Parker Flex-It intubation stylet versus a 90-degree curved stylet during intubation with the McGrath videolaryngoscope performed by novices: a manikin study with 5 airway scenarios

Study ObjectiveTo compare the Parker Flex-It intubation stylet with a 90-degree curved stylet using the McGrath videolaryngoscope in 5 airway scenarios (from easy to difficult) in a manikin.DesignProspective, randomized study.SettingAcademic hospital.Subjects20 staff anesthesiologists with no previous experience in videolaryngoscopy.MeasurementsSubjects performed a total of 200 intubations with the McGrath Series 5 videolaryngoscope and completed a questionnaire afterwards.ResultsOverall success rate was significantly higher with the Parker Flex-It intubation stylet (96 successful intubations with the Parker Flex-It vs 79 intubations in the 90° curved stylet group; P < 0.05). Intubation time was not significantly different. Subjects rated the Parker Flex-It intubation stylet as the better device for intubation with the McGrath videolaryngoscope in routine or emergency situations.ConclusionIntubation of the manikin with the McGrath videolaryngoscope had more success with the Parker Flex-It intubation stylet than a 90° curved stylet.