The Airway Scope
® (AWS) has recently been introduced for nasotracheal intubation (NTI). The objective of this study was to determine the traits of NTI with AWS in a manikin. Methods : An experienced anesthetist inserted AWS orally, then inserted an endotracheal tube (ETT) through the nose into the glottis of the manikin (AirSim Multi
®). We evaluated the success rate of intubation (Rs) at head tilt angles of 50, 30, 10, and -10 degrees (groups I, II, III, and IV, respectively) below horizontal. We also assessed the effects of the direction of insertion (±30, 90, 180 degrees clockwise) and different types of ETT. Results : Under the support of AWS, Rs was significantly lower in group IV (0/20) than in the other groups (18-20/20). In group I, revolving the tube decreased Rs at angles of +90 degrees (8/10) and +180 degrees (3/10). There was no difference in Rs among the four types of ETT in all groups. Conclusions : The AWS could move the glottis in an anatomically inappropriate manner in the head-flexional position, resulting in the failure of NTI, but it provided successful NTI in the head-extended position. The rotation of ETT could facilitate adjustment of the tip movement.
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