Video-assisted intubation during cardiac arrest: patient benefits remain uncertain
Trials and observational studies differed on tube-placement success, while evidence for improved circulation or survival remained very uncertain.
Based on the published abstract. The full paper may contain additional methods, results and limitations.
The 30-second takeaway
In this abstract-based review, randomized trials did not show a clear advantage of video over direct laryngoscopy for initial or overall tube-placement success during cardiac arrest. Observational studies generally favored video for placement, but did not consistently link it to better survival. These findings establish neither equivalent performance nor improved patient outcomes.
Evidence certainty was very low. Observational associations cannot establish causation, and the abstract cannot explain why study designs gave different results. Trial estimates remain compatible with different effects.
What researchers found
First-attempt tube-placement success
Video versus direct laryngoscopy during cardiac-arrest intubation; randomized trials. The risk ratio (RR) compares first-attempt success probabilities on a relative scale: one means no difference. The confidence interval allows lower or higher success with video.
Placement results differed by study design
Researchers compared video-assisted and direct-view techniques for placing a breathing tube. Randomized trials did not show a clear difference in success on the first attempt or overall; observational studies generally favored the video approach.
Procedural success and patient outcomes
Studies reporting tube placement into the food pipe found fewer such errors with video laryngoscopy. However, observational data did not consistently show better restoration of circulation or survival, distinguishing procedural success from patient outcomes.
The original publication
Tracheal intubation using video laryngoscopy as compared to direct laryngoscopy during cardiopulmonary resuscitation: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Moskowitz A, Nolan JP, Crowley C et al.
Resuscitation · 2026
- PubMed ID
- 41570881
- Record checked
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