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Difficult intubations can require advanced intubation techniques. Studies point to potential advantages of combined techniques using video laryngoscopes (VL) and dynamic stylets for anticipated difficult intubations. This study is designed to compare combined techniques to awake and asleep fiberoptic (FOB) techniques.Methods: 138,387 consecutive anaesthesia cases were reviewed for use of: FOB awake, FOB asleep, or combined technique (VL for visualization and either a FOB or a novel TCITM articulating introducer ((TCITM; Through The Cords, LLC; Salt Lake City, UT)) as dynamic stylets as a primary approach for anticipated difficult intubations. Primary end points measured: first attempt success rate, failure to intubate with the primary technique, “in-room to intubation’ time, reported traumatic intubation rate, and reported ease of intubation.Results: Significant differences were found between techniques. First pass success rate was highest in combined techniques (either VL + FOB or VL + TCITM) (88.7%) followed by FOB awake (74.2%, PTM had the highest first attempt success rate (90.2%), lowest failure rate (1%, P=0.56), and shortest “in room to intubated time” (12.1 minutes, P=0.12). It was also rated as "easy” (83.3%, PConclusions: Combined techniques outperformed FOB techniques in terms of effectiveness, speed, ease of use, and patient injury in patients with risk factors for difficult intubation. As a sub-group of combined technique, VL + TCITM outperformed all other techniques. Combined techniques should be considered when managing difficult intubations. |
