The SensaScope- A new hybrid video intubation stylet
Peter Biro, Peter Biro
Abstract
The recently developed SensaScope(®) is a hybrid intubation endoscope that has been designed and developed according to our clinical requirements for a safe, easy-to-handle, and effective video-assisted intubation. The attribute "hybrid" derives from the fact that the shaft of the instrument is combined by both, rigid and flexible parts. Its S-shaped rigid segment enables a very intuitive handling by one hand only, thus leaving the left hand free to operate a conventional laryngoscope. The tip of the device can be controlled via a steering handle in a similar fashion as fiberoptic endoscopes. Due to these attributes, the SensaScope(®) became a very versatile and effective tool to master the unanticipated difficult intubation in anesthetized and paralyzed patients. For this reason, in our institution it has been included as the first-line technique into our local failed intubation algorithm. The first clinical experience with the device and its standardized technique of use produced encouraging results; the success rate for novices was found to be at 97% (in 194 of 200 patients) of all intubation attempts in both patients categories: those who were rated as having normal (84.5%) and in those showing difficult intubation conditions (15.5%). The technical development, the way of using the device, the suitable indications, and limitations are discussed here.
Keywords: Intubation; SensaScope®; difficult; regular; video-assisted.
Conflict of interest statement
Conflict of Interest: The author has designed the SensaScope® in collaboration with the manufacturer Acutronic MS and is involved into the further development of the device. There are no financial interests involved except of funding of presentations of the equipment at scientific meetings.
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References
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Source: PubMed