Airway management in pediatric patients using the Glidescope Cobalt®: a feasibility study

Video laryngoscopes are claimed to improve airway management. Several studies showed an equal or better glottic view using the Glidescope® compared with direct laryngoscopy in adults and in paediatric patients. Many case reports also described successful intubation in patients with a difficult airway. The Glidescope Cobalt® is a modified Glidescope® with a disposable sheath. Data on clinical application in paediatric patients is insufficient.

Twenty-four pediatric patients with a mean age of 27 months [range, 1-142] undergoing general anesthesia were included into this feasibility study. Cormack and Lehane grade was evaluated using a Macintosh blade. Tracheal intubation was performed using the Glidescope Cobalt®. Number of attempts, time to intubation, Cormack and Lehane (C&L) grade and a subjective score were noted for both a resident and an attending anesthesiologist.

With the Glidescope Cobalt® the C&L grade improved in all patients with grade 2 or 3 to 1 and deteriorated in one case from C&L grade 1 to 2. The C&L grade remained unchanged in 15 patients (62.5%). C&L grades between resident and attending anesthesiologist were equal. Tracheal intubation was successful in 92% with a stylet-armed tube and in 8% using an unarmed tube with a Magill forceps, respectively. Time to intubation was median 50.5 [range, 22-93] seconds.

The Glidescope Cobalt® presented suitable for use in children. C&L grade was significantly improved in all patients with a C&L grade of 2 or 3. Especially for educational purposes in pediatric anesthesia it provides a good view for all participants.