endotracheal tube

 

What is an endotracheal tube?

An endotracheal (ET) tube is a hollow plastic tube that is placed in the trachea through the mouth. The trachea is a tube that inserted the body that goes from the throat to the lungs. A tracheostomy tube is another type of tracheal tube; this 2–3-inch-long (51–76 mm) curved metal or plastic tube may be inserted into a tracheostomy stoma (following a tracheotomy) to maintain a patent lumen.




The trachea is also called the windpipe or airway and shvaasanalee kee nalee told in hindi. The ET tube is attached to a machine called a respirator. A respirator gives a person oxygen (air), and breathes for him when he cannot breathe on his own.


How will caregivers know how deep the endotracheal tube should go?


Special measurements may be done by the caregiver to learn how deep the ET tube should be placed. The measurements are taken from the side of the patient's mouth, to the side of his face and down to the middle of his chest. Once the measurements are taken, there are markings on the tube that show how deep the tube is placed.


Why would someone need an endotracheal tube?


A person will need an ET tube if they are not able to breathe enough oxygen for their body. This can occur if he has an injury, serious illness, or cardiac arrest (heart attack). An ET tube may also be used during surgery. While a person is in surgery, he may get medicines to relax him and make him fall asleep. These medicines make it hard for a person to breathe on their own. Having an ET tube allows the patient to get the oxygen he needs, and allows the caregiver to treat the patient. If you or a family member is going to have surgery, ask your caregiver for more information. This includes what will be done during the surgery, and how to get ready for it.



Why is endotracheal intubation done?

You may need this procedure for any of the following reasons:


to open your airways so that you can receive anesthesia, medication, or oxygen

to protect your lungs

you’ve stopped breathing or you’re having difficulty breathing

you need a machine to help you breathe

you have a head injury and cannot breathe on your own

you need to be sedated for a period of time in order to recover from a serious injury or illness



What are the risks of endotracheal intubation?

Anesthesia risks

Typically, you’ll be under general anesthesia during the procedure. This means that you won’t feel anything as the tube is inserted. Healthy people usually don’t have any problems with general anesthesia, but there’s a small risk of long-term complications. These risks largely depend on your general health and the type of procedure you’re undergoing.


Factors that may increase your risk of complications with anesthesia include:


chronic problems with your lungs, kidneys, or heart

diabetes

history of seizures

allergies to food or medications

alcohol use

a family history of adverse reactions to anesthesia

obesity

smoking

age

sleep apnea

heart attack

lung infection

stroke

More serious complications may occur in older adults who have significant medical problems. These complications are rare but may include:

temporary mental confusion

death


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