Assessment And Visualizing Of Airway Using Ultrasonography: An Overview

Abstract

Airway management is of paramount importance to an anesthesiologist. Airway management is a common procedure performed in the Emergency Department with significant potential for complications.  Many of the traditional physical examination maneuvers have limitations in the assessment and management of difficult airways.  Ultrasound is gaining increasing popularity among anesthesiologists as it is readily available and provides real-time imaging for various procedures.  It is considered as a “visual stethoscope” of the anesthesiologist. Diagnostic ultrasound uses a device known as a transducer, which can both emit and detect ultrasound waves. Ultrasound transducers are available in different shapes and sizes. This is to adapt to different body areas. Frequencies of transducers also vary to suit all tissue depths. Transducers are made from a material known as a piezoelectric crystal, which vibrates millions of times per second when a short burst of electric current is applied to it. These crystals also have the property of detecting ultrasound by converting vibrations back into electrical energy. Ultrasound shows promise for enhancing provider knowledge preoperatively, by allowing for visualization of many airway structures.The aim of the present study was to review the assessment and visualizing of airway using ultrasonography.