A Study to Compare Endotracheal Tube Position by Ultrasonography with Capnography

Introduction: Confirmation of correct endotracheal tube (ETT) placement is essential to prevent complications during airway management. Capnography is considered the gold standard; however, it may be unreliable in low perfusion states. Ultrasonography has emerged as a rapid bedside tool for airway assessment. This study aimed to compare ultrasonography with capnography for confirmation of ETT placement. Materials and Methods: This prospective comparative study included 60 adult patients undergoing endotracheal intubation under general anesthesia. Patients were divided into two groups: ultrasonography (Group U) and capnography (Group C), with 30 patients in each group. The primary outcome was the time required to confirm ETT placement. Secondary outcomes included diagnostic accuracy, hemodynamic parameters, complications, and ease of procedure. Statistical analysis was performed with p < 0.05 considered significant. Results: Demographic characteristics were comparable between groups. The median confirmation time was significantly shorter with ultrasonography than with capnography (4 seconds vs 7 seconds, p < 0.001). Both techniques showed 100% sensitivity and diagnostic accuracy. Hemodynamic parameters remained stable, and complication rates were minimal and comparable between groups. Conclusion: Ultrasonography is a rapid and reliable method for confirming ETT placement with diagnostic accuracy comparable to capnography. It significantly reduces confirmation time and can serve as a useful adjunct in airway management.