Fiber Optic Guided Laryngoscopy: Improvement in Teaching and Intubation

Document Type : Original Article (s)

Authors

1 Student of Medicine, Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran

2 Assistant Professor, Department of Anesthesia, School of Medicine, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran

Abstract

Background: Due to advantages of imaging techniques, they are used in most endoscopic procedures. They help magnify the anatomy of structures, detect anomalies easier, and facilitate airway manipulation. Imaging during intubation helps the operator and the assistant to synchronize their movements. Therefore, imaging techniques have become the method of choice in teaching. Fiber optic guided laryngoscope has been introduced as a novel device for performing and teaching intubation. This study aimed to evaluate this new method. Methods: We evaluated 227 patients in two groups. Group A (n = 206) seemed to have normal airways and did not require difficult intubation. However, intubation in group B (n = 21) was predicted to be difficult. Findings: External laryngeal manipulation (ELM) was required in 21 (10%) patients in group A. Only one intubation was not successful at the first try in this group. In group B, direct laryngoscopy was difficult due to the subjects’ anatomical conditions. All 21 cases in this group required ELM but were successfully intubated using the fiber optic guided laryngoscopy. Conclusion: Improved harmony between the anesthesiologist and his/her assistant and short learning time make fiber optic guided laryngoscopy superior to conventional laryngoscopy. Keywords: Oral intubation, Video laryngoscopy, Video intubation