[Tube introducer catheter as an adjunct to the airway scope for tracheal intubation in a manikin model].

Background: The Airway Scope (AWS) is a video laryngoscope and there are some problems associated with its use in insertion of the tracheal tube despite its ability to view the glottis. For the purpose of improving the problems, we devised the tube introducer catheter (TIC) for use with AWS.

Methods: Using the normal and fixed bent orotracheal tubes, wire-reinforced endotracheal tube, PORTEX and Phycon double lumen tubes, and Univent tube, TIC was attached to one of these tubes with AWS. And, we compared the efficacy and safety of the TIC with the AWS in facilitating tracheal intubation in a manikin model.

Results: With about all tubes, correct placement of the endotracheal tube was achieved in the TIC-facilitated tracheal intubations. In addition, the TIC can administer oxygen to prevent desaturation during the intubation. Excessive secretions in the oropharynx were effectively removed under vision with the TIC connected to the suction catheter. The topical anesthetics were sprayed on the vocal cords through the spray channels of the TIC. Furthermore, it can be used for exchange of tracheal tube in a patient.

Conclusions: The TIC was significantly effective in facilitating tracheal intubation using the AWS in a manikin model.