Research

Balloon laryngoscopy reduces head extension and blade leverage in patients with potential cervical spine injury

Spyros D Mentzelopoulos, Marina V Tsitsika, Marina P Balanika, Maria J Joufi and Evangelia A Karamichali

Author Affiliations

Evangelismos General Hospital, Athens, Greece

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Critical Care 2000, 4:40-44 doi:10.1186/cc648

Published: 24 January 2000

Abstract

Background

Head extension and excessive laryngoscope blade levering motion (LBLM) are undesirable during airway management of trauma patients. We hypothesized that laryngoscopy with a modified blade facilitating glottic exposure by balloon inflation would reduce head extension and LBLM.

Patients and methods

Seventeen elective surgery patients were enrolled. Patients lay supine with their heads flat on a rigid board and had a rigid collar around their necks. Laryngoscopy was performed with the modified blade and a standard curved blade. Head extension and LBLM angles were determined upon maximal glottic exposure and compared used paired t-tests. Laryngoscopic view grade and oxygen saturation were also determined.

Results

Balloon laryngoscopy resulted in less head extension and LBLM (P <0.001). Laryngoscopic view was approximately identical with both blades, and oxygen saturation was always above 97%.

Conclusions

Balloon laryngoscopy reduces head extension and LBLM under simulated cervical spine precautions.