The Endotracheal Tube Insertion Depth in Neonates

Accurate positioning of the endotracheal tube within the trachea is required for sufficient ventilation and to minimize the complications associated with malposition. This chapter provides a summary of the endotracheal tube insertion depth in neonates. Although the primary focus is on endotracheal tube insertion depth, the chapter also highlights the importance of the optimal endotracheal tube insertion depth and the anatomical landmark of the optimal endotracheal tube depth. It uses a broad perspective to enhance a better understanding of the anthropometric parameters used for both oral and nasal intubations in neonates. In addition to the endotracheal tube depth, we briefly describe the history of neonatal intubation. We conclude with an exploration of point-of-care ultrasound as an emerging method of endotracheal tube depth determination.