Is fiberoptic bronchoscope a good intubating choice in anesthetized patients with anticipated difficult intubation?

BackgroundFiberoptic bronchoscope may be a good intubating tool in anesthetized patients with predicted difficult intubation. We conducted this prospective randomized study to compare intubation using FOB and direct laryngoscopy (DL) after induction of general anesthesia.MethodsOne hundred adult patients (50 patients in DL group, and 50 patients in the FOB group) with at least one difficult intubation criteria were enrolled in the study. Both FOB and DL were attempted after induction of anesthesia and verification of mask ventilation. Incidence of failed intubation (more than two attempts), successful intubation, and total induction times were recorded. Adverse events during intubation process were documented. Postoperatively, patients fulfilled a questionnaire to assess sequale of intubation.ResultsThe overall success rate for tracheal intubation was higher in the FOB (100% Vs 86%; p < 0.05). Successful primary and secondary intubation attempts were higher in the FOB group (94% Vs 64%; p < 0.05 and 100% Vs 61%; p < 0.05, respectively). All patients who failed laryngoscopic intubation were successfully intubated using the fiberoscope. Induction and successful intubation times were longer in the laryngoscopy group (128 + 93.7 s Vs 79.9 + 27.2 s p < 0.05 and 67.5 + 88.6 s Vs 19.2 + 27 s p < 0.05, respectively). Adverse effects including tissue trauma and dental injury were greater in the DL group. Postoperative patient's dissatisfaction, sore throat, and hoarseness were statistically higher in the DL group.ConclusionWe concluded that, FOB is an effective and safe intubating tool in anesthetized patients with anticipated difficult intubation.