For Patients/Families

Endotracheal tube (ETT or ET tube)
Tube placed through the mouth or nose into the throat and the child's trachea (windpipe). This tube provides a secure pathway through which air can be circulated to the lungs.

These tubes are fastened to the child's face with tape, but they still come loose and have to be replaced on occasion. They may also become partially or completely clogged with secretions from the lungs, which requires suctioning and, sometimes, replacement of the tube.