Translaryngeal guided intubation for difficult intubation.

Airway obstruction remains a constant problem in acute care. This is particularly true when there are anatomical or pathological abnormalities, trauma, or when repeated failed attempts at endoscopic or blind intubations have left a bloody field, preventing clear visualization of the vocal cords. Our refinement of translaryngeal guided intubation (TLI) uses a spring guidewire accompanied by a plastic sheath protector. The wire is introduced percutaneously via a cricothyroid puncture and passed cephalad into the oropharynx or nasopharynx and out through the mouth or one of the nostrils. The plastic sheath is slid over the wire into the trachea. A well-lubricated endotracheal tube is then inserted to the desired position using the plastic sheath as a stylet. This technique works very well, and we are convinced that TLI is one of the most effective emergency techniques to secure an airway. It can be performed quickly with inexpensive equipment and is a promising addition to the currently recommended alternatives.