USB-endoscope laryngoscope is as effective as video laryngoscope in difficult intubation

BACKGROUND: Video laryngoscopy (VL) has recently been put into clinical use to minimize the limitations of direct laryngoscopy and assist physicians interested in airway management. However, the high cost is the biggest constraint especially in countries with limited resources. To lower the cost, a custom-made VL obtained by attaching a USB-endoscope camera ($8.5) to the Macintosh laryngoscope (USB-L) can be used. MATERIAL AND METHODS: All intubations were performed in a difficult intubation model. Intubations were carried out by two emergency physicians. A Glidescope as a VL and a custom-made USB-L were used. In addition to these devices, one bougie to facilitate the advancement of the tube was used. The total intubation time was evaluated. RESULTS: Correct tube placement for both operators was 100% for both devices. A difference between the operators in the duration of intubations could not be found. Also, there is no difference in the duration of intubations between the devices for both operators. CONCLUSION: It was concluded that the USB-L and VL are not statistically different in terms of intubation time in the difficult intubation model using bougie. For countries with limited resources, the low-cost USB-L has come to the forefront due to the high cost of VL and difficulty of access.