Comparative Study of Videolaryngoscopy and Direct Laryngoscopy for Training Airway Management Skills

Open Access

Abstract

Background: Airway management is a critical skill in anaesthesia and emergency care that requires effective training methods to ensure patient safety. Direct laryngoscopy has traditionally been used; however, videolaryngoscopy has emerged as a promising alternative, offering improved visualization and potentially better learning outcomes than direct laryngoscopy. Despite its growing use, comparative evidence on trainee populations remains limited, particularly in resource-constrained settings. This study aimed to compare videolaryngoscopy and direct laryngoscopy for training in airway management skills among trainee doctors. Methods & Materials: A comparative observational study was conducted at the Department of Anaesthesia, Analgesia and Intensive Care Medicine, Bangladesh Medical University (BMU), from January to March 2026. A total of 60 trainees were equally divided into the videolaryngoscopy and direct laryngoscopy groups. Baseline characteristics, intubation performance, glottic visualization, ease of intubation and complications were analyzed. Results: The baseline characteristics were comparable between the groups. First-attempt success was significantly higher in the videolaryngoscopy group (86.7% vs. 63.3%, p = 0.038). The time to successful intubation was shorter (34.6 ± 8.9 vs. 48.2 ± 12.5 s, p < 0.001) and fewer attempts were required (p = 0.011). Videolaryngoscopy provided better glottic visualization, with higher Cormack-Lehane grade I/II views (93.3% vs. 66.7%, p = 0.012) and higher POGO scores (p < 0.001). The ease of intubation was also significantly greater. The complications were lower in the videolaryngoscopy group, but the difference was not statistically significant. Conclusion: Videolaryngoscopy enhances intubation performance, visualization and ease of use among trainees. Integrating it into training programs may improve airway management skills and patient safety.