Laryngoscopes for difficult airway scenarios: a comparison of the available devices

According to the American Society of Anesthesiologists, the incidence of difficult intubation in the operating room is 1.2-3.8%; however, in emergency conditions, this rate is higher and reaches even 5.3%. Successful emergency airway management is an essential component of the modern practice of medicine.

The aim of the study is to review the literature regarding different devices used to perform endotracheal intubation (Macintosh, Miller, and McCoy laryngoscopes; ETView, GlideScope, TruView, Airtraq, McGrath MAC, Pentax AWS, Trachlight, Shikani, and Bullard) and discuss their clinical and experimental role in difficult airway management.

Owing to the development of medical technology, there are an increasing number of videolaryngoscopes and other devices facilitating endotracheal intubation in difficult airway scenarios, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation, cervical spine injury, or face-to-face intubation. Each of these devices may bring benefits in the form of increasing the intubation effectiveness, as well as shortening the procedure, provided that the person performing intubation is familiar with the use of the device.