Objectives: Thyroidectomy and parathyroidectomy using the nerve integrity monitor (NIM) require proper placement of the endotracheal tube with electrodes aligned correctly within the larynx. The purpose of this study is to determine the percentage of patients who require positional adjustments of the endotracheal tube prior to beginning surgery and to understand the value of using the GlideScope to assure proper NIM tube placement within the larynx.
Methods: This prospective study examines operative data from 297 patients who underwent NIM thyroidectomy and parathyroidectomy. After routine orotracheal intubation by an anesthesiologist and positioning of the patient for surgery, a GlideScope was used to check the position of the tube in 2 planes: depth of tube placement and rotation of the tube within the larynx assuring proper placement of the electromyogram electrodes within the glottis.
Results: Tube adjustment was required for 66.5% of patients. In 48.1% of cases, tube retraction or advancement to a proper depth was needed. Tube rotation was required for 30.1% of patients, and 11.8% of patients required both adjustment of tube depth and tube rotation to properly align electrodes.
Conclusions: After the anesthesiologist places the NIM endotracheal tube, and the patient is positioned for surgery, additional tube adjustment is often needed prior to the start of surgery. The GlideScope is readily available in the operating suite, its use adds little time to the procedure, and assures proper NIM tube placement. The use of the GlideScope is recommended.
Keywords: GlideScope; intraoperative nerve monitoring; nerve integrity monitor; parathyroidectomy; thyroidectomy.