Comparison of Trachlight™ guided tracheal intubation in the lateral position versus the supine position

Abstract

Background: Lighted stylets have established their place as an important armament in the management of both uncomplicated as well as difficult airways. Most of the investigators have worked on patients in supine position, though intubation in the lateral position might be necessary sometimes. This study evaluated the Trachlight™ for intubation of patients in the lateral position. Method: Seventy ASA I-II patients scheduled for elective surgeries were randomly allocated into two groups of 35 patients each. The Groups T1 and T2 consisted of patients who were intubated with the Trachlight™ in the supine and lateral positions, respectively. The comparison of the two positions was based on: success of intubation, success at first attempt, number of attempts, intubation time, and incidences of oesophageal intubation, oxygen desaturation, mucosal injury and postoperative sore throat. Results: The overall intubation success rate was comparable at 100% in the supine and 97.14% in the lateral position. The success rate of intubation in the first attempt was 91.42% in the supine, and 88.57% in the lateral position, and was comparable, as was the average intubation time. The incidence of intra and post-operative complications was low, and was comparable in both the positions. Conclusion: These results suggest that the Trachlight™ is a useful intubating device in challenging situations like the lateral position, and should be used frequently in routine cases to gain expertise. We think that using; LMA Fastrach™ tubes', with their soft, moulded tips contributed to the short intubation time and minimal trauma.