I-Gel and Gum Elastic Bougie-Assisted Intubation: A Reliable Technique for Challenging Cases in Peripheral Setting: A Case Report

The effective management of challenging airways in peripheral settings presents a difficult trial for healthcare providers. This case report highlights the successful application of the I-gel and the gum elastic bougie (GEB) as assisted intubation tools for managing difficult airways in peripheral settings. The current case had difficult airway management. After repeated failure with conventional and assisted oral endotracheal intubation, a bougie was passed through the I-gel with some gentle manipulation and anterior pressure. I-gel was subsequently removed, and the oral endotracheal tube (ETT) was “railroaded” after putting in a laryngoscope. The bougie was subsequently removed, and endotracheal intubation was confirmed. The patient was never desaturated during the attempt for ventilation. The patient was successfully extubated fully awake and shifted to the intensive care unit (ICU) for post-op monitoring and follow-up. This case highlights that through meticulous planning, training, and collaboration, healthcare teams can optimize the use of this technique to ensure appropriate and effective airway management, thereby improving patient outcomes in difficult clinical scenarios.