fetal endotracheal intubation
Placement of an endotracheal tube in the fetal airway during open fetal surgery to maintain oxygenation and enable controlled ventilation.
Full Definition
Fetal endotracheal intubation is a critical component of open fetal surgical procedures where the fetus is partially delivered from the uterus. The procedure involves inserting an endotracheal tube into the fetal trachea to provide controlled oxygenation and ventilation while maintaining the uteroplacental circulation. This technique is essential for complex procedures requiring extended operative time and precise airway management. The intubation must be performed with extreme care to avoid airway trauma, and the tube size and ventilation parameters are carefully calibrated for fetal physiology. This procedure is typically performed by pediatric anesthesiologists with specialized training in fetal surgery.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify fetal vs. maternal when documenting airway procedures in maternal-fetal surgery to avoid confusion.
In Context
- "Following hysterotomy, fetal endotracheal intubation was successfully performed to secure the airway before tumor resection." — operative report
- "The anesthesia team prepared specialized equipment for fetal endotracheal intubation using a 2.5mm uncuffed endotracheal tube." — surgical planning document