Videolaryngoscopy Simulator: New Technology Leads to New Training Challenges

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Anesthesiology
• Medical Simulation

Background:

• Videolaryngoscopes enhance endotracheal intubation visualization but can pose challenges.
• Difficulties in passing the tube into the glottic opening are noted with videolaryngoscope use.
• Standardized training protocols are needed to improve proficiency with advanced airway devices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a training protocol for videolaryngoscope-guided endotracheal intubation.
• To assess the effectiveness of the training protocol in improving resident performance.
• To validate the use of a Parametrically Adjustable Airway Mannequin (PAAM) for airway management simulation.

Main Methods:

• A training protocol was developed for 22 anesthesia residents using a videolaryngoscope.
• A PAAM was utilized with easy and difficult configurations to simulate varied patient scenarios.
• Motion sensors and video recorded intubation performance, with time-to-intubation and expert observation as metrics.

Main Results:

• The difficult configuration of the PAAM required longer intubation times (66 seconds) compared to the easy configuration (39 seconds) in pre-tests.
• Trainee performance significantly improved post-training, with average intubation time for difficult configurations decreasing from 66 to 23 seconds.
• Retention tests showed sustained improvement, with average intubation times at 33 seconds one month after training.

Conclusions:

• The developed training protocol is effective in improving videolaryngoscope intubation skills among anesthesia residents.
• The PAAM serves as a valid tool for simulating and training endotracheal intubation in both easy and difficult scenarios.
• Simulation-based training enhances procedural competence and retention for advanced airway management techniques.