Problems associated with prolonged intubation in the geriatric patient.

The authors review problems associated with prolonged intubation. Laryngeal stenosis and injuries caused by the endotracheal tube itself are described. Postintubation laryngotracheal pathology, including signs and symptoms and the management of specific lesions, is described in detail. Other injuries associated with prolonged intubation, such as nasal ulceration, sinusitis, and oral ulcers, also are reviewed.