The Airtraq as a Primary and Rescue Device in the Prehospital Setting

Several studies have shown that the Airtraq, a self-powered, single-use, indirect laryngoscope, has a higher intubation success rate than direct laryngoscopy, particularly for novice intubators (NEJM Journal Watch Emerg Med Dec 2 2011). To assess use of the device in the prehospital setting, researchers in Sweden performed a retrospective chart review of prehospital endotracheal intubations over a 5-year period.

The Airtraq was used in 28 of 2453 intubations (1%). Of these 28 patients, 23 were in cardiac arrest. The overall success rate was 68%. The success rate was 61% in the 23 cases in which the device was used for anticipated or unexpected difficult airway. Of 13 patients with failed prior attempts at intubation with conventional laryngo…