Understanding Anesthesiology - The Global Regional Anesthesia ...

Extubation
Extubation is the removal of the endotracheal tube and is usually performed immediately
upon emergence from anesthesia. Evidence suggests that significant morbidity and mortality
relating to the airway are as common at emergence (at the time of extubation) as they are
on induction (at the time of intubation). Readiness for extubation must be assessed in order
to avoid post-extubation complications which include:
• airway obstruction
• aspiration
• inadequate ventilation
• laryngospasm
A patient who is ready to be extubated will be:
• awake enough to obey commands.
• breathing spontaneously with adequate tidal volume.
• strong (as demonstrated through hand grip or head lift); this criteria is most important
when non-depolarizing muscle relaxants (NDMR) have been used.
Related Glossary Terms
Airway obstruction, Anticholinesterase, Aspiration, Difficult airway, Emergence, Laryngospasm,
Non-depolarizing muscle relaxants, Patency, Residual block, Reticular activating
system, Tidal volume
Index
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Chapter 1 - Airway Management
Chapter 3 - General Anesthesia
Chapter 3 - General Anesthesia