[The modified Magill forceps]

The Magill forceps are used for nasotracheal intubation, endotracheal suctioning, passing gastric tubes, placement of tampons in the nasopharynx and extraction of foreign material from the pharynx. There are several disadvantages of the standard Magill forceps; however: the danger of cuff perforation, the necessity of readjusting the forceps when placing a tube or catheter, and the risk of injury to the mucous membrane. For these reasons the standard Magill forceps have been modified: the jaws of the forceps have been changed to give curved atraumatic parts without any serrations or sharp edges. RESULTS. The resulting benefits are as follows: Reduced risk of injuring the mucous membrane and perforating the cuff. Tubes and catheter are safely guided between the semiround jaws, making it unnecessary to open the forceps repeatedly to advance the tube. Tampons being placed in the throat no longer get caught between the serrations, and even small foreign objects can easily be extracted from the pharynx.