Airway Scenarios Research Articles

Assessment of the GlideScope spectrum single-use video laryngoscope blades and small GlideRite stylet for use in pediatrics: A randomized manikin study

The GlideScope® Spectrum™ single use blades, LoPro S1 and LoPro S2, offer several technical improvements over their predecessors while maintaining the traditional curvature useful in difficult airway scenarios. We performed a single-site, prospective randomized feasibility study with three different pediatric manikin models using these new blades. The primary outcome was first attempt success rate. Secondary outcomes were overall success rate, time to intubation, and Cormack and Lehane glottic view grade. A questionnaire was also administered to each participant following the intubation attempts to gauge their satisfaction with the Spectrum™ blades and proprietary stylet. Fifty total anesthesia providers consisting of attendings (consultants), residents, fellows, certified nurse anesthetists and certified anesthesiologist assistants intubated 3 different manikins, three times each, using both the LoPro S1 and LoPro S2 blades for a total of 18 intubations each. The overall success rate across all blades and manikins was 98% and greater. The median time to intubation for all blade and manikin combinations was less than 13 s. This study demonstrates the GlideScope® Spectrum™ LoPro S1 and LoPro S2 blades are effective video intubation devices, even in a difficult airway pediatric manikin model.

Airway consideration in cleft patients-challenges and approaches

Over the last few decades, there is a paramount shift in the implementation of pediatric anesthesia. Although for most of the time, difficult airway scenarios are well-planned and executed, occasionally an unanticipated difficult situation may still arise. This is more common in patients with orofacial anomalies such as cleft lip and palate which constitute one of the most common craniofacial anomalies. Various approaches to difficult airway management in an infant undergoing cleft repair have been described in the literature. However, no approach is considered ideal. It depends on age, associated anomalies, at hand resources, and the skill of the anesthesiologist. The unique anatomical and physiological features of pediatric airways impose additional challenges. The evolution of advanced airway modalities such as video laryngoscopes (VLs) and fiber-optic bronchoscopes had a major impact on the practice of anesthesia and the management of difficult airway scenarios in children and neonates. This article focuses on airway assessment and various current techniques and equipment used in airway management of cleft anomalies. Pediatric airway devices such as supraglottic airways, VLs, and fiber-optic bronchoscopes are briefly discussed with the benefits and limitations of each device. Recent studies describe specific problems as well as advantages with the usage of these devices.

Difficult Airway ManagementA Challenge to Anaesthesiologists

Anticipated and unanticipated difficult airway remains an everlasting challenge for anesthesiologist. Most airway problems can be solved with enough resources available but clinical judgment borne of experience, and expertise is crucial in implementing the skills in any difficult airway scenario. Detailed patient history, best utilisation patient protocols, with good clinical assessment may reduce the difficult airway complications. The present series reports six patients with anticipated difficult airway-burn contracture, fractured mandible with restricted mouth opening: meningo myelocoele (in a neonate, and there was difficulty in positioning for intubation), anterior mediastinal mass (with difficulty in maintenance of anesthesia), cervical spine injury and one patient with left mandible fracture with history of road traffic accident. Different methods were successfully adopted for managing all of these difficult airway cases. Hence planning, preparation, and execution is very important in successful management of difficult airway.

Role of conferences and continuing medical education (CME) in post-graduate anaesthesia education.

Role of conferences and continuing medical education (CME) in post-graduate anaesthesia education.

Share the Airway: An Interdisciplinary Course for Management of the Unexpected Difficult Airway

IntroductionWithin the scope of practice of oral and maxillofacial surgery, the unexpected difficult airway may occur in the trauma bay, operating theater, postoperative, or office-based setting. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons must be trained to diagnose and intervene in anatomically or anesthetically compromised airways. An interdisciplinary training course hosted by an anesthesiology airway expert and oral and maxillofacial surgeon is a novel resident training opportunity. Materials and methodsIn August 2019 and October 2020, the department of anesthesiology and the division of oral and maxillofacial surgery at Weill Cornell Medical College/NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY, co-hosted interdisciplinary educational sessions focused on management of the unexpected difficult airway, taught to residents and faculty. A SurveyMonkey (San Mateo, CA) questionnaire was taken 2 weeks before and after the course, with 10 questions assessing fund of knowledge in airway anatomy and physiology, etiology of difficult airway scenarios, difficult airway algorithm, and performance of emergency surgical airways. An interactive lecture on likely scenarios, airway algorithms, relevant surgical anatomy, routine and emergency airway management, airway devices, and emergency surgical airway techniques was conducted. A hands-on cricothyroidotomy tutorial using Crico-Trainer “Pig” (VBM, Sulz, DE) anatomic models with fresh porcine tracheas to simulate human airway anatomy were used. A post-course test consisted of a timed, filmed performance followed by a debriefing session. ResultsIncreased fund of knowledge and comfort with airway anatomy, difficult airway diagnosis and management, and emergency surgical airway techniques was evident between pre-and post-course surveys and was clearly demonstrated across multiple years. The sample size (n = 10, 2019; n = 7, 2020) was insufficient for statistical analysis. ConclusionInterdisciplinary didactic and clinical training in emergency airway management are of paramount importance to the oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Between years, a drop-off in knowledge base and technical skills occurred, even among senior staff, and all attendees agreed that periodic repetition is worthwhile. This course is now offered as part of the core curriculum on an annual basis and may be expanded to additional specialties for whom airway management is important.

Newer Airway Gadgets: Rescuers in Difficult Airway Scenarios

Background: As anaesthetists, we may constantly be in the learning curve of the management of difficult airway scenario. It can have a disastrous outcome if one is not adequately prepared with the right equipment. Over time there has been multiple ways to tackle difficult airway scenarios. Needless to say, appropriate airway gadgets are carefully chosen according to the surgery and patient characteristics. But what if these certain techniques fail? Then, what next? The inability to efficiently manage a difficult airway is the major cause of morbidity and mortality in anaesthetic practice. Here, we discuss 4 different case scenarios of difficult airway management. case reports:Case 1 was a pediatric patient with TMJ ankylosis, with mouth opening 4mm, in whom we used the fibreoptic technique. Case 2- A failed fibreoptic attempt in a case of recurrent Ca oral cavity where we secured the airway using Airtraq videolaryngoscope. Case 3- A patient with post burn contracture over front of neck and anterior shoulder where we decided to use intubating laryngeal mask airway for securing airway and Case 4- An obese female patient posted for hysterolaparoscopy where we used the Laryngeal Mask Airway Supreme. Conclusion: Effective usage of newer drugs, equipment and airway gadgets by technically skilled personnel, with sound clinical judgement are essential factors in reducing airway related adverse scenario and it is of utmost importance to keep these alternate gadgets handy and to be proficient with its usage.

Comparison of the novel VieScope with conventional and video laryngoscope in a difficult airway scenario \u2013 a randomized, controlled simulation trial

BackgroundEndotracheal intubation continues to be the gold standard for securing the airway in emergency situations. Difficult intubation is still a dreadful situation when securing the airway.ObjectiveTo compare VieScope with Glidescope and conventional Macintosh laryngoscopy (MAC) in a simulated difficult airway situation.MethodsIn this randomized controlled simulation trial, 35 anesthesiologists performed endotracheal intubation using VieScope, GlideScope and MAC in a randomized order on a certified airway manikin with difficult airway.ResultsFor the primary endpoint of correct tube position, no statistical difference was found (p = 0.137). Time until intubation for GlideScope (27.5 ± 20.3 s) and MAC (20.8 ± 8.1 s) were shorter compared to the VieScope (36.3 ± 10.1 s). Time to first ventilation, GlideScope (39.3 ± 21.6 s) and MAC (31.9 ± 9.5 s) were also shorter compared to the VieScope (46.5 ± 12.4 s). There was no difference shown between handling time for VieScope (20.7 ± 7.0 s) and time until intubation with GlideScope or MAC. Participants stated a better Cormack & Lehane Score with VieScope, compared to direct laryngoscopy.ConclusionRate of correct tracheal tube position was comparable between the three devices. Time to intubation and ventilation were shorter with MAC and Glidescope compared to VieScope. It did however show a comparable handling time to video laryngoscopy and MAC. It also did show a better visualization of the airway in the Cormack & Lehane Score compared to MAC.Trial registrationThe study was registered at the German Clinical Trials Register www.drks.de (Identifier: DRKS00024968) on March 31st 2021.

Pre-tracheotomy for Potentially Emergent Airway Scenarios: Indications and Outcomes.

Airway access in the setting of unsuccessful ventilation and intubation typically involves emergent cricothyrotomy or tracheotomy, procedures with associated significant risk. The potential for such emergent scenarios can often be predicted based on patient and disease factors. Planned tracheotomy can be performed in these cases but is not without its own risks. We previously described a technique of pre-tracheotomy or exposing the tracheal framework without entering the trachea, as an alternative to planned tracheostomy in such cases. In this way, a tracheotomy can be easily completed if needed, or the wound can be closed if it is not needed. This procedure has since been used in an array of indications. We describe the clinical situations where pre-tracheotomy was performed as well as subsequent patient outcomes. Retrospective series of patients undergoing a pre-tracheotomy from 2015 to 2020. Records were reviewed for patient characteristics, indication, whether the procedure was converted to tracheotomy or closed at the bedside, and any post-procedural complications. Pre-tracheotomy was performed in 18 patients. Indications included failed extubation after head and neck reconstruction, subglottic stenosis, laryngeal masses, laryngeal edema, thyroid masses, and an oropharyngeal bleed requiring operative intervention. Tracheotomy was avoided in 10 patients with wound closed at the bedside; procedure was converted to tracheotomy in the remaining eight. There were no complications. Indications for conversion included failed extubation, intraoperative hemorrhage, significant stridor with dyspnea, and inability to ventilate. Pre-tracheotomy offers simplified airway access and provides a valuable option in scenarios where tracheotomy may, but not necessarily, be needed. 4 Laryngoscope, 131:E2802-E2809, 2021.

Comparison of learning direct laryngoscopy using a McGrath videolaryngoscope as a direct versus indirect laryngoscope: a randomized controlled trial.

ObjectiveTracheal intubation using a direct laryngoscope is difficult to teach. The McGrath videolaryngoscope, a Macintosh-like device with a camera, can be used as a direct laryngoscope to educate novices under supervision using the screen. We compared the effect on Macintosh laryngoscopy skills following training with a McGrath videolaryngoscope as a direct versus indirect laryngoscope.MethodsThirty-seven participants were randomized into direct and indirect groups according to the training method using a McGrath videolaryngoscope. Participants attempted Macintosh direct laryngoscopy in normal and difficult airway scenarios. The primary endpoint was the intubation time, and the rate of successful intubation, dental trauma, and difficulty were secondary outcomes.ResultsThe intubation time after education decreased significantly in both groups and was significantly shorter in the direct group than in the indirect group across time. The difficulty degree in the direct group was lower than that in the indirect group across time; however, the rate of dental trauma was not significantly different.ConclusionBoth direct and indirect laryngoscopy using a McGrath videolaryngoscope improved the performance of Macintosh direct laryngoscopy in novices, while direct laryngoscopy using a McGrath videolaryngoscope demonstrated better educational effects than indirect laryngoscopy.Registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03471975).

A simulation-based study evaluating the preparedness of interns' post-anaesthesia rotation in managing a failed obstetric intubation scenario: Is our training good enough?

Difficult or failed intubation of obstetric patients may be up to 8 times higher than in general surgical patients. A decline in obstetric intubation opportunities may be a contributing factor, resulting in reduced training opportunities for junior doctors, who therefore do not acquire airway management skills. To assess post-anaesthesia rotation interns' preparedness to manage a difficult/failed obstetric airway scenario. We recruited 49 interns, obtained informed consent and individually assessed them on a simulation-based scenario using a high-fidelity manikin. Two independent assessors scored participants using a checklist assessment and a global rating scale. After the simulation-based scenario, participants completed a questionnaire on their internship training, rated the simulation experience and received debriefing. The borderline regression method was used to determine the checklist pass mark. Analysis showed that 40% of interns passed. Correlation between assessors was strong for checklist scores and global ratings. The main reasons for failing were repeated attempts at intubation and failure to optimise the intubating position or conditions. There was concern regarding the infrequent use of a supraglottic airway device as a rescue. Twenty-eight interns had performed <5 general obstetric anaesthetic procedures. There are concerns regarding adequate anaesthetic preparation for interns to manage a difficult/failed intubation scenario in a full-term pregnancy. Despite the Essential Steps in Managing Obstetric Emergencies (ESMOE) airway module training, which all interns should receive, a high rate of success was not achieved in this study. Simulation-based training and assessment may be a valuable tool to improve intern training and preparedness.

Awake intubation with C-MAC videolaryngoscope in a patient with difficult airway.

Sir, The role of videolaryngoscopy has increased in the management of the difficult airway in recent times. We report a case where C-MAC D-blade videolaryngoscope (VL) was used in the airway management of a patient with cervico-facial necrotising fasciitis scheduled for surgical debridement. A 28-year-old male patient was posted for surgical debridement of cervico-facial necrotising fasciitis with multi-organ dysfunction. He was a known case of type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM). On examination, the patient was irritable and disoriented due to sepsis-induced encephalopathy (GCS-E3V3M5). He had a swollen and blackened right cheek due to necrosis with extension to the neck [Figure 1]. The mouth opening of the patient was around 1.6cm with restricted neck mobility, eliminating the possibility of neck extension. Our primary airway management plan was awake intubation via C-MAC VL (Karl Storz) blade D. A fibre-optic bronchoscope with an endoscopic mask was readily available as an alternative airway management plan. A skilled ear-nose-throat (ENT) surgeon was also requested to be standby for the emergency tracheostomy.Figure 1: Cervico-facial necrotising fasciitis involving the entire right cheek and extending to the neckIn the preoperative room, the patient's airway was prepared by nebulisation with 4mL of 4% lignocaine. In the operating room, standard American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) monitors such as electrocardiogram, non-invasive blood pressure and pulse oximeter were attached to the patient. The patient was sedated with 50 μg fentanyl and dexmedetomidine (loading dose of 1 μg/kg, followed by the infusion of 0.5 μg/kg/h). The patient received continuous oxygen via a nasal catheter with a flow of 3 L.min−1. Topical anaesthesia was supplemented with two puffs of lidocaine 10% metered spray applied directly on the surface of the tongue and oropharynx. Videolaryngoscopy was done using an adult D-blade of C-MAC and the percentage of glottic opening (POGO) score was found to be zero. Simultaneously, the posterior pharyngeal wall was anaesthetised with two puffs of 10% lignocaine spray to blunt the reflexes during insertion of the endotracheal tube (ETT). The patient was then intubated with a 7.5 mm internal diameter (ID) ETT with the aid of Eschmann stylet (Portex; Smiths Medical). After confirmation of the capnography waveform, general anaesthesia was induced with propofol and rocuronium. The surgery lasted uneventfully for around 100 min after which the patient was shifted to the intensive care unit, and was extubated the same day. Cervico-facial necrotising fasciitis is a soft tissue infection that spreads along with the superficial musculoaponeurotic system and early aggressive surgical debridement is the mainstay in achieving a successful outcome.[1] Anaesthetic management of such patients is challenging as the pain, swelling and oedema due to inflammatory processes restrict the facial and cervical movements, making the airway potentially difficult. Awake fibre-optic intubation (AFOI) is considered the technique of choice in predicted difficult airway. AFOI has a steep learning curve and requires patient cooperation. Recently, VLs have gained immense popularity as the first-line devices in adult and paediatric difficult airways due to feasibility of orotracheal intubation in a restricted mouth opening.[23] Karmer et al. described C-MAC VL as superior to fibre-optic intubation (FOI) in terms of faster intubation time in limited mouth opening patients(>1.3cm).[4] Alhomary in a systematic review also confirmed that awake video laryngoscopy has a shorter intubation time compared to AFOI.[5] In our institute, we frequently use D-blade of C-MAC for difficult intubations and so are well versed with it. Hence, C-MAC was chosen as a primary airway management plan to quickly secure the airway. Since the D-blade has a thickness of around 1 cm, it can be easily accommodated in the limited mouth opening patient and has a better field of vision (60 degrees angle of view) with the requirement of less lifting force to visualise the glottis, especially in patients who are not fully anaesthetised.[6] To conclude, we suggest that awake videolaryngoscopy using D-blade of C-MAC VL can be considered as an alternative for tracheal intubation in difficult airway scenarios where AFOI is difficult or not possible. Declaration of patient consent The authors certify that they have obtained all appropriate patient consent forms. In the form the patient(s) has/have given his/her/their consent for his/her/their images and other clinical information to be reported in the journal. The patients understand that their names and initials will not be published and due efforts will be made to conceal their identity, but anonymity cannot be guaranteed. Financial support and sponsorship Nil. Conflicts of interest There are no conflicts of interest. Acknowledgement We would like to acknowledge the support and guidance of Dr Rakesh Kumar, M.D, Associate Professor, Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur in helping me write this article.

Ease of intubation and incidence of dental injury during direct laryngoscopy: A randomized controlled trial comparing five different laryngoscope blades (Macintosh, Miller, Reduce flange, Blechman and Flangeless)

BackgroundDirect laryngoscopy remains an invaluable and readily available option despite the increasing use of video laryngoscope for securing the airway in different situations, particularly in limited resource and unanticipated difficult airway scenarios. Several variations of the laryngoscope blades are available for various purposes. However, knowledge of the functioning of different blades in a similar controlled environment is required because of the unavailability of all blades in a given setting. AimThis study assessed the ease of intubation and the degree of dental injury with five types of laryngoscope blades (Macintosh, Miller, Reduced flange, Blechman, and Flangeless blade). MethodsThis prospective randomized controlled study was conducted in patients undergoing tracheal intubation with direct laryngoscopy using five different blades posted for elective surgery under general anesthesia in a single center.The primary outcome parameters were Cormack–Lehane grade and intubation difficulty score, whereas secondary outcome measures were the proportion and grades of dental injury. ResultsA Cormack–Lehane grade 3 view was observed more often with flangeless blades 7 (22.5%) than others, with the lowest incidence for the Macintosh blade 1 (3%) (p = 0.228). The first pass success rate was highest in Macintosh (94%), similar in reduced flange Macintosh and Blechman blades (90% each) and least in the flangeless blade (77%). The force required for laryngoscopy varied significantly between the blades (p < 0.001). The median interquartile range intubation difficulty score was the highest with flangeless blades [2 (2–3)] among all the groups (p = 0.048). The dental contact during laryngoscopy varied significantly between the groups (p < 0.001). The incidence of dental injury was the highest in flangeless (13%) among all the blades (p = 0.526). ConclusionsReduced flange Macintosh and Blechman blade had ease of intubation similar to standard Macintosh blade, where as flangeless blade is associated with more difficult intubations. Reduced flange Macintosh, and Blechman blades were associated with a lower incidence of dental contact and injury than other three study blades.

One Lung Ventilation Using an Orotracheal Tube and an Endobronchial Blocker in a Patient with Difficult Airway

One-Lung Ventilation (OLV) is achieved in thoracic surgeries to facilitate collapse of one lung for better surgical visualisation. Double-lumen tubes and bronchial blockers are two commonly used devices for OLV. Patients with ‘difficult airway’ pose significant challenges for insertion of Double Lumen Endotracheal Tube (DLT). Dual malignancy such as carcinoma of lung and head and neck is extremely rare to present with. Patients presenting with restricted mouth opening due to previous surgeries and requiring lung isolation techniques may pose significant challenges to anaesthesiologist. The difficult airway scenario may arise in such patients owing to their previous surgery to the tongue, larynx, neck, mandible or previous radiation. The present case was of 47-year-old of lung isolation achieved in a patient with restricted mouth opening with an orotracheal tube, bougie, endobronchial blocker and a flexible Fibre Optic Bronchoscope (FOB). Left upper lobectomy was successfully performed after passing endobronchial blocker through a conventional orotracheal tube under the guidance of FOB.

Impact of aerosol box on intubation during COVID-19: a simulation study of normal and difficult airways.

PurposePatients with coronavirus disease (COVID-19) are at risk of requiring mechanical ventilation, and concerns of protecting healthcare workers during aerosol-generating medical procedures has led to the design of the aerosol box.MethodsWe conducted a randomized crossover mannequin-based simulation study to compare airway management with and without the aerosol box. Thirty-five anesthesiology participants and three critical care participants with more than 50 intubations with videolaryngoscopes were recruited. There were four airway simulations with and without the aerosol box (normal, pharyngeal swelling, cervical spine rigidity, and tongue edema). Each participant intubated the mannequin in eight consecutive simulations. The primary outcome of the study was time to intubation. Secondary outcomes included intubation attempts, optimization maneuvers, and personal protective equipment breaches.ResultsMean (standard deviation [SD]) time to intubation overall with the box was 30.9 (23.0) sec, while the time to intubation without the box was 25.1 (12.2) sec (mean difference, 5.8; 95% confidence interval [CI], −2.9 to 14.5). For the normal airway scenario, the mean (SD) time to intubation was 18.6 (3.5) sec for no box and 20.4 (3.3) sec for box (mean difference, 1.8; 95% CI, 0.2 to 3.4). During difficult airway scenarios only, the time to intubation was 34.4 (25.6) sec with the aerosol box and 27.3 (13.2) sec without the aerosol box (mean difference, 7.1; 95% CI, −2.5 to 16.7). There were more intubation attempts, personal protective equipment breaches, and optimization maneuvers during use of the aerosol box.ConclusionsIn this mannequin-based simulation study, the use of the aerosol box increased the time to intubation in some contexts but not others. Further studies in a clinical setting should be conducted to make appropriate modifications to the aerosol box to fully elicit its efficacy and safety prior to implementation in airway guidelines for managing patients with COVID-19.

Effect of an Aerosol Box on Intubation in Simulated Emergency Department Airways: A Randomized Crossover Study.

IntroductionThe use of transparent plastic aerosol boxes as protective barriers during endotracheal intubation has been advocated during the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 pandemic. There is evidence of worldwide distribution of such devices, but some experts have warned of possible negative impacts of their use. The objective of this study was to measure the effect of an aerosol box on intubation performance across a variety of simulated difficult airway scenarios in the emergency department.MethodsThis was a randomized, crossover design study. Participants were randomized to intubate one of five airway scenarios with and without an aerosol box in place, with randomization of intubation sequence. The primary outcome was time to intubation. Secondary outcomes included number of intubation attempts, Cormack-Lehane view, percent of glottic opening, and resident physician perception of intubation difficulty.ResultsForty-eight residents performed 96 intubations. Time to intubation was significantly longer with box use than without (mean 17 seconds [range 6–68 seconds] vs mean 10 seconds [range 5–40 seconds], p <0.001). Participants perceived intubation as being significantly more difficult with the aerosol box. There were no significant differences in the number of attempts or quality of view obtained.ConclusionUse of an aerosol box during difficult endotracheal intubation increases the time to intubation and perceived difficulty across a range of simulated ED patients.

VieScope® laryngoscope versus Macintosh laryngoscope during difficult intubation performed by paramedics: a randomized cross-over manikin trial

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to evaluate intubation performance by paramedics using Macintosh laryngoscope and VieScope® laryngoscope under simulated difficult airway conditions. METHODS: In a randomized, single-blinded, cross-over simulation trial, 42 paramedics performed endotracheal intubation using VieScope® and Macintosh (MAC) laryngoscopes in two difficult airway scenarios: (A) tongue edema, (B) manual cervical inline stabilization. The order of participants and intubation methods was random. Time to ventilation constituted the primary outcome, and the secondary outcomes were the success rate of first intubation attempt, overall intubation success rate, Cormack and Lehane grade, and ease of use. RESULTS: In scenario A, the median overall intubation time was 55s (46–109) in the MAC group and 30.5s (26–35) in the VieScope® group (p < 0.001). The efficacy of the first intubation attempt with MAC and Vie- Scope® varied and amounted to 64.3% vs. 95.2% (p < 0.001). During scenario B, VieScope® offered better intubation conditions than MAC (p < 0.001), including shorter intubation time, higher first attempt and overall intubation success rates, as well as better glottic view. CONCLUSIONS: In this simulation trial, we found that VieScope® could be successfully used for intubation in difficult airways by paramedics with little simulation experience with this device. VieScope® was associated with shorter time and higher success rates of intubation attempt compared with MAC. Nevertheless, we recommend that the performance of VieScope® and MAC should be further evaluated in the clinical setting to confirm our results.

Management of a Difficult Airway Scenario in a Case of Hurler’s Syndrome with a D-Blade Video Laryngoscope

AbstractHurler’s syndrome is a rare genetic disease characterized by progressive multiorgan accumulation of glycosaminoglycans. It is associated with progressive craniofacial, skeletal, and cardiac involvement, which increases the risk of anesthesia. Patients with Hurler’s syndrome could present as the worst airway management problem an anesthesiologist could deal with due to abnormal upper airway anatomy and limited neck manipulation, owing to the atlantoaxial instability. We report a case of difficult airway scenario of a child with Hurler’s syndrome, leading to an apparent cannot ventilate cannot intubate scenario, which was managed successfully with the help of a C-MAC video laryngoscope with unique D-blade. In Hurler’s syndrome, C-MAC with D-blade is an excellent tool in establishing an airway in a pediatric difficult airway scenario. Moreover, D-blade C-MAC could be considered as the primary tool for establishing an airway in pediatric patients with Hurler’s syndrome.

NOVEL TECHNIQUES FOR DIFFICULT AIRWAY MANAGEMENT IN VARIOUS CLINICAL SCENARIOS: CASE SERIES AND REVIEW OF LITERATURE

Difficult airway management has till date been the most fearsome and challenging part of any anaesthetic management. Meticulous planning is always done prior to anaesthetic induction of such patients with multiple back up plans and rescue strategy. Significant advancements in terms of clinical protocols, techniques, and devices / gadgets in this field have led to decreased incidence of airway related complications. We hereby present a case series of 3 clinical cases with different airway scenarios; 1) Patient with huge goiter, who was intubated with the help of an indigenously developed fish mouth valve device, 2) a temporomandibular joint ankylosis case, managed with awake fibreoptic guided intubation 3) Patient with post burn contracture of face and neck, in which fibreoptic intubation was performed after partial release of scar under tumescent anaesthesia. Extensive preoperative airway evaluation and preparation to handle any emergency by multiple backup plans always helps in smooth sailing through these difficult clinical scenarios

Endotracheal intubation in a ramped versus supine position in the emergency department: A randomised crossover manikin study

Background: Performing endotracheal intubation by placing patients in a ramped position has been shown to improve the ease of intubation and to reduce complications. The above findings, however, were only established in the operation theatre and intensive care settings. Objective: In order to establish the findings in the setting of the emergency department, we attempt to compare the ramped versus supine positions in normal and difficult airway scenarios. Methods: Medical doctors practicing at a local Accident and Emergency Department were recruited into a crossover randomised study. They were asked to perform intubations on a manikin in four scenarios. The manikin was put in a ramp or supine position. In addition, the manikin settings were adjusted to normal and difficult airways. Results: A total of 39 Accident and Emergency Department doctors were recruited. There was no statistically significant difference in the first-attempt success rates using the ramped position compared to supine position in either airway scenario (100% vs. 97.4%, P = 1 in normal airway, 79.5% vs. 74.4%, P = 0.789 in difficult airway). The mean intubation time in difficult airway setting was shorter when the manikin was put into ramped position (28.3 s vs. 38.4 s, P = 0.134). The ramped position improved the glottic view in the difficult airway setting ( P = 0.017). More intubators preferred to place the manikin into a ramped position during difficult airway setting (67%, P = 0.007). Experienced male intubators performed better in normal airway scenarios, whereas Accident and Emergency Department fellows performed better in difficult airway scenarios. Conclusion: The ramped position improves glottic view and operator ease when intubating a simulated difficult airway.

Novel airway device Vie Scope in several pediatric airway scenario: A randomized simulation pilot trial.

Context:Endotracheal intubation of pediatric patients is challenging, especially in the pre-hospital emergency setting and if performed by less experienced providers. Securing an airway should be achieved with a single intubation attempt, as each intubation attempt contributes to morbidity and mortality. A new airway device, the VieScope, was recently introduced into clinical market, but efficacy to reduced intubation attempts remains unclear thus far.Objective:We aimed to compare endotracheal intubation by paramedics using the Vie Scope in different pediatric airway simulation conditions.Methods:We conducted a randomized, cross-over simulation study. Following a theoretical and practical training session, paramedics performed endotracheal intubation in 3 different pediatric emergency scenarios: normal airway; tongue edema; cardiopulmonary resuscitation using the VieScope. Overall intubation success rate was the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included number of intubation attempts, time to intubation, Cormack-Lehane grade, POGO score, and ease of use (using 1–100 scale).Results:Fifty-five paramedics with at least 2 years of clinical experience and without any previous experience with the VieScope participated in this study. The overall intubation success rate was 100% in all 3 scenarios. The median intubation time was 27 (24–34) versus 27 (25–37) versus 29 (25–40) s for scenarios A, B, and C, respectively. In scenario A, all paramedics performed successful intubation with 1 single intubation attempt, whereas 2% of the paramedics had to perform 2 intubation attempts in scenario B and 9% in scenario C.Conclusions:Results of this simulation study indicate preliminary evidence, that the VieScope enables adequate endotracheal intubation in the pediatric setting. Further clinical studies are needed to confirm these results.