Examining how thyroid isthmus thickness affects intubation difficulty in hypothyroid patients

Relationship of Isthmus Thickness With Difficult Laryngoscopy and Difficult Intubation in Patients Receiving Hypothyroidism Treatment: A Prospective Observational Clinical Study

Observational Konya City Hospital · NCT06896513

This study is trying to see if the thickness of a part of the thyroid gland makes it harder for doctors to put a breathing tube in patients with hypothyroidism during surgery.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment70 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorKonya City Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Konya, Selçuklu)
Trial IDNCT06896513 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the relationship between the thickness of the thyroid isthmus and the challenges faced during laryngoscopy and intubation in patients undergoing treatment for hypothyroidism. It aims to determine if an atrophic or fibrotic thyroid isthmus correlates with increased difficulty in these procedures, which are critical for successful airway management. The study will utilize the Cormack-Lehane score and the Intubation Difficulty Scale to evaluate the outcomes under general anesthesia. By employing ultrasonographic techniques, the research seeks to enhance the predictive capabilities for difficult intubation scenarios.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals with known hypothyroidism who are currently receiving medical treatment and have an ASA score of 2-3.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of difficult intubation, severe obesity, or significant airway pathologies may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could improve airway management strategies for hypothyroid patients, reducing the risk of failed intubation.

How similar studies have performed: While there is existing literature on intubation difficulties related to thyroid conditions, this specific investigation into isthmus thickness is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Known hypothyroidism receiving medical treatment
* ASA score of 2-3

Exclusion Criteria:

* Known history of difficult intubation
* Body mass index (BMI) \> 40
* Presence of airway pathology
* Diseases that restrict neck movement (e.g., RA, SLE, AS, etc.)
* Head and neck range of motion ≤ 80°
* History of cervical radiotherapy
* Refusal to participate in the study

Where this trial is running

Konya, Selçuklu

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Difficult IntubationDifficult LaryngoscopyIntubationLaryngoscopyIsthmus
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.