Use of a Low-cost Video Laryngoscope on Manikin

Airway Management

Videolaryngoscopy has become essential in airway management, providing improved glottis visualization and reducing intubation attempts. Proficiency in using videolaryngoscopes, especially those with hyperangulated blades, is crucial for challenging intubation cases. However, successful intubation with hyperangulated blades requires continuous training due to their unique shape. Despite the benefits, the high cost of commercial videolaryngoscopes limits their use, prompting the exploration of a cost-effective alternative-a self-built laryngoscope using a USB borescope. The study aims to compare its training effectiveness with a commercial hyperangulated blade videolaryngoscope, emphasizing accessible training options. The evaluation involves testing both devices on a Laerdal® intubation mannequin, focusing on the time to glottis visualization and the time to complete intubation.

Videolaryngoscopy has become integral in airway management, providing improved visualization of the glottis and reducing the number of intubation attempts. Proficiency in the use of videolaryngoscopes is essential, particularly in cases of difficult intubation. Videolaryngoscopes equipped with hyperangulated blades facilitate enhanced visualization, even in the most challenging scenarios. However, successful intubation using these blades requires adequate training due to their unique shape. While hyperangulated blades offer excellent views around the curvature of the tongue, their upward perspective from the base of the tongue can pose challenges in tube delivery. Therefore, continuous training is essential to achieve proficiency with these particular blades. Despite the advantages, the high cost of commercially available videolaryngoscopes poses a barrier to regular use and training, especially in resource-limited settings. This study introduces a cost-effective alternative-a self-built laryngoscope using a Universal Serial Bus (USB) borescope. The objective is to compare its training effectiveness with that of a commercial hyperangulated blade videolaryngoscope, underscoring the significance of accessible training options. The Glidescope videolaryngoscope and a custom-built laryngoscope equipped with a USB borescope blade will undergo testing. The evaluation will be conducted by 30 emergency and operating room personnel following a brief training course in videolaryngoscopy, using a Laerdal® intubation mannequin. Both devices will utilize size 4 hyperangulated blades with identical curvature angles. Assessment endpoints will encompass the duration required for glottis visualization and the time needed for the entire intubation process.

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