Performance of the Airtraq™ laryngoscope after failed conventional tracheal intubation: A case series

Abstract

Background: The Airtraq™, a new disposable indirect laryngoscope, was evaluated in patients with difficult intubation. Methods: The Airtraq™ was used in 47 patients with predicted or unpredicted difficult intubation after failed orotracheal intubation performed by two senior anaesthesiologists with the Macintosh laryngoscope. Results: Tracheal intubation with Airtraq™ was successful in 36 patients (80%). The Cormack and Lehane score was IIb-III in 35 patients, and IV in 12 patients, with the Macintosh laryngoscope, while Cormack and Lehane score was I-IIa in 40 patients, IIb-III in three and IV in four with Airtraq™. A gum elastic bougie was used to facilitate tracheal access in one-third (1136) of the cases. Orotracheal intubation was not possible with Airtraq™ in nine cases, five of whom had a pharyngeal, laryngeal or basal lingual tumour. Conclusion: In patients with difficult airway, following failed conventional orotracheal intubation, Airtraq™ allows securing the airway in 80% of cases mainly by improving glottis view. However, the Airtraq ™ does not guarantee successful intubation in all instances, especially in case of laryngeal andor pharyngeal obstruction. © 2009 The Acta Anaesthesiologica Scandinavica Foundation.