Calculation of Endotracheal tube insertion length in neonates-a comparative study

All intubated neonates with post intubation Xray will be assessed for eligibility. Tochen formula will be calculated for all neonates in study. (weight+6 to the nearest of 0.5cm), which is standard method of calculation in our unit before intubation. Consent for measurements will be taken from parents of eligible neonates. Details of case with be noted.  All babies will be assessed within 6 hours of intubation. Facial measurements will be done using non stretchable disposable tapes. NTL, NsTL and CTL distances to the nearest 0.5 cm will be recorded for each neonate. Position of end of ETT (actual and optimal) will be determined from CXRay measurements. Lower end of T2 will be taken for calculation of the optimal position of the ET. Xray is standard method use to see if endotracheal tube is correctly placed. Difference between optimal and actual position will be calculated for each case in mm.

Measurements will be confirmed by faculty members. If baby is intubated twice during hospital stay, each intubation will be taken as separate reading. Weight will be measured on electronic weighing scale to an accuracy of 10 grams. GA will be assessed by NBS and records.