Endotracheal Intubation

Endotracheal Intubation

Is the passage of a flexible plastic tube (tracheal tube) through the nose or mouth in to the trachea to maintain an open airway. Tracheal tube (TT) can be used to deliver anesthetic gases directly into the trachea and allow control of ventilation and oxygenation. Two common types of tracheal intubations are orotracheal intubation, an insertion of an endotracheal tube through the mouth and in to the trachea and nasotracheal intubation it is an insertion of an endotracheal tube through the nose and in to the trachea. Nasotracheal intubation is necessary when oral route is not possible i.e., difficult mouth opening.

Indications for tracheal intubation

• To provide a patent (clear, unobstructed) airway.
• To prevent inhalation (aspiration) of gastric contents.
• To facilitate the need for frequent suctioning of the lungs.
• Surgical requirement for neuromuscular blocking drugs , e.g., abdominal surgery
• To facilitate positive pressure ventilation.
• For operative sites involving the face, mouth, or airway.
• A surgical position other than supine.
• To provided adequate ventilation in the patient who is difficult to ventilate by mask.
• For patients with diseases involving the upper airway.