What types of curved laryngoscope blade are commonly available?
Macintosh
- The most commonly used blade in the UK
- A gentle curve from the tip to the proximal end
- Large 'reverse-Z' flange designed to sweep the tongue to the left of the mouth
- Light source pierces the blade towards the tip so as not to interfere with the view
McCoy
- A modification of a Macintosh blade
- Has a hinged tip which can be lifted using the lever attached to the handle
- Designed to lift the epiglottis with less force than a standard mackintosh
- Can be useful in achieving a better view than a standard Macintosh blade particularly in cervical spine injury
Robertshaw
- Gently curved over the distal third
- Designed to indirectly lift the epiglottis like a Macintosh blade
- Generally used in infants and children
- Allows binocular vision by removing the lateral flange
Polio
- A modification of the Macintosh blade
- Mounted on the handle at 135° rather than 90°
- Initially used in polio patients ventilated with an iron lung but now occasionally used in conjunction with a stubby handle in patients with large breasts or restricted neck movement
What types of straight laryngoscope blade are commonly available?
Miller
- The most commonly used straight blade in the UK
- The small tongue does not allow a sweep of the tongue but is designed to be directed along the right side of the mouth and re angled once passed the base of tongue
Seward
- Originally designed for use in neonates
- Incorporates a low profile flange
Wisconsin
- Has a flange that expands slightly toward the distal portion of the blade
- Increases the visual field and possibly reduces trauma
What are the different types of laryngoscope handles available?
Standard
Standard
- Designed for use with adult blades
- Has a hinge pin for the attachment of the blade and a barrel to store batteries and a light
Penlight
Penlight
- Designed for improved balance with paediatric blades
Stubby
Stubby
- Designed to reduce the obstruction caused by large breasts or a barrel chest