In the meantime, Phase I clinical trials continue at Hermann Hospital. About 65 children ages 4 through 9 are involved, and reception so far has been very favorable. A second device developed by Warters is a new intratrachial tube that provides improved cleansing of the lungs over standard tubes. Pneumonia can occur with patients who have to use a breathing tube for an extended period of time, he explained. The mechanical ventilation diminishes the lungs ability to cleanse themselves.
Bacteria can build up and cause infections.
The self-cleansing device provides continuous removal of the bacteria. Warters honors include the Dean s Award for Teaching Excellence in 1994 and the American Society of Anesthesia Media Award for a three-part television series on Modern Anesthesia in 1997. Butler is involved in helping the National Aeronautics and Space Administration to fine-tune its procedures for preventing decompression sickness during space walks. The University of Texas Houston Health Science Center. Permission to reprint is available upon request.