Comparative Study Of Molar Approaches Of Laryngoscopy Using Macintosh Versus Flexitip Blade

Abstract

The molar approach of laryngoscopy with the Macintosh blade, compared to the Flexitip blade, was reported to improve glottic view. The authors studied the right molar, midline and left molar approach. They compared the Macintosh blade with optimal external laryngeal manipulation (OELM)5 versus the Flexitip blade with lever activation and also pressure responses and complications in various approaches and blades were studied. Method:A series of 180 adult patients who underwent general anaesthesia and tracheal intubation was studied. Laryngoscopy was carried out using a Macintosh no.3 (45 patients) or 4 (45 patients) or Flexitip no. 3 (45 patients) or No.¬ 4 (45 patients). Three consecutive trials of direct laryngoscopy using the middle, left molar and right molar approach were carried out under full muscle relaxation. The best glottic view was recorded for each approach with and without OELM in case of Macintosh or with and without lever activation in case of the Flexitip blade.