Videolaryngoscopes in pediatric anesthesia: what's new?

Abstract

Anesthesiologists are increasingly turning to videolaryngoscopes (VLs) for normal and difficult endotracheal intubations. As children grow the airway is in constant transition. This means that a device that works well in an older child may fail in an infant. Are VLs ideal in all children? What are the pitfalls and strengths of these devices? When are they indicated? How should their efficacy be assessed? Can they play a role in teaching standard laryngoscopy? This article explores these questions and reviews the literature relating to VLs use in children.