The levering laryngoscope

Abstract

SummaryThis is a report of a modification of the standard Macintosh laryngoscope blad? to facilitate tracheal tube placement in cases of' dificult visualisation of the larynx. The modification oflers the unique advantage, of a hinged blade tip, controlled by a lever on the handle of the larygoscope which allows elevation of the epiglottis while decreasing the overall laryngoscopic elevation or levering movement required. It is an adaptation which can be applied to most laryngoscope blades, does not require any special training in its use and will prove useful for both routine intubations as well as those which may be dificult and associated with an anterior larynx.

Straight blades improve visualization of the larynx while curved blades increase ease of intubation: a comparison of the Macintosh, Miller, McCoy, Belscope and Lee-Fiberview blades

“…Figure 1) is a modification of the standard M blade. 1 The tip of the MC blade is hinged and when the MC blade is inserted into the vallecula, the tip acts on the hyoepiglotic ligament and lifts the epiglottis out of view to expose more of the glottis by compression of a lever attached to the proximal end of the blade.…”

The best view at laryngoscopy using the McCoy laryngoscope with and without cricoid pressure

“…The McCoy laryngoscope has a levering blade which has been designed to improve the view at laryngoscopy [1]. However, there are conflicting reports about the view obtained when using the McCoy blade in the neutral position.…”

A comparison of the forces exerted during laryngoscopy

“…The McCoy laryngoscope blade is a modification of the standard Macintosh laryngoscope blade incorporating a hinged-tip blade controlled by a lever on the handle of the laryngoscope [7]. It allows elevation of the epiglottis while decreasing the overall laryngoscopic movement.…”