User satisfaction and forces generated during laryngoscopy using disposable Miller blades: a manikin study

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Medical Devices
• Infection Control

Background:

• Prion-related diseases necessitate enhanced infection control measures.
• The availability of disposable laryngoscope blades has increased.
• Reusable laryngoscope blades pose potential cross-contamination risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare user satisfaction with disposable metal, disposable plastic, and reusable laryngoscope blades.
• To evaluate field of view, build quality, and emergency use willingness.
• To measure forces exerted during laryngoscopy with different blade types.

Main Methods:

• A manikin-based study comparing 11 Miller size 1 laryngoscope blades.
• User satisfaction surveys assessing field of view, build quality, and emergency use.
• Measurement of vertical and horizontal forces during simulated laryngoscopy.

Main Results:

• Metal disposable blades demonstrated significantly higher user satisfaction (p ≤ 0.001).
• Users expressed greater willingness to use metal disposable blades in emergencies.
• Plastic blades required greater vertical and horizontal forces during use compared to metal blades.

Conclusions:

• Metal disposable laryngoscope blades are preferred by users over plastic disposable and reusable options.
• Disposable metal blades offer advantages in usability and potentially reduce procedural forces.
• These findings support the adoption of metal disposable blades for improved patient safety and clinician experience.