The use of video devices in assisting the placement of breathing tube in babies

Cochrane: One in a 100 newborn may need placement of breathing tube (intubation) for survival. Video-assisted placement of the breathing tube may be easier than a standard approach.

Study characteristics


In this review, we sought evidence for the usefulness of these video-assisted devices for the placement of breathing tubes in babies. We searched scientific databases for clinical trials of babies who needed intubation in the delivery room, operating room or intensive care unit. The studies could measure time to intubation, number of attempts at intubation or success rate of first intubation. The evidence is current to May 2013.


Key results and quality of the evidence


We found no clinical studies that met our selection criteria. We make a case for further research in evaluating the use of video-assisted devices in the placement of breathing tubes in newborns.

Authors' conclusions: 

There was insufficient evidence to recommend or refute the use of videolaryngoscopy for endotracheal intubation in neonates. Well-designed, adequately powered randomized controlled studies are necessary to address efficacy and safety of videolaryngoscopy for endotracheal intubation in neonates.