[Fiberoptic-guided tracheal intubation through the i-gel supraglottic airway].

BACKGROUND: The i-gel is a rescue device for ventilation or tracheal intubation in patients with a difficult airway. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and reliability of fiberoptic-guided intubation through the i-gel in anesthetized patients with no history of difficult intubation undergoing elective surgery. METHODS: Patients were enrolled in the study with prior informed consent. After insertion of the i-gel, the larynx was observed by bronchoscopy, and the bronchoscopic view through the i-gel was graded. Tracheal intubation was performed under fiberoptic guidance, and the i-gel was removed. The outcome was evaluated using the success rate of initial intubation as the primary variable, and complications were evaluated as a secondary variable. RESULTS: The first attempt at intubation was successful in all 52 patients evaluated, and there was no problem with i-gel removal. No arterial oxygen desaturation was noted throughout the induction of anesthesia, and no serious complication was observed. CONCLUSIONS: Fiberoptic-guided intubation could be performed safely through the i-gel. The i-gel is considered to be potentially useful as an alternative conduit for fiberoptic-guided intubation.