Using ultrasound to predict difficult intubation in young children during surgery
The Diagnostic Efficacy of Ultrasonographic Airway Assessment in Predicting Difficult Laryngoscopy in Pediatric Patients Undergoing Elective Surgery; A Prospective Observational Study
This study tests if using ultrasound can help doctors predict if it will be hard to place a breathing tube in young children aged 2 to 5 during surgery.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 308 (estimated) |
| Ages | 2 Years to 5 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Tanta University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Tanta, El-Gharbia) |
| Trial ID | NCT06667921 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study evaluates the effectiveness of ultrasonographic airway assessments in predicting difficult laryngoscopy in pediatric patients aged 2 to 5 years undergoing elective surgery. The research focuses on identifying key anatomical features of the upper airway using ultrasound, which may help anesthesiologists anticipate challenges during intubation. By analyzing various ultrasonic parameters, the study aims to establish a reliable method for assessing airway difficulty in children, a population known to face higher risks during anesthesia. The findings could enhance preoperative evaluations and improve patient safety in pediatric anesthesia.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are children aged 2 to 5 years who are in ASA physical status I or II and are scheduled for elective surgery requiring general anesthesia.
Not a fit: Patients with maxillofacial trauma, large masses, neck scars, or a history of neck surgery or congenital anomalies may not benefit from this study as difficult intubation is already anticipated in these cases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved preoperative assessments and safer intubation practices for young children undergoing surgery.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown success in using ultrasound to predict difficult airways in adults, but this approach in pediatric patients is still being explored and is less established.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Children aged (2-5) years old. * Both sexes. * American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) physical status I or II. * Undergoing elective surgery under general anaesthesia with endotracheal intubation. Exclusion Criteria: * Maxillofacial trauma * Large mass. * Scar under the chin. * History of neck surgery or congenital anomalies of the head and neck as difficult intubation is expected in these cases.
Where this trial is running
Tanta, El-Gharbia
- Tanta University — Tanta, El-Gharbia, Egypt (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Mohammed M Abo Farrag, Master
- Email: m.farrag1990@gmail.com
- Phone: 00201010632778
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.