Mallampati Classification vs Best Visible Mallampati for Prediction of Difficult Tracheal Intubation

Comparison of the Mallampati Classification and Best Visible Mallampati for Prediction of Difficult Tracheal Intubation

Mallampati score (classification of the visibility of oropharyngeal structures) should be performed in the sitting position, head in the neutral position, mouth widely open, and tongue protrudes, without phonation. However, phonation, and position modify the visibility of oropharyngeal structures and thus the Mallampati score.

We aimed at evaluating the predictive value of the best observable Mallampati score as compare to the recommended Mallampati score.

Mallampati score (classification of the visibility of oropharyngeal structures) should be performed in the sitting position, head in the neutral position, mouth widely open, and tongue protrudes, without phonation. However, phonation, and position modify the visibility of oropharyngeal structures and thus the Mallampati score.

We aimed at evaluating the predictive value of the best observable Mallampati score as compare to the recommended Mallampati score.

This is a single center prospective observational study comparing the original Mallampati classification to the best visible Mallampati classification.

Data and variables concerning airway management during induction of general anesthesia are recorded on a specific record sheet.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Scheduled or unscheduled surgery
• Airway evaluation possible in both sitting and supine position

Exclusion Criteria:

• surgery of the neck, face, and upper airway
• lung and thoracic surgery
• pregnancy
• orotracheal intubation not indicated during surgery
• nasotracheal intubation required for surgery
• selective intubation required for surgery
• emergency surgery and procedure