Nasotracheal intubation in acute laryngotracheobronchitis.

The case histories of 150 children admitted to hospital with acute laryngotracheobronchitis (LTB) are reviewed. Relief of severe upper airway obstruction was achieved by nasotracheal intubation in 27 children (18%). There was no mortality in this series. Nasotracheal intubation is therefore a safe and effective means of treating severe LTB. In addition, the importance of meticulous nursing care is stressed.