Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 22, 2026

The Rigid Tube as an Alternative in Controlling the Problematic Airway
Published on: June 6, 2020
Use of the video laryngoscopy for Combitube exchange in a difficult airway
Nicholas C Lam1, Carin A Hagberg, Lisa M Bassili
1Department of Anesthesiology, The University of Texas Medical School at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
Abstract:
Following failed intubation attempts via conventional direct laryngoscopy, an Esophageal Tracheal Combitube was successfully placed in the esophagus of a 51-year-old man with a subdural hematoma and uncleared cervical spine. The decision was made to change the Combitube for an endotracheal tube (ETT). After deflation of the large oropharyngeal cuff of the Combitube, video laryngoscopy was performed with the Direct Coupled Interface (DCI) video intubation system, and the Combitube was exchanged for an ETT with the assistance of a gum elastic bougie.
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