Endotracheal Tube Uses, Types, Benefits & Buyer’s Guide for Healthcare Industry
The endotracheal tube is one of the most widely used airway devices in hospitals, ICUs, and during emergency care. It helps keep the airway clear and supports ventilation when a patient is unable to breathe on their own. Be it surgery, trauma, or critical care, endotracheal tubes save lives. This article covers everything you should know about their types, uses, benefits, and why cuffed ET tubes are widely preferred. What is an Endotracheal Tube? The endotracheal tube (ET tube) is a flexible plastic tube placed into the trachea (windpipe) through the mouth or nose. Its main purpose is to keep the airway open and let oxygen, anesthetic gases, or ventilator support reach the lungs. It is commonly used in: Emergency airway management General anaesthesia ICU ventilation Trauma and resuscitation cases Why Cuffed Endotracheal Tubes Are Common Today A cuffed endotracheal tube has an inflatable balloon at its distal end. This cuff seals the trachea, preventing air leakage and minimizi...