Using a special breathing tube to improve intubation accuracy

Ultrasound-detectable Endotracheal Tube: a Feasibility Study

Not applicable Interventional University of Michigan · NCT05941013

This study is testing a new type of breathing tube to see if it helps doctors place the tube more accurately during heart procedures.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment20 (estimated)
Ages6 Months to 42 Months
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Michigan Academic / other
Locations1 site (Ann Arbor, Michigan)
Trial IDNCT05941013 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the feasibility of an ultrasound-detectable cuffed endotracheal tube (USD-ETT) designed to enhance the accuracy of intubation during cardiac catheterization procedures. The USD-ETT features a uniquely shaped balloon with a divot and is filled with saline instead of air, which may improve visibility and placement confirmation. Participants undergoing general anesthesia for cardiac catheterization will be monitored to assess the effectiveness of this innovative device in ensuring correct tube placement in the trachea versus the esophagus.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients scheduled for diagnostic or interventional cardiac catheterization requiring general anesthesia and endotracheal intubation.

Not a fit: Patients with known airway abnormalities, tracheostomy, or those who are ventilator-dependent will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this device could significantly reduce the risk of misplacement during intubation, leading to safer anesthesia practices.

How similar studies have performed: This approach is novel and has not been tested in humans previously, making it an exploratory endeavor.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patient is undergoing scheduled or planned diagnostic or interventional cardiac catheterization with planned general anesthesia requiring endotracheal intubation.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patient has a known airway abnormality, including tracheal stenosis, previous tracheal stenosis, or tracheobronchomalacia.
* Patient has a tracheostomy.
* Patient is ventilator-dependent.
* Patient has an anticipated difficult intubation based upon airway exam and/or history of difficult intubation.
* Patient is unlikely (in opinion of anesthesia team) or is unable to be intubated with 3.5 mm, 4.0 mm, or 4.5 mm Inner Diameter USD-ETT due to the size of the patient or their airway.
* Patient is already intubated prior to the scheduled procedure.
* It is anticipated that the patient will not be extubated after the catheterization procedure.
* Concurrent enrollment in another clinical trial with an intervention during the cardiac catheterization procedure or 30 days afterwards.
* Allergy to plastic/materials in USD-ETT

Where this trial is running

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Cardiac CatheterizationEndotracheal TubeUltrasoundIntubation
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.