Video versus direct laryngoscopy on successful first-pass endotracheal intubation in ICU patients

BACKGROUND: Airway management in intensive care unit (ICU) patients is challenging. The aim of this study was to compare the rate of successful first-pass intubation in the ICU by using the direct laryngoscopy (DL) and that by using the video laryngoscopy (VL). METHODS: A randomized, non-blinded trial comparing first-pass success rate of intubation between VL and DL was performed. Patients were recruited in the period from August 2014 to August 2016. All physicians working at ICU received hands-on training in the use of the video and direct laryngoscope. The primary outcome measure was the first-pass intubation success. RESULTS: >0.05). CONCLUSION: Among ICU patients requiring intubation, there was no significant difference in the rate of successful first-pass intubation between VL and DL.