[EasyScope - an alternative to the conventional Macintosh laryngoscope?]

This study was conducted to compare two different techniques used for tracheal intubation (TI). We evaluated airway management conditions for a conventional Macintosh laryngoscope and the Brummert EasyScope, a new device.

A prospective trial was conducted with 20 medical students who had no prior airway management experience. Intubation was performed on an Ambu manikin. Following didactic instruction, each participant took turns performing TI using the Macintosh and EasyScope devices under direct supervision. Time required for TI, the number of attempts, and the number of times teeth were contacted were documented for each device. All participants also completed a questionnaire to determine self-assessed comfort and skill level for both the Macintosh and EasyScope devices.

Time required for TI was comparable for both devices, although a trend toward slightly lower times for the EasyScope was observed. There was a lower rate of tooth contact during laryngoscopy and a lower rate of unsuccessful intubation attempts while using the EasyScope. Furthermore, the students felt the EasyScope was subjectively easier to use and required less effort during TI when compared with the Macintosh laryngoscope.

Personnel not accustomed to a particular airway management technique achieved comparable outcomes when using either the Macintosh laryngoscope or the EasyScope device for TI. Possible reduction of effort required for tracheal intubation or better dental protection have to be evaluated for the EasyScope in further clinical studies.