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Estimation of Optimal Nasotracheal Tube Insertion Depth in Neonates Based on Fetal Biometric Measurements
Mariel Selter1, Philipp Deindl1, Monika Wolf1
1Division of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care, Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
Background:
Current recommendations for neonatal endotracheal tube (ETT) insertion depths require the knowledge of anthropometric measurements, which are not immediately available in the delivery room setting.
Objective:
This study aimed to develop recommendations based on prenatally available fetal biometric measurements.
Methods:
In this retrospective study, the optimal ETT depths for nasotracheal insertion were correlated with fetal demographic and biometric data. Using linear regression analysis, diagrams with best-fit lines and tables for the recommendation of ETT insertion depth based on the prenatally available data were generated.
Results:
We analyzed optimal nasotracheal ETT insertion depth in 98 neonates (gestational age range: 23.7-42.0 weeks). Linear regression analysis revealed high correlations between fetal measurements and the optimal ETT insertion depth (R2 = 0.712-0.837).
Conclusion:
We provide recommendations for neonatal nasotracheal ETT insertion depths based on prenatally available data with the potential to facilitate rapid and accurate intubation of neonates.
