgery.

Under normal circumstances, the Dragonfly will remain attached to the ET tube throughout the procedure. Therefore, it is essential to follow the Instructions For Use to attach the electrode and improve the overall performance.

No, Dragonfly electrodes are not made with Latex or any other potential allergens.

Dragonfly follows nerve monitoring EMG standards. The blue lead wire(s) corresponds to the electrode on the patient’s left, and the red lead wire(s) corresponds with the electrode on the patient’s right.

EasyAim electrodes will tolerate subtle rotation if needed and still maintain an EMG signal.

The 1-channel and 2-channel Dragonfly electrodes need to maintain a midline position during the procedures for a reliable EMG signal.

Rotation of the ET tube should be avoided.

With a Dragonfly securely attached to the endotracheal tube, intubation follows the current medical techniques with a Glidescope for visual confirmation of placement. Before securing the ET tube in place, connect the lead wires to the nerve monitoring system and conduct an impedance test. Once contact with the vocal cords is confirmed, secure the tube and repeat the impedance test.