Endotracheal tube fixation methods for optimal stability: a comparison of adhesive tape, suture, and tape-suture fixation.

Accidental extubation of an intubated patient is a serious consideration in the surgical patient. Adequate fixation in the intubated patient is essential to prevent potentially life-threatening complications. Several methods of endotracheal tube fixation have been described in the literature. In this study, we examine 3 common methods of fixation: adhesive tape alone, suture, and tape-suture. Testing occurred in a laboratory setting with 2 fresh cadavers. Endotracheal tubes were inserted, using the methods of fixation in question. We subjected each fixation technique to progressively increasing weight to determine which technique is most resistant to accidental removal. We found that fixation of the tube by combining tape around the tube with a suture through the tape is the best noninvasive technique of the 3 methods evaluated in cases where movement of the head is anticipated.