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Updated: Dec 31, 2025

Endotracheal Intubation via Tracheotomy and Subsequent Thoracotomy in Rats for Non-Survival Applications
Published on: March 15, 2024
Modified endotracheal tube: emergency alternative to paediatric tracheostomy tube
M Kurien1, R Raviraj, J Mathew
1Department of ENT, Head and Neck Surgery, Speech and Hearing, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamilnadu, India. ent2@cmcvellore.ac.in
Background:
In an emergency, the non-availability of a conventional paediatric tracheostomy tube is a therapeutic challenge for the attending surgeon.
Objective:
To describe a simple alternative to a paediatric tracheostomy tube for use in an emergency situation.
Method:
Case report of a 14-year-old boy who developed tracheomalacia following partial cricotracheal resection for subglottic stenosis. As a suitably sized tracheostomy tube (with a long narrow segment) was not available, an endotracheal tube was modified and used successfully. Details of the modification, and a relevant literature review, are also discussed.
Conclusion:
In the paediatric age group, when an appropriately sized tracheostomy tube is not available, a modified endotracheal tube is a simple temporary alternative; this may be especially useful in an emergency.
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