Effect of cricoid pressure on tracheal intubation time during C-MAC video laryngoscopy: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Smitha Cb, Kunal Singh, Amarjeet Kumar et al.
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In 30 seconds
This double-blind randomised controlled trial assessed whether cricoid pressure affects tracheal intubation with C-MAC video laryngoscopy in 100 adults undergoing elective surgery. Compared with sham pressure, cricoid pressure was associated with a longer mean intubation time: 35.6 ± 8.03 s versus 31.2 ± 9.36 s, a mean difference of 4.42 seconds (P = 0.013). The groups did not differ significantly in intubation attempts, glottic view scores, reported laryngoscopy or tube-advancement difficulty, or postoperative hoarseness.
Key findings
- Mean intubation time was 35.6 ± 8.03 s with cricoid pressure and 31.2 ± 9.36 s with sham pressure; mean difference 4.42 seconds (P = 0.013).
- The number of intubation attempts did not differ significantly between groups.
- Glottic opening scores, difficulty ratings, and postoperative hoarseness were similar between groups.
Why it matters
The trial provides randomised evidence that cricoid pressure can modestly prolong intubation during C-MAC video laryngoscopy in adults having elective surgery, without a detected difference in attempts or the other reported outcomes. Intubation time is relevant to airway management, but these findings address this specific setting and do not establish effects in other populations or clinical circumstances.
What to keep in mind
The study involved 100 adults undergoing elective surgery and evaluated C-MAC video laryngoscopy; applicability to other airway settings or devices is not established by the abstract.