- Video-laryngoscopy (VL) requires the use of a metal stylet, which can be associated with complications such as tissue trauma and difficulty advancing the stylet into the trachea. In some cases, VL facilitates visualization of the glottis, but does not guarantee placement of the endotracheal tube into the trachea.
- This study evaluated the use of a new flexible intubation aid (FIA) consisting of a more malleable stylet with a flexible tip that is adjustable by the user using their thumb. The endotracheal tube is preloaded onto the stylet which is designed to hold it in place (see link for images in original article).
- Eight anesthesiologists (average experience 15 years) were enrolled in the trial.
- After observing a 75 second training video, each anesthesiologist immediately performed 4 laryngoscopies and intubations on a manikin. The laryngoscopies consisted of using: (1) a standard Macintosh blade (2) a VL with a metal stylet, (3) a VL with a standard bougie, and (4) a VL with the new FIA.
- Results showed that the time to intubation was slightly less with the FIA. All 8 participants scored the FIA as very easy or easy to insert into the larynx and trachea.
- When the FIA was compared to the metal stylet, 7/8 found it to be much easier or easier as an aid in intubation. Similarly, 8/8 favored the FIA compared to the bougie.
- Two of the participants who do not routinely use VL were unable to intubate the manikin using a metal stylet but were able to intubate using the FIA.
- Successful intubation with the video-laryngoscope can be hampered by not being able to pass the ETT into the larynx when using the metal stylet. This study shows the potential of the new FIA to increase the rate of successful atraumatic intubations.
Summary of "Evaluation of a Novel Adjunct to Facilitate Tracheal Intubation"
Summary published February 3, 2025
