Patient Experience of Transoral Versus Transnasal Awake Tracheal Intubation
This research is about a procedure called awake tracheal intubation, where a breathing tube is placed while you are awake but have numbing medicine. This is often used when doctors expect it might be tricky to put a breathing tube in once someone is fully asleep. The study wants to compare two ways of doing this: through the nose or through the mouth. Researchers will be looking at how comfortable patients are with each method and which one feels better. The goal is to improve the experience for people who need this important procedure.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is looking into a medical procedure called 'awake tracheal intubation with flexible bronchoscopy' (ATI:FB). This is when a small, flexible tube with a camera on the end (a bronchoscope) is used to guide a breathing tube into your windpipe, but you are kept awake during the process. Don't worry, your throat and nose would be numbed, and you might receive some medicine to help you relax.
This procedure is often used when doctors think it might be difficult to put a breathing tube in once a patient is fully asleep, for example, if someone has a particular neck shape or a condition that affects their airway. It's considered a very safe and effective way to manage breathing during surgery or in emergencies because you can continue to breathe on your own while the tube is being placed.
The main aim of this study is to understand your personal experience during this procedure. Specifically, researchers want to compare two ways of doing it: either through your nose or through your mouth. They want to find out which method causes less discomfort and is generally preferred by patients. By gathering this information, they hope to make this important procedure even better and more comfortable for future patients.
Key takeaways
- This study compares two ways of placing a breathing tube while you're awake.
- It aims to find out which method (through the nose or mouth) is more comfortable for patients.
- Participation involves answering questions about your experience during a standard medical procedure.
- Your feedback will help improve care for future patients needing this procedure.
- Doctors use this method when they expect putting a breathing tube in might be tricky.
Who may be eligible?
You might be able to take part in this study if you are at least 18 years old and are scheduled for an operation that requires a breathing tube. Importantly, your doctor must also expect that putting the breathing tube in will be a bit tricky, meaning they would normally choose to use the 'awake tracheal intubation' method.
However, you won't be able to join the study if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Also, if you need surgery but your doctor does not plan to use the 'awake tracheal intubation' method, then this study wouldn't be right for you. Your permission (consent) is also absolutely necessary to take part.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Are you having surgery that needs a breathing tube?
- Has your doctor said you'll likely need an 'awake' breathing tube procedure?
- Are you not pregnant or breastfeeding?
What does participation involve?
If you choose to take part in this study, the main involvement will be during your routine procedure to have a breathing tube placed before your surgery. One of two methods (through the nose or through the mouth) will be randomly chosen for you. During and after the procedure, you'll be asked about your comfort levels and overall experience. There are no additional visits, medications, or lengthy follow-up appointments specifically for the study beyond your standard care. The total duration of your participation will be limited to the time around your intubation procedure and answering some questions.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- University Medical Center Hamburg-EppendorfVerified postcodeHamburg, Germany· Recruiting
Common questions
What is 'awake tracheal intubation'?
It's a procedure where a breathing tube is put into your windpipe while you are awake, but your throat and nose are numbed, and you might get relaxing medicine.
Why do doctors use this method?
It's often used when doctors expect it might be difficult to put a breathing tube in when someone is fully asleep, making it safer for the patient.
What will the study ask me to do?
You'll have your breathing tube placed either through your nose or mouth, and then you'll be asked about how comfortable you felt during and after the procedure.
Is this procedure safe?
Yes, awake tracheal intubation is considered a very safe and effective way to manage your breathing during surgery.
Can I decide not to join the study?
Absolutely, joining is completely voluntary, and your decision won't affect your medical care in any way.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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