[Influence of the head position in laryngoscopy].

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to determine the optimal position of the head during larygoscopy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

During fiberoptic evaluation of the larynx, the head position of eight subjects (5 male, 3 female) was changed systematically. The influence of reclining and anteversion, tilting and rotation of the head on the quality of the endoscopic images was determined.

RESULTS

The vocal tract became wider and the view onto the glottis could be improved by reclining the head and anteversion of the chin. On rotation of the head, the hypopharynx of the same side became narrower. This is well known and is used worldwide in the therapy of dysphagia.

DISCUSSION

Positioning of the patient is important in laryngoscopy. Reclining the head and forward inclination of the trunk (horizontal axis of the mouth) seems to be the best position for obtaining an optimal view onto the glottis.