Risks Associated With Endotracheal Intubation

Endotracheal intubation is an emergency procedure needed when an individual is unable to breathe on their own or is unconscious. Endotracheal intubation stops the individual from experiencing suffocation and keeps their airway open. The trachea (windpipe) is a structure that runs from the throat to the lungs, serving as a path for oxygen. An individual's trachea stretches down to behind their sternum or breastbone and divides into two tubes referred to as the bronchi. Endotracheal intubation is performed when an individual is undergoing a major surgical procedure to ensure oxygen delivery while being operated on.