Airway Ultrasound for Predicting Difficult Airway in Adult Critical Care Patients

Authors

Wesameldin A. Sultan, Anaesthia, ICU and pain management Department, Faculty of Medicine, Shebin Elkom, Menoufia University, Menoufia, Egypt
Safaa M. Helal, Anaesthia, ICU and pain management Department, Faculty of Medicine, Shebin Elkom, Menoufia University, Menoufia, Egypt
Rabab M. Habeeb, Anaesthia, ICU and pain management Department, Faculty of Medicine, Shebin Elkom, Menoufia University, Menoufia, Egypt
Ahmed Z. Ibrahim, Critical care unit, Anaesthia, ICU and pain management Department, Faculty of Medicine, Shebin Elkom, Menoufia University, Menoufia, EgyptFollow
Mohammad M. Torayah, Critical care unit, Anaesthia, ICU and pain management Department, Faculty of Medicine, Shebin Elkom, Menoufia University, Menoufia, Egypt

Abstract

Objectives To evaluate the efficacy of ultrasound measurements in predicting difficult airway in critically ill patients. Background Accurate prediction of difficult airway in critically ill patients is crucial for safe airway management. Traditional assessment methods have limitations, prompting the exploration of ultrasound as a predictive tool. Methods This observational study included 289 critically ill patients. Traditional methods (Modified Mallampati score, Cormack-Lehane grades, thyromental distance) and ultrasound measurements (distance from skin to epiglottis [DSE], distance from skin to hyoid bone [DSHB], distance from skin to vocal cords [DSVC]) were compared for their ability to predict difficult airway. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 28. Results A significant correlation was found between ultrasound measures and difficult airway, with DSE showing the highest predictive value. Conclusion Ultrasound is a reliable tool for predicting difficult airway in critically ill patients, offering advantages over traditional methods.

Subject Area

Emergency Medicine

Article Type

Original Study

Recommended Citation

Sultan, Wesameldin A.; Helal, Safaa M.; Habeeb, Rabab M.; Ibrahim, Ahmed Z.; and Torayah, Mohammad M. (2025) "Airway Ultrasound for Predicting Difficult Airway in Adult Critical Care Patients," Menoufia Medical Journal: Vol. 38: Iss. 1, Article 16.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.59204/2314-6788.3316

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