Abstract: Objective To explore the application of Airtraq® optical laryngoscope combined with bronchofibroscope for endotracheal intubation (EI) in patients with cervical spine injury (CSI). Methods 50 patients with CSI undergoing spine surgery under combined general anesthesia were randomly assigned to two groups, group A (n=25) received EI by using Airtraq® optical laryngoscope and group AF (n=25) received EI by using Airtraq® optical laryngoscope combined with bronchofibroscope. The intubation time (IT), success rate of single intubation (SRSI), hemodynamic changes in endotracheal intubation, and complications related to EI were observed. Results IT was significantly longer in group A than in group AF (P<0.001), and SRSI was significantly lower than in group A in group AF (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in hemodynamic changes in EI and complications related to EI between two groups (P>0.05). Conclusion Airtraq® optical laryngoscope combined with bronchofibroscope would be safely and effectively used for EI in patients with CSI.

Key words: cervical spine injury, optical laryngoscope, bronchofibroscope, endotracheal intubation