CS#02 Laryngoscopy vs. Optical Stylet vs. Airtraq for Extubation Evaluation

Anesthesiology 2006; 105: A823.  T.C. Mort, M.D. Hartford Hospital, USA

Evaluation of the difficult airway before extubation is valuable due to altered anatomy or limitations that may hinder the reintubation process.

The Shikani scope improved the ability to observe the otherwise hidden periglottic structures due to a limited “line of sight”. However, the Airtraq offered a wide angle (panoramic) view of the periglottic structure regardless of the extent of swelling or edema or any limitation of a restricted “line of sight”.

In this small data collection, the Airtraq performed extremely well compared to standard laryngoscopy and an optical stylet.

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