An unusual complication of endotracheal intubation

Breakage of two silicone endotracheal tubes during extubation

Silicone endotracheal tubes broke during tracheal extubation of two dogs after uneventful anaesthesia. The remaining pieces were removed via endoscopy, and both dogs recovered with no further problems. A third silicone endotracheal tube broke while checking for cracks prior to its use. Biofilm formation on the surface of the endotracheal tube is thought to be the main cause of the breakage. Destruction of the biofilm is difficult, therefore exhaustive cleaning with detergents followed by vigorous brushing is recommended to break the interaction between the silicone surface and the biofilm. It is suggested that careful attention is paid to how tubes are cleaned and dried (in a hanging position), and that they are checked carefully for cracks prior to each use.