A comparison of face-to-face endotracheal intubation and standard intubation using Airtraq video laryngoscope in morbidly obese patients: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Background: Routine endotracheal intubation requires a patient in supine position with an operator standing behind the patient's head. In case of a morbidly obese patient positioned in the recommended semi-recumbent position, an alternative method can be considered. Face-to-face intubation can be used both in patients in sitting as well as in prone position and when there is difficult access to the head. Evaluation of effectiveness and safety of face-to-face intubation in morbidly obese adult patients with body mass index over 40 kg m-2. Methods: The study was approved by the Local Ethics Committee and written informed consent from patients was obtained. We conducted a parallel randomized controlled trial with patients scheduled for elective sleeve gastrectomy. The trial was registered in ClinicalTrials with a number NCT04959149. Randomization and allocation to trial groups were carried out using the envelope method. The primary outcomes were the time of intubation and the first pass success of endotracheal intubation. Results: 76 patients (routine intubation n = 36, face-to-face intubation n = 40) were included in the study with no dropouts. The intubation success rates were 82.5% versus 100%, mean intubation time was 17.1 ± 18 seconds versus 29 ± 11 seconds and the need for additional maneuvers (backward, upward, rightward pressure or flexing the neck) was 15% versus 19.5%, in face-to-face and routine intubation, respectively. No injuries to teeth or mucosa have been reported. There were no incidents of desaturation below 92% or other complications associated with intubation. Conclusion: Face-to-face intubation is shorter than the routine intubation in obese patients. This method may be an alternative to standard intubation in case of airway management in morbidly obese patients in semi-erect position; however, it requires both training and practice.