[Clinical experience of tracheal intubation using Trachlight in patients with unstable dentition].

BACKGROUND

Trachlight is a light-tipped stylet designed to guide tracheal intubation. It obviates the need for direct laryngoscopy and is reported to be particularly useful for managing difficult tracheal intubation. Its clinical application, however, is not limited to difficult airway management.

METHODS

Here we report our experience of the use of Trachlight in 64 adult patients who were at risk of dental injury during direct laryngoscopy because of unstable teeth around the incisors or severe alveolar disease.

RESULTS

Of 64 patients (33 men and 31 women) aged between 30 and 85, the trachea was successfully intubated using Trachlight without dental damage in 63 patients. In 1 patient, a tracheal tube was smoothly placed, but a tooth was injured after the removal of the stylet. No other complications associated with the use of Trachlight were noted.

CONCLUSIONS

Our experience suggests that Trachlight can be a helpful tool for intubation in patients having dental problems. Because of the blind nature of the technique, but preexisting lesions of the larynx and vocal cords might be overlooked in intubation using Trachlight. Further investigation is warranted to recommend Trachlight as a intubation technique of choice in patients with unstable dentition.