Airway Management in the Offshore Rescue Helicopter: Evaluation of Tracheal Intubation in Alternative Positions.

OBJECTIVE

This study focuses on airway management in offshore rescue helicopters, where patients often require initial and prolonged medical care during long flights. Here, the patient's atypical, sideway position in the helicopter cabin prevents intubation in the standard way. The aim of this study is therefore to investigate optimal strategies for airway management from the side. The results can also be transferred to other emergency situations with atypical patient position and confined spaces.

METHODS

In a randomized trial, 440 intubations were performed on a manikin in 7 different settings, including the icepick method and video laryngoscopy (VLS). Primary outcomes were first-pass success (FPS) and intubation time.

RESULTS

The standard supine position had the highest FPS (100% with VLS). Among alternative methods, kneeling sideways with VLS had the best FPS (94.5%, 100% on the second attempt) and shortest intubation time (14.6 ± 4.5 seconds). The icepick method without VLS had the lowest FPS (76.4%) and longest intubation time (34.0 ± 13.4 seconds).

CONCLUSION

Sideway intubation using VLS is a viable alternative when standard positioning is not possible. The icepick method is not recommended due to lower success rates and prolonged intubation times. These findings have implications for airway management in confined and atypical environments.