A Market Assessment of Introducer Technology to Aid With Endotracheal Intubation

Introduction: Endotracheal intubation is a potentially lifesaving procedure. Previously, data demonstrated that intubation remains the most performed airway intervention in the Role 1 setting. Additionally, deployed data demonstrate that casualties intubated in the prehospital setting have worse survival than those intubated in the emergency department setting. Technological solutions may improve intubation success in this setting. Certain intubation practices, including the use of endotracheal tube introducer bougies, facilitate intubation success especially in patients with difficult airways. We sought to determine the current state of the market for introducer devices. Materials and Methods: This market review utilized Google searches to find products for intubation. The search criteria aimed to identify any device ideal for intubation in the emergency setting. Device data retrieved included manufacturer, device, cost, and design descriptions. Results: We identified 12 introducer-variants on the market. Devices varied with regards to composition (latex, silicone, polyethylene, combination of several materials, etc.), tip shape, special features for ease of intubation (markings for depth and visibility, size, etc.), disposability/reuse capability, measurements, and prices. The cost of each device ranged from approximately $5 to $100. Conclusions: We identified 12 introducer-variants on the market. Clinical studies are necessary to determine which devices may improve patient outcomes in the Role 1 setting.