[Efficacy of Glidescope video laryngoscope in difficult airways: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials].

BACKGROUND

Increased evidence indicates that the Glidescope video laryngoscope (GVL) is useful for difficult tracheal intubations. The aim of this meta-analysis was to assess the efficacy of the GVL in difficult tracheal intubations, comparing with that of Macintosh laryngoscopy.

METHODS

The systematic search, data extraction, critical appraisal, and pooled analysis were performed according to the PRISMA statement. The relative risk (RR), mean difference (MD), and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated by the Comprehensive Meta-analysis version 2.2.040 software for dichotomous and continuous outcomes, respectively.

RESULTS

Fifteen randomized controlled trials including 860 tracheal intubations by GVL and 860 tracheal intubations by Macintosh laryngoscopy. GVL showed higher success rate (RR 1.065, 95% CI 1.017-1.117, P < 0.008) than does the Macintosh laryngoscope, whereas no difference was found in the duration for instrumentation.

CONCLUSIONS

Our meta-analysis showed that GVL has an advantage over Macintosh laryngoscope in respect to the success rate for difficult tracheal intubations.