What is a common complication of endotracheal intubation?

Tracheal stenosis is a common complication of endotracheal intubation due to the potential for prolonged pressure on the trachea from the cuff of the endotracheal tube. When the cuff is inflated to maintain airway patency, it can compress the trachea against the surrounding structures. Over time, especially with extended intubation, this pressure can lead to ischemia and subsequent scarring or narrowing of the trachea, a condition known as tracheal stenosis. This complication can result in long-term airway difficulties and may require surgical intervention to correct.

While nitrous oxide toxicity is not associated with endotracheal intubation, and pneumothorax and hemothorax are more commonly related to traumatic injury or complications from procedures like thoracentesis or central line placement, tracheal stenosis directly correlates with the effects of prolonged intubation, making it the most relevant choice in this case.