Comparison of Tracheal Intubation Using the Macintosh Laryngoscope Versus the Disposable Laryngoscope by Inexperienced Personnel: A Manikin Study

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Disposable one piece laryngoscope (DOL), which probably carries a lower risk of infection than conventional reusable ones, is the only device which has received approval by the Korean Ministry of Food and Drug safety. In the current study, we evaluated the effectiveness and usefulness of the conventional Macintosh laryngoscope (MAC) and DOL in inexperienced personnel. METHODS: A randomized crossover trial was designed. Ninety seven participants (Medical students, Paramedic students) were enrolled and performed endotracheal intubation with MAC and DOL in Manikin (SimMan(R) Laedal Medical Corporation, Stravanger; Norway). Cormack-Lehane grade, the number of attempts, time required for intubation, and dental compression were measured to evaluate the effectiveness. The participants were given a questionnaire survey on the usefulness of laryngoscopes (easier to use, lightness, brightness, manageable to use, delivering power, safer for patients, intense to use). RESULTS: Regarding the aspect of effectiveness, a significant difference in dental compression was observed between DOL and MAC (p=0.011). Others showed no significant differences. Regarding the aspect of usefulness, DOL was superior to MAC except in delivering power. CONCLUSION: The DOL appears to be a reasonable device for use in emergency airway management. It should be verified for effectiveness and usefulness of newly developed equipment in emergency airway management because it is directly related to life.