What Is an Endotracheal Tube? Types, Sizes, and Uses Explained

When it comes to airway management in hospitals and emergency care, one of the most important tools is the endotracheal tube (ET tube). Whether used during surgery, in the ICU, or in trauma care, this device helps doctors and nurses secure the airway and support breathing.

In this blog, we’ll explain what an endotracheal tube is, the different types, common sizes, and when it’s used.

What Is an Endotracheal Tube?

An endotracheal tube (ET tube) is a flexible plastic tube inserted through the mouth or nose into the trachea. Its main purpose is to:

• Keep the airway open

• Deliver oxygen or anesthesia

• Allow mechanical ventilation

• Prevent aspiration of fluids into the lungs

In simple terms: The ET tube is a life-saving airway device used in surgeries, ICUs, and emergency medicine.

Types of Endotracheal Tubes

1. Cuffed Endotracheal Tube

   • Has an inflatable cuff near the tip.

   • Creates a seal inside the trachea to prevent air leaks.

   • Commonly used in adults and ICU patients.

2. Uncuffed Endotracheal Tube

   • No cuff; leaves a small space around the tube.

   • Often used in pediatric patients to reduce airway trauma.

3. Specialized ET Tubes

   • Reinforced ET tube (resists kinking during surgery)

   • Nasal endotracheal tube (inserted through the nose)

   • Laser-resistant ET tube (used in specific surgical procedures)

Endotracheal Tube Sizes

ET tubes are measured by internal diameter (ID) in millimeters:

• Adult sizes: 7.0–8.5 mm (most common for men and women)

• Pediatric sizes: 3.0–6.0 mm, depending on age and weight

• Neonatal sizes: 2.0–3.5 mm

Rule of thumb: Smaller patients need smaller tubes; adults usually require larger ones.

When Are Endotracheal Tubes Used?

Endotracheal tubes are essential in:

• Surgery – To deliver anesthesia and maintain a safe airway.

• Intensive Care Units (ICU) – For patients requiring mechanical ventilation.

• Emergency Medicine – In trauma or cardiac arrest, ET tubes ensure quick airway access.

• Critical Care Transport – Used in ambulances and helicopters for safe patient transfer.

Endotracheal Tube vs Tracheostomy Tube

Many people confuse the two. Here’s the difference:

• Endotracheal tube (ET tube): Inserted through the mouth/nose into the trachea, usually for short-term airway management.

• Tracheostomy tube: Inserted surgically through the neck into the trachea, usually for long-term ventilation.

TICARE® Endotracheal Tubes — Trusted in Critical Care

TICARE® provides high-quality endotracheal tubes with cuff and without cuff, available in sizes 2.0–10.0 mm. Designed with radiopaque lines, smooth tips, and secure sealing cuffs, they are ideal for:

• Anesthesia

• ICU ventilation

• Emergency intubation

• Pediatric and adult care

Explore our full range of TICARE® Endotracheal Tubes.

FAQs About Endotracheal Tubes

Q1: What is the main purpose of an endotracheal tube?
To keep the airway open, deliver oxygen or anesthesia, and allow mechanical ventilation.

Q2: Which is better — cuffed or uncuffed ET tubes?

• Cuffed ET tubes are best for adults, ICU, and long-term ventilation.

• Uncuffed ET tubes are recommended for pediatrics to reduce airway damage.

Q3: How do doctors choose the right ET tube size?
They consider the patient’s age, weight, and clinical condition. For adults, 7.0–8.5 mm is common; children require smaller tubes.

Q4: How long can an endotracheal tube stay in place?
Usually up to 7–10 days. Longer ventilation may require a tracheostomy tube.

Final Thoughts

The endotracheal tube is one of the most important airway management tools in modern medicine. Available in cuffed and uncuffed types, and sizes for adults, pediatrics, and neonates, it plays a critical role in anesthesia, ICU care, and emergency medicine.

TICARE® ensures safe, sterile, and reliable ET tubes, trusted by hospitals and clinicians worldwide.