"Endotracheal" refers to something being placed within the trachea (windpipe), most commonly an endotracheal tube (ET tube). This is a medical procedure where a flexible tube is inserted through the mouth or nose into the trachea to secure an airway, allow for ventilation, and administer oxygen or other gases. This is often used in critical care to assist with breathing for a patient who cannot breathe on their own, such as when a patient is undergoing surgery or is in a state of respiratory failure.  

Endotracheal tube

• Purpose: To establish and maintain an open airway, which is crucial for life support in patients unable to breathe on their own. 

Function:

An ET tube allows for the administration of oxygen, inhaled gases, and medications directly to the lungs, while also protecting them from aspiration (inhaling fluid, blood, or stomach contents). 

Insertion:

A healthcare provider inserts the tube into the trachea, usually through the mouth, and connects it to a ventilator (breathing machine). 

Procedure:

The process is called endotracheal intubation and may involve using a laryngoscope to see the vocal cords and guide the tube into place.