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.