What is the most common complication associated with endotracheal intubation?

The most common complication associated with endotracheal intubation is esophageal intubation. This occurs when the endotracheal tube is mistakenly placed in the esophagus instead of the trachea. This misplacement can lead to inadequate ventilation and oxygenation, as well as potentially causing the stomach to inflate, which can result in vomiting and aspiration. Recognizing the signs of esophageal intubation—such as the absence of breath sounds over the lungs and visible inflation of the stomach—is essential for healthcare providers to ensure proper tube placement.

Esophageal intubation is particularly concerning because it is often not immediately recognized, leading to critical delays in appropriate management of a patient's airway. This is significant in emergency situations where securing the airway is vital for survival. Proper training and familiarity with airway management techniques are essential to minimize the risk of this complication.

While other complications, such as barotrauma or pneumothorax, can occur during or following intubation, they are less common in comparison to the risk of the tube being placed in the esophagus. Hypotension may arise due to factors unrelated to the intubation itself, such as underlying cardiovascular conditions or adverse reactions to sedative medications used during the procedure. Thus