What complication can arise during infant endotracheal intubation?

During infant endotracheal intubation, one significant complication that can arise is related to the anatomy of the trachea being relatively short. In infants, the trachea is indeed shorter compared to adults, which puts them at a higher risk for unintentional endobronchial intubation, where the tube may go too deep and enter a mainstem bronchus rather than being positioned in the trachea. This can lead to ventilation of only one lung, causing ineffective breathing and potential hypoxia.

Understanding this anatomical difference is crucial for clinicians performing intubations on infants, as awareness of the trachea's short length can influence the choice of the tube length and placement technique, reducing the risk of complications. This is particularly important during emergency situations where quick and effective airway management is vital for patient safety.