Effect of use of High-Flow Nasal Cannula during Fiberoptic Intubation under General Anesthesia: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND: Oxygenation by high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) is being widely studied in the intensive care unit and operation theater settings. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study is to determine the effect of HFNC during fiberoptic intubation in terms of time taken and ease of intubation. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: Randomized, prospective, and controlled study. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this study, we have recruited 40 patients according to the inclusion criteria (patient's body mass index [BMI] >22.99 kg.m(−2) and patients with a history of stridor and/or obstructive sleep apnea) and after randomization divided them into two groups of 20 each – Group C: Intubation done with conventional fiberoptic after muscle relaxation and Group S: Intubation done with high flow nasal cannula during fiberoptic after muscle relaxation. We have observed and compared between the groups time taken for intubation, oxygen saturation during fiberoptic intubation, need of jaw thrust and difficulty in gliding endotracheal tube over fiberscope. RESULTS: No significant difference was found in time taken for intubation, oxygen saturation, and need of jaw thrust (P > 0.05). We have found a significant difference in gliding of endotracheal tube over fiberscope (P = 0.001). CONCLUSION: We found high flow nasal cannula better and beneficial in patients with high BMI and having a history of stridor/obstructive sleep apnea for fiberoptic intubation after muscle relaxation.