Indications | Relative contraindications | Complications |
Failure of other techniques to amanage airway, expecting digital intubation to be the next step in management. | Vocal cord visualization, either by direct or video laryngoscopy. | Provider injury caused by patient’s teeth. |
Oral secretions, vomit, or blood that block direct visualization of vocal cords. | Significant laryngotracheal deformity which masks palpable anatomy. | Injury to patient’s soft tissues. |
Anatomical variants or deformities, like patients with edentulia. | Possibility of injuries to the provider if the patient bites. | Esophagic intubation. |
Failure to realize direct or indirect laryngoscopy. | Provider’s unexperience |
|
Direct or video-laryngoscopy equipment unavailable. |
|
|
Unavailable supraglottic devices. |
|
|
Severe craneoencephalic trauma which conditions spine immobilization. |
|
|