From Struggle to Success, Discover the Benefits of Dynamic Tracheal Access

Intubation is one of the most common medical procedures, performed over 30 million times a year in the United States alone. Yet, it remains a challenging and often risky task, especially when access to the trachea is difficult. The evolution of video laryngoscopes has provided healthcare professionals with an enhanced view of the vocal cords, but what comes next? Enter dynamic tracheal access, a game-changer for managing difficult airways.

In this blog post, we'll explore why dynamic tracheal access is crucial for healthcare professionals, how the Runnels Steerable Introducer can revolutionize your practice, and the tangible benefits it brings to patient care. Whether you're an anesthesiologist, emergency physician, an intensivist, or any healthcare provider involved in airway management, this guide will provide valuable insights and practical tips to enhance your skills and outcomes.

The #1 Cause of VL Attempt Failure

Despite the advancements in visualization technology, VL (video laryngoscopy) intubation attempts still fail at an unacceptably high rate. The primary culprit? The inability to access the trachea with an adequate view of the vocal cords. According to studies by Kreig and Phelan, tracheal access is a significant barrier in airway management that can lead to complications. The frustration of having a view yet being unable to direct the endotracheal tube into the trachea is not an uncommon experience among practitioners.

The need for a solution is evident, and dynamic tracheal access offers a promising answer. By providing precise control and maneuverability, tools like the Runnels Steerable Introducer bridge the gap between visualization and successful intubation.

Managing More Difficult Airways with VL

Dynamic tracheal access allows healthcare providers to manage more challenging airways effectively. With the Runnels Steerable Introducer, the design focuses on easy use in critical situations. Its steerability and maneuverability within the airway offers a higher reported rescue rate compared to traditional methods like fiberoptic bronchoscopy (FOB) and standard static stylets. Shah's research supports its effectiveness with a 97% success as a tool for rescue intubations.

This means fewer failed attempts and a high likelihood of successful intubation when managing difficult intubations with VL. For healthcare professionals, this translates to increased confidence and competence when managing complex airway cases.

Performance Enhancements with Dynamic Tracheal Access

One of the standout benefits of dynamic tracheal access is performance in critical settings. It aims to make your next attempt the last attempt, minimizing the time spent on intubation and maximizing patient safety. Studies by Shah have demonstrated that dynamic tracheal access methods are significantly faster in terms of in-room-to-intubated times than traditional techniques like FOB.

This speed is crucial in emergency situations where every second counts. By enhancing the existing investment in video laryngoscopes, the Runnels Steerable Introducer provides a cost-effective solution without compromising quality or efficiency.

Economic Advantages of Dynamic Tracheal Access

Healthcare systems are increasingly under pressure to reduce costs while maintaining high standards of care. Dynamic tracheal access offers a less expensive alternative to other advanced techniques, making it a viable option for institutions looking to optimize their resources. The streamlined workflow and reduced intubation times mean lower overall costs, as highlighted in studies by Shah and others.

Investing in tools like the Runnels Steerable Introducer can lead to significant savings in the long run, both in terms of financial outlay and patient outcomes. This economic benefit makes it an attractive proposition for healthcare facilities aiming to improve their bottom line.

Independence and Control in Intubation

The Runnels Steerable Introducer allows for single-handed operation, giving healthcare professionals greater independence and control during intubation. This feature is particularly beneficial in scenarios where resources and personnel may be limited, such as in rural or understaffed hospitals and surgery centers.

The ability to manage difficult intubations independently not only boosts the confidence of the practitioner but also enhances the overall efficiency of the team. By empowering healthcare providers with tools that offer precision and control, dynamic tracheal access supports better patient care and outcomes.

Safety First with Dynamic Tracheal Access

Safety of medical staff is paramount in any medical procedure; intubation is no exception. By keeping the intubator's face far from the airway when managing difficult intubations, the Runnels Steerable Introducer reduces the risk of airborne exposures, a critical consideration in today's healthcare environment. Hoyer’s study presented at the Difficult? Airway Society meeting reinforces this safety advantage.

Additionally, the tool is associated with a 63% decrease in intubations requiring three or more attempts. These are considered high risk for intubation complications. With a 97% success rate for rescue after failed standard DL or VL, the Runnels Steerable Introducer sets a new standard for patient safety in airway management.

Streamlining Workflow with Dynamic Tracheal Access

Designed for immediate in-room availability, the Runnels Steerable Introducer facilitates a streamlined workflow for rescue intubations. Its single-operator technique ensures that the tool is ready when you need it, without the need for additional personnel or complex setup.

Portability is another key feature, allowing healthcare professionals to easily transport the tool across different departments or locations. This flexibility ensures that the benefits of dynamic tracheal access are always within reach, no matter the situation.

Why Choose the Runnels Steerable Introducer?

Healthcare professionals seeking to elevate their practice should consider the Runnels Steerable Introducer for its unique benefits and features. By integrating dynamic tracheal access into your airway management toolkit, you can significantly enhance your capabilities and deliver better patient care.

From reducing costs to improving safety and efficiency, the Runnels Steerable Introducer represents a leap forward in intubation technology. Its user-friendly design and proven success rates make it an indispensable asset for any medical facility.

Conclusion Elevate Your Practice with Dynamic Tracheal Access

In conclusion, dynamic tracheal access is transforming the way healthcare professionals manage difficult airways. With tools like the Runnels Steerable Introducer, practitioners can overcome common challenges, improve patient outcomes, and optimize their workflows.

As you consider your next steps, we encourage you to explore the potential of dynamic tracheal access in your practice. For more information and to see how the Runnels Steerable Introducer can benefit your institution, visit TTCmed.com.

By staying informed and adopting innovative solutions, you can lead the way in providing exceptional care and advancing the field of airway management.

References

1. Kreig, Anaesthesia. 2023;78(6):722-729; 2. Prekker, N Engl J Med. 2023;389(5):418-429; 3. Phelan, Trends in Anaesthesia and Critical Care. 2023;48. doi:10.1016/j.tacc.2022.101209; 4. Shah, A A Pract. 2021;15(3):e01418; 5. Shah, The

Open Anesthesia Journal. 2023;17:e258964582308040 2023; 6. Pollard Society for Airway management meeting 2024; 7. Hoyer, Difficult Airway Management Meeting. 2020.