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Endotracheal intubation

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Endotracheal intubation
Endotracheal intubation

Alternative Names    Return to top

Intubation - endotracheal

Definition    Return to top

An endotracheal intubation is a medical procedure in which a tube is placed into the windpipe (trachea). This is done to open the airway to give you oxygen, medication, or anesthesia.

After an intubation, you will likely be placed on a machine called a respirator that will breath for you while the tube is in place.

Endotracheal intubation may also be done to remove blockages or to view the interior walls.

See also: Bronchoscopy

Update Date: 7/18/2007

Updated by: Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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