Results

 

 

Response Rate. The questionnaire forms were completed and returned by 82 (66 percent) of the 124 clinical directors; 54 and 28 forms were returned after the first and second mailing, respectively.

 

Data Evaluation. For this survey report on preparatory provisions for difficult airway (DA) management at anesthesia departments in Austria, answers to questions regarding equipment availability for airway management (AM) were evaluated. 

 

Availability of a Difficult Airway Cart. The availability of a DA cart, including at least a flexible bronchoscope (FB), for the central or main operating area was provided in 80 percent; a DA cart or an equivalent unit was available or readily accessible for all anesthetizing locations in 32 percent. Obstetric departments were established at 62 institutions; for obstetric workstations, a DA unit was available or readily accessible in 48 percent.

 

Alternative Devices for Ventilation. Laryngeal mask airways (LMAs) and esophageal-tracheal combitubes (ETCs) were the most commonly available alternative devices for basic AM and ventilation; standard LMAs, LMAs with an esophageal drain tube, and ETCs were available in 100, 82, and 78 percent, respectively. Standard laryngeal tubes (LTs) and LTs with an esophageal drain tube were provided in 40 and 18 percent, respectively. Sets for transtracheal catheter insertion and manual jet ventilation systems were rarely (in less than 12 percent) available.

 

Alternative Devices for Tracheal Intubation. FBs were the most commonly available alternative devices for tracheal intubation; they were available in 94 percent (adult and/or pediatric versions in 86 and 68 percent, respectively). Intubating LMAs were provided in 78 percent.   

 

 

Discussion