Comparative Evaluation of Macintosh and Airtraq Laryngoscopes for Laryngeal View during Endotracheal Intubation: A Study Protocol

Abstract

Background: Intubating trachea is a routine procedure for anaesthesiologists, but during surgeries, protecting the airway remains a challenge. Intubation failure in anaesthetic and emergency cases remains a big cause of mortality and morbidity. The Macintosh laryngoscope remains most widely used of various inventions and numerous advancements in the airway used for endotracheal intubation. Airtraq laryngoscope is a novel video laryngoscope which aids the procedure for intubation of patients with difficult or normal airways. Airtraq blade curvature and the precise internal arrangement of the optical components are made in such a way that enables visualization of the glottic field with minimal manipulation of the pharyngeal, oral and tracheal axis. This study aims to compare Airtraq and Macintosh Laryngoscope for Laryngeal view.
 Methods: This will be a prospective comparative randomised study that will include total 80 patients. Patients posted for surgery under general anaesthesia will be randomized into two groups (i.e. 40 in each groups): Group M-E patients will be intubated with Macintosh Endotracheal Intubation whereas Group A-E patients will be intubated with Airtraq Endotracheal Intubation. Patients will be evaluated for Ease of intubation, duration of induction, successful number of attempts and hemodynamic parameters. Data will be compiled and analysed with appropriate statistical programme.
 Expected Results: Significant results are expected to support that, Airtraq can be secured easily and with lesser number of attempts compared to Macintosh and duration of insertion is less.
 Conclusion: Intubation with Airtraq is easier in relation to intubation ease and duration compared to Macintosh with less post-operative complications.