====== Tracheal tube ====== {{rss>https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/rss/search/1z_pxc-9fhP1GNRbMgE5UvQnJNhMXioz5IEryx9oP4cURwNgng/?limit=15&utm_campaign=pubmed-2&fc=20230112052640}} ---- ---- A tracheal tube is a catheter that is inserted into the trachea for the primary purpose of establishing and maintaining a patent airway and to ensure the adequate exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Many different types of tracheal tubes are available, suited for different specific applications: An endotracheal tube is a specific type of tracheal tube that is nearly always inserted through the mouth (orotracheal) or nose (nasotracheal). A tracheostomy tube is another type of tracheal tube; this 2–3-inch-long (51–76 mm) curved metal or plastic tube may be inserted into a tracheostomy stoma (following a tracheotomy) to maintain a patent lumen. A tracheal button is a rigid plastic cannula about 1 inch in length that can be placed into the tracheostomy after removal of a tracheostomy tube to maintain patency of the lumen.