An evaluation of the GlideScope®, a new video laryngoscope for difficult airways

Abstract

The GlideScope improved the view in one of three difficult airway situations when used by anaesthetists with no formal training in its use. No single airway device offers a solution to all scenarios, however, we consider that the GlideScope is a useful addition to the range of difficult airway devices available.

Comparison of the Glidescope®, the McGrath®, the Airtraq® and the Macintosh laryngoscopes in simulated difficult airways*

“…Rapid intubation with the Airtraq can be explained by the presence of a side-channel that guides the ETT through the glottis once an optimal view has been obtained. These explanations are supported by previous studies conducted on manikins that have compared the Macintosh either with the Glidescope [16,17] or with the Airtaq [13]. The results obtained in the tongue oedema scenario strengthen these explanations.…”

Routine Clinical Practice Effectiveness of the Glidescope in Difficult Airway Management

“…Studies on manikins simulating difficult airway scenarios and small patient studies pertaining to difficult airways have been published. 1,5,6 In predicted difficult direct laryngoscopy airways, GVL improves intubation difficulty scale scores, but it has not been shown to improve intubation success rates compared with direct laryngoscopy. 7 For patients with cervical spine immobilization, GVL offers favorable laryngeal views, but no improvements in intubation success rates compared with direct laryngoscopy are notable.…”

Optical and video laryngoscopes for emergency airway management

“…In addition, the manufacturer also markets the Glide Rite ET tube, with a soft flexible tip to greatly reduce the likelihood of the tube obstruction on the arytenoids. The GlideScope picture quality and anti-fog technology are second to none when compared to current video laryngoscopes [6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18][19][20][21][22] (Fig. 1).…”