Definition

A procedure in which a tube is inserted through the mouth or nose into the trachea (windpipe) or into a hollow organ, such as the stomach. Intubation of the trachea is usually done to keep a person’s airway open so oxygen can flow into the lungs and to help a person breathe when they cannot breathe on their own. It may also be done to give medicine directly into the lungs, to keep food or fluid from getting into the lungs, or to remove blockages from the airway. Intubation of the stomach is usually done to remove air or other substances from the stomach or to give drugs or liquid foods into the stomach or small intestine.