Loading...
Single studies comparing video laryngoscopy (VL) with direct laryngoscopy (DL) for endotracheal intubation have shown variable results. Now, researchers have performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies comparing the two techniques for intubation in adult intensive care unit patients. Difficult orotracheal intubation — the primary outcome — was defined as more than two attempts; severe hypoxemia as oxygen saturation < 80%; and severe cardiovascular collapse as systolic blood pressure < 70 mm Hg, requirement for vasopressors, or both.
Three randomized, controlled trials and six prospective, observational studies were included in the meta-analysis, with a total of 2133 patients (1067 underwent DL and 1066 underwent VL). Pooled od…