Revista Cubana de Anestesiología y Reanimación (Jan 2022)
Rapid-sequence induction and intubation in COVID-19 patients
Abstract
Introduction: Rapid-sequence induction and intubation is an emergency anesthesiology procedure for airway control in critically ill patients and for inserting a tube into the trachea in the shortest possible time. Originally, this procedure was indicated in cases of regurgitation and/or reflux in order to attenuate and prevent aspiration of gastric contents. The technique, described and used for the first time in the 1970s, resumed its use in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, a conventional rapid-sequence intubation technique would not be adequate as it would not prevent the virus spread from the patient's airway to the environment, with the possibility of contamination of the personnel performing it. Objective: To describe a modified rapid-sequence intubation technique in times of COVID-19. Methods: A review of the first publications with protocols of this modified technique was carried out. The search was carried out in databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar and Elsevier. Development: The most important aspect for the professional performing the technique is to achieve the maneuver successfully and preserve the life of the patient. In this respect, the physician must be the most experienced and prepared to control the time of each of the stages into which it is divided. Conclusions: In COVID-19, clinical situations are highly variable, a reason why protocols in the perioperative care of patients can be modified according to new evidence. Keywords: airway; coronavirus; COVID-19; SARS-CoV-2.
