Efficiency of a new fiberoptic stylet scope in tracheal intubation

Failed or difficult tracheal intubation is an important cause of morbidity and mortality during anesthesia. Although a number of fiberoptic devices are available to circumvent this problem, many do not allow manual control of the flexion of the tip and necessitate time-consuming preparation, special training, or the use of an external light source. To improve these limitations, the authors designed a new fiberoptic stylet scope (FSS) that has a simple form of a standard stylet with the fiberoptic view and maneuverability of its tip. This study was undertaken to prospectively evaluate the effectiveness of the FSS in tracheal intubation.

Thirty-two patients undergoing general surgery participated in this study. The authors used a standard laryngoscope only to elevate the tongue, then tracheal intubation was attempted with the glottic opening being viewed only through the FSS. The success rate, time necessary for intubation, hemodynamics, and adverse effects were recorded.

The success rate of tracheal intubation on the first attempt using the FSS was 94% (30 of 32 patients), and the remaining two patients were intubated successfully on the second attempt. The mean time necessary for the intubation procedure was 29+/-14 s in all patients (mean +/- SD). Changes in hemodynamics during intubation were well within acceptable ranges. There were no major adverse effects, but minor sore throat (28%) and minor hoarseness (25%) on the first postoperative day.

Tracheal intubation using the FSS proved to be a simple and effective technique for airway management.