Abstract
Introduction: The protection of healthcare personnel during airway procedures became a major concern during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study was conducted to examine the effects of intubation box on the duration and success of tracheal intubation in patients undergoing general anesthesia.
Methods: This randomized clinical trial was carried out at Firoozgar Hospital, affiliated with Iran University of Medical Sciences in 2022. A total of 80 adult surgical candidates were allocated to either conventional laryngoscopic intubation or intubation with a barrier box. Demographic variables were recorded, intubation success was confirmed by capnography, and the time required for tube placement was measured by an independent observer.
Results: Gender, age, and BMI distribution showed no significant difference between groups (P>0.05). The mean intubation time was markedly shorter using standard technique (8.32±0.62 seconds) than using the box-assisted method (11.48±0.80 seconds). This difference was more pronounced in male patients. The success rate of intubation was 100% with the conventional approach and 92.5% in the box group, although this finding was not statistically significant (P=0.12). No post-operative voice changes or vocal cord complications occurred.
Conclusion: While intubation boxes may provide additional protection against aerosol exposure, their use may prolong intubation time, particularly in male patients, without improving success rates. Therefore, their application should balance protective benefits against potential delays in airway management.