Pediatric Endotracheal Tube Size Calculator

Estimate uncuffed and cuffed ETT size and insertion depth by age (Cole formula, age ≥ 1 year).

For educational and clinical reference. Not a substitute for medical judgment. See the medical disclaimer.
Uncuffed ETT size
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Cuffed ETT size
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Insertion depth (uncuffed)
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Insertion depth (cuffed)
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References

  1. Cole F. Pediatric formulas for the anesthesiologist. Am J Dis Child. 1957;94(6):672-673.
  2. American Heart Association. 2020 Guidelines for CPR and ECC — Pediatric Advanced Life Support. Circulation. 2020;142(16_suppl_2):S469-S523.

How to use

  1. Enter the child's age in years (≥ 1).
  2. Uncuffed and cuffed ETT sizes plus insertion depth update instantly.
  3. For neonates, use standard age-specific tube sizes instead.

Frequently asked questions

How is pediatric ETT size estimated?

Cole formula. Uncuffed: (age in years / 4) + 4 mm. Cuffed: (age in years / 4) + 3.5 mm. For age ≥ 1 year.

How is insertion depth estimated?

Insertion depth (cm at the lip) ≈ 3 × ETT internal diameter (mm).

Should cuffed or uncuffed tubes be used?

Modern pediatric practice favors cuffed tubes (microcuff design), which reduce reintubation and aspiration risk while maintaining safety.

What about neonates and infants?

These formulas are for children ≥ 1 year. Term neonates typically use a 3.0–3.5 mm tube; preterm < 1000 g use 2.5 mm.

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