Abstract

The recently developed SensaScope(®) is a hybrid intubation endoscope that has been designed and developed according to our clinical requirements for a safe, easy-to-handle, and effective video-assisted intubation. The attribute "hybrid" derives from the fact that the shaft of the instrument is combined by both, rigid and flexible parts. Its S-shaped rigid segment enables a very intuitive handling by one hand only, thus leaving the left hand free to operate a conventional laryngoscope. The tip of the device can be controlled via a steering handle in a similar fashion as fiberoptic endoscopes. Due to these attributes, the SensaScope(®) became a very versatile and effective tool to master the unanticipated difficult intubation in anesthetized and paralyzed patients. For this reason, in our institution it has been included as the first-line technique into our local failed intubation algorithm. The first clinical experience with the device and its standardized technique of use produced encouraging results; the success rate for novices was found to be at 97% (in 194 of 200 patients) of all intubation attempts in both patients categories: those who were rated as having normal (84.5%) and in those showing difficult intubation conditions (15.5%). The technical development, the way of using the device, the suitable indications, and limitations are discussed here.