Executive Summary 

Background

Intubation often requires both laryngoscopes and bronchoscopes. The purpose of laryngoscopes is to allow visualization of the larynx. However, laryngoscopes require a separate monitor and equipment. With limited space in the operation room, an additional monitor for the laryngoscope can be crowding and inefficient. To increase procedural efficiency during the intubation procedure, our team has created the BronchoMate to replace the need for a laryngoscope. 

Objectives

1. Fastens Bronchoscope

BronchoMate must fully constrain the bronchoscope during use. 

2. Material

BronchoMate is a medical device used by patients, so the material must be biocompatible and strong. It should also be disposable and recyclable because it is a single-use device.

3. Compatible with multiple bronchoscope sizes

Bronchoscopes are wide in size because of patients' different heights, genders, and ages. The range is 2.0 to 6.2 mm outer diameter, and the BronchoMate is ideally compatible with a large portion of the adult market, which is 5.0 to 6.2. 

4. Ease of Use

BronchoMate should be easy and intuitive to use. It should be easy to understand and quick to use, even in a high-stress environment. 

Components include blade, handle, and fastener. 

Summary of Performance Results

Physicians were able to intubate the airway dummy successfully and intuitively by using the BronchoMate. The BronchoMate set-up required physicians to insert the disposable bronchoscope camera into the BronchoMate until visible and correctly aligned with the exit of the channel at the tip of the blade. After insertion, physicians were able to fasten the bronchscope tube into place by simply twisting the screw cap at the bottom of the handle. The view given by the BronchoMate consisted of the tip of the blade covering roughly 30 percent of the top of the monitor, still allowing physicians a good view to focus on successfully intubating. The suction capabilities function within the BronchoMate and provide physicians the option to use both the suction feature and oxygen delivering capabilities through the use of a laryngoscope. Physicians claimed to like how easy and lightweight the tool was. Without impeding the efficiency of the procedure, the BronchoMate, when paired with a disposable bronchoscope, provides an accessible and intuitive alternative to costly video laryngoscopes.