Analysis of Pressure Distribution During Direct Microlaryngoscopy

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Surgical Instrumentation
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Direct microlaryngoscopy is a common procedure for laryngeal examination and surgery.
• Understanding pressure distribution during this procedure is crucial for optimizing patient safety and minimizing iatrogenic injury.
• Previous studies have not comprehensively analyzed pressure distribution in relation to patient positioning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the pressure distribution during direct microlaryngoscopy.
• To determine the relationship between patient head and neck positioning and the pressure exerted on the laryngoscope.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study was conducted using five adult fresh cadavers.
• Matrix-based piezoresistive thin-film sensors were employed to measure real-time pressure distribution.
• Pressure was analyzed across three head and neck positions: extension-extension, neutral, and flexion-extension.

Main Results:

• Pressure maps revealed two common peak pressure points on the laryngoscope.
• The flexion-extension position demonstrated the lowest average and peak pressures.
• Peak pressure 2 was significantly lower in the flexion-extension position compared to extension-extension and neutral positions (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

• The flexion-extension position is an optimal head and neck position for direct microlaryngoscopy, inducing lower pressure.
• Minimizing pressure during microlaryngoscopy may reduce the risk of tissue damage.
• The hyoid bone's role in pressure exertion warrants further investigation.