Summary

Background and objectives: The GlideScope® is a new video laryngoscope. The aim of our study was to assess its use compared to a Macintosh blade in airway scenarios on the Airman™ airway simulator. The scenarios were: ‘normal’ or resting state of the manikin, pharyngeal obstruction, cervical rigidity and tongue oedema. Methods: Thirty anaesthetists from the Christchurch Anaesthetic Department attempted to pass a bougie or stylet through the vocal cords of the manikin with a size 3 Macintosh blade, then the GlideScope. View at laryngoscopy, ease of ‘intubation’ and whether they thought the GlideScope would be useful in clinical practice were recorded. Results: Forty three percent (P = 0.02) found an improved view with the GlideScope in the pharyngeal obstruction scenario. In the other scenarios there was no significant difference in view. Reportage of ease of intubation showed no statistical difference in any scenarios. However, 93% of anaesthetists considered having the GlideScope would be useful if faced clinically with one or more of the studied scenarios. Conclusions: 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.