laryngoscope’s lens.
Caution
There may be concern that the additional saline within the oropharynx may put the patient at further risk of aspiration. However, the risk is theoretical and likely the lesser of two evils when considering such time-sensitive airways. While this product may provide improved visualization of the airway on simulated intubations, it has not been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration, and therefore cautious use is recommended at the discretion of the provider.
Dr. McGovern is an emergency medicine resident at St. Joseph’s Regional Medical Center in Paterson, New Jersey.
Dr. McNamee is chief resident of the emergency medicine residency at St. Joseph’s Regional Medical Center in Paterson, New Jersey.
References
- Bannister FB, Macbeth RG. Direct laryngoscopy and tracheal intubation. Lancet. 1944;244:651-654.
- Mosier J, Whitmore S, Bloom J, et al. Video laryngoscopy improves intubation success and reduces esophageal intubations compared to direct laryngoscopy in the medical intensive care unit. Crit Care. 2013;17:R237.
- Griesdale D, Liu D, McKinney J, et al. Glidescope video-laryngoscopy versus direct laryngoscopy for endotracheal intubation: a systemic review and meta-analysis. Can J Anaesth. 2012;59:41-52.
- Lipe DN, Lindstrom R, Tauferner D, et al. Evaluation of Karl Storz CMAC Tip device versus traditional airway suction in a cadaver model. West J Emerg Med. 2014;15:548-553.
- Paix AD, Williamson JA, Runciman WB. Crisis in management during anaesthesia: difficult intubation. Qual Saf Health Care. 2005;14:e5.
- Shiga T, Wajima Z, Inoue T, et al. Predicting difficult intubation in apparently normal patients: a meta-analysis of bedside screening test performance. Anesthesiology. 2005;103:429-437.
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2 Responses to “Keep Video Laryngoscope Clear with IV Tubing, Saline, and Some Ingenuity”
March 9, 2015
Kyle StevensWould love to see video of this DYI setup and of it in action
August 30, 2025
Frankfor hands free use:
attach a one way valve to an extension tubing. cut the other end of the extension tubing to length and fasten it to the blade as described. store it with your airway supplies.
To use the system connect a 100ml saline soft bottle to a regular iv tubing. connect the open end of the iv tubing to the one way valve on the blade. put the bottle on the ground, regulate the saline flow by pressing down your foot on the soft bottle.