Effect of use of High-Flow Nasal Cannula during Fiberoptic Intubation under General Anesthesia: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND

Oxygenation by high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) is being widely studied in the intensive care unit and operation theater settings.

AIMS AND

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study is to determine the effect of HFNC during fiberoptic intubation in terms of time taken and ease of intubation.

SETTINGS AND

DESIGN

Randomized, prospective, and controlled study.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

In this study, we have recruited 40 patients according to the inclusion criteria (patient's body mass index [BMI] >22.99 kg.m-2 and patients with a history of stridor and/or obstructive sleep apnea) and after randomization divided them into two groups of 20 each - Group C: Intubation done with conventional fiberoptic after muscle relaxation and Group S: Intubation done with high flow nasal cannula during fiberoptic after muscle relaxation. We have observed and compared between the groups time taken for intubation, oxygen saturation during fiberoptic intubation, need of jaw thrust and difficulty in gliding endotracheal tube over fiberscope.

RESULTS

No significant difference was found in time taken for intubation, oxygen saturation, and need of jaw thrust (P > 0.05). We have found a significant difference in gliding of endotracheal tube over fiberscope (P = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

We found high flow nasal cannula better and beneficial in patients with high BMI and having a history of stridor/obstructive sleep apnea for fiberoptic intubation after muscle relaxation.