Abstract
Introduction: Finding the best depth of endotracheal tube (ET) placement has been a challenge because of the complications caused due to its malposition. Aims: To nd the best depth of placement of oral ET in Indian adult patients. Methods And Design: This study was conducted in 125 ASA I and II patients requiring general anaesthesia and orotracheal intubation. Methods: After placing the ET with the designated black mark at vocal cords, various airway distances were measured from the right angle of mouth using a bre optic bronchoscope. Statistical Analysis: Mean (SD) and median (range) of various parameters and Pearson correlation coefcient was calculated. Results: The mean lip-carina distance, i.e., total airway length was 23.52±1.72 cm and 22.11±1.26 cm in males and females, respectively. With black mark of ET between vocal cords, the mean ET tip-carina distance of 4.19±1.60 cm in males and 2.78±1.52 cm females was found to be less than the recommended safe distance. Conclusions: Height has the best correlation to lip to carina distance. Fixing the tube at recommended distances in both male and female will lead to carinal stimulation or endobronchial placement in many Indian patients. The formula “(Height in cm/7) -2.5.” gives us an idea about the approximate depth of ET placement.
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