Endotracheal intubation is generally performed before a tracheostomy tube is placed. Both an endotracheal tube and a tracheostomy tube provide access to the airway for positive pressure ventilation from a ventilator. The endotracheal tube is generally used for short-term mechanical ventilation. The endotracheal tube is inserted into the mouth and through the vocal cords to provide ventilation to the lungs.
If an endotracheal tube has been in place for some time, or if the doctor thinks a patient will need long-term mechanical ventilation, a tracheostomy tube may be placed. A tracheostomy tube is a tube placed directly into the windpipe at the cricoid cartilage during surgery. The tube is below the level of the vocal cords. This is usually more comfortable for the patient and may reduce the need for sedation. It also frees up the upper airway, allowing the patient to use the mouth for speaking and swallowing.
