Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 24, 2026

A Novel Rescue Technique for Difficult Intubation and Difficult Ventilation
Published on: January 17, 2011
A rare complication of nasotracheal intubation: accidental middle turbinectomy
Tarik Cavusoglu1, Ilker Yazici, Yener Demirtas
1Kirikkale University School of Medicine, Kirikkale, Turkey. tarikmd@yahoo.com
Abstract:
In this paper, we are presenting a rare case of accidental middle turbinectomy, a complication of nasotracheal intubation. We have reviewed the literature and addressed important parameters on nasotracheal intubation to avoid damage to the turbinates and its possible serious complications.
Insights
Accidental middle turbinectomy during nasotracheal intubation is a rare complication. This review highlights key factors to prevent turbinate damage and serious consequences during this procedure.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Anesthesiology
- Surgical Complications
Background:
- Nasotracheal intubation is a common procedure in critical care.
- Turbinate damage is an infrequent but serious complication.
- Understanding anatomical risks is crucial for safe intubation.
Observation:
- A rare case of accidental middle turbinectomy is presented.
- This complication occurred during nasotracheal intubation.
- The middle turbinate was inadvertently removed.
Findings:
- Literature review on nasotracheal intubation complications.
- Identification of parameters to prevent turbinate damage.
- Analysis of potential serious consequences of turbinate injury.
Implications:
- Improved techniques for nasotracheal intubation.
- Reduced risk of iatrogenic injury to nasal structures.
- Enhanced patient safety in airway management.
Related Concept Videos
Endotracheal Intubation I: Procedure
The ET tube comprises various components, including a standard adaptor to attach a bag-valve-mask (BVM) or ventilator, a cuff, a pilot balloon, and radiopaque markings along its length to measure the insertion distance. The tube sizes...
Tracheostomy: Procedure and Tubes
Tracheostomy tubes can be made of semiflexible plastic (polyurethane or silicone), rigid plastic, or metal, and they come in...
Endotracheal Intubation II: Nursing Management
1. Nursing Care of Patients Before Intubation
Before the endotracheal intubation procedure, nurses play an essential role in ensuring the process goes smoothly. The nurses must be familiar with intubation...
Oxygen Delivering System III: Tracheostomy and T-piece
Tracheostomy
A tracheostomy is a surgically created opening (stoma) in the anterior part of the trachea. It is used to establish a patient airway, bypass an upper airway obstruction, simplify the removal of secretions, permit long-term...
Trachea
Anatomical Features:
Location: About half of the trachea is situated in the neck, anterior to the esophagus, and extends from the larynx (at the level of the...
Tracheostomy Care I: Pre-procedural Steps
Required Equipment
The equipment necessary for tracheostomy care includes:

