Comparative efficacy of different laryngoscopes in obese patients: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Abstract Background: Due to changes in the anatomical structure of oral pharynx, increased oxygen consumption and other pathophysiological changes, the airway management of obese patients is complex. Intubation is a critical step, and it is important to choose the optimal laryngoscope. Moreover, the best type of laryngoscopes to use for this population is unclear. The aim of this study is to determine the optimal laryngoscopes for endotracheal intubation in obese patients. Methods: We searched the Cochrane, Medline, EMBASE, EBSCOhost and Web of Science databases for randomized controlled trials comparing video laryngoscopes (VLs) with direct laryngoscopes (DLs) or different brands of VLs in adults with obesity for inclusion in this study. Results: A total of 13 trials with 1264 patients were identified. VLs were associated with an increase in the first-attempt success rate (relative risk (RR) 1.11, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.06-1.16), shorter intubation time (MD -13.19, 95% CI -25.57 to -0.81) and an improved glottic view (RR 1.24, 95% CI 1.17-1.30). No difference was observed in the incidence of any complications. In the network meta-analysis, all three types of VLs (Macintosh blade VLs, angulated blade VLs and side-channel blade VLs) were associated with an improved glottic view (RR 1.4, 95% CI 1.2-1.7; RR 1.3, 95% CI 1.2-1.5; and RR 1.2, 95% CI 1.1-1.3, respectively). Conclusions: Compared with DLs, VLs generally increased the success rate on the first-attempt, reduced the intubation time and provided a superior glottic view without increasing complications. All three types of video devices improved visualization of the glottis. Trial registration: This study was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO 2017: CRD42017079927. http://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO).