June 16, 2008 – Fast intubations are performed in emergency situations where extreme conditions and severe trauma are common, but the key to success is a clear view of a patient’s airway, which is why a nonglare screen is important when using video layngoscopes.
Verathon Medical Canada ULC offers the GlideScope, which uses a small video camera that mounts inside the endotracheal tube to help clinicians get a clear view of the vocal chords and helps technician insert the tube. To get a clear view on the miniature video screen the company uses Clarex non-glare materials, provided by Astra Products, Baldwin, NY.
Verathon said its video laryngoscope incorporates micro-video technology and helps in dealing with standard and difficult intubation cases. The GlideScope, originally introduced in 2001, has a smaller version, the GlideScope Ranger that was introduced in 2006. It provides a clear picture of the larynx and vocal cords on a display monitor, enabling visual control of the endotracheal tube (ETT) in its trajectory toward the airway. With its patented 50 to 60 degree viewing range, integrated camera, and patented anti-fogging mechanism, the Ranger facilitates fast, accurate ETT placement even in difficult airways, and helps prevent improper ETT placement and related complications in emergency, out-of-hospital situations. The Ranger is compact for easy carrying and storage, measuring 7 1/4 x 6 3/8 inches and weighing less than two pounds, and is operational in seconds. With its rugged, high-impact plastic construction, the Ranger was designed to be dependable in an array of field conditions, including temperatures of -4° to 122° F, humidity up to 100 percent, and altitude up to 20,000 feet. It is powered by integrated, rechargeable lithium polymer battery that provides minimum 90-minute continuous-use autonomy and allows for about 20 intubations per battery cycle (depending on usage).
Clarex optical quality acrylic materials are specially formulated to optimize performance of LCD, LED, VFD, EL, PD and other flat displays. Cast in lightweight acrylic in a wide range of grays and colors, Clarex materials offer high light transmission, weatherability and impact resistance. Clarex materials are currently used in medical and industrial instruments, marine and automotive electronics, cell phones, notebook computers, video cameras and avionics, among others.
Clarex materials are available in clear, six neutral grays, and a wide assortment of colors with adjustable light transmissions and thicknesses. The materials are available in thicknesses from 0.008-inch to 0.197-inch and are available with special coatings and surfaces for unique applications, such as EMI shielding, Anti-Reflective, conductive, scratch resistant, anti-bacterial and others.
For more information: www.astraproducts.com