Health Encyclopedia

Endotracheal intubation

Definition

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.

Alternative Names

Intubation - endotracheal

Review Date:7/18/2007
Reviewed 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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