In this podcast episode, Laura Duggan, an associate professor at the University of Ottawa, discusses the topic of awake intubation. She emphasizes the importance of awake techniques in cases of blunt and penetrating airway trauma and explains that while penetrating airway trauma can often be managed post-induction, there are instances where an awake approach is necessary.

Duggan shares her personal approach to awake intubation, drawing from her 20 years of experience in anesthesia and emergency medicine. She highlights the need for evidence-based decision-making and procedural skills, emphasizing the importance of staying updated with current techniques and involving other specialists when dealing with complex airways.

The podcast addresses the question of why awake intubation is still necessary despite the availability of video laryngoscopy (VL). Duggan presents research showing that even with the widespread use of VL, awake intubations still occur in approximately 1% of cases. She explains that anatomically difficult airways and physiologically challenging cases are the main reasons for opting for awake intubation.

Throughout the episode, Duggan discusses various challenging airway scenarios, including burn patients, post-cervical spine fusion bleed, Ludwig's angina, and patients with physiological difficulties like pneumonia or pulmonary embolism. She highlights the importance of maintaining the patient's own spontaneous or negative pressure ventilation in such cases and the need for a team approach involving the patient.

The podcast also covers key aspects of awake intubation, such as the use of glycopyrrolate for drying up secretions, the avoidance of sedation, the importance of well-maintained equipment, and the technique of topicalization using atomization and paste for effective anesthesia. Duggan emphasizes the significance of using the right concentration of lidocaine and provides practical tips for applying topical anesthesia.

In conclusion, the podcast episode provides valuable insights into awake intubation, its indications, and its techniques. It emphasizes the need for continued learning and collaboration in managing difficult airway cases, ultimately aiming for successful outcomes and patient comfort.

✨Sign up here for the incredible cardiac arrest conference, ResusX:ROSC Conference happening July 11 & 12, 2023. https://www.resusx.com/resusx-rosc