Intubointi

Intubointi is a medical procedure used to establish an airway through the insertion of a tube into the trachea. This process is commonly known as endotracheal intubation. The primary purpose of intubation is to facilitate breathing when a patient is unable to do so adequately on their own, or to protect the airway from aspiration of foreign substances. It is a critical intervention in emergency medicine, surgery, and intensive care.

The procedure typically involves the use of a laryngoscope to visualize the vocal cords and guide the insertion of the endotracheal tube. Sedation and muscle relaxants are often administered to the patient to facilitate the procedure and prevent coughing or gagging. Once the tube is in place, its position is confirmed, usually by auscultation of breath sounds and observation of chest rise. The tube is then connected to a ventilation device, such as a bag-valve-mask or a mechanical ventilator, to deliver oxygen and support breathing.

Indications for intubation are varied and include respiratory failure, severe trauma, airway obstruction, cardiac arrest, and the need for controlled ventilation during surgery. While generally safe when performed by trained professionals, potential complications can occur, such as damage to the teeth or vocal cords, bleeding, infection, or misplacement of the tube. The duration of intubation varies depending on the patient's condition, and the tube is typically removed once spontaneous breathing is restored or the underlying condition has resolved.