A Plastic Balloon for Recording Intraesophageal Pressures

Abstract

Atmospheric conditions forced us to find a substitute for the latex rubber balloons for recording intra-esophageal pressure. The method is presented for the preparation of a balloon of Vinyl Plastisol. In a laboratory model the plastic balloons transmitted static and dynamic pressures at least as well as the rubber type. In addition they could be made thinner, yet tougher and more durable than the rubber ones. They show no evidence of deterioration after as long as 18 months'' use.