The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word STENT
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
S
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More clues leading to the result STENT
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "tube" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case tube = stent.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does STENT mean?
STENT noun- A slender tube inserted into a blood vessel, a ureter or the oesophagus in order to provide support and to prevent disease-induced closure.
- To insert a stent or tube into a blood vessel.
- An allotted portion; a stint.
- To keep within limits; to restrain; to cause to stop, or cease; to stint.
- To stint; to stop; to cease.