An introduction to the fiberoptic laryngoscope

The fiberoptic laryngoscope can make difficult or impossible tracheal intubation as easy as a routine procedure. Although this instrument has been available for many years it has never achieved the popularity it deserves because anaesthetists have abandoned it after a few unsuccessful attempts to use it. Detailed procedure for the successful use of this instrument and the reasons for failure are described. Facility with the instrument should be developed by practice with patients where no difficulty in intubation is anticipated rather than making first attempts when problems arise.