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Comparison between VAMA(®) and Berman(®) cannulas for fibroscopic orotracheal intubation in anaesthetised patients

Castañeda Pascual M, Batllori Gastón M, Unzué Rico P, Murillo Jaso E, Dorronsoro Auzmendi M, Martín Vizcaíno MP

Revista espanola de anestesiologia y reanimacion, 2013

90 participants

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: In fibroscopic intubation, the fact of achieving a direct view in real time does not guarantee the correct advance of the endotracheal tube (ET) to its intratracheal position. The use of oral cannulas helps in achieving a free airway in order to pass the fibroscope and the ET. This study compares the VAMA(®) (V) and Berman(®) (B) cannulas as regards the time required for the intubation, fibroscopic view, and the ease in positioning the ET.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: 90 patients with no signs of difficult airway were randomised into 2 groups, Berman(®) (B) and VAMA(®) (V), depending on the type of cannula employed. After inducing general anaesthesia, they were intubated using a flexible fibroscope. The fibroscope and intubation times were recorded, as well as the quality of the fibroscopic view, and the level of difficulty in positioning the ET.

RESULTS: No statistically significant differences were observed between the cannulas, although the intubation time (P=.292) and the difficulty found in positioning the ET were slightly less (P=.447) in the VAMA(®) group compared to the Berman(®) group. The vision quality was good with both devices, with only some degree of obstruction being encountered in only 22% of the patients. In no case was there complete obstruction, thus all the patients could be intubated correctly.

CONCLUSIONS: The VAMA(®) cannula is an effective alternative to the classic cannulas for fibreoptic assisted intubation. Furthermore, the novel design…

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a randomized trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 2 of 5 (High · randomized trial). Randomized trials of a reasonable size are the strongest single-study design. Reported size: 90 participants or records.

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