What does "Endotracheal tube" mean in a report or doctor's letter? In our medical dictionary, you will find a patient-friendly explanation of the meaning of this medical term.
An endotracheal tube is a flexible plastic tube that is placed into the windpipe through the mouth or nose. This is done to help a person breathe when they are unable to do so on their own, such as during surgery or severe illness. The tube is connected to a machine that provides oxygen and removes carbon dioxide, essentially doing the work of the lungs.
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