We reported earlier on the C-MAC, a video laryngoscope produced by Karl Storz. Today physicians from the University of Utah Health Care published a study in the Air Medical Journal about the use of this device in the air medical setting.
Aircraft produce a lot of movement and vibrations that can make endotracheal tube placement a difficult procedure. Direct visualization of the tube passing through the vocal cords is the definitive method to confirm correct tube placement, in addition to end-tidal CO2 and breath sounds. The researchers included 21 patients and reported successful visualization in 17 of them (81%). According to the results this method facilitated a safer intubation during flight.
Using the C-MAC a digital image can be captured to add to the electronic patient record. The C-MAC seems to be a good system to confirm endotracheal tube placement in rescue and emergency situations in the air.
Here’s a quick demo of the C-MAC:
Abstract in Air Medical Journal: The Use of Video Laryngoscopy for Visual Confirmation of Endotracheal Tube Placement in the Air Medical Setting
Product page: C-MAC Video Laryngoscope
Flashback: D-Blade from Karl Storz Improves View in Difficult Airway
