CTICasesNovel Endotracheal Tube Design with Distal Gap
Imaging findings
Frontal chest radiograph and coronal CT reformats show an endotracheal tube in place. A distinct radiographic gap is visible near the distal end of the tube, with a small radiodense fragment appearing just beyond a non-radiopaque segment, mimicking a fractured tube or foreign body. Coronal CT confirms that the cuff is inflated above this level, demonstrating a gap in the radiopaque line that represents a manufactured side-port or side-hole design rather than a structural defect.
Key takeaways
Familiarity with various medical device designs and manufacturers is critical to avoid misinterpreting normal tube features, such as intentional side-ports or gaps in radiopaque lines, as iatrogenic fractures or fragment embolization. Comparing with prior films from outside facilities can help confirm the stability and intentional nature of such findings.
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