ABSTRACT
Objective To evaluate the method of ultrasonic imaging to confirm endotracheal tube location in adult patients.Methods A certified sonographer identified the location of the trachea tube with ultrasound machine and then put it to optimum place.Correct trachea tube location confirmed by fiberoptic bronchoscopy (FOB) was used to evaluate the accuracy of ultrasonography for detecting endotracheal tube location.Results Several relevant structures,including anterior wall of trachea,the edge of balloon and the superior edge of the aorta (DGA) would be successfully visualized by sonographic examination.Among 48patients underwent ultrasound-guided tracheal intubation,there were 44 successful cases.2 intubatedmalposition cases and 2 failed-to-guide cases.The locating accuracy rate was 91.7％.Conclusions Ultrasound examination can identify the position of trachea tube in adult patients accurately,and it is a noninvasive,convenient and radiation free method for patients undergoing airway management.