In the last few years, many randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have compared direct Macintosh laryngoscopy with McGrath video laryngoscopy in order to assess the potential benefits of this last; the results were sometimes controversial. We performed a systematic review to compare the effectiveness between the McGrath video laryngoscope and the Macintosh laryngoscope for tracheal intubation in an adult population.
We conducted a comprehensive literature search to identify our articles in according to inclusion and exclusion criteria: to be included each study had to be a prospective randomized trial or comparison between the McGrath video laryngoscope and the Macintosh laryngoscope in an adult population. We have not included manikin trials and studies involving double-lumen tubes.
10 studies met the inclusion criteria necessary. In total 655 patients were intubated with the McGrath and 629 with the Macintosh; 1268 of 1284 patients were successfully intubated showing equivalent results for the two devices: 648 of 655 patients with the McGrath videolaryngoscope and 620 of 629 patients with the Macintosh laryngoscope. No differences were noted in terms of hemodynamic changes and adverse events incidence.
We can assert that the McGrath video laryngoscope and Macintosh laryngoscope, even if with equivalent tracheal intubation results, supplement each other.