RESUMEN
A bench-top study was performed to assess the effects of different laryngoscope handles on the light intensity delivered from disposable metal or plastic laryngoscope blades. The light intensity from both the handle light sources themselves and the combined handle and laryngoscope blade sets was measured using a custom-designed testing system and light meter. Five samples of each disposable blade type were tested and compared with a standard re-usable stainless steel blade using three different handle/light sources (Vital Signs LED, Heine 2.5 V Xenon and 3.5 V Xenon). The light intensity delivered by the disposable blades ranged from 790 to 3846 lux for the different handle types. Overall, the 3.5 V Heine handle delivered the highest light output (p < 0.007) in comparison with the other handles. For the disposable blades, the overall light output was significantly higher from the plastic than the metal blades (p < 0.001).
Asunto(s)
Equipos Desechables , Laringoscopios , LuzRESUMEN
We examined the light intensity delivered by the Trachlight™ reusable lightwand and the effect of repeated sterilisation on this light intensity. Using a light meter and test chamber, the light intensity of 12 new Trachlights and 31 Trachlights available in operating theatres was measured. In addition, five new devices underwent 30 repeated sterilisations with light intensity measurement after each cleaning. There was no difference between the light intensity of new Trachlights (median (IQR [range]) 2282 (2202-2780 [1970-4400])) lux and the devices currently in service (2295 (2018-2796 [1649-3280]) lux (p = 0.27)). The median (range) number of uses for devices currently in service was only 3 (0-9). There was, however, significant light intensity loss after 10, 20 and 30 cleanings (p = 0.001). After 10 cleanings, the mean light intensity was 75% of initial output, and after 30 cycles, light intensity was 59% of initial output.