Tess,
you have inadvertently hijacked Logans thread and many here might not respond to your post. The way to start your own thread is to choose the appropriate forum first (such as "introduction" or "treatment issues") then click on the "new topic" button on the bottom left hand side of the screen (or the top of the screen). You will then have your own thread started.

When my father had surgery, and he had a bad heart, they "tuned" him up first (he had the worst heart rhythm I have ever seen). He had a 14 hour operation and sailed right through it. He was in his late 80's at the time.
The breathing tube actually inhibits aspiration into the lungs, in addition to providing a reliable airway, so it's a good idea.