Confirming tracheal intubation - a simple manoeuvre

A simple technique is described for confirming oral tracheal intubation carried out under direct laryngoscopy. With the laryngoscope blade still in the mouth following intubation, posterior displacement of the tracheal tube towards the palate will usually bring the tube and vocal cords into direct view, providing confirmation of correct tube placement. In 50 consecutive oral tracheal intubations, the tube was seen to pass between the vocal cords in 29 cases, confirming correct tube placement. In the remaining 21 cases, the larynx was obscured during intubation. Posterior displacement of the tube confirmed correct placement in all 21 cases.