Successful Intubation Research Articles

Comparison of TAScope (an Indigenous Videolaryngoscope) with McGrath MAC®: A Manikin Study

Background: Videolaryngoscopes are an important advancement in airway management. They are now commercially available in various designs and sizes, but are expensive. The Anaesthetist Society scope videolaryngoscope (TAScope) is an indigenously designed videolaryngoscope by a member of the anaesthesia fraternity and is economical. Before being adopted for clinical use, it is appropriate to study it rigorously. The objective of the present study was to compare the TAScope with the McGrath MAC® videolaryngoscope for time to successful intubation in an adult manikin. Methods: The present study was conducted on an adult intubation training manikin. The sequence of the use of either videolaryngoscope was chosen randomly by a computer-generated random sequence. The following parameters were noted: time of successful intubation, time required to obtain glottic view, glottic view obtained in terms of Cormack–Lehane grade and percentage of glottic opening score and number of attempts at intubation. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 23. Results: All intubations were successful with both videolaryngoscopes. The time for successful intubation was significantly faster with McGrath MAC® (18.31 ± 1.53 s) compared to TAScope (27.21 ± 3.03 s) (P < 0.001). The time to obtain a glottic view was slightly shorter with TAScope (6.25 ± 1.78 s) compared to McGrath MAC® (6.66 ± 1.15 s). Conclusion: The time for intubation was longer with TAScope but with a similar glottic view and intubation success compared to McGrath videolaryngoscope.

Comparative Evaluation of Ease of Nasotracheal Intubation Using C-MAC versus TuoRen Video Laryngoscope in Adult Surgical Patients: A Randomized Study

Background and Aims: Laryngeal visualization and ease of intubation vary with the use of different video laryngoscopes. We compared the number of attempts taken for successful first-attempt nasotracheal intubation using C-MAC video laryngoscope versus TuoRen video laryngoscope. Ease of intubation and time taken, glottic view, and hemodynamic responses were also compared. Materials and Methods: It was a randomized, single-blinded trial conducted in eighty adult surgical patients with normal airways requiring nasotracheal intubation. In all patients, the protocols for induction and intubation were similar. In Group C, C-MAC video laryngoscope and in Group T, TuoRen video laryngoscope were used. Statistical analysis was done using independent samples t-test and Chi-squared test as applicable. Results: Successful first-attempt intubation was significantly higher in Group C compared to Group T (87.5% vs. 60%). Incidence of fogging was significantly lower in Group C compared to Group T (10% vs. 30%). Time taken for intubation was significantly higher in Group T (34.64 ± 4.38 s vs. 86.25 ± 8.56 s). The view of the glottis obtained was similar in both groups. A significantly higher number of patients in Group C had easy intubation (87.5% vs. 60%). Mean heart rate and mean arterial pressure were significantly higher in Group T after intubation. Conclusion: Successful first-attempt nasotracheal intubation was significantly higher with the use of C-MAC which required lesser attempts and time compared to TuoRen video laryngoscope. The glottic views obtained with both devices were comparable, but the ease of intubation was better and fogging was lesser with C-MAC. The use of TuoRen videoscope was associated with significantly higher hemodynamic responses.

Comparative Evaluation of Direct Laryngoscopy Versus GlideScope for the Purpose of Laryngoscopy Management and Intubation in Candidates of Cesarean Delivery with General Anesthesia.

The present study aimed at comparing the hemodynamic responses to laryngoscopy and initiation of intubation with either direct or video-assisted laryngoscopy. This double-blind clinical trial was performed on 90 pregnant women candidates for cesarean section under general anesthesia. The participants were divided into two groups. In the first group, intubation was performed using direct Macintosh laryngoscope (MCL group). The second group underwent intubation using the GlideScope video laryngoscope (GSL group). Then, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), the percentage of the saturation of peripheral oxygen (SpO2), the time-to-intubation (TTI), and the number of intubation attempts were recorded. SBP, DBP, and MAP in the MCL group were significantly higher than GSL group 1, 3, and 5 min after laryngoscopy (P < 0.05). HR in the MCL group with the mean of 118.44 ± 15.53 bpm was significantly higher than that the GSL group with the mean of 110.11 ± 16.68 bpm only 3 min after laryngoscopy (P = 0.016). The TTI in the MCL group was significantly longer than that of the GSL group (12.80 ± 1.86 vs. 10.15 ± 2.61; P = 0.001). The frequency of the first intubation attempt in the GSL group with 91.1% was significantly higher than that the MCL group with 84.4% (P = 0.003). It seems that the GSL technique is a better choice to conduct laryngoscopy with more success in intubation and a higher stability of the patients' hemodynamic status.

Improvement in intubation success during COVID-19 pandemic with a simple and low-cost intervention: A quasi-experimental study

Objectivesprimary objective: to improve the FPS rates after an educational intervention. Secondary objective: to describe variables related to FPS in an ED and determine which ones were related to the highest number of attempts. Designit was a prospective quasi-experimental study. Settingdone in an ED in a public Hospital in Argentina. Patientsthere were patients of all ages with intubation in ED. Interventionsin the middle of the study, an educational intervention was done to improve FPS. Cognitive aids and pre- intubation Checklists were implemented. Main variables of interestthe operator experience, the number of intubation attempts, intubation judgment, predictors of a difficult airway, Cormack score, assist devices, complications, blood pressure, heart rate, and pulse oximetry before and after intubation All the intubations were done by direct laryngoscopy (DL). Resultsdata from 266 patients were included of which 123 belonged to the basal period and 143 belonged to the post-intervention period. FPS percentage of the pre-intervention group was 69.9% (IC95%: 60.89–77.68) whereas the post-intervention group was 85.3% (IC95%: 78.20–90.48). The difference between these groups was statistically significant (p=0.002). Factors related to the highest number of attempts were low operator experience, Cormack-Lehane 3 score and no training. Conclusionsa low-cost and simple educational intervention in airway management was significantly associated with improvement in FPS, reaching the same rate of FPS than in high income countries.

Comparison of Rocuronium and Succinylcholine for First‐Attempt Intubation Success in the Emergency Department

Comparison of Rocuronium and Succinylcholine for First‐Attempt Intubation Success in the Emergency Department

Videostylet-guided Intubation in a Case of Huge Ranula: A Novel Technique for Paediatric Difficult Intubation

A large sublingual ranula compromises the anterior pharyngeal space and thus, there is a technical difficulty in direct laryngoscopy and endotracheal intubation. Videostylet-guided intubation has the advantage to overcome this difficulty. Here, we report successful videostylet-guided intubation in a case of huge plunging intraoral ranula in a 5-year-old female child posted for surgical excision of the ranula.

Progressing Airway Obstruction with A Simple Vallecular Cyst-Definitive Airway Challenge

Vallecular cysts, though uncommon, can lead to severe complications in an anesthetised patient if airway management is mishandled. We present a case of challenging intubation in a 65-year-old man with a vallecular cyst and outline the techniques and strategies employed to achieve successful awake intubation using a fiberoptic bronchoscope.

Comparison of McCoy, Macintosh, and Truview laryngoscope for bougie-aided naso-tracheal intubation: A randomized controlled study.

Video laryngoscopes are commonly used along with Macintosh and McCoy laryngoscopes for Nasotracheal intubation (NTI). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the performance of McCoy, Macintosh, and Truview laryngoscopes during bougie-aided NTI with respect to intubation time, success rate, and hemodynamic changes during the procedure. Forty-five American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) I-II adult patients, with Mallampati grade 1-4, requiring NTI, were enrolled after taking written informed consent. ASA III/IV, restricted mouth opening, and body mass index >30 were excluded from the study. Patients were randomly allocated to intubate with one of the three laryngoscopes (McCoy, Macintosh, and Truview) and the anesthesiologists were well experienced with all of them. The primary outcome was intubation time and secondary outcomes included first attempt success rate, external laryngeal manipulation, Cormack-Lehane (CL) grade, and hemodynamic responses. The intubation time of McCoy, Macintosh, and Truview, was 86.87 ± 15.92, 82.87 ± 16.46, and 79.93 ± 14.53 (mean ± standard deviation) seconds, respectively, which is comparable with Truview being the shortest. CL grade 1 was obtained more in the Truview group (53.3%) compared to the other two groups, while CL grade 3 was obtained in 20% each in McCoy and Macintosh groups. McCoy, Macintosh, and Truview laryngoscopes were comparable in performance during bougie-aided NTI, with Truview having the shortest intubation time and better visualization.

A Comparison of the Success of Intubation Using C-MAC D-Blade and McGrath MAC X3 Blade Videolaryngoscopes during Double Lumen Tube Insertion in One-Lung Ventilation: A Prospective, Randomized Clinical Trial

Objective: To compare the effects of C-MAC D-Blade and McGrath MAC X3 Blade videolaryngoscopes (VLs) during double lumen tube (DLT) insertion in one-lung ventilation (OLV) in patients who underwent chest surgery in terms of intubation durations, hemodynamic responses, and intubation-induced complications. Materials and methods: Fifty patients aged 18−65 years who were scheduled for OLV were included in this study. The patients were divided randomly into two groups: a Storz C-MAC D-Blade VL group (C-MAC group, n = 25) and a McGrath MAC X3 Blade VL group (McGrath group, n = 25). The results of a preoperative airway assessment, number of intubation attempts and incidence of success at the first attempt, glottic view times, intubation times, Cormack−Lehane scores, percentage of glottic opening (POGO) scores, ease of intubation, comorbidities, hemodynamic responses, and adverse intubation-related events were recorded. Results: The demographic characteristics and comorbidities of both groups were similar. The intubation characteristics of both groups were similar in terms of Cormack−Lehane scores, thyromental and intergingival distances, and POGO scores. In the C-MAC group, the glottic view times (p = 0.001) and intubation times (p = 0.001) were significantly shorter than those in the McGrath group. As shown by ease of intubation scores, ease of intubation in the C-MAC group was significantly better than that in the McGrath group (p = 0.001). All the patients in the C-MAC group were intubated at the first attempt, without a statistically significant difference. The two groups were similar with respect to intubation-related complications and hemodynamic responses (mean arterial pressure [MAP] and heart rate [HR]). Conclusion: We conclude that the C-MAC D-Blade VL is more beneficial for airway management due to shorter glottic view and intubation times, high success rates at the first attempt, and ease of intubation in patients intubated with a DLT in OLV.

Incidence and Predictors of Difficult Intubation in Patients Undergoing Thyroid Surgery

Introduction: Thyroid enlargement is considered a risk factor for challenging direct laryngoscopy and intubation. Airway management in patients with thyroid swelling presents unique challenges, requiring thorough preparation for potential difficult airways. Although airway management in the overall population has been thoroughly researched, there is a scarcity of literature specifically addressing airway management in individuals who have thyroid enlargement. Aim: To evaluate the incidence of difficult intubation in patients undergoing thyroid surgery, utilising the Intubation Difficulty Score (IDS). Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 258 patients in the Department of Anaesthesiology, Government TD Medical College, Alappuzha, Kerala, India. Various parameters including Modified Mallampati score, neck circumference, Body Mass Index (BMI), inter-incisor distance, retrognathia, neck extension, thyromental distance, tracheal deviation, and tracheal compression were assessed for all patients with thyroid swelling. The incidence of difficult endotracheal intubation was analysed using the IDS and the time taken for successful intubation was recorded. Data were presented as mean±standard deviation (SD), frequencies, and percentages. The association between variables was analysed using the Chi-square test. Results: Thyroid disorders were more common in females 220 (85.3%) than in males 38 (14.7%). The variables such as BMI, Mallampati score, thyromental distance, inter-incisor distance, and neck mobility were not found to be associated with difficult intubation. However, increased neck circumference (&gt;43 cm) was statistically significant (p-value=0.007) in relation to difficult intubation. According to IDS, 94.2% of patients had easy intubation, while 5.8% experienced difficult intubation. In terms of intubation times, 72.5% of patients were intubated within 10-15 seconds, 24.4% within 16-20 seconds, and 3.1% took longer than 20 seconds. Conclusion: Thyroid surgery itself is not an independent predictive factor for difficult intubation. Among the predictive factors in the study population, a neck circumference greater than 43 cm was found to be associated with difficult endotracheal intubation during thyroid surgery

Ease of endotracheal intubation with the conventional polyvinyl chloride endotracheal tube versus wire-reinforced flexometallic tube through the intubating laryngeal mask airway: A comparative study.

The aim of our study was to compare the ease of intubation when using conventional PVC tubes versus the wire-reinforced flexometallic tubes with the ILMA-FastrachTM. The number of attempts, time taken and additional maneuvers were noted. Intra-operative hemodynamic changes, post-operative sore throat, bleeding and hoarseness of voice was recorded over a period of 24 hours. After informed consent, 60 ASA I-II patients undergoing elective surgeries under general anesthesia were allocated to undergo blind intubation with the PVC tube or the wire-reinforced flexometallic tube. More attempts were required for successful intubation using the wire-reinforced tube than the PVC tube with 76.7% passing in the first attempt in the PVC, and 53.3% passing in the first attempt in the flexometallic group. (P = 0.4). Average time for intubation in the PVC group: 28.24 ± 7.22 seconds. Average time for intubation in the flexometallic tube: 45.8 ± 15.78 sec. Occurrence of post-operative sore throat was 13.3% in the PVC group and 26.6% in the flexometallic group, with minimal hoarseness of voice 3.3% in the PVC group and 10% in the flexometallic group. There was also a slightly higher hemodynamic response in those who were intubated with the flexometallic tube than a PVC tube. Intubating via the ILMA-Fastrach with the PVC tube offered better intubating conditions with regards to lesser time taken, lesser attempts, less manipulation, and less hemodynamic variations as compared to the patients who were intubated using the wire-reinforced tube.

A randomised controlled trial to compare blind intubation success through LMA Blockbuster® and I-Gel® LMA.

Laryngeal mask airway-blockbuster (LMA-BT) is a relatively new supraglottic airway device (SGAD). In this study, we compared LMA-BT with I-Gel LMA for efficacy of blind tracheal intubation. We conducted a single-blind prospective study after ethical approval. One hundred American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) Grade I-III (age 18-60 years) patients scheduled for elective surgery under general anaesthesia with endotracheal intubation were included and randomly divided into 2 groups. Blind tracheal intubation was performed through LMA-BT ( n = 50) and I-Gel ( n = 50) in groups 1 and 2, respectively. The primary aim was to evaluate the first pass success rate of blind tracheal intubation through the LMAs. The secondary objectives noted were attempts and ease of LMA insertion, total time taken for LMA insertion, airway seal pressure of LMA, ease of NGT insertion through LMA, fibre-optic grading of laryngeal view through LMA, overall success rate and time of intubation through LMA, time for LMA removal, and complications, if any. In the LMA-BT group, the first pass success rate ( P < 0.019) and the overall success rate of intubation ( P < 0.005) were significantly higher than in the I-Gel group. Using LMA-BT also resulted in statistically significant shorter intubation time ( P < 0.0001) with higher airway seal pressure as compared to I-Gel ( P < 0.001). The difference in the first attempt insertion, number of insertion attempts, ease and time of LMA insertion and removal after intubation, and postoperative complications were comparable among the groups. LMA-BT is a superior device as compared to I-Gel LMA as a conduit for blind tracheal intubation.

Comparative study of the McGrath™ videolaryngoscope blades and conventional laryngoscopy efficacy during mechanical chest compressions: Insights from a randomized trial with 90 anesthesiologists on objective and subjective parameters.

This study aimed to compare the efficacy and utility of the McGrath™ videolaryngoscope, using the Macintosh-like McGrath™ MAC blade and the hyperangulated McGrath™ MAC Xblade with a conventional Macintosh blade under simulated resuscitation conditions. A prospective, randomized study under conditions mimicking ongoing chest compressions was conducted with 90 anesthesiologists. Intubation success rates, time-to-vocal cords, time-to-intubate, and time-to-ventilate were measured. Additionally, the study assessed the subjective ratings and the perceived workload using the 'NASA-task-load-index' during the procedure. The overall intubation success rate was device dependent 99-100%. The McGrath™ MAC and McGrath™ MAC Xblade showed faster visualization times compared to conventional blades. The MAC blade demonstrated superior performance in time-to-intubate and time-to-ventilate compared to both conventional and MAC Xblades. Despite excellent visualization, the MAC Xblade posed challenges in tube placement, reflected in a prolonged intubation time of >120 seconds in one case. Both MAC and MAC Xblade reduced potential dental injuries and interruptions to chest compressions compared to conventional laryngoscopes. User experience significantly impacted intubation times with conventional laryngoscopes, but this effect was mitigated with videolaryngoscopy. Participants reported lower stress and effort when using videolaryngoscopes, with the MAC blade rated superior in perceived time pressure. The study supports the superiority of videolaryngoscopy with a Macintosh-like blade over conventional laryngoscopy during mechanical chest compressions, particularly for less experienced users. The McGrath™ MAC blade, in particular, offers advantages in intubation time, user-friendliness, and reduced stress. However, the MAC Xblade's challenges during tube placement highlight the need for further clinical validation. Continued research is essential to refine guidelines and improve resuscitation outcomes.

The Efficacy of Utilizing Bougie Vs Stylet in Patients Requiring Endotracheal Intubation: Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Introduction: Endotracheal intubation is a high-risk procedure that can be lifesaving for critically ill or injured patients. Assisted devices, such as the bougie and stylet, are commonly used to improve success rates and reduce complications. The bougie facilitates the passage of the endotracheal tube through the vocal cords while the stylet is inserted into the endotracheal tube prior to intubation. However, there is variation in clinical practice regarding the preference for using these devices in difficult airway management. Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared the efficacy of bougie versus stylet in tracheal intubation. Medline, Embase, Cochrane Central of Controlled Trials and Clinical trials.gov were searched for studies discussing the same topic. The primary outcome was the first-attempt intubation success rate between the bougie and stylet. Our secondary outcomes were to compare the duration of intubation and the complications rates between bougie and stylet. Results: A total of 7 RCTs that enrolled participants(number?) were eligible. The bougie approach had a slightly higher success rate on the first attempt, but there was no significant difference between the methods (RR, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.90 to 1.15). The duration of intubation, pooled analysis indicated a statistically significant reduction in the duration of intubation with the stylet approach compared to the bougie approach (MD, 8.39; 95% CI, 2.87 to 13.91). Subgroup analysis revealed lower rates of esophageal intubation (RR, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.26 to 1.61, I2= 0%) and pneumothorax (RR, 0.94; 95% CI, 0.54 to 1.66, I2= 0%) in the bougie group. Conclusion: This study reported that no significant difference between the use of bougie vs stylet in terms of first attempt intubation success rates and the complication rates of endotracheal intubation. However, stylet displayed significantly shorter duration of intubation in comparison to bougie.

Effect of Video laryngoscope on Tp-e Interval, Qtc and Tp-e/Qtc Ratio Compared with Direct Laryngoscope in Patients With Double-Lumen Tube Undergoing Thoracic Surgery

Aim: QT interval is generally related to the increased risk of polymorphic ventricular tachycardias and ventricular arrythmias. Intubation and laryngoscopy might change in cardiac repolarization and an increase in QT interval length. Video laryngoscopes provide better laryngeal view, higher intubation success, and better correct positioning on double-lumen tube (DLT) intubation. We aimed to compare McGRATH MAC 5 video laryngoscope to direct Macintosh laryngoscope and their effects on Tp-e interval, QTc and Tp-e/QTc ration in those patients requiring intubation having DLT. Materials and Methods: The randomly controlled prospective work is carried out on 94 patients, scheduled for thoracic surgery, aged between 18-65. After anaesthetic induction and before tracheal intubation, all patients airway were evaluated Cormack and Lehane in using a Macintosh laryngoscope and patients having Cormack and Lehane grade-1 or -2a views included in study. The patients who are intubated with video laryngoscope (McGRATH MAC) are allocated into Group V and intubated with direct Macintosh Laryngoscope was allocated into Group L. The primary aim was compared between the two devices on Tp-e interval, QTc and Tp-e/QTc ratio with ECG recordings. The secondary goal was assessment of hemodynamic status and intubation conditions. Results: In Group V, QTc interval, Tp-e intreval and Tp-e/QTc ratio was lower in a significant way than Group L. There has not been a significant difference in terms of hemodynamic assessment among those two groups at all measurement periods. Cormack-Lehane scores, intubation times, DLT types and sizes were similar between two groups. Conclusion: McGRATH MAC video laryngoscope decreased Tp-e interval, QTc and Tp-e/QTc ratio compared to direct Maintosh laryngoscope. Hemodynamic response and intubation parameters are seen as similar to each other in both of the present groups.

The utilization of video laryngoscopy in nasotracheal intubation for oral and maxillofacial surgical procedures: a narrative review.

The video laryngoscope is a novel instrument for intubation that enables indirect visualization of the upper airway. It is recognized for its ability to enhance Cormack-Lehane grades in the management of difficult airways. Notably, video laryngoscopy is associated with equal or higher rates of intubation success within a shorter time frame than direct laryngoscopy. Video laryngoscopy facilitates faster and easier visualization of the glottis and reduces the need for Magill forceps, thereby shortening the intubation time. Despite the advanced glottic visualization afforded by video laryngoscopy, nasotracheal tube insertion and advancement occasionally fail. This is particularly evident during nasotracheal intubation, where oropharyngeal blood or secretions may obstruct the visual field on the monitor, thereby complicating video laryngoscopy. Moreover, the use of Magill forceps is markedly challenging or nearly unfeasible in this context, especially in pediatric cases. Furthermore, the substantial blade size of video laryngoscopes may restrict their applicability in individuals with limited oral apertures. This study aimed to review the literature on video laryngoscopy, discuss its clinical role in nasotracheal intubation, and address the challenges that anesthesiologists may encounter during the intubation process.

A Comparison of Glide Scope Video Laryngoscopy to Direct Laryngoscopy for Nasotracheal Intubation

Objective: To compare the ease of intubation using glide scope video laryngoscope versus direct laryngoscopy for nasotracheal intubation. Study Design: Quasi experimental study. Place and Duration of Study: Combined Military Hospital, Rawalpindi Pakistan, Aug 2022 to Feb 2023. Methodology: Patients of either gender with age greater than 18 years with American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Grade I or Grade II planned for elective dental or maxillofacial procedures requiring nasotracheal intubation were included. A total of 60 patients were included, with 30 patients in each group. Recorded variables were time to intubate, glottic grade, use of Magill forceps, first attempt success, failure to intubate and postoperative sore throat. Results: With 60 patients after randomised allocation, 30 were allocated to Group-DL (Direct laryngoscopy) and Group-VL(Video laryngoscopy). The success rate in the first attempt was 27(90%) in Group-DL vs 30 (100%) in Group-VL, and the number of patients who could not be intubated was 1(3.3%) vs 0(0%) in both groups. The glottic grade recorded by the operator under vision, time to intubation, use of Magill forceps and post-operative sore throat in both groups was significant with a p-value of &lt;0.05. Conclusion: Glide scope video laryngoscopy provides a better view of the vocal cords with less time to intubation, greater chances of successful intubation, and fewer post-operative chances of sore throat than direct laryngoscopy.

Evaluation of Factors Affecting Illumination Intensity in Lightwand Endotracheal Intubation.

A lightwand is a stylet with a light bulb at its tip that can be used to guide intubation by confirming the illumination through the anterior neck. We aimed to determine the factors affecting the illumination intensity during lightwand endotracheal intubation. We retrospectively collected data from 180 patients who underwent lightwand endotracheal intubation. We recorded illumination intensity on a 5-point scale. The patients were categorized into weak (score <3) and bright (score ≥3) groups based on the illumination intensity scale score. A total of 176 patients were analyzed, of whom 125 (71.1%) were enrolled in the bright group, and 51 (29.0%) were enrolled in the weak group. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that an increased body mass index (BMI) and mask ventilation grade were associated with light intensity. For mask ventilation, moderate vs. easy (p=0.010) and difficult vs. easy (p=0.008) were associated with the weak group. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that BMI ≥24.6 kg/m2 was correlated with the weak group. BMI ≥24.6 kg/m2 or mask ventilation grade above moderate indicates increased odds of weak illumination intensity in lightwand intubation. Pre-intubation examination of these factors helps increase the chances of successful intubation.

Comparison of the success rate of tracheal intubation between stylet and bougie with a hyperangulated videolaryngoscope: a randomised controlled trial.

Hyperangulated videolaryngoscopes are known to increase the success rate of tracheal intubation in the setting of difficult airway management when used with a stylet or bougie. However, there is controversy over which adjunct is more useful. This randomised study aimed to compare first attempt tracheal intubation success rate between a stylet and bougie when using a hyperangulated videolaryngoscope. We recruited patients aged > 20 years who were scheduled for elective surgery under general anaesthesia and required tracheal intubation. We only included patients with factors predicting difficult tracheal intubation based on pre-anaesthesia airway evaluation. Tracheal intubation was attempted using a Glidescope® with either a stylet or bougie as an adjunct according to group assignment. Primary outcome was the success rate of the first tracheal intubation attempt, and secondary outcomes were success of second and third attempts; tracheal intubation time; and occurrence of sore throat, dysphagia or hoarseness. A total of 166 patients were included. The success rate of the first tracheal intubation attempt was significantly higher in patients allocated to the bougie group compared with those allocated to the stylet group (81/83 (98%) vs. 73/83 (88%), respectively; p = 0.032). The number of patients who needed two attempts was significantly lower in those allocated to the bougie group compared with those allocated to the stylet group (1/83 (1%) vs. 9/83 (11%), respectively; p = 0.018). Each group had one patient (1%) where tracheal intubation was achieved after a third attempt. There was no significant difference in the occurrence of sore throat, dysphagia and hoarseness between the two groups. When difficult tracheal intubation is anticipated and a hyperangulated videolaryngoscope is used, the success rate of the first attempt is higher when a bougie is used compared with a stylet.

Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) Revealing the Future of Airway Management: Video Laryngoscopy vs. Macintosh Laryngoscopy for Enhanced Clinical Outcomes.

Since the 1940s, Macintosh laryngoscopy (Mac laryngoscopy) has been the gold standard for tracheal intubation, offering visualization of the glottis entrance. However, recent years have witnessed the emergence of various video laryngoscopy (VL) techniques. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to assess the clinical outcomes of VL versus Mac laryngoscopy in an elective setting. We comprehensively searched five medical databases - PubMed, EMBASE, Medline, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. All the databases were last searched in January 2023. We only included studies with full texts comparing VL to Mac laryngoscopy clinical outcomes. Studies were excluded if they were non-full text or non-randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and did not compare VL to Mac laryngoscopy. We extracted data comprising author names, publication year, key study outcomes (first-attempt intubation success rate, Cormack and Lehane grade, hypoxia incidence, and glottis view quality), video laryngoscope types, and sample sizes of both VL and Mac laryngoscopy groups. The Cochrane risk of bias tool was used to assess the risk of bias in the included studies. Statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager (RevMan, version 5.4;Cochrane Collaboration, London, UK), presenting results as odds ratio (OR) and risk ratios (RR) at a 95% confidence interval (CI). This facilitated the identification of relevant and appropriate studies of our analysis. The search produced 19 studies that were included in this review. The evaluated sample size ranges from 40 to 802, with 3,238 participants. The rate of success at the first attempt in the use of VL was 1,558/1,890 (82.43%), while the success rate for Mac laryngoscopy was 982/1,348 (72.85%; OR: 1.98 (1.25, 3.12)) at a 95% confidence interval. Pooled analysis indicated no significant difference for hypoxia concerning the type of device used RR (random effects: 1.02; 95% CI: 0.80-1.29). A video laryngoscope had a higher likelihood of visualizing the vocal cords categorized as category 1 in the Cormack-Lehane system of classification (RR: 2.45; 95% CI: 1.43-4.21). Additionally, considerably better glottis views were attained during VL than Mac laryngoscopy (OR: 1.77; 95% CI: 1.19-2.62). In elective tracheal intubation, VL demonstrates superior first-attempt success rates, offers improved glottis visualization, and reduces instances where the glottis cannot be viewed compared to Mac laryngoscopy.