Ultrasonographic analysis of subglottic tracheal morphology: relationship with anthropometric markers
摘要
Proper sizing of endotracheal and tracheostomy tubes is essential for safe airway management. Ultrasonography offers a non-invasive method to assess airway anatomy, particularly the subglottic region. This study aimed to evaluate subglottic tracheal diameter and trachea-to-skin distance in healthy adults using ultrasound and to investigate their relationships with anthropometric variables.
MethodsA prospective study was conducted on 178 healthy adults (92 males, 86 females) aged 18 to 65 years, grouped by age (18–35, 36–50, 51–65 years). Subglottic tracheal diameter and trachea-to-skin distance were measured using a Canon Aplio™ 300 ultrasound system with participants in a supine position. Height, weight, and body mass index were recorded. Statistical analysis included Mann–Whitney U test, ANOVA, and Pearson or Spearman correlation as appropriate. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
ResultsMales had significantly larger subglottic tracheal diameters than females (20.05 ± 3.01 mm vs. 16.93 ± 1.72 mm, p < 0.001). Trachea-to-skin distance showed no sex difference (p = 0.133) but increased significantly with age (p < 0.001), particularly between the youngest (8.12 ± 2.13 mm) and oldest (9.9 ± 2.5 mm) age groups. In younger adults, tracheal diameter correlated strongly with height (r = 0.65, p < 0.001), while trachea-to-skin distance correlated with both weight (r = 0.52–0.56) and body mass index (r = 0.50–0.64) across all age groups.
ConclusionsUltrasound provides a reliable and individualized assessment of airway anatomy. Subglottic tracheal diameter and trachea-to-skin distance vary with sex, age, and body composition, which may guide personalized airway management and tube size selection. Further clinical validation is warranted.