The endotracheal tube air leak test does not predict extubation outcome in critically ill pediatric patients

Abstract

An endotracheal tube air leak pressure >/=30 cm H2O measured in the nonparalyzed patient before extubation or for the duration of mechanical ventilation was common and did not predict an increased risk for extubation failure. Pediatric patients who are clinically identified as candidates for an extubation trial but do not have an endotracheal tube air leak may successfully tolerate removal of the endotracheal tube.