Flexible Scope Intubation vs.Flexible Scope Intubation and Video Laryngoscopy Combination: A Prospective Randomized Clinical Trial
This trial studies how well flexible intubation scope with or without video laryngoscope works in supporting endotracheal tube placement in patients with head and neck cancer before surgery. Flexible intubation scope and video laryngoscope are devices that have a small camera to help the doctor see the patient's airway on a screen. Both devices may help the doctor who gives anesthesia prevent complications from placing the breathing tube (such as pain or mouth injury).
• Ages ≥ 18 years of age
• All surgical patients with known or suspected difficult airways that meet at least three (3) of the Difficult Airway criteria \[Mallampati III-IV, Neck circumference \> 40 cm, Sternomental distance \< 12 cm, Thyromental distance \< 6 cm, Mouth opening \< 4 cm, BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2, Upper Lip Bite Test - ULBT (class III)\] or history of radiation to the head and neck area or oral pathology obstructing the glottic view
• American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) I-IV
• Has provided written informed consent