Development of a Protective Device to Prevent Damage to an Endotracheal Tube Caused by the Eruption of Deciduous Teeth

In patients undergoing endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation, damage to the endotracheal tube or inflation line is a potential risk with life-threatening consequences. Although various devices and bite blocks have been developed to secure the endotracheal tube and prevent its dislodgement or damage, they are not suitable for children or newborns. We describe a 1-year-and-2-month-old girl who required long-term endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation. The eruption of the lower deciduous incisors caused damage to the inflation line. A mouthguard was not appropriate because her teeth had erupted only slightly, and the retention was insufficient. After collaborating with a dental technician to fabricate a protective device, we were able to provide the optimal treatment while minimizing invasiveness to the patient. It is necessary to collaborate with other professionals as a team to select the optimal medical care tailored to each patient.