Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 27, 2026

The Rigid Tube as an Alternative in Controlling the Problematic Airway
Published on: June 6, 2020
Endotracheal tube safety with the erbium:yttrium aluminum garnet laser
C Gonzalez1, M Smith, L Reinisch
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, DC.
Abstract:
The erbium:yttrium aluminum garnet (Er:YAG) laser operates in the infrared spectrum at a wavelength of 2.94 microns. The absorption coefficient for water at this wavelength is approximately 10 times that of the carbon dioxide laser. It is anticipated that this laser will produce more precise surgical ablation with decreased surrounding tissue destruction. The results of impacting endotracheal tubes with the Er:YAG laser are presented. The CO2 laser was used as a reference. Metallic tape that was not perforated by the CO2 laser after 240 seconds of continuous exposure at 20 W was perforated by the Er:YAG laser with use of 15 pulses of 1 J per pulse. Silver foil tape with a Meroplicable to otolaryngology, modification of current safety standards will be necessary.
Related Concept Videos
Oxygen Delivering System II: Venturi Mask and Transtracheal Oxygen
Venturi Mask
The Venturi mask, named after the Venturi effect, is designed to deliver precise oxygen concentrations. It consists of a large tube with an oxygen inlet that narrows down, causing a pressure drop that pulls air in through adjustable side ports. The mask is a lightweight,...
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...
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...
Endotracheal Tube Extubation
Procedure
Extubation removes the endotracheal tube (ETT) from the patient on mechanical ventilation. It requires a well-coordinated, multidisciplinary approach involving physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare professionals.
Tracheostomy Suctioning II: Procedure
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation V: Advanced Airway Management Techniques

