Injuries to the Neonatal Larynx from Long-Term Endotracheal Tube Intubation and Suggested Tube Modification for Prevention

Abstract

Since the early 1960's nasotracheal tubes have been used for neonates with primary respiratory diseases which necessitated positive pressure ventilation. This therapy may be required for extended periods of weeks to months meaning prolonged trauma to the neonatal larynx. The initial injury and long-term effects of the endotracheal tube in this age group have not been adequately investigated. The acute findings can be arytenoid and posterior commissure ulcerations and, in some cases, cartilage erosion. Long-term follow-up in these children to age 3.5 years showed a persistent arytenoid defect with chronic hoarseness. The consideration of a change in the structure of the endotracheal tube is suggested as a possible means of avoiding these injuries.