Intubation without muscle relaxation for suspension laryngoscopy: a randomized, controlled study

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Otolaryngology
• Surgical Procedures

Background:

• Vocal fold nodules (VFNs) often require surgical excision.
• Suspension laryngoscopy is a common technique for VFN excision.
• Optimizing anesthetic agents is crucial for patient safety and recovery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of propofol and remifentanil alone for suspension laryngoscopy in VFN excision.
• To compare anesthetic techniques with and without cisatracurium supplementation.

Main Methods:

• A randomized study involving 40 patients undergoing VFN excision.
• Group A received propofol and remifentanil alone.
• Group B received propofol, remifentanil, and cisatracurium.

Main Results:

• While intubation time was longer with propofol/remifentanil alone, intubation conditions and ease of laryngoscopy were similar.
• Both anesthetic regimens demonstrated favorable cardiopulmonary safety.
• Patients receiving propofol and remifentanil alone experienced significantly faster recovery of spontaneous breathing, consciousness, and tracheal extubation.

Conclusions:

• Propofol and remifentanil alone provide adequate intubation and anesthesia for suspension laryngoscopic VFN excision.
• This anesthetic approach enhances post-anesthesia recovery, leading to quicker discharge from the operating room.