Ultrasound and Paediatric Endotracheal Tube Size

Role of Ultrasound Compared to Age-related Formulas for Uncuffed Endotracheal Intubation in a Paediatric Population

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the role of ultrasound in paediatric patients to compare the correct size of an uncuffed endotracheal tube (ETT) with the minimal transverse tracheal diameter (MTTD) measured by ultrasound and with tube size predicted by different age-related formulas.

The investigators hypothesize that a prediction of pediatric ETT is possible with the ultrasonographic measurement of the MTTD.

Inclusion Criteria:

• written informed consent
• children <= 5 years of age
• elective surgery requiring endotracheal intubation

Exclusion Criteria:

• missing informed consent
• allergy to ultrasound gel