Value of oropharyngeal Mallampati classification in predicting difficult laryngoscopy among obese patients

摘要: The prediction of difficult intubation in obese patients was investigated by co-estimating the degree visibility oropharyngeal structures conjunction with respective body mass index. Data were collected prospectively a series 1833 consecutive adult patients. Body index (BMI) kg m-2 used as measure obesity (morbid: > 40, moderate: 30-40, no obesity: < 30). class findings assessed using original methodology well modification requiring tongue to be pulled forward examiner. Difficult defined inadequate exposure glottis direct laryngoscopy. Both methodologies equal sensitivity, whereas modified technique presented significantly higher positive predictive value (50.0% vs. 37.2%, P 0.01). Statistical analysis revealed an increased risk laryngoscopy among compared subjects normal (20.2% 7.6%, 0.001). When is estimated respect greatly improved (66.7% 20.2%, We conclude that which associated disproportionately large base tongue, predisposing factor for