Comparison of Digital Intubation (Two-finger) and Video Laryngoscopy

Comparison of Digital Intubation (Two-finger) and Video Laryngoscopy Methods During Nasogastric Tube Insertion in Intubated Patients

Abstract Background: A number of patients referring to the emergency departments (EDs) due to airway obstruction or decreased level of consciousness require the establishment of a definite airway using intubation. On the other hand, performing Nasogastric tube (NGT) insertion is very challenging in anesthetized and intubated patients. And, a conclusive method has not yet been presented in this regard. Hence, the current study aimed at comparing Digital Intubation (two-finger) and Video Laryngoscopy methods during NGT insertion.

Materials and Methods: The present clinical trial was performed on 76 intubated patients that were randomly divided into two groups. Groups A and B underwent Video Laryngoscopy and Digital Intubation (two-finger) methods, respectively. Then, the success rate, the number of attempts to insert NGT, duration of insertion, hemodynamic parameters, and patients' satisfaction level were recorded and examined in this study.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 18-65 year old patients that underwent rapid sequence intubation (RSI) and required NGT insertion

Exclusion Criteria:

• having skull base fracture symptoms
• coagulopathy and hemorrhagic disorders
• maxillofacial traumas leading to the deformity and disturbance in NGT insertion
• diseases and anomalies of the upper respiratory tract
• deviated nasal septum
• nostril stenosis
• esophageal disorders (esophageal stricture, esophageal varices)
• a history of head and neck radiotherapy, and
• patients intubated in and transferred from other centers
• patients with more than two unsuccessful attempts at NGT insertion were excluded from the study.