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Journal of Clinical Monitoring and Computing

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01-06-2017 | Review Paper

The role of tracheal tube introducers and stylets in current airway management

Authors: Sina Grape, Patrick Schoettker

Published in: Journal of Clinical Monitoring and Computing | Issue 3/2017

Abstract

Tracheal tube introducers and stylets are highly successful devices for the management of various airway scenarios. Their first-line use is advocated in many difficult airway algorithms. Although they have been used for decades, the shape and design of introducers and stylets as well as their patterns of use are constantly evolving. Our purpose is to provide the clinician with an update on these different devices. We performed a systematic literature search from 2005 until May 2015, without language restrictions. The two authors independently retrieved all studies with the keywords “bougie”, “gum elastic bougie”, “stylet”, “airway management”, “tracheal tube introducer” and “extubation catheter”. Our search did yield mostly observational and retrospective studies with small case numbers. The data was synthesized into a narrative review to provide the clinician with an update on the characteristics, indications and techniques of use as well as the dangers of different intubation aids. Today, numerous tracheal tube introducers and stylets exist with different indications, ranging from general to specific situations. Anesthetists should be familiar with the different devices, their characteristics and indications in order to use the right device at the right time in the right way.

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Title: The role of tracheal tube introducers and stylets in current airway management
Authors: Sina Grape
Patrick Schoettker
Publication date: 01-06-2017
Publisher: Springer Netherlands
Published in: Journal of Clinical Monitoring and Computing / Issue 3/2017
Print ISSN: 1387-1307
Electronic ISSN: 1573-2614
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10877-016-9879-8

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

The role of tracheal tube introducers and stylets in current airway management

Abstract

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

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