C-MAC Better Than Direct Laryngoscope for Predicted Difficult Airway Intubation

In a randomized trial, researchers compared performance of the C-MAC video laryngoscope and a direct laryngoscope in 300 adult patients with at least one difficult airway predictor (history of difficult intubation, reduced cervical motion, Mallampati classification >2, or mouth opening <3 cm). Intubations were performed by anesthesia residents (>6 months experience), certified registered nurse anesthetists, and anesthesiologists, all of whom had received didactic training and the opportunity to use the C-MAC clinically for 3 months before the study. Patients with unstable cervical injuries, prior easy intubation, prior failed bag-mask ventilation, or need for emergent surgery were excluded. The trial was funded by the manufacturer of the C-…