European journal of anaesthesiology
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Airway research in anaesthesia shows that the thyromental distance (TMD) as a predictor of difficult intubation is subject to variable sensitivity and specificity. Recently, its value in this regard has been questioned with calls for a redefinition of its role. ⋯ The role of the TMD in prediction of difficult laryngoscopy should be redefined from a variable representing the SMS volume to one acting as a surrogate for inadequate head extension.
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We hypothesised that head and neck position could affect the effectiveness of ventilation with the i-gel airway. To test this hypothesis, we investigated the influence of different head and neck positions on oropharyngeal sealing pressures and ventilation scores during ventilation with i-gel. ⋯ Effective ventilation with an i-gel can be performed in patients in whom the head and neck is extended or rotated, whereas flexion of the head and neck adversely affects ventilation. Clinically, flexion of the head and neck should be avoided during ventilation with the i-gel.