Ultrasound Measurement of Skin-to-Epiglottis Distance for Prediction of Difficult Airway in Adult Patients

Ultrasound Measurement of Skin to Epiglottis Distance for Prediction of Difficult Airway in Adult Patients

This prospective observational study aims to evaluate the predictive value of ultrasound-measured skin to epiglottis distance for difficult airway in adult patients undergoing elective or emergency procedures requiring airway management. The correlation between ultrasound measurements and standard airway assessment parameters will be analyzed.

Airway management is a critical component of anesthesia and intensive care practice. Predicting difficult airway remains challenging with conventional bedside tests. Ultrasound has emerged as a non-invasive, bedside tool for airway assessment. This study aims to investigate the relationship between skin-to-epiglottis distance measured by ultrasound and difficult laryngoscopy/intubation. Secondary comparisons will include traditional airway assessment methods such as Mallampati score, thyromental distance, and neck circumference

Inclusion Criteria:

• ≥18 yaş elective surgery

Exclusion Criteria:

• emergency surgery
• head and neck surgery
• pregnant patients