Airway topicalization during tracheal intubation using the Airtraq® laryngoscope in anesthetized patients

Does Topical Anesthesia Using Aerosolized Lidocaine Inhibit the Superior Laryngeal Nerve Reflex?

“…In clinical practice, pharynx, larynx, and trachea are usually anesthetized with local anesthetic sprays using various devices, especially in patients with difficult airways. [16][17][18][19] Local anesthetic agents may have detrimental effects on upper airway muscles, which are potent dilators and tensors of the pharyngeal and laryngeal structures. Neural efferents from pressure receptors in the wall of the upper airways also participate in this regulation.…”

“…Topical lidocaine anesthesia of the oropharynx, larynx, and trachea before laryngoscopy can prevent increases in arterial blood pressure during laryngoscopy and intubation while decreasing the incidence of coughing and laryngospasm after extubation. In clinical practice, pharynx, larynx, and trachea are usually anesthetized with local anesthetic sprays using various devices, especially in patients with difficult airways 16‐19 . Local anesthetic agents may have detrimental effects on upper airway muscles, which are potent dilators and tensors of the pharyngeal and laryngeal structures.…”