La demonstration de la technique d’intubation tracheale

Summary  It is important to the new resident to acquire facility in endotracheal intubation early in his training. In this way he achieves both his own tranquillity of mind and security for the patient. Although residents may know the regional anatomy and the theoretical principles of intubation, the practical application of the knowledge is quite a different matter. Demonstration of the technique is difficult, since the laryngoscope permits clear vision of the larynx to the operator alone. As residents all of us have experienced the frustrations of difficulties with intubation and all the complications it entails. To permit the demonstration of intubation, a laryngeal mirror angulated at 45° has been mounted on the straight blade of the laryngoscope ( Fig. 1 ). This mirror allows the observer, when properly orientated ( Fig. 2 ), to follow each step of the technique without obstructing the operator’s view. We have seen residents on all services successfully perform an intubation at their very first attempt after such demonstration. This, we believe, proves the efficiency of the innovation.