[Use of the GlideScope video laryngoscope in 50 pediatric patients]

The GlideScope video laryngoscope (Verathon Inc. Bothell, Washington, USA) is a relatively new device for tracheal intubation, which provides a excellent glottic visualization. We here report the clinical experience of the GlideScope (small) in 50 pediatric patients.

Tracheal intubation with GlideScope (small) was performed in 50 consecutive pediatric patients requiring orotracheal intubation for surgery. The view of glottic opening was scored according to the classification of Cormack-Lehane. The time required to intubate and the number of intubation attempts were recorded.

In all, 50 children included 4 neonates, 8 infants under 1 year and 38 children between 1 year and 9 years. Cormack-Lehane classification 1 or 2 was obtained in 74% and 22%, respectively, and successful intubation was achieved in 48 of 50 children (96%). In remaining two babies, GlideScope failed to intubate the trachea. The mean +/- SD time for instrumentation in successful intubation at first attempt was 56.6 +/- 34.2 seconds.

GlideScope seemed to be a novel device in pediatric patients. Further studies are required to evaluate the usefulness in neonates, small infants and children with a difficult airway.