[Prolonged intubation in children (author's transl)].

Area of Science:

• Pediatric critical care medicine
• Respiratory management in children
• Intubation and airway devices

Context:

• Prolonged endotracheal intubation in pediatric patients presents significant management challenges.
• Complications associated with prolonged intubation require careful monitoring and intervention.
• Upper airway infections are identified as a risk factor for increased intubation duration and complications.

Purpose:

• To describe the manipulation and complications of prolonged intubation in a pediatric cohort.
• To identify factors associated with increased risk of complications during prolonged intubation.
• To provide recommendations for optimizing endotracheal tube selection and duration of use.

Summary:

• A review of 217 pediatric cases highlights complications arising from prolonged endotracheal intubation.
• Intubation exceeding one week is particularly associated with adverse events when indicated for upper airway infections.
• Selecting the smallest appropriate endotracheal tube caliber is essential for minimizing airway trauma and complications.

Impact:

• Informing clinical practice guidelines for pediatric airway management.
• Reducing the incidence of intubation-related morbidities in children.
• Improving patient outcomes through optimized mechanical ventilation strategies.