Comparison of two different techniques of fibreoptic intubation

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE The application of analgesics and sedatives during fibreoptic intubation (FOI) may result in a transient decrease in arterial oxygen saturation.This study evaluates two different techniques of FOI and respective effects on procedural duration, arterial oxygen saturation, and coughing by the patient. METHODS Thirty-four patients received a standardized conscious sedation with fentanyl (1.5 microg kg(-1)) and midazolam (12.5 microg kg(-1)).All patients were randomly allocated to one of the following techniques: the 'vaporization' (VAP) technique included four applications of 2 ml lidocaine 2% administered through the working channel of the fibrescope supplying an oxyg…