COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF VIDEO LARYNGOSCOPY AND CONVENTIONAL LARYNGOSCOPY DURING TRACHEAL INTUBATION

Introduction: Video laryngoscopy (VL) is relatively new technique, and has become a pivotal advancement in tracheal intubation, offering enhanced visualization of vocal cords and improving success rates. Aim of the study: This study aimed to compare the efficacy of video laryngoscopy versus conventional laryngoscopy in adult patients requiring tracheal intubation for elective ENT surgeries. Material and methods: This study involved 300 adult patients classified as ASA 1 and 2, aged 18 to 70, scheduled for elective ENT surgeries at a University Clinic in Skopje. Patients were divided into two groups: one underwent intubation using conventional Macintosh laryngoscopy, while the other utilized video laryngoscopy. Key parameters measured included intubation time, glottic visualization using the Cormack-Lehane score, number of intubation attempts, and instances of glottic trauma. Results: The mean intubation time was significantly shorter in the VL group (26.09 seconds) compared to the ML group (34.01 seconds) (P < 0.001). The VL group exhibited superior glottic visualization, with 105 patients achieving Cormack-Lehane Score I versus 45 in the ML group (P = 0.001). Complications were notably lower in the VL group; only 3 instances of blood on the laryngoscope were reported compared to 10 in the ML group (P < 0.017). Conclusion: Video laryngoscopy significantly enhances tracheal intubation success rates, reduces intubation time, and minimizes the risk of complications compared to conventional laryngoscopy, establishing it as a preferred technique in managing difficult airways.