Using ultrasound to confirm correct intubation in patients

POCUS ASSESSMENT FOR TRACHEAL VS OESOPHAGEAL INTUBATION

Clinica Universidad de Navarra, Universidad de Navarra · NCT05983666

This study tests if using ultrasound can help doctors make sure they are placing breathing tubes in the right spot during surgery to avoid complications.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment200 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 90 Years
SexAll
SponsorClinica Universidad de Navarra, Universidad de Navarra (other)
Locations1 site (Madrid, Madrid)
Trial IDNCT05983666 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to improve airway management by utilizing ultrasound to differentiate between tracheal and esophageal intubation. The methodology involves locating the esophagus through patient swallowing and using an ultrasound transducer to visualize the trachea during intubation. The study seeks to confirm correct endotracheal tube placement in real-time, potentially reducing the risk of complications associated with misintubation. The findings could enhance the standard of care in surgical settings where intubation is required.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include patients aged 18 to 90 years, classified as ASA I-III, who are undergoing scheduled or emergency surgeries requiring orotracheal intubation.

Not a fit: Patients with cervical tumors, goitre, or those who have undergone cervical radiotherapy may not benefit from this study due to anatomical alterations.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce the risk of complications from incorrect intubation during surgeries.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of ultrasound in airway management is gaining traction, this specific approach to confirm intubation is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

Patients (male or female) ASA I-III, aged between 18 and 90 years, undergoing scheduled and/or emergency surgery requiring orotracheal intubation. Informed consent form must be signed authorising inclusion in the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

A.- Cervical tumours, goitre or patients who have required cervical radiotherapy.

B.- Abnormalities leading to alterations of the anatomy such as facial/cervical fractures.

C.- Those who cannot give their consent.

Where this trial is running

Madrid, Madrid

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Intubation Complication, Tracheal intubation, Ultrasound

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.