Design rationale and intended use of a short optical stylet for routine fiberoptic augmentation of emergency laryngoscopy

Patient safety in emergency airway management has traditionally relied upon prediction of difficult laryngoscopy and alternative intubation devices. Unfortunately, screening tests for difficult laryngoscopy have poor predictive value, and alternative devices are often not suitable for emergency airways. RSI performed with hit or miss repetitive laryngoscopy followed by delayed deployment of rarely used rescue devices is inherently hazardous. First pass success with laryngoscopy should be a benchmark of quality and patient safety in emergency airway management. By making a commitment to minimally modify practice and expand our skill set, fiberoptic augmentation of every laryngoscopy can promote patient safety through the avoidance of repetitive laryngoscopy and esophageal intubation. This article presents the design rationale and intended use of a new short optical stylet for the routine augmentation of emergency direct laryngoscopy.