Endotracheal tube size and depth
Tube size and insertion depth for children, with adult depth estimates.
Inputs
0 of 1years
SexUsed by the equation
When to use
- Preparing for intubation.
Pearls and pitfalls
- Have a half size smaller and larger ready.
- Confirm position with waveform capnography and chest X-ray.
- Term newborn: 3.5 mm; adults: typically 7.0–8.0 mm with depth about 21 cm (women) or 23 cm (men) at the teeth.
Why use
Quick, guideline-based estimates.
Cuffed ID = age ÷ 4 + 3.5; uncuffed ID = age ÷ 4 + 4; oral depth (cm) = 3 × tube ID