Association Between Video Laryngoscopy and Adverse Tracheal Intubation-Associated Events in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Continuous improvement of non-emergent neonatal intubations in a level IV NICU

OBJECTIVE

We sought to improve practices and outcomes related to non-emergent neonatal intubations in a level IV academic Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

STUDY DESIGN

A multidisciplinary team created guidelines for non-emergent neonatal intubations. In period 1, premedication practices were standardized. In period 2, paralytic use and video laryngoscope use were recommended. Premedication and video laryngoscopy practices were assessed along with number of intubation attempts and frequency of bradycardia and desaturation.

RESULTS

636 intubations performed by neonatology fellows and neonatal advanced practice providers were reviewed over six academic years. Two academic years were included in each of the following study periods: baseline, period 1, and period 2. In our unit, compliance with recommended premedication practices and administration of paralytic medication has increased considerably, and video laryngoscopy is now utilized in most of our procedures. The frequency of intubation success on the first attempt has increased, and the frequency of both bradycardia and desaturation during intubation has decreased. In our analysis, paralytic use (AOR 2.41, 95 CI (1.53, 3.81)) and the combination of paralytic and video laryngoscopy (AOR 4.07, 95 CI (2.09, 7.92)) are associated with increased odds of intubating successfully on the first attempt.

CONCLUSIONS

This initiative increased the use of standardized premedication, paralytic medication and video laryngoscopy for non-emergent neonatal intubations with temporally associated improvement in patient outcomes including fewer intubation attempts and reduction in physiologic instability.

Association between video laryngoscopy characteristics and successful neonatal tracheal intubation: a prospective study

OBJECTIVE

To identify associations between procedural characteristics and success of neonatal tracheal intubation (NTI) using video laryngoscopy (VL).

DESIGN

Prospective single-centre observational study.

SETTING

Quaternary neonatal intensive care unit.

PATIENTS

Infants requiring NTI at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

INTERVENTIONS

VL NTI recordings were evaluated to assess 11 observable procedural characteristics hypothesised to be associated with VL NTI success. These characteristics included measures of procedural time and performance, glottic exposure and position, and laryngoscope blade tip location.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

VL NTI attempt success.

RESULTS

A total of 109 patients underwent 109 intubation encounters with 164 intubation attempts. The first attempt success rate was 65%, and the overall encounter success rate was 100%. Successful VL NTI attempts were associated with shorter procedural duration (36 s vs 60 s, p<0.001) and improved Cormack-Lehane grade (63% grade I vs 49% grade II, p<0.001) compared with unsuccessful NTIs. Other factors more common in successful NTI attempts than unsuccessful attempts were laryngoscope blade placement to lift the epiglottis (45% vs 29%, p=0.002), fewer tracheal tube manoeuvres (3 vs 8, p<0.001) and a left-sided or non-visualised tongue location (76% vs 56%, p=0.009).

CONCLUSION

We identified procedural characteristics visible on the VL screen that are associated with NTI procedural success. Study results may improve how VL is used to teach and perform neonatal intubation.

Association between video laryngoscopy characteristics and successful neonatal tracheal intubation: a prospective study

OBJECTIVE

To identify associations between procedural characteristics and success of neonatal tracheal intubation (NTI) using video laryngoscopy (VL).

DESIGN

Prospective single-centre observational study.

SETTING

Quaternary neonatal intensive care unit.

PATIENTS

Infants requiring NTI at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

INTERVENTIONS

VL NTI recordings were evaluated to assess 11 observable procedural characteristics hypothesised to be associated with VL NTI success. These characteristics included measures of procedural time and performance, glottic exposure and position, and laryngoscope blade tip location.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

VL NTI attempt success.

RESULTS

A total of 109 patients underwent 109 intubation encounters with 164 intubation attempts. The first attempt success rate was 65%, and the overall encounter success rate was 100%. Successful VL NTI attempts were associated with shorter procedural duration (36 s vs 60 s, p<0.001) and improved Cormack-Lehane grade (63% grade I vs 49% grade II, p<0.001) compared with unsuccessful NTIs. Other factors more common in successful NTI attempts than unsuccessful attempts were laryngoscope blade placement to lift the epiglottis (45% vs 29%, p=0.002), fewer tracheal tube manoeuvres (3 vs 8, p<0.001) and a left-sided or non-visualised tongue location (76% vs 56%, p=0.009).

CONCLUSION

We identified procedural characteristics visible on the VL screen that are associated with NTI procedural success. Study results may improve how VL is used to teach and perform neonatal intubation.

Neonatal airway management training using simulation-based educational methods and technology

Airway management is a fundamental component of neonatal critical care and requires a high level of skill. Neonatal endotracheal intubation (ETI), bag-mask ventilation, and supraglottic airway management are complex technical skills to acquire and continually maintain. Simulation training has emerged as a leading educational modality to accelerate the acquisition of airway management skills and train interprofessional teams. However, current simulation-based training does not always replicate neonatal airway management needed for patient care with a high level of fidelity. Educators still rely on clinical training on live patients. In this article, we will a) review the importance of simulation-based neonatal airway training for learners and clinicians, b) evaluate the available training modalities, instructional design, and challenges for airway procedural skill acquisition, especially neonatal ETI, and c) describe the human factors affecting the transfer of airway training skills into the clinical environment.

Success rates and adverse events during neonatal intubation: Lessons learned from an international registry

Neonatal endotracheal intubation is a challenging procedure with suboptimal success and adverse event rates. Systematically tracking intubation outcomes is imperative to understand both universal and site-specific barriers to intubation success and safety. The National Emergency Airway Registry for Neonates (NEAR4NEOS) is an international registry designed to improve neonatal intubation practice and outcomes that includes over 17,000 intubations across 23 international sites as of 2023. Methods to improve intubation safety and success include appropriately matching the intubation provider and situation and increasing adoption of evidence-based practices such as muscle relaxant premedication and video laryngoscope, and potentially new interventions such as procedural oxygenation.

Curriculum and assessment tool for less invasive surfactant administration: an international Delphi consensus study

BACKGROUND

Training and assessment of operator competence for the less invasive surfactant administration (LISA) procedure vary. This study aimed to obtain international expert consensus on LISA training (LISA curriculum (LISA-CUR)) and assessment (LISA assessment tool (LISA-AT)).

METHODS

From February to July 2022, an international three-round Delphi process gathered opinions from LISA experts (researchers, curriculum developers, and clinical educators) on a list of items to be included in a LISA-CUR and LISA-AT (Round 1). The experts rated the importance of each item (Round 2). Items supported by more than 80% consensus were included. All experts were asked to approve or reject the final LISA-CUR and LISA-AT (Round 3).

RESULTS

A total of 153 experts from 14 countries participated in Round 1, and the response rate for Rounds 2 and 3 was >80%. Round 1 identified 44 items for LISA-CUR and 22 for LISA-AT. Round 2 excluded 15 items for the LISA-CUR and 7 items for the LISA-AT. Round 3 resulted in a strong consensus (99-100%) for the final 29 items for the LISA-CUR and 15 items for the LISA-AT.

CONCLUSIONS

This Delphi process established an international consensus on a training curriculum and content evidence for the assessment of LISA competence.

IMPACT

This international consensus-based expert statement provides content on a curriculum for the less invasive surfactant administration procedure (LISA-CUR) that may be partnered with existing evidence-based strategies to optimize and standardize LISA training in the future. This international consensus-based expert statement also provides content on an assessment tool for the LISA procedure (LISA-AT) that can help to evaluate competence in LISA operators. The proposed LISA-AT enables standardized, continuous feedback and assessment until achieving proficiency.

Applied forces with direct versus indirect laryngoscopy in neonatal intubation: a randomized crossover mannequin study

PURPOSE

In adult mannequins, videolaryngoscopy improves glottic visualization with lower force applied to upper airway tissues and reduced task workload compared with direct laryngoscopy. This trial compared oropharyngeal applied forces and subjective workload during direct vs indirect (video) laryngoscopy in a neonatal mannequin.

METHODS

We conducted a randomized crossover trial of intubation with direct laryngoscopy, straight blade videolaryngoscopy, and hyperangulated videolaryngoscopy in a neonatal mannequin. Thirty neonatal/pediatric/anesthesiology consultants and residents participated. The primary outcome measure was the maximum peak force applied during intubation. Secondary outcome measures included the average peak force applied during intubation, time needed to intubate, and subjective workload.

RESULTS

Direct laryngoscopy median forces on the epiglottis were 8.2 N maximum peak and 6.8 N average peak. Straight blade videolaryngoscopy median forces were 4.7 N maximum peak and 3.6 N average peak. Hyperangulated videolaryngoscopy median forces were 2.8 N maximum peak and 2.1 N average peak. The differences were significant between direct laryngoscopy and straight blade videolaryngoscopy, and between direct laryngoscopy and hyperangulated videolaryngoscopy. Significant differences were also found in the top 10th percentile forces on the epiglottis and palate, but not in the median forces on the palate. Time to intubation and subjective workload were comparable with videolaryngoscopy vs direct laryngoscopy.

CONCLUSIONS

The lower force applied during videolaryngoscopy in a neonatal mannequin model suggests a possible benefit in reducing potential patient harm during intubation, but the clinical implications require assessment in future studies.

REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05197868); registered 20 January 2022.

Nasal high-flow therapy to Optimise Stability during Intubation: the NOSI pilot trial

OBJECTIVE

In adult patients with acute respiratory failure, nasal high-flow (NHF) therapy at the time of intubation can decrease the duration of hypoxia. The objective of this pilot study was to calculate duration of peripheral oxygen saturation below 75% during single and multiple intubation attempts in order to inform development of a larger definitive trial.

DESIGN AND SETTING

This double-blinded randomised controlled pilot trial was conducted at a single, tertiary neonatal centre from October 2020 to October 2021.

PARTICIPANTS

Infants undergoing oral intubation in neonatal intensive care were included. Infants with upper airway anomalies were excluded.

INTERVENTIONS

Infants were randomly assigned (1:1) to have NHF 6 L/min, FiO₂ 1.0 or NHF 0 L/min (control) applied during intubation, stratified by gestational age (<34 weeks vs ≥34 weeks).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome was duration of hypoxaemia of <75% up to the time of successful intubation, RESULTS: 43 infants were enrolled (26 <34 weeks and 17 ≥34 weeks) with 50 intubation episodes. In infants <34 weeks' gestation, median duration of SpO₂ of <75% was 29 s (0-126 s) vs 43 s (0-132 s) (p=0.78, intervention vs control). Median duration of SpO_{2 of} <75% in babies ≥34 weeks' gestation was 0 (0-32 s) vs 0 (0-20 s) (p=0.9, intervention vs control).

CONCLUSION

This pilot study showed that it is feasible to provide NHF during intubation attempts. No significant differences were noted in duration of oxygen saturation of <75% between groups; however, this trial was not powered to detect a difference. A larger, higher-powered blinded study is warranted.

The Association of Teamwork and Adverse Tracheal Intubation–Associated Events in Advanced Airway Management in the PICU

Tracheal intubation (TI) in critically ill children is a life-saving but high-risk procedure that involves multiple team members with diverse clinical skills. We aim to examine the association between the provider-reported teamwork rating and the occurrence of adverse TI-associated events (TIAEs). A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from 45 pediatric intensive care units in the National Emergency Airway Registry for Children (NEAR4KIDS) database from January 2013 to March 2018 was performed. A composite teamwork score was generated using the average of each of five (7-point Likert scale) domains in the teamwork assessment tool. Poor teamwork was defined as an average score of 4 or lower. Team provider stress data were also recorded with each intubation. A total of 12,536 TIs were reported from 2013 to 2018. Approximately 4.1% (n = 520) rated a poor teamwork score. TIs indicated for shock were more commonly associated with a poor teamwork score, while those indicated for procedures and those utilizing neuromuscular blockade were less commonly associated with a poor teamwork score. TIs with poor teamwork were associated with a higher occurrence of adverse TIAE (24.4% vs 14.4%, p < 0.001), severe TIAE (13.7% vs 5.9%, p < 0.001), and peri-intubation hypoxemia < 80% (26.4% vs 17.9%, p < 0.001). After adjusting for indication, provider type, and neuromuscular blockade use, poor teamwork was associated with higher odds of adverse TIAEs (odds ratio [OR], 1.77; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.35–2.34), severe TIAEs (OR, 2.23; 95% CI, 1.47–3.37), and hypoxemia (OR, 1.63; 95% CI, 1.25–2.03). TIs with poor teamwork were independently associated with a higher occurrence of TIAEs, severe TIAEs, and hypoxemia.

Impact of multiple intubation attempts on adverse tracheal intubation associated events in neonates: a report from the NEAR4NEOS

OBJECTIVE

To determine the relationship between number of attempts and adverse events during neonatal intubation.

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective study of prospectively collected data of intubations in the delivery room and NICU from the National Emergency Airway Registry for Neonates (NEAR4NEOS) in 17 academic centers from 1/2016 to 12/2019. We examined the association between tracheal intubation attempts [1, 2, and ≥3 (multiple attempts)] and clinical adverse outcomes (any tracheal intubation associated events (TIAE), severe TIAE, and severe oxygen desaturation).

RESULTS

Of 7708 intubations, 1474 (22%) required ≥3 attempts. Patient, provider, and practice factors were associated with higher TI attempts. Increasing intubation attempts was independently associated with a higher risk for TIAE. The adjusted odds ratio for TIAE and severe oxygen desaturation were significantly higher in TIs with 2 and ≥3 attempts than with one attempt.

CONCLUSION

The risk of adverse safety events during intubation increases with the number of intubation attempts.

Safe emergency neonatal airway management: current challenges and potential approaches

This review examines the airway adjuncts currently used to acutely manage the neonatal airway. It describes the challenges encountered with facemask ventilation and intubation. Evidence is presented on how to optimise intubation safety and success rates with the use of videolaryngoscopy and attention to the intubation environment. The supraglottic airway (laryngeal mask airway) is emerging as a promising neonatal airway adjunct. It can be used effectively with little training to provide a viable alternative to facemask ventilation and intubation in neonatal resuscitation and be used as an alternative conduit for the administration of surfactant.

Video screen visualization patterns when using a video laryngoscope for tracheal intubation: A systematic review

OBJECTIVE

Published studies of video laryngoscopes are often limited by the lack of a clear definition of video laryngoscopy (VL). We performed a systematic review to determine how often published studies of VL report on video screen visualization.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, EMBASE and Scopus for interventional and observational studies in which a video laryngoscope equipped with a standard geometry blade was used for tracheal intubation. We excluded simulation based studies. Our primary outcome was data on video laryngoscope screen visualization. Secondary outcomes were explicit methodology for screen visualization.

RESULTS

We screened 4838 unique studies and included 207 (120 interventional and 87 observational). Only 21 studies (10% of 207) included any data on video screen visualization by the proceduralist, 19 in a yes/no fashion only (ie, screened viewed or not) and 2 with detail beyond whether the screen was viewed or not. In 11 more studies, visualization patterns could be inferred based on screen availability and in 16 more studies, the methods section stated how screen visualization was expected to be performed without reporting data collection on how the proceduralist interacted with the video screen. Risk of bias was high in the majority of included studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Published studies of VL, including many clinical trials, rarely include data on video screen visualization. Given the nuances of using a video laryngoscope, this is a critical deficiency, which largely prevents us from knowing the treatment effect of using a video laryngoscope in clinical practice. Future studies of VL must address this deficiency.

Does videolaryngoscopy improve tracheal intubation first attempt success in the NICUs? A report from the NEAR4NEOS

OBJECTIVE

We hypothesized that videolaryngoscope use for tracheal intubations would differ across NICUs, be associated with higher first attempt success and lower adverse events.

STUDY DESIGN

Data from the National Emergency Airway Registry for Neonates (01/2015 to 12/2017) included intubation with direct laryngoscope or videolaryngoscope. Primary outcome was first attempt success. Secondary outcomes were adverse tracheal intubation associated events and severe desaturation.

RESULTS

Of 2730 encounters (13 NICUs), 626 (23%) utilized a videolaryngoscope (3% to 64% per site). Videolaryngoscope use was associated with higher first attempt success (p < 0.001), lower adverse tracheal intubation associated events (p < 0.001), but no difference in severe desaturation. After adjustment, videolaryngoscope use was not associated with higher first attempt success (OR:1.18, p = 0.136), but was associated with lower tracheal intubation associated events (OR:0.45, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Videolaryngoscope use is variable, not independently associated with higher first attempt success but associated with fewer tracheal intubation associated events.

Standardizing premedication for non-emergent neonatal tracheal intubations improves compliance and patient outcomes

OBJECTIVE

We sought to standardize and improve compliance with evidence-based premedication for non-emergent neonatal intubations in two academic-affiliated Neonatal Intensive Care Units.

STUDY DESIGN

A multidisciplinary team created guidelines and electronic medical record order sets for intubation. Compliance with recommended premedication, number of intubation attempts, and frequency of bradycardia and desaturation were assessed.

RESULTS

387 intubation procedures were reviewed. Provision of recommended premedication increased by 36% and 75% at the level III and IV units, respectively. Decreased frequency of bradycardia during intubation (p = 0.0003) occurred in the level III unit. A reduction in number of intubation attempts (p ≤ 0.001), improvement in first-attempt intubation success (p ≤ 0.001), and decreased frequency of bradycardia (p = 0.01) and desaturation (p = 0.02) during intubation occurred in the level IV unit.

CONCLUSIONS

This quality improvement initiative improved standardized premedication compliance and decreased adverse events associated with non-emergent neonatal intubations in two separate units.

Reducing Severe Tracheal Intubation Events Through an Individualized Airway Bundle

BACKGROUND

Neonatal tracheal intubation (TI) is a high-risk procedure associated with adverse safety events. In our newborn and infant ICU, we measure adverse tracheal intubation-associated events (TIAEs) as part of our participation in National Emergency Airway Registry for Neonates, a neonatal airway registry. We aimed to decrease overall TIAEs by 10% in 12 months.

METHODS

A quality improvement team developed an individualized approach to intubation using an Airway Bundle (AB) for patients at risk for TI. Plan-do-study-act cycles included AB creation, simulation, unit roll out, interprofessional education, team competitions, and adjusting AB location. Outcome measure was monthly rate of TIAEs (overall and severe). Process measures were AB initiation, AB use at intubation, video laryngoscope (VL) use, and paralytic use. Balancing measure was inadvertent administration of TI premedication. We used statistical process control charts.

RESULTS

Data collection from November 2016 to August 2020 included 1182 intubations. Monthly intubations ranged from 12 to 41. Initial overall TIAE rate was 0.093 per intubation encounter, increased to 0.172, and then decreased to 0.089. System stability improved over time. Severe TIAE rate decreased from 0.047 to 0.016 in June 2019. AB initiation improved from 70% to 90%, and AB use at intubation improved from 18% to 55%. VL use improved from 86% to 97%. Paralytic use was 83% and did not change. The balancing measure of inadvertent TI medication administration occurred once.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated a significant decrease in the rate of severe TIAEs through the implementation of an AB. Next steps include increasing use of AB at intubation.

Implementation of a Standardized Neonatal Intubation Training Package

OBJECTIVE

To assess the first attempt neonatal intubation success rates of pediatric trainees following the implementation of an evidence-based training package.

STUDY DESIGN

Data collection was undertaken from February, 1 2017, to January 31, 2018, to ascertain baseline preimplementation intubation success rates. An intubation training package, which included the use of videolaryngoscopy, preprocedure pause, and standardized instruction during the procedure, was introduced. Data on all subsequent intubations were collected prospectively from May 1, 2018, to April 30, 2020.

RESULTS

Preimplementation baseline data over a 1-year period demonstrated overall first attempt intubation success rate of junior trainees to be 37% (33/89). After implementation of the training package, 290 intubations were analyzed over a 2-year period. The overall success rate was 67% (194/290); 61% (117/192) for junior trainees and 79% (77/98) for senior clinicians. Three or more attempts were required for 13% of intubations (38/290). During the study period, the overall number of intubations being carried out decreased. Intubations with the videolaryngoscope had higher success rates for all tiers of clinician, most marked in the junior tiers.

CONCLUSIONS

The introduction of a standardized intubation training package, along with videolaryngoscopy, improved trainee intubation success rates.

Comparison of Endotracheal Intubations Performed With Direct Laryngoscopy and Video Laryngoscopy Scenarios With and Without Compression: A Manikin-Simulated Study

Background

Optimal management for trauma-induced coagulopathy (TIC) is a clinical conundrum. In conjunction with the transfusion of fresh-frozen plasma (FFP), additional administration of prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC) was proposed to bring about further coagulative benefit. However, investigations evaluating the efficacy as well as corresponding side effects were scarce and inconsistent. The aim of this study was to systematically review current literature and to perform a meta-analysis comparing FFP+PCC with FFP alone.

Methods

Web search followed by manual interrogation was performed to identify relevant literatures fulfilling the following criteria, subjects as TIC patients taking no baseline anticoagulants, without underlying coagulative disorders, and reported clinical consequences. Those comparing FFP alone with PCC alone were excluded. Comprehensive Meta-analysis software was utilized, and statistical results were delineated with odd ratio (OR), mean difference (MD), and 95% confidence interval (CI). I² was calculated to determine heterogeneity. The primary endpoint was set as all-cause mortality, while the secondary endpoint consisted of international normalized ratio (INR) correction, transfusion of blood product, and thrombosis rate.

Results

One hundred and sixty-four articles were included for preliminary evaluation, 3 of which were qualified for meta-analysis. A total of 840 subjects were pooled for assessment. Minimal heterogeneity was present in the comparisons (I² < 25%). In the PCC + FFP cohort, reduced mortality rate was observed (OR: 0.631; 95% CI: 0.450-0.884, p = 0.007) after pooling. Meanwhile, INR correction time was shorter under PCC + FFP (MD: -608.300 mins, p < 0.001), whilst the rate showed no difference (p = 0.230). The PCC + FFP group is less likely to mandate transfusion of packed red blood cells (p < 0.001) and plasma (p < 0.001), but not platelet (p = 0.615). The incidence of deep vein thrombosis was comparable in the two groups (p = 0.460).

Conclusions

Compared with FFP only, PCC + FFP demonstrated better survival rate, favorable clinical recovery and no elevation of thromboembolism events after TIC.

Intubation Competence During Neonatal Fellowship Training

OBJECTIVES

To characterize neonatal-perinatal medicine fellows' progression toward neonatal intubation procedural competence during fellowship training.

METHODS

Multi-center cohort study of neonatal intubation encounters performed by neonatal-perinatal medicine fellows between 2014 through 2018 at North American academic centers in the National Emergency Airway Registry for Neonates. Cumulative sum analysis was used to characterize progression of individual fellows' intubation competence, defined by an 80% overall success rate within 2 intubation attempts. We employed multivariable analysis to assess the independent impact of advancing quarter of fellowship training on intubation success.

RESULTS

There were 2297 intubation encounters performed by 92 fellows in 8 hospitals. Of these, 1766 (77%) were successful within 2 attempts. Of the 40 fellows assessed from the start of training, 18 (45%) achieved procedural competence, and 12 (30%) exceeded the deficiency threshold. Among fellows who achieved competence, the number of intubations to meet this threshold was variable, with an absolute range of 8 to 46 procedures. After adjusting for patient and practice characteristics, advancing quarter of training was independently associated with an increased odds of successful intubation (adjusted odds ratio: 1.10; 95% confidence interval 1.07-1.14).

CONCLUSIONS

The number of neonatal intubations required to achieve procedural competence is variable, and overall intubation competence rates are modest. Although repetition leads to skill acquisition for many trainees, some learners may require adjunctive educational strategies. An individualized approach to assess trainees' progression toward intubation competence is warranted.

Management of the Unexpected Difficult Airway in Neonatal Resuscitation

A "difficult airway situation" arises whenever face mask ventilation, laryngoscopy, endotracheal intubation, or use of supraglottic device fail to secure ventilation. As bradycardia and cardiac arrest in the neonate are usually of respiratory origin, neonatal airway management remains a critical factor. Despite this, a well-defined in-house approach to the neonatal difficult airway is often lacking. While a recent guideline from the British Pediatric Society exists, and the Scottish NHS and Advanced Resuscitation of the Newborn Infant (ARNI) airway management algorithm was recently revised, there is no Norwegian national guideline for managing the unanticipated difficult airway in the delivery room (DR) and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Experience from anesthesiology is that a "difficult airway algorithm," advance planning and routine practicing, prepares the resuscitation team to respond adequately to the technical and non-technical stress of a difficult airway situation. We learned from observing current approaches to advanced airway management in DR resuscitations in a university hospital and make recommendations on how the neonatal difficult airway may be managed through technical and non-technical approaches. Our recommendations mainly pertain to DR resuscitations but may be transferred to the NICU environment.

Adverse Events and Unsuccessful Intubation Attempts Are Frequent During Neonatal Nasotracheal Intubations

Background: Intubation of neonates is difficult and hazardous. Factors associated with procedure-related adverse events and unsuccessful intubation attempts are insufficiently evaluated, especially during neonatal nasotracheal intubations. Objective: Aim of this study was to determine the frequency of tracheal intubation-associated events (TIAEs) during neonatal nasotracheal intubations and to identify factors associated with TIAEs and unsuccessful intubation attempts in our neonatal unit. Methods: This was a prospective, single-site, observational study from May 2017 to November 2019, performed at a tertiary care neonatal intensive care unit in a German academic teaching hospital. All endotracheal intubation encounters performed by the neonatal team were recorded. Results: Two hundred and fifty-eight consecutive intubation encounters in 197 patients were analyzed. One hundred and forty-eight (57.4%) intubation encounters were associated with at least one TIAE. Intubation inexperience (<10 intubation encounters) (OR = 2.15; 95% CI, 1.257-3.685) and equipment problems (OR = 3.43; 95% CI, 1.12-10.52) were predictive of TIAEs. Intubation at first attempt (OR = 0.10; 95% CI, 0.06-0.19) and videolaryngoscopy (OR = 0.47; 96% CI, 0.25-0.860) were predictive of intubation encounters without TIAEs. The first intubation attempt was commonly done by pediatric residents (67.8%). A median of two attempts were performed until successful intubation. Restricted laryngoscopic view (OR = 3.07; 95% CI, 2.08-4.53; Cormack-Lehane grade 2 vs. grade 1), intubation by pediatric residents when compared to neonatologists (OR = 1.74; 95% CI, 1.265-2.41) and support by less experienced neonatal nurses (OR = 1.60; 95% CI, 1.04-2.46) were associated with unsuccessful intubation attempts. Conclusions: In our unit, TIAEs and unsuccessful intubation attempts occurred frequently during neonatal nasotracheal intubations. To improve success rates, quality improvement und further research should target interprofessional education and training, equipment problems and videolaryngoscopy.

Pediatric airway: What is new in approaches and treatments?

Perioperative morbidity and mortality are high among patients in the extremes of life undergoing anesthesia. Complications in children occur mainly as a result of airway management-related events such as difficult approach, laryngospasm, bronchospasm and severe hypoxemia, which may result in cardiac arrest, neurological deficit or death. Reports and new considerations that have changed clinical practice in pediatric airway management have emerged in recent years. This narrative literature review seeks to summarize and detail the findings on the primary cause of morbidity and mortality in pediatric anesthesia and to highlight those things that anesthetists need to be aware of, according to the scientific reports that have been changing practice in pediatric anesthesia. This review focuses on the identification of “new” and specific practices that have emerged over the past 10 years and have helped reduce complications associated with pediatric airway management. At least 9 practices grouped into 4 groups are described: assessment, approach techniques, devices, and algorithms. The same devices used in adults are essentially all available for the management of the pediatric airway, and anesthesia-related morbidity and mortality can be reduced through improved quality of care in pediatrics.

Normal and difficult airways in children: "What's New"-Current evidence

BACKGROUND

Pediatric difficult airway is one of the most challenging clinical situations. We will review new concepts and evidence in pediatric normal and difficult airway management in the operating room, intensive care unit, Emergency Department, and neonatal intensive care unit.

METHODS

Expert review of the recent literature.

RESULTS

Cognitive factors, teamwork, and communication play a major role in managing pediatric difficult airway. Earlier studies evaluated videolaryngoscopes in a monolithic way yielding inconclusive results regarding their effectiveness. There are, however, substantial differences among videolaryngoscopes particularly angulated vs. nonangulated blades which have different learning and use characteristics. Each airway device has strengths and weaknesses, and combining these devices to leverage both strengths will likely yield success. In the pediatric intensive care unit, emergency department and neonatal intensive care units, adverse tracheal intubation-associated events and hypoxemia are commonly reported. Specific patient, clinician, and practice factors are associated with these occurrences. In both the operating room and other clinical areas, use of passive oxygenation will provide additional laryngoscopy time. The use of neuromuscular blockade was thought to be contraindicated in difficult airway patients. Newer evidence from observational studies showed that controlled ventilation with or without neuromuscular blockade is associated with fewer adverse events in the operating room. Similarly, a multicenter neonatal intensive care unit study showed fewer adverse events in infants who received neuromuscular blockade. Neuromuscular blockade should be avoided in patients with mucopolysaccharidosis, head and neck radiation, airway masses, and external airway compression for anticipated worsening airway collapse with neuromuscular blocker administration.

CONCLUSION

Clinicians caring for children with difficult airways should consider new cognitive paradigms and concepts, leverage the strengths of multiple devices, and consider the role of alternate anesthetic approaches such as controlled ventilation and use of neuromuscular blocking drugs in select situations. Anesthesiologists can partner with intensive care and emergency department and neonatology clinicians to improve the safety of airway management in all clinical settings.

Less invasive surfactant administration: a word of caution

Surfactant is a cornerstone of neonatal critical care, and the presumed less (or minimally) invasive techniques for its administration have been proposed to reduce invasiveness of neonatal critical care interventions. These techniques are generally known as less invasive surfactant administration (LISA) and have quickly gained popularity in some neonatal intensive care units. Despite the increase in the use of LISA, we believe that the pathobiological background supporting its possible clinical benefits is unclear. Similarly, it is unclear whether there are any ignored drawbacks, as LISA has been tested in only a few trials and some physiopathological issues seem to have gone unnoticed. Active research is warranted to fill these knowledge gaps before LISA can be firmly recommended. In this Viewpoint, we provide an in-depth analysis of LISA techniques, based on physiological and pathobiological factors, followed by a critical appraisal of available clinical data, and highlight some possible future research directions.

Comparison of Neonatal Intubation Practice and Outcomes between the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and Delivery Room

BACKGROUND

Characteristics of neonatal tracheal intubations (TI) may vary between the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and delivery room (DR). The impact of the setting on TI outcomes is not well characterized.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to define variation in neonatal TI practice between settings, and identify the association between setting and TI success and safety outcomes.

DESIGN

This was a retrospective cohort study of TIs in the National Emergency Airway Registry for Neonates from October 2014 to September 2017. The setting (NICU vs. DR) was the exposure of interest. The outcomes were first attempt success, course success, success within 4 attempts, adverse TI-associated events, severe desaturation, and bradycardia. We compared TI characteristics and outcomes between settings in univariable analysis. Factors significant in univariable analysis (p < 0.1) were included in a logistic regression model, with adjustment for clustering by center, to identify the independent impact of the setting on TI outcomes.

RESULTS

There were 3,145 TI encounters (2279 NICU, 866 DR) in 9 centers. Almost all baseline characteristics significantly varied between settings. First attempt success rates were 48% (NICU) and 46% (DR). In multivariable analysis, the setting was not associated with first attempt success. DR was associated with a higher adjusted OR (aOR) of success within 4 attempts (1.48, 95% CI 1.06-2.08) and a lower aOR for bradycardia (0.43, 95% CI 0.26-0.71).

CONCLUSION

Significant differences in patient, provider, and practice characteristics exist between NICU and DR TIs. There is substantial room for improvement in first attempt success rates. These results suggest interventions to improve safety and success need to be targeted to the distinct setting.

Incidence, impact and indicators of difficult intubations in the neonatal intensive care unit: a report from the National Emergency Airway Registry for Neonates

OBJECTIVE

To determine the incidence, indicators and clinical impact of difficult tracheal intubations in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

DESIGN

Retrospective review of prospectively collected data on intubations performed in the NICU from the National Emergency Airway Registry for Neonates.

SETTING

Ten academic NICUs.

PATIENTS

Neonates intubated in the NICU at each of the sites between October 2014 and March 2017.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Difficult intubation was defined as one requiring three or more attempts by a non-resident provider. Patient (age, weight and bedside predictors of difficult intubation), practice (intubation method and medications used), provider (training level and profession) and outcome data (intubation attempts, adverse events and oxygen desaturations) were collected for each intubation.

RESULTS

Out of 2009 tracheal intubations, 276 (14%) met the definition of difficult intubation. Difficult intubations were more common in neonates <32 weeks, <1500 g. The difficult intubation group had a 4.9 odds ratio (OR) for experiencing an adverse event and a 4.2 OR for severe oxygen desaturation. Bedside screening tests of difficult intubation lacked sensitivity (receiver operator curve 0.47-0.53).

CONCLUSIONS

Difficult intubations are common in the NICU and are associated with adverse event and severe oxygen desaturation. Difficult intubations occur more commonly in small preterm infants. The occurrence of a difficult intubation in other neonates is hard to predict due to the lack of sensitivity of bedside screening tests.

Comparison of Miller laryngoscope and UEScope videolaryngoscope for endotracheal intubation in four pediatric airway scenarios: a randomized, crossover simulation trial

With different videolaryngoscopes for pediatric patients available, UEScope can be used in all age groups. The aim of this study was to compare the Miller laryngoscope and UEScope in pediatric intubation by paramedics in different scenarios. Overall, 93 paramedics with no experience in pediatric intubation or videolaryngoscopy performed endotracheal intubation in scenarios: (A) normal airway without chest compressions, (B) difficult airway without chest compressions, (C) normal airway with uninterrupted chest compressions, (D) difficult airway with uninterrupted chest compressions. Scenario A. Total intubation success with both laryngoscopes: 100%. First-attempt success: 100% for UEScope, 96.8% for Miller. Median intubation time for UEScope: 13 s [IQR, 12.5-17], statistically significantly lower than for Miller: 14 s [IQR, 12-19.5] (p = 0.044). Scenario B. Total efficacy: 81.7% for Miller, 100% for UEScope (p = 0.012). First-attempt success: 48.4% for Miller, 87.1% for UEScope (p = 0.001). Median intubation time: 27 s [IQR, 21-33] with Miller, 15 s [IQR, 14-21] with UEScope (p = 0.001). Scenario C. Total efficiency: 91.4% with Miller, 100% with UEScope (p = 0.018); first-attempt success: 67.7 vs. 90.3% (p = 0.003), respectively. Intubation time: 21 s [IQR, 18-28] for Miller, 15 s [IQR, 12-19.5] for UEScope. Scenario D. Total efficiency: 65.6% with Miller, 98.9% with UEScope (p < 0.001); first-attempt success: 29.1 vs. 72% (p = 0.001), respectively. Intubation time: 38 s [IQR, 23-46] for Miller, 21 s [IQR, 17-25.5] for UEScope.Conclusion: In pediatric normal airway without chest compressions, UEScope is comparable with Miller. In difficult pediatric airways without chest compressions, UEScope offers better first-attempt success, shorted median intubation time, and improved glottic visualization. With uninterrupted chest compressions in normal or difficult airway, UEScope provides a higher first-attempt success, a shorter median intubation time, and a better glottic visualization than Miller laryngoscope. What is Known: • Endotracheal intubation is the gold standard for adult and children airway management. • More than two direct laryngoscopy attempts in children with difficult airways are associated with a high failure rate and increased incidence of severe complications. What is New: • In difficult pediatric airways with or without chest compressions, UEScope in inexperienced providers in simulated settings provides better first-attempt efficiency, median intubation time, and glottic visualization.