About this trial
This study aims to evaluate whether the Left Head Rotation (LeHeR) maneuver improves visualization of the vocal cords during video laryngoscopy in obese adult patients undergoing general anesthesia. Obesity is associated with increased difficulty in airway management due to excess upper airway soft tissue and altered anatomy, which may impair visualization during intubation.
In this prospective observational study, 50 adult patients with a body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m² will undergo video laryngoscopy using a C-MAC D-blade. The glottic view will be assessed using the Percentage of Glottic Opening (POGO) score in the standard sniffing position and after rotating the head 45 degrees to the left (LeHeR maneuver). A difference in POGO score between the two positions will be analyzed.
Secondary outcomes include ease of intubation, number of attempts, time to successful intubation, and occurrence of complications such as desaturation or airway trauma. The study is expected to determine whether the LeHeR maneuver is a simple and effective technique to improve airway visualization in obese patients.
Eligibility criteria
Qualifiers
Adult patients aged 18-65 years
Body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m²
ASA physical status I-III
Scheduled for elective surgical procedures under general anesthesia requiring endotracheal intubation
Disqualifiers
Anticipated need for nasal intubation
Facial or upper airway pathology preventing laryngoscope insertion
Cervical spine instability or contraindication to head movement
Pregnant patients
Trial design
Treatments tested in this trial
- Not listed