PROLONGED ENDOTRACHEAL INTUBATION OR TRACHEOSTOMY IN INFANTS AND CHILDREN

On the basis of experience with 335 cases of prolonged endotracheal intubation, for more than 6 hours, in infants and children the authors have discussed prolonged intubation versus tracheostomy. There were 7 cases of subglottic stenosis, with symptoms of airway obstruction, 2.1 per cent of the total experience. Trauma at intubation or reintubation by too large a tube and by chemical irritation of the tube are of primary importance. If the trauma can be diminished, the intubation time can be prolonged. Intubation is superior to tracheostomy in most cases where an artificial airway is required in infants and children. © 1970.