Comparison of Tracheal Diameter Measurements on Radiograph Versus Computed Tomography at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Pune, Central India

Abstract

Background Variations in tracheal diameter with respect to factors like age and gender are one of the major factors affecting the size of the endotracheal tube (ETT) preferred in a patient. It is important to predetermine this figure because a tube of a larger size predisposes the patient for tracheal mucosal ischemia, while one of a smaller size may not ensure adequate oxygen saturation in the patient. Purpose We undertook this study to assess the accuracy of radiograph versus computed tomography (CT) and comment on whether a CT should be carried out mandatorily in all patients where intubation is needed.