Use of the GlideScope video laryngoscope in 50 pediatric patients

BACKGROUND: The GlideScope video laryngoscope (Verathon Inc. Bothell, Washington, USA) is a relatively new device for tracheal intubation, which provides a excellent glottic visualization. We here report the clinical experience of the GlideScope (small) in 50 pediatric patients. METHODS: Tracheal intubation with GlideScope (small) was performed in 50 consecutive pediatric patients requiring orotracheal intubation for surgery. The view of glottic opening was scored according to the classification of Cormack-Lehane. The time required to intubate and the number of intubation attempts were recorded. RESULTS: In all, 50 children included 4 neonates, 8 infants under 1 year and 38 children between 1 year and 9 years. Cormack-Lehane classification 1 or 2 was obtained in 74% and 22%, respectively, and successful intubation was achieved in 48 of 50 children (96%). In remaining two babies, GlideScope failed to intubate the trachea. The mean +/- SD time for instrumentation in successful intubation at first attempt was 56.6 +/- 34.2 seconds. CONCLUSIONS: GlideScope seemed to be a novel device in pediatric patients. Further studies are required to evaluate the usefulness in neonates, small infants and children with a difficult airway.