An Algorithm for Difficult Airway Management, Modified for Modern Optical Devices (Airtraq Laryngoscope; LMA CTrach™)

Abstract

Background: Because algorithms for difficult airway management,includingtheuseofnewopticaltrachealintubation devices, require prospective evaluation in routine practice, we prospectively assessed an algorithm for difficult airway management that included two new airway devices. Methods: After 6 months of instruction, training, and clinical testing, 15 senior anesthesiologists were asked to use an established algorithm for difficult airway management in anesthetized and paralyzed patients. Abdominal, gynecologic, and thyroid surgery patients were enrolled. Emergency, obstetric, and patients considered at risk of aspiration were excluded. If tracheal intubation using a Macintosh laryngoscope was impossible, the Airtraq laryngoscope (VYGON, Ecouen, France) was recommended as a first step and the LMA CTrach™ (SEBAC, Pantin, France) as a sec